Size 11.5 Flats

Dear Shoe Lady,
I need a pair of flat women’s shoes with 1/4′ heel, and that just cover the toes. They need to be in a women’s size 11.5. They are for my mother, who is 86 years old. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and cooperation.
Respectfully Submitted,
Paul

Dear Paul,
We have a few pairs of shoes that I’m sure your dear mother would love! The first is the Rangoni Camilla flat in black. While very versatile, this comfortable flat is also very conservative and fashionable.

Rangoni Camilla Black at DesignerShoes.com

Rangoni Camilla Black is a Low Heel Dressy Flat


And in beige:
Rangoni Camilla Tortora at DesignerShoes.com

Rangoni Camilla Tortora is a Low Heel Dressy Flat


However, the Rangoni brand is expensive. If you are looking for a more cost effective yet comfortable style I would recommended the Fit in Clouds. Easy on the wallet, stretchable with a rubber sole bottom.
Fit In Clouds Bow Tie Black at DesignerShoes.com

Fit In Clouds Bow Tie Black is a Low Heel Dressy Flat


Make sure to review the Fit in Clouds sizing chart. Your mother would order an XXLARGE.

Australian to US Shoe Size Conversion

Dear Shoe Lady,
I am about to purchase shoes but just want to confirm size conversions. I am Australian wearing size 7.5 to 8 dependent on style. I believe I am a US 8, but its the width I need to check on. I believe I am a C width shoe here in Australia.. which I believe is a wider fit….can you advise.
Thank you
Dee

Dear Dee,
I am so glad you came to us for help! Actually, an Australian women’s size 7.5 is equivalent to a US size 9, while the size 8 is a US size 9.5.

With width, a “C” would be considered a Wide or “W” size. Likewise, narrow is “AA”, Average is “B”, and Extra Wide is “E”. If you take the widest part of your foot (usually the balls of your feet), and measure length-wise, a US size 9 or 9.5 is about 4 1/16 to 4 1/8 inches. I would advise trying a US size 9W. You may be going up a half size because the medium/average width is just too snug.

I thought I would spotlight a couple new arrivals, in different styles, all sized 9W. First up is a style from Aerosoles, a brand know for comfort, true fit and style. The Aerosoles Plum Tree Tan Patent has a 3 inch wedge heel which is helpful for those women who want height and stability. I adore the pattern on the heel.

Aerosoles Plum Tree Tan Patent at DesignerShoes.com

Aerosoles Plum Tree Tan Patent is a High Heel Casual Pump

Aerosoles have a wonderful collection of flats as well. Perfect for work, walking to the T, all while being stylish.

Aerosoles Bec 2 Differ Black Multi at DesignerShoes.com

Aerosoles Bec 2 Differ Black Multi is a Low Heel Casual Pump

If you need additional assistance on this, our size guide can be found at: http://www.designershoes.com/size-chart

Wider Width Feet

Dear Shoe Lady,
I was so excited to find your website as the only shoes that fit my feet are thong sandals.

I have measured my feet as your site describes, and the measurements are as follows:
Length 24.5cm
Width 11.75cm
Please can you tell me what size I am?

Kind regards,
Michelle (Australia)

Hi Michelle,
We LOVE our Aussies! With a length of 24.5CM your size would be an 8.5 which equates to 26.4CM.

Your shoe width however, is a bit tricky. An 8.5WW measures 11.1cm. You width is 11.75cm so I am afraid an 8.5WW will be too snug. I would suggest trying an 8.5WWW. The downside with tripe wide widths is the styles are very limited.

Another option would be to try a 9WW and play around with the use of insoles. Also be selective in choosing shoes with soft, stretchable material to accommodate your wider width feet. Here is a nice 9WW size option –

Annie Gable Brown Velvet Suede at DesignerShoes.com

Annie Gable Brown Velvet Suede is a Low Heel Dressy Flat

One more thing Michelle, what size/width thong sandals are your currently wearing?

Happy Holidays!

Boots and Casual Shoes for Women’s Size 11 Wide

Dear Shoe Lady,
I have an 11 wide foot. Last winter I got frostbite at Christmas and then was diagnosed with Reynards Syndrome due to Fibromyalgia. I have to wear 2-4 pairs of socks in the winter and need a shoe that has lots of toe box, and last year wore a size 12 mens sneaker to have enough room. Do you have a recommendation for a casual dress shoe, possible lace up, and a warm boot that I can wear either with jeans or long dresses. Thanks so much! I just found your website and love what I see and have several selected!

Dear Lorrie,
First of all, you sound like a trooper! I can feel your positivity and I have just the thing for you! Aerosoles Brown Suede boots are not only super-stylish, but these sleek shoes will keep your legs and toes warm under, or even over any outfit (not to mention, they’re on SALE)! If you prefer a wider selection of women’s boots make sure to check out one of my favorite (besides us) shoe shops!

Aerosoles Gather Round Brown Suede at DesignerShoes.com

Gather Round by Aerosoles is a High Heel Casual Boot

For a more casual look, I would again recommend another shoe by Aerosoles, called the Rebecca Nickel. I absolutely LOVE these shoes not only for their comfort, but also for their versatility. As flats, they can be worn to spruce up a pair of jeans or combined with a nice cocktail dress for an evening out on the town!

Aerosoles Rebecca Nickel Leather at DesignerShoes.com

Rebecca by Aerosoles is a Low Heel Casual Pump

Happy Holidays!

Occupational Cape Clogs

Dear Shoe Lady,
Love the thought of wearing clogs all day while at work. However, Lollipops belong in mouth not on my feet. Any chance of getting Cape Clogs in different colors. How about good old basic black?

Thank you for supplying a large-sized variety of stylish shoes.

Sincerely,
Happy Feet

Dearest Happy Feet,
Depending on your occupation you might fall in love with our – Quark Quarky Clogs! They come in a variety of colors, including green, brown, blue, and white for a reasonable price.

Quark Quarky Khaki at DesignerShoes.com

Quarky by Quark is a Low Heel Casual Mule

If your occupation requires a more dressy look then I would recommend your favorite Cape Clogs in Jet Black.

Cape Clogs Jet Black at DesignerShoes.com

Jet Black by Cape Clogs is a Mid Heel Casual Mule

The Cape Clogs are offered with a variety of designs but we do carry basic black, brown and tan. Sizes 5 (medium/ wide) to 15 (medium).

Happy Shopping!
The Shoe Lady

Patent Leather after Labor Day?

Dear Shoe Lady,
Can patent leather be worn after labor day? Or would a flat leather alligator/snake pattered leather be more versatile?

Dear Martha,
Years ago, patent leather was a spring and summer staple, but nowadays, it’s uber-trendy to wear in the fall and winter. One good rule of thumb is the style/color should be appropriate to the season. Dark colors like purple, navy, black, maroon and grey are fashionable this winter.

Comfortable shoe with a 2.5 inch heel suitable for work or paired with a dark jean.

Aerosoles Envy Black Patent at DesignerShoes.com

Envy by Aerosoles is a Mid Heel Dressy Pump

Or try a crinkled patent leather with a pop of color to down play the shine and dress up any outfit.

Aerosoles Musical Cheers Red Patent at DesignerShoes.com

Musical Cheers by Aerosoles is a Mid Heel Dressy Pump

Personally I love to mix patterns and materials when it comes to patent leather. Aerosole offers a base leather shoe with a quilted patent leather toe pattern. One of my personal favorites. Plus the flat can take you from day to night.

Aerosoles Beckon Dark Brown Leather at DesignerShoes.com

Beckon by Aerosoles is a Low Heel Casual Flat

I hope this clears up the myth that patent leather is only good for spring or summer!

Best,
The Shoe Lady

Shoes for Teachers

Hello Shoe Lady,
This is your sister again.
I admit that I didn’t take the advice you offered last time I wrote. I succumbed to the ease of the washable shoes even though you recommended a nice mule.
I’ve been on my feet teaching math here in Florida now for a few months. I’d like some comfortable, stylish shoes that I can wear throughout the school year. I’m looking for something with a 1″ heel in a cocoa brown color with a price that fits a teacher’s wallet and my short wide foot. Remember all those summers we went barefoot? We didn’t know then but I am paying the price now with “spreading” feet!
I’m looking forward to some suggestions from you.

Sincerely,
Your much younger sister

Well dear little, short, tiny footed sister….. it isn’t going barefoot that made your feet wide. It is getting old. Actually, not true. You were born with wide feet. I remember. Chubby little things.

Anyway…. I digress.
Here is a link for you to find brown low heeled shoes – http://www.designershoes.com/?color=32&heel=50&limit=80&sizewidth=197
In the “Sort by” box in tiny letters (put on your glasses) on the right side of the page of shoes, sort by Price.

I know there are boots and you are in Florida. Sorry we don’t have an “exclude” function on search. But by limiting the shoe choices to “low” heel, you miss some great clogs and mules that have a higher heel but also a platform. That reduces the angle and brings your short self more in line with the family.

Take a look at the Softwalk mules (you can sort by Mule under the STYLE department).
I suggest the Mika, the Murietta and the Denver, all in your size and color. I added the images for each shoe below in case you needed a visual guide.

Softwalk Denver Wheat at DesignerShoes.com

Denver by Softwalk is a Mid Heel Casual Mule

Softwalk Mika Dark Brown at DesignerShoes.com

Mika by Softwalk is a Mid Heel Dressy Mule

Softwalk Murietta Cognac Croco at DesignerShoes.com

Murietta by Softwalk is a Mid Heel Casual Mule

I also think you and your kids would have fun with you showing up in a pair of Cape Clogs mules. You can get flower prints or skull and cross bones… wear according to your mood. Let it be a warning to the little tykes.

Affectionately,
The Shoe Lady

Pregnant Feet

Dear Shoe Lady,
I’m six months pregnant (yay!) and my feet have ballooned. I’m looking for the best foot gear to ride me through the winter and into the spring. I was wondering if you could recommend a brand or shoe, I prefer open shoes but the weather will not allow……so any shoe that would love my bloated pregnant feet!!. I appreciate the help.

Dear Thelma,
Congratulations on your baby! You’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of options available that won’t break your feet or your budget!

Tamarac Jessie Chocolate at DesignerShoes.com

Jessie by Tamarac is a Low Heel Casual Boot

Not only is this casual boot very chic right now, it is perfect for lounging around or running errands and won’t break the bank unlike those other ugghyy folks. Right now DesignerShoes.com is offering 5% off Tamarac Shoes. Use coupon code – TAMARAC – at check out!

For a night out, however, the Shoe Lady recommends the Antia Abella Black Metallic Snake Flat.

Antia Abella Black Metallic Snake at DesignerShoes.com

Abella by Antia is a Low Heel Dressy Flat

The sparkle detail adds a touch of glamour and the variety of widths (medium, wide and extra wide wide) can accommodate every foot size.

If you want to be pregnant and in heels I would recommend this 2 inch heel wedge by Aersoles, known for their soft inner soles. Wedges are a great, stylish way to eliminate back stress while helping to maintain balance.

Aerosoles Barecuda Mink Combo at DesignerShoes.com

Barecuda by Aerosoles is a Mid Heel Casual Pump

Best of luck,
The Shoe Lady

Black Friday Special at DesignerShoes.com!

Black Friday Special. Win a $250 shoe shopping spree at DesignerShoes.com! Sign up here between November 15 and November 25. Sign up to receive our ShoeNews email with special coupons, new products and more. You will be eligible to win this $250 shoe shopping spree which is normally $100. We will select the winner on Black Friday and announce the winner through our ShoeNews, Facebook and Twitter the following week.

Antia Abella Bone Polka Dot Suede at DesignerShoes.com

Abella by Antia is a Low Heel Dressy Flat

Make sure to enter the drawing between November 15 and November 25 to be qualified for the $250 Shoe Shopping Spree!

Best of Luck,
Shoe Lady

About Shoe Widths

I’ve been getting a ton of questions about the meaning of certain terms used to describe the width of a shoe. I thought I should write up a quick post to explain the meaning of each term. Knowledge is power so here we go!

Shoe manufacturers have standardized rules for how to measure length but shoe width measurements are much more variable. There is some general agreement that a shoe increases 3/16th of an inch around the circumference of the ball of the foot for every increase in width for the same length. But different manufacturers accomplish the extra width differently. Some may cut more material for the upper part of the shoe. Some may cut the sole slightly wider. Some may only increase the width for every full size length change – or even every couple of size length changes. You never can be sure as the manufacturing processes can differ even for the same style.

Here are the terms used to measure shoe widths moving from the most narrow to the widest:

SS = AAAA = “extra slim” or “quad”, the narrowest size generally available. Even these widths are increasingly rare.

S = AAA= “slim” or “triple”

AA = N = “narrow” or “double A”

M = B = “medium”, the most common or “average” width for that size.

W = C or D = “wide”

WW = EE or EEE = “extra wide”

WWW = EEEE = “triple wide’. These widths are even more rare than the SS widths, although that may change as the rate of obesity increases. Obesity is only one of many factors that make for wider feet. And one can be obese but not have wider feet.

Remember you can always find more information how to measure your feet to find the perfect size by clicking here

On a different note I have been obsessing over boots. I seem to check out every pair I see. On the T, around town or at work. Boston women do where the cutest boots EVER! Here is a pair I am considering on buying. Let me know what you think?

Aerosoles Sarasota Blue Fabric at DesignerShoes.com

Sarasota by Aerosoles is a Low Heel Casual Boot