Comments on: How not to look frumpy in a clunkier shoe

By: Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:40:56 +0000

HI Rita,
Thanks for writing in. We do know that many women suffer from foot problems and yet still want to dress nicely. Your idea of wearing dark navy silk pants is a good idea because pants are always the best option when you have to wear a sensible shoe. Make sure you wear dark hose to match the dark shoes.
Good luck and enjoy the day knowing your smile will be what everyone is looking at, not your shoes!

By: Rita

Rita — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 05:18:19 +0000

What a relief to finally find a website that discusses this topic. After stress fractures, some other foot conditions, balance problems and now arthritis now require I use a cane and “prescribed” orthopedic shoes with lots of support and cushioning, dressing up has become a challenge.

I’m only in my early fifties, so I want to look as elegant as possible at my niece’s wedding in Oct 2010. So far, I’m thinking of wearing dark navy silk pants with a dressy magenta jacket (to help keep the focus to my upper body). There’s no avoiding the cane or “sensible” shoes unless I opt for a wheelchair, and that’s simply not going to happen, so it’s very encouraging to hear the opinions here. I was a bit concerned about appearing clueless or disrespectful by wearing what appear to be black athletic shoes, but I’m now inspired by the positive attitude shown by others here.

By: Boots for those with foot problems | Fabulous After 40

Boots for those with foot problems | Fabulous After 40 — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:57:46 +0000

[...] recently posted a letter from a reader who can’t wear heels because of foot problems and wanted to know if she could wear leggings with clunky [...]

By: Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:28:29 +0000

Hi Mary,
Yes, they certainly can be comfortable, but don’t rule out anything with a wedge or platform…. they can give you a little lift and more choice of styles!!

By: Mary

Mary — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:04:14 +0000

Thanks for the tips about shoes. I don’t have foot problems but I love to be comfortable and fashionable. Ballerina Flats seem to be the answer.
Mary

By: Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:28:04 +0000

Hi Nancy,
This is great news! You are going to find that your style has just shot up on the fashion scale!! We will look for some examples and post them soon.
One thing, you will want to make sure that the boots fit your leg well. It will help make finding skirts a lot easier. Also, always wear or take your boots to the store when shopping for skirts. Depending on the style of boot, and where the skirt hits, can be tricky. There is no hard and fast rules when it comes to the length of the skirt and the boot, but wearing matching dark tights (not sheer hose) will make the look complete!
Good luck!

By: Nancy

Nancy — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:07:19 +0000

Hi, Glam Gals!

First, I have to say that while I’m sorry others of you out there are also afflicted with foot problems, it helps me to know I’m not alone! Because if enough of us are out there, that shows a need for a solution in the marketplace. And, Nancy, we sound almost identical in what we can and cannot wear.

I’m excited because I just got home from Nordstrom’s with a pair of boots I can wear! So far at least . . . Hooray! The brand is Miz Mooz (Bonnie) (www.miz-mooz.com). They’re flat (okay, a tiny, tiny wedge), shiny, black boots that zip up the back. I also ordered a pair of flat, black boots made by Cole Han that have a buckle on the side. Cole Han only makes one kind of flat boots, I’m told. It’s a sturdier boot that I think will also work well.

So now I’d love to see photos of skirts that I can wear with these. I also just posted this question to your contact address . . . I’m looking for casual, everyday skirts – not business or professional – but so far everything I’ve found is way too long or business attire. I’d like something shorter,a little sassy. And please remind me again, what’s the difference between tights and leggings?

I love your website!

By: Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:52:40 +0000

Hi Ellen,
I think you have a good question and one that many might be confused about. Why are flats OK with skinny jeans and not leggings, is because, jeans have more weight to them and the leggings are so form fitting. I think the best example will be for us to take some photos so you can see the difference. Yes, attitude is important, but so is balance. If you want to be respected as someone that understands what is tasteful and good looking in the way your dress, you must be aware of how you really look. If you look out of proportion (e.g.with clunky shoes and leggings) then it is like a musician who is trying to play a song, but is really hitting all the wrong notes. Looking good in your clothes is a formula and we hope to encourage our readers to trust us!!
However you are right, in that attitude can play a part of that formula!
Thanks for your comments, we are always interested in hearing from our readers!

By: Ellen

Ellen — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:16:37 +0000

I have struggled for awhile as to why flats are ok with skinny jeans but not leggings – as long as the shoes are not too orthopedic-looking. I’m 5′11″ with most of my “extra” height in the legs, so I’ve rarely worn high heels. Of course, I realize that means I can get away with lower heels than many women feel they can. But, who cares? If low heels are more comfortable, find some you adore & wear them with whatever outfit you want!

I found some hush puppies that are made of a stretch fabric that work for my foot problems & are holding up well – i.e., not stretching out to being unwearable (they also have a number of other styles that are cute & trendy these days). And there are other brands that use stretch fabric for all or part of the upper construction, so they are kinder to the foot.

lands end also has some comfy flats in cute colors that I’ve gotten lots of compliments on.

I agree with Nancy that it’s mostly about the attitude. Sometimes you’ve just gotta do what ya gotta do, so make no apologies!

By: Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:49:35 +0000

Hi Nancy,
Yes, we feel your pain. Shoes are very important to looking chic, but if you have to wear wear only limited types,then you are pretty much stuck with wearing only pants. However, if you could find a comfortable boot, then your options would really open up for you. Do you have any short or tall boots that you can wear?
Please let us know and send us a photo. We would be curious of what choices you have out there!