Warning - Shameless Self Promotion :
Apologies for the lack of posting late last week - I have been all but consumed working on the final touches of my new website. There are still some minor things to tidy up - but basically ready to rock and roll!! I would love you to browse around it - it will give you a better idea of who I am and what I do. One of my favorite features is an online booking system where patients can book online and manage their appointments (it's like a virtual personal assistant), and coming very soon an exciting online shop where you can buy some of the stellar products I dispense to my patients.
Ok! Enough about me. Onto the shoes!
Today we are continuing our journey in Aldo land. Pumps and Flats are the topic of discussion today. I have to say, while I love stilettos, I have a yuge (read: huge) crush on ballerina flats. They have the essence of East Hampton, weekend brunches, and girly details all wrapped in a cute package. They are also the perfect thing for a heel orthotic. Why not take care of your feet and look fabulous?
We start with the pumps:
1. BIBB
Black Suede or Grey (shown)
$ 90.00 CAD
Heel: 2.5-2.75 '', Platform 0''
As with the Dehne from the Aldo Boots Post late last week - this is a wedge gallivanting as a heel. Which suits me just fine, because this is not only a super hot shoe, but it is better for your foot. When you have a wide base of support across the bottom of the shoe (like in this wedge) you are less likely to pronate.
2. Segura
Taupe, Black Patent, Black Suede or Medium Blue (shown)
$ 100.00 CAD
Heel: 3.25-3.5 '', Platform ~0.5''
I will sheepishly admit that what originally drew me to this shoe was the color. After examining it, I am happy to say it is (mostly) compliant of the rules :)
Nice chunky platform that reduces the heel-to-forefoot ratio, chunky heel that provides more stability (vs. a stick thin stiletto). Round peep toe at the front which allows for a more natural toe pattern. I would, in keeping with the toe theme or a second, buy a half size to a full size up in these. Big toes in peeps tend to get the short end of the stick - as they (being the biggest toe) need the most wiggle room.
3. Tomita
Black Suede and Taupe (shown)
$ 135.00 CAD
Heel: 3.75-4.0 '', Platform ~0.5-0.75''
Um. So. Wow. Gorgeous criss-cross booties. Almond toe, as discussed previously, is a much better option than a pointed toe. It has the same elongating effect women are after, but also does not force the big toe to bend inwards like a pointed toe can. The heel thickness is a little light, but it does widen to the base of the shoe. I like the high sides of the shoe - which can give a bit more of a sense of where your ankle is, and help with a fancy term called "proprioception", which helps with balance. If you have ever rolled or sprained your ankle - you know this is of utmost importance.
My only caveat with this shoe is that you practice a bit of walking in them first. See the (gorgeous) detail of the lifted toe-box at the front? This *may* give you a sense that you have more of a base on the foot than you actually have.
4. Zabrocki
Black Suede and Taupe (shown)
$ 160.00 CAD
Heel: 2.0-2.25 '', Platform 0''
So, yes, this has a pointed toe. And yes, I am aware that I go on about round > almond > points. However, *if* you went up a half size up or more on these and *if* you paired this with a slender heel orthotic to help correct any forefoot variations -- deep breath -- you *could* get away with it because the heel height is so low.
Love the metallic studded cuff, too :)
Yes, I am almost giddy about flats. Look, don't get me wrong - heels are one of my best friends, but flats are like lululemons to me - they are the most comfortable, move-with-your-natural-shape-while-still-making-you-look-fabulous shoes. When I come you go home, do you change from work clothes and heels to lulu's and flats or vice versa? Uh-huh. Thought so.
So, lets have a looksie at some beyond-beautiful flats. That you can slip custom orthotics in, that allow for full foot motion, that probably have a combination of bows, sparkles and ribbons. Oh joy, oh joy.
1. Rubal
Black Misc, Blue, and Black Suede (shown)
$ 45.00 CAD
Heel: 0.5 '', Platform 0''
Like a glittery rainfall of metallic-studded happiness. Love the low cut ballerinas to show off toe-cleavage and the round toe to let the toes be free. Rubber sole allows good give when walking. A+
2. Chubb
Leopard (shown)
$ 50.00 CAD
Heel: >0.25 '', Platform 0''
Oh well wouldn't you lovelies look happy paired with...just about anything. Leopard is truly a neutral (except when paired with other animal prints!). Looks particularly smashing with red.
What can I say? Absolute perfection. Nice rounded toe, perfect heel to forefoot ratio. I love this flat with a pencil skirt and a blouse.
3. Strevels
Black, Blue and Grey (shown)
$ 55.00 CAD
Heel: >0.25 '', Platform 0''
If you are not absolutely in passionate, mad love for flats after looking at these, well then I can do no more. Absolutely spectacular flat - a flexible rubber sole that allows for full expression of the normal walking pattern of the foot. It is made with nubuck and it has an ever so slightly pointed toe - which justifies at least a half size up than your normal size. Oh, and it has A BOW. A PINK BOW.
4. Austill
Black, Blue and Grey (shown)
$ 60.00 CAD
Heel: >0.25 '', Platform 0''
This looks so 70's | Adidas stripe-y | mod to me. Which is probably why I am in love with them. All 70's...all the time!
Another lower cut ballerina, with soft leather layers. Great for full movement of the foot, easy on the forefoot and toes. Ooooh and the blue one with jeans. Me likey.
5. Gollman
Black, Blue and Silver, Fuschia (shown)
$ 19.98 - 45.00 CAD
Heel: >0.25 '', Platform 0''
I can understand if you need a minute to catch your breath. Yes, these are full-on sequined, glittery, shiny goddesses that are offered in an array of colors. Flexible sole and a rounded toe. I am buying the fuchsia ones. :)
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Later this week we still have yet to cover a few other shops, so please stay tuned, tell your girlfriends if you think this is worth sharing, and comment!!
Dr.S
xo
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