SCHOOL SHOES

 

FLAT SHOES

Flat shoes are the new "it" accessory to add to your wardrobe, making style and comfort collide. No longer are heels needed to give your outfit that extra oomph. No more will you need to endure the "beauty hurts" line, while wearing three-inch heels. Flat shoes are becoming more and more acceptable on the fashion circuit.

HIGH HILLS

While it may seem like all the pretty shoes and boots have sky-high heels, that's really not the case. There are loads of stylish options for women who prefer flats and low-heeled shoes -- it's just a matter of knowing what to look for.

Top 10 Best Shoe Brands

As you know, The Fashion Guru blog is known for their top 10 lists.  So in honor of the shoe, I thought I’d make my list of the “Top 10 Best Shoe Brands”.  Any of these shoes you can find at their web site (under the same brand name) or at Zappos.com.  So kick back, relax, and find a comfy pair for your feet!

1. Keds:  From their classic sneakers to trendy ballet flats, Keds has made a mark in the shoe industry.  And with having beautiful celebrity models such as Mischa Barton, how could you not resist wanting a pair?

2. Sketchers: I loved them ever since the Spice Girls and Britney Spears were wearing their infamous platform sneakers.  (I even had a pair.) Now, I’m addicted to their maryjane and sandal lines.  No matter how stylish they are, they remain just as comfortable.

3. Saucony:  Even though I haven’t worn these shoes for years, they still hold a place in my heart.  These colorful sneakers will brighten up your outfit and day.

4. Cheeks:  Forget those uber-expensive sandals and sneakers that claim to tone your calves.  Cheeks by Tony Little are not only cute and affordable, but they give you great posture as well!  Who wouldn’t want that?

5. Birkenstock:  Another great sandal that is super comfortable.  They no longer just come in the Hippie/Jesus version.  With so many styles to choose from, how can you resist?

6. A.J. Valenci:  Not only are they trendy, but these shoes are comfy.  You’ll be wearing them, not the other way around.  Trust me; they’ve been around for YEARS.

7. Aerosoles:  This is another stylish brand that has comfort on their mind.  Their array of shoes will take you from the office to a night out on the town.

8. Clark’s:  I know I sound like a broken record by now, but this comfortable line has everything from sneakers to dress shoes to sandals.  But I have a few words for them:  Please bring back the old Springer sandal!

9. Converse:  The punk rocker in me had to add Converse the list.  And with their clothing line sold exclusively at Target, how can I not praise them?  Even if you don’t like high-top sneakers, they will have a style for you that’s just as hardcore.

10. Reebok:  Known for their British emblem, Reebok made themselves a household name with their street style sneakers.  They were even one of the first brands to come out with high-tops.  No other brand screams, “Cool” like they do.

Men and Woman Shoes

Quick Details:

It may sound chic to say you have to suffer for fashion, but corns, bunions, hammer toes, shortened calf muscles and ingrown toenails don't sound like "must-haves" for the fash pack. These afflictions may be exactly what you're getting when you reach everyday for the stilettos instead of the Rock ports.

A report last year from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons found that only 21 percent of women wore high heels (more than two inches) to work, compared with 34 percent 10 years ago, according to On Health.com. Instead, women are reaching for sensible shoes.

The ideal shoes? Some podiatrists recommend one-and-a-half to two-inch chunky heels with padded insoles and plenty of room for the toes to move, according to eFit.com

Special foot considerations:
If you're over 65 make sure you choose lightweight, shock-absorbing soles that are not slippery and  leather uppers that breathe.

If you're pregnant, realize that your feet may grow a full size -give up the high heels! Look for substantial, comfy styles with thick, supportive soles.

shoes are a great way to personalize your style. Find out what's hot and where to buy!