Fabulous Footwear

Style Potpourri

April 19, 2010 By Karen 2 Comments

Today your blog post is a potpourri. I had a list of a few random topics. Individually they are not enough for one article; thus the perfect potpourri post. There are several links to follow. Just use your arrow key to navigate through the links and article. Congratulations to Cindy, Comment # 7 who won a FREE color analysis!

If you read my post about cardigans, here is another spin from Snapshot Magazine. I hope you enjoy my article and the entire magazine in what sadly is the last issue.

If you had a question about how to wear leggings and skinny jeans in the spring, this visual should help. The boots change to flats or heels, and the top changes from a sweater/coat to a boyfriend cardigan or longer tunic top.(not shown) Of course if you’re not concerned about covering a particular area of your body, then the sky is the limit on what you pair with them.

Shoes: Ok, you might think I’m obsessed with shoes since I write about them frequently. No doubt I love my shoes. I get many questions about shoes from readers and clients. I want to keep you updated on what I’ve found. Since my last posts on spring shoes, I’ve had a chance to try a few more you may like. I received questions about ankle straps after this shoe photo. I agree with everything I’ve read: Ankle straps can create an illusion which causes your leg to look shorter. I didn’t feel this would happen with a neutral color. Red or black high ankle straps on my short legs-definitely an issue. That’s my two cents; I have not tried this shoe yet.

View #1. LOVED these because they are the perfect neutral shoe that extends your leg line and will go with a variety of colors. This is one of the Sofft styles that does not come in Wide. They have to go back–I so wanted these to work and hope they might for you! View #2: Pikolinos. Not only does the soft leather “give” for my wide foot, the shoe is well cushioned and the rubber sole allows for shock absorption. Notice in the description that they contain materials which allow your foot to breathe– so important especially in the summer months! It’s worth the extra price you pay. These are a winner and I found them locally at www.amenityshoes.com. I will be featuring this store soon and giving away Gift Certificates. View #3 Onex. I own a similar style and am going on my 4th summer to wear it. You may find another style in this brand. Perfect casual and dress options at a great price point.

A couple of months ago I wrote about jewelry organization. Since then I’ve found myself collecting a few longer necklaces. They just were not fitting on my new system. I had to get creative with space. Rather than pound more nails in the wall, I decided to use the space on the back of my free standing mirror. By the way, if your closet space does not allow a mirror, I strongly recommend something like this. It was a Christmas gift a couple of years ago and I love it! I purchased the hooks at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Mine is a little different than what is shown. You may also find something similar at other stores in the organization section.

Coming Next: Gigi Hill Give Away

Filed Under: Closet Organization, Fabulous Footwear, Fashion trends

Step into Spring in Style and Comfort

April 8, 2010 By Karen 2 Comments

My last post included some great ideas for spring shoes. If you have been reading my blog for a few months you may have thought. Is Karen wearing those on her problem feet? The answer is NO. Most of those shoes did not work for me; I just thought they were darn cute. This shoe post is intended to focus a little more on comfort.

You will see a different look out there this spring. It’s referred to as the gladiator or “caged” sandal. (First photo shown) Once again… SOFFT. The next point I want to make about these shoes is the platform. This scares away women who think they cannot do heels. I totally understand, but hear me out. Recently I was analyzing my MOST comfortable higher heel. I really tried to pin point why some of the SOFFT styles do not hurt my feet. I believe it is the cushioned padding AND the platform. It provides “shock absorption” for the ball of my foot which is almost turning into my biggest problem spot. It also helps the heel not feel like it is 3-4 inches tall because the platform keeps the foot from being at that sharp incline. It’s still an incline, but not nearly as severe.

Here are some spring styles from the COMFORT SHOP at Nordstrom. To keep things easy in your searching, I noted the brand and you can search by brand once you follow the Comfort shop link. While I have not tried all of these on, I chose brands that typically have been comfortable in other styles or recommended to me for their comfort. My criteria is always COMFORT, STYLE, QUALITY LEATHER for under $200 (preferably closer to $100). If you do not have any foot issues or need wide widths like myself, you can find comfortable, quality shoes for less at DSW, Nordstrom Rack, Marshall’s, TJ Maxx etc. Happy shoe shopping! I would love to know what you find.

SOFFT

NEW brand I found: NAYA. These look to have great potential.

CLARKS

PIKOLINOS and FIDJI

MIZ MOOZ, OH! Shoes and JEFFREY CAMPBELL

NOTE: The OH! SHOES brand is the most cushioned shoe I’ve every tried. Alas, no wide widths-I can’t wear these!

A few I’ll be trying: SOFFT and BORN

Filed Under: Fabulous Footwear

Happy Easter!

April 3, 2010 By Karen 3 Comments

This past week my husband and I were reminiscing about getting Easter outfits when we were young. He jokingly threatened to buy the white suit on the front of the Kohl’s catalog for his Easter outfit. Back in the day, Easter outfits were a big deal. It was usually the turning point for wearing spring dressy clothes to church. I couldn’t round up too many photos of myself in Easter dresses over the years. I didn’t have girls, but still loved to dress my boys for Easter!

This spring you see more dresses than ever in the stores– and a lot of floral prints. The weather forecast is not great for Easter in the NW. I think I’ll be wearing a cardigan! Enjoy and Happy Easter!!

Here are some fun looks from Dillard’s

From Nordstrom and Anthropologie

From Kohl’s (couldn’t resist one with polka dots)

Shoes:Neutral Colors and Metallics are IN for Spring. While a great pair of black shoes is never out, neutrals extend the leg line and help the legs to look longer. They are perfect with florals and are the new WHITE. Here are my favorite spring neutrals. Via Spiga, Linea Paolo, Sofft, Sofft, Seychelles, Born.

Filed Under: Dresses and skirts, Fabulous Footwear

Savvy Shoe Shopping: Part 4

February 2, 2010 By Karen 1 Comment

I hope you like the new look at Style by Karen. My blog designer has been busy. I now have a virtual service. You may have noticed the comment box is missing. Click on “share your thoughts” and it will show at the end of the article. If you are a new subscriber, thanks for your interest and for sharing my blog with a friend.

I’ll close my series on shoes with tips to help you become a savvy shoe shopper.

I mentioned that I often pay full price for shoes because my feet are hard to fit. Since all of you are not in the same situation, I highly recommend shopping stores that carry name brands and high quality shoes for less. You will have good luck at the Nordstrom Rack and DSW. You may also want to check out Marshalls, Ross and TJ Maxx. Target or Payless shoes may even have options.

Watch department stores sales, and use the coupons to your advantage. Macy’s is particularly generous with coupons, and I have saved a bunch when combining a coupon with an item already on sale. If you are card holder at Macy’s the coupons arrive in your mailbox based on card use. Kohl’s is also generous to their card holders and you receive special discounts one time a month. A 30% off month provides healthy savings.

Online shoe stores are going to offer a wide range of choice in sizes, widths, color and styles. You may catch a sale if you watch frequently, especially towards the end of the season. I’ve already mentioned Zappos and Nordstrom as my favorites. There are many more. If you find a brand/style name you like and use my search technique, there will be more online stores than I can begin to name. Do your research and comparison shopping. I find the reviews helpful. You may even find E-bay is an option. Read carefully about shipping charges and return shipping. I have ordered from Zappos and had it the next day. SERIOUSLY. Returns are as easy as click/print for a FREE return label. Leave it at the UPS store—no waiting in line. I can wear the shoes from both of these stores to check out the comfort and fit and return with no questions asked. With my feet, this is a bonus!

Are prices higher for this service? I have not found it to be significant, and there is no sales tax with out of state orders. I have free shipping at Nordstrom (also comes with $200 orders) and I return to the store as it is very convenient. They will do FREE exchanges and the return label is $6 which is quite reasonable (typical of many online stores).Weigh out convenience, time, gas prices and make your choice.

One BIG advantage of online shopping is that little SEARCH box. At Zappos you can type in Narrow or Wide Widths, and even Boots: Wide Calf. I often hear from women who say they cannot zip up boots- it isn’t so with Zappos! Enjoy shopping and let me know how you do!

Filed Under: Fabulous Footwear, Shop on a Budget

Shoes & Boots Part 3: My Favorite Brands

January 29, 2010 By Karen 6 Comments

You’ve been asking for specific brands so here they are! Remember that on the final installment of this series I will be sharing shopping tips especially for online stores. QUICK TIP: Find the style name of a shoe you like in the store or online. Google and you will see all the stores that carry it, prices and even if it is on E-bay.

I rarely pay full price for any of my clothes. I’ve learned to shop smart, watch sales and go for price adjustments. With shoes, I often pay full price. I believe my feet are worth it. I don’t skimp when it comes to shoes and look for fine leather that gives and breathes. When I find a sale, it’s even more of a bonus. Here are brands I love. Keep in mind that many of these styles are 3-4 years old. You will probably be able to find a similar look

BORN: Cut generously, cushioned insoles, great choice in styles, easy to find at department, online or discount shoe stores.

SOFFT: Wide width options, very stylish, cushioned insole, 2 1/2-3 inch heels. This brand allows me to wear a higher heel–the brown patent pair shown are very comfortable. Macy’s, Nordstrom, Zappos and many other stores carry a wide variety of styles.

FIDJI: I found this brand a year ago and I LOVE it! As you can see, I went crazy. I love the styles, perfect heel height, European sizes. I get compliments every time I wear these shoes. Nordstrom.com (not found in all stores) Locally: Lily Atelier, Camas WA

La CANADIENNE: Higher end, waterproof, well-cushioned, perfect heel height, extremely comfortable. Although the square toe on the boot is not my personal best look, these boots can be worn when I need to be on my feet ALL day.

FRANCO SARTO : Great selection of styles, EXCELLENT price point, found everywhere. While only one pair is shown, I’ve had several over the years. Love them!

CLARKS: Variety of styles, lower heel, some styles in wide widths, one of the most popular comfortable shoes. Check out their Indigo line.

HELLE COMFORT: Extremely comfortable AND stylish, low heel. I rarely buy the same shoe in two colors as I like variety-these were worth it.

I know you may be tempted to run around with your walking/jogging shoes when you dress casually in jeans, sweats or capris. The heavy look of a running shoe is really best left for exercise. Find a lighter shoe for casual wear. Kohl’s calls them Fashion Athletic. I like that.

Other brands I’ve worn, admire or are recommended for comfort: SUDINI, ERIC MICHAEL, HISPANITAS, CIRCA JOAN & DAVID, ONEX, GENTLE SOULS, MIZ MOOZ.

HIGHER PRICE POINT: Cole Haan: Their Nike Air technology makes them a favorite and they come in NARROW widths.

Let me know if you have a favorite I missed.

Filed Under: Fabulous Footwear, Fashion Tips

Shoes: Comfort & Style Part 2

January 26, 2010 By Karen 3 Comments

I believe I have struck a chord with a topic that women find near and dear to their hearts: SHOES! From the amount of personal e-mail questions I received, along with comments, I realize I have much to cover. Here we go..

NEWS ALERT: Vogue has declared lower heels are in for Spring. You Look Fab has the official report. My feet are rejoicing!

What to Look for in a Shoe?

1. Heel Height You will have success combining style and comfort with a heel that ranges from 1.5-2.5 inches. Find the maximum heel height you can handle and don’t try to push it futher. Accept your limits. If you are 5’5 and under, try for at least ONE INCH or more. The more horizontal your foot is in the shoe, the better chance you will have to wear them for longer periods of time. If your foot is at a sharp incline, this puts pressure on the ball of the foot and decreases the time your foot can be in this unnatural position. Try a kitten heel–lower but still dressy. If you love heels, a platform makes it easier to pull off the height (from what I’m told)

2. Cushioned Insoles Padding in the shoe breaks down with wear. Natural padding in the ball of your foot breaks down with age! In my opinion, the more cushion a shoe starts out with, the better. If you want to add an insert try: Foot petals, Dr. Scholl’s or Footsmart

3. Choose the style carefully. If you have a wide foot, the cut of the shoe is crucial. When the cut is lower on the top inside of the shoe, it will rub. (if you suffer from bunions this is particularly important.)

4. Soft Leather that “gives” or can be stretched! (Ask your favorite shoe store if they can stretch your shoes)

5. European Designs are often cut generously. As I inquired at specialty shoes stores, I learned that many European sizes are better for Narrow feet. It just depends on the style. I don’t have to buy a WIDE width when I have a European size.

6. Chunkier/heavier styles can look fine with some outfits, but it can look out of place with others. Watch the Danskos and other similar brands with dressy outfits.

7. Shape of Toe. You see everything from square to round to pointed. If you want create an illusion to make your leg look longer-go for a pointed toe. Not your style-at least try a rounded point.

On Friday: Part 3: Photos & descriptions of my top brands. Part 4: Shopping tips for online shopping/mall shopping.

Because I know it’s hard to wait…Here are some of my favorite brands of shoes I own: Born, Sofft, Fidji, Helle Comfort, Franco Sarto, La Canadienne, Kenneth Cole Reaction.

Filed Under: Fabulous Footwear, Fashion Tips

Shoes: Mixing Comfort & Style

January 22, 2010 By Karen 5 Comments

Congratulations to Stacey (Comment#1) the winner of the Bathrobe Giveaway! Thanks everyone for your participation–more opportunities are coming. Keep reading and tell your friends.

Well over a year ago when I imagined writing a fashion blog, I knew one of my first topics would be SHOES! Like many women, I have a “Shoe Jones”. In my opinion, shoes can make or break an outfit. I can’t cover this topic in one post. This will be my first STYLE by KAREN series.

Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin. The choices of the stars… and only in my dreams… Even if I could afford these brands, I don’t think I’d ever find the right fit. A narrow toe box or a heel higher than 3 inches is not in my future. I look at the celebrities and marvel.

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I like to wear heels. They elongate my leg line, add some height which helps me look thinner. I tell my clients that even a two inch heel can make a world of difference. Many women are opposed to wearing any type of heel. It is my job to prove that stylish, comfortable shoes are out there!

Last fall I sold a clothing line. I was not used to spending that much time on my feet in dressier shoes. By the end of the night, my feet were killing me! The quest for the right shoe began. I have spent hours on research and tried on MANY shoes. I am fairly sure I know every brand out there. My feet are wide with high arches. I have bunions and off/on heel pain. If I wear too high of a heel, the incline puts all the pressure on the ball of the foot. OUCH! The first suggestion that comes to mind may be. “Karen, just wear flats!” There are many stylish options. However, a flat shoe without arch support, brings on heel pain. I realize this is way more information than you want to know about my feet, but are you getting the picture?

I started out at our local “comfort” shoe store, When the Shoe Fits. I learned a great deal about inserts and which brands offered the best arch support. I spent time talking with the salesmen who are specially trained. The human foot is complicated. There were some nice options for me, but admittedly some of the brands did not meet my style standards. From the way I was dressed, the man helping me said… “It’s not every day I get someone like you in here. I realize some of styles may be a little ‘mature’ for you”. This was a dipolomatic way of saying that a few of the shoes brought back memories of what my dear grandma would have worn. (Grandma, bless her heart, did not have the style options we have today.) After trying on shoe after shoe, I left with my Merrell slippers and inserts for several pairs of shoes I already owned. They also suggested other brands for me to try that the store did not carry. Now, that is customer service!

The search was on! I ordered 6-8 pairs of shoes at a time from Zappos and Nordstrom. I cannot say enough about these sites for a shoe shopper. Zappos has 24 hour service and FREE shipping both ways. I can return a pair even ONE year later! Nordstrom has a comfort category and so much selection. In my case, I cannot properly test a shoe by trying on in the store. I have to be on my feet for an extended period before the shoe passes the test. Can you imagine the jokes in my house when these boxes show up? They think I’ve gone shoe crazy, and admittedly there are times my living room looks like a store.

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