Summer’s knocking hard. The socks are off, almost. What styles your feet when the sun’s a-blistering? Sliders, clogs, platforms, peep-toe slingbacks, flip-flops, thong sandals, pointe shoes, peep-toe ties, ankle ties, mules, toe-loop sandals, pointed shoes? Or, are you a ballerina, Mary Jane and sneaker girl?
When it comes to playing footsie, remember comfort must be top priority. Size is a given. Anything that’s tight and bites is a definite no, no matter what the promise is — “will stretch, loosen up or feel snug after a few wears”, etc. Walk the pair around the store to feel the level of comfort and never ever decide by wearing on just one foot.
While flats are the ultimate comfort, clogs and platforms are not too far behind. The latter work well with saris, skirts or flared bottomwear. However, one heel that has not quite got its share of fashion legitimacy is the kitten heel, or also once referred to as trainer’s heels since it was meant to introduce the wearer to the derring-do of a stiletto.
The kitten heel can take you miles, well almost literally, and can be paired with any outfit. Look for it in tie-loop or ankle tie sandals. There’s the peeptoe-sneaker-kitten heel hybrid in metallic tones that can take you anywhere from day to night, some traipsing too.
Style with panache your ballerinas or those Amritsari or Jaipuri jooties with coordinated or contrasting satin ribbons wrapped first around the arch and then knotted into a bow around the ankle — will keep them from falling off, you from slipping on those overly shiny tiles or marble, and support the tarsals, metatarsals in a snug grip. A trendy quickie would be the sweat band at your feet!
Remember the pointed shoes of yore? They’ve made a comeback and rightly so. In the heel of your choice they do good for that sharp look in long straight or summery peasant skirts, fitted denims or trousers, the flared dress, and that splash of verve to the six yard drape in its various avatars or for that matter any traditional wear. Ditto for the sneaker that’s increasingly holding pride of place as a staple in every closet in a multitude of tones, textures and even heels to rock the ghagra.
When it comes to material, try and stay away from faux leather which eventually peels off — bad for the planet and worse for the skin. Opt for genuine leather or fabric.
Looks like we are all set to haute foot around as the sun shimmers strong.
