FashBlog.com

by Deb Powers

Imelda Marcos had it right. No woman can have enough shoes. Shoes are more than a fashion statement - they're a statement of identity, style, practicality and function all rolled into a size 7 (if you're lucky). Every woman has her favorite shoes - mine at the moment are a pair of turquoise slip-ons with a molded sole and cork inner sole that make my toes wiggle in ecstasy whenever I slip them on. They cost me $5 on the markdown shelf at the local Payless Store, and at least three days a week, I have to bodily remove them from my daughter's feet. They're so deliciously comfy that I built my summer wardrobe around them last year so that I could wear them almost every day.

There are some places, though, that my turquoise sandals just aren't welcome. For those other days and events, my closet boasts a variety of shoes that every woman needs to own. They're shoes that never seem to go out of style, and that are de rigeur for particular occasions. They may not woo your feet with the exciting dash of a rhinestone ankle strap or the whispered seduction of suede Ferragamo's, but they'll always be there when you need them, like your brother's best friend who took you to the prom.

The wedding shoe:
Unless you can manage to choose exactly the perfect shoes for that new dress you bought for your cousin's wedding, you need a pair of wedding shoes in your closet. Classic dressy black heels are perfect for a winter wedding. In the spring and summer, opt for gray or taupe heels, unless you've got the perfect match for your dress.

The interview shoe:
The job interview is not the place to show off your sexiest pumps. Dress to impress means the subtle, no-nonsense styling of mid-heeled black pumps to go with the understated business suit. Save the funky heels for the office Christmas party.


The beach walker:
Barefoot can be dangerous - and it's certainly not as sexy as a pair of strappy, bejeweled thongs that show off that snazzy pedicure and flash a little toe cleavage. Comfy flip-flops in bright colors, trimmed with fake flowers or rhinestones, tatami-soled slip-ons and the classic beach thong all have a place in your closet - or walking on the beach. They're the perfect footwear to accent shorts, skorts, skirts or bikinis, showing off those sexy feet.

The classic tennie:
Or another pair of sneakers. No woman's foot wardrobe is complete without a pair of perfectly worn-in sneakers. Whether your style is Keds or Reebok, Air Jordan or Nike, the only thing to wear on your feet for a casual kickaround weekend is a pair of comfortable sneakers.

On the town with the girls - or that special guy:
Drop-dead sexy strappy heels, of course! The dance floor is the place for those shoes that you wouldn't DARE where to the office. Suede, patent, trimmed or plain, the only requirement is heels high enough to give your back porch that sexy swing. You get bonus points if you don't kick them off to dance!

Running and athletic wear:
This is one of the places that there should be no skimping. For your morning jog, cross-country walking or tennis game, invest in the best, well-fitted athletic shoes you can afford. The fit is vital - uncomfortable shoes can do more than give you blisters. Shoes that don't fit right can seriously compromise your balance and safety when you're doing something active like running.

Add in a pair of comfy slippers - preferably furry black kitties with emerald eyes and a pink bow - and one pair of dazzling, drop-dead boots, and you'll have a shoe collection that's fit for a queen - or at least a First Lady.