FashBlog.com

This is a question I’ve thought about off and on for some time now. It seems that half of the people I know insist that family members (as well as child guests) remove their shoes upon entering their house to keep rugs and flooring as clean as possible. The other 50% don’t care, and allow kids to wear even outside shoes into their bedrooms.

The compromise would be some sort of very comfortable, casual flat shoe that never steps foot outside; fortunately, they are fairly easy to find-at least for the females of the family.

Not too long ago, fashion introduced an expanded line of such footwear based on the premise of oriental silk slippers. I actually have bought several pairs of those in New York’s Chinatown, and am happy to report that they brought me much pleasure. A woman can find lovely, elaborate beading or stitching on the top, and the ease of slipping into them assures they will be a perfect choice for at-home use. They usually last a long time, too, but eventually they will become stained or ripped. The good news is that they are inexpensively replaced. The department store versions took this look and re-created it on heavier fabrics, then added bugle beads and sequins. Again, the look is fun and still indulgent. You could wear these when folks stop by without feeling like they’re seeing you in your nightwear.

Another choice would be the many styles of “flip flops” now available. In this category, a lady can probably find dozens of styles from which to choose, including silky, thick versions, and models adorned with flowers, bows, jewels and bows. They’ve come a long way from the plain rubber style that used to be found only at the seashore and local swimming pool, and can be kept clean with a wet cloth.

Other women opt for the ballerina slipper type of shoe for home use. This is very flattering, as it usually appears to decrease the length of the foot. As long as it is wide enough, it’s also usually comfortable, if a woman doesn’t mind having her toes and heels closed in while relaxing. They’re excellent for entertaining, though, since they go with many outfits.

Younger members of the family may prefer to wear “slipper socks” that have treads at the bottom for added durability. The advantage of these is that they are easily laundered, and as such, can be kept fresh. But they have their limits, and can wear out fairly quickly.

Moccasins seem to the choice of many males, and have the advantage of long term functionality. In fact, quality ones may last a decade or more. Usually, they’re more of a cold-weather item, since they’re practically all lined with fleece, but just as with Uggs, they’re also appreciated for the lining’s ability to absorb foot sweat. (A really creative person may be glad to know that there are now kits to make their own moccasins!)

We also can’t forget the whimsy of attention-getting, plush animal slippers. No longer just for kids, adult sizes can be found with almost every famous cartoon character or furry friend. A person with a great sense of humor and fun-loving spirit will even wear them when expecting guests, and they can be good conversation pieces. But they aren’t without their faults, however. Rarely can they be washed and stay the same, and the bottoms wear away in due time. The styles with really large characters also take some getting use to when it comes to maneuvering. But you can’t deny their warmth and charm.

Probably every woman owns at least one pair of plush, slide-in slippers or slipper-booties. These are true pajama and robe accessories, and most gals don’t often wear them until guests leave. They are probably the most comfortable, especially the ones with arch supports or thick padding that allow the wearer to sink down into cushioning with every step…Being absorbing and washable, even inexpensive models offer long wear from any number of styles and colors.

I think that we all need definitive footwear for home. It validates that we have specific down time. We should be able to enjoy it in our way, as much as possible.