My Maxi Dress Needs the Right Shoe

Q: Dear Shoe Lady, This summer I am going to brave wearing a maxi dress as a casual option. What do you believe might go well with one?

–Dana

A: Hi Dana,

Maxi dresses can be elegant, romantic, fun, and were designed well for the summer months. I am pleased to see them making another round this season. Here are a few options to start with for a nice pairing.

Gleam by Annie found at DesignerShoes.com

Gleam by Annie in silver has a simple yet bold buckle.

Royal Gold by Fit in Clouds Ballet Flat

Royal Gold by Fit in Clouds is a good option when harnessing the inner fairy tale princess or ballerina.

Plushed Velvet by Aerosoles

Plushed Velvet by Aerosoles has a corked wedge that echoes the summer spirit.

Best,

The Shoe Lady

My summer look for the office needs some sprucing up.

Q: Hi Shoe Lady,

For the past few years, I have relied on the same office look, and I am interested in branching out. My summer work look needs some sprucing up. Any ideas for moving closer to sandals, but still appropriate for work?

All the best,
Elizabeth

A: Hi Elizabeth,
It sounds as though you require something with a covered toe for your office environment. A lighter weight shoe could be the way to go also for those summer months. Here are a few suggestions for you to think about.

Jer by Trotters, a good, comfortable office shoe.
Here we have a modified take on the ballet flat by Trotters. The Jeri shoe has a slingback, which enables more breathing room.
South Role by Aerosoles, a high heel casual slingack, great for office.
South Role by Aerosoles is a slingback pump that comes in green, black, or tan. The cutouts in the toe box add a bit of the risque without sacrificing the career shoe requirements for sobriety.

Acalia by Antia is a low heeled dressy flat at DesignerShoes.com
Acalia by Antia is a shoe that gives you a cross between ballet flats and sandals. The pattern paired with solid pants or skirts will make a good balance of textures.

Take care,
Shoe Lady

Best Colors – Shoes for Spring!

Dear Shoe Lady,

That’s it, I’m ready for Spring!!! What are the hottest trends you’re seeing so far for the season? I just bought the pair below but it’s not enough to complete my spring wardrobe!

Colette from Houston

Hi Colette,

I’m looking forward to Spring myself! In terms of trends, I’m seeing a lot of citrus colors — yellows and oranges. Here are two of my favorites:

 

What I love about these pumps from Sofft is that they can be worn anywhere: at work, at night, or on the weekend.

This yellow flat from Aerosoles is such a lovely color, and it looks very comfortable. I like that it has a small heel, which should keep your feet pain-free all day at work.

Dressy footwear that covers your feet?

Dear Shoe Lady,

I wish I could be asking you about 2011 summer fashion already, but this is the longest winter ever! Whenever I’m out on the town I’ve been wearing my pumps with socks, but I’ve found that even then my feet turn numb. Can you recommend some “going out” shoes that don’t expose my feet?

Thanks,
Anna

—-

Dear Anna,

It sounds like you need some booties! What’s great about them is that they keep your feet covered but unlike boots, you don’t have to worry about what they’ll look like under pants or jeans. I’ve found that booties are especially helpful now that skinnier pant legs are in fashion and my higher boots are just unflattering on my calves when I’m wearing pants.

Also, if you miss all the color that comes with summer fashion, try winter’s hottest color, dark purple. It’s fun, but still seasonal as it matches most winter colors.

Here are a few you may like:

aerosoles-patrole-car-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com

aerosoles-patrole-car-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com

aerosoles-pop-piz-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com

aerosoles-pop-piz-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com

aerosoles-play-date-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com

aerosoles-play-date-dark-purple-suede DesignerShoes.com