The Fashion Crime That Haunts My Dreams

Alright shoe addicts, I’m talking to you! I have decided to diagnose the shoe-illness that causes me to cringe, without fail, everytime I see these beasts. I call it “CROCphobia”. These shoes are not only a crime against fashion, but they should be illegal for everyone except children under 5 and nurses. I can’t even come up with a reason good enough to justify a CROC shandal (shoe + sandal, because really, which is it?). I know I have encouraged you to take fashion risks, but this is fashion suicide - and proof was on the airplane from Cabo to Chicago...look at your own risk!

You saw it here, CROCS that tie. O. My. G. I don’t even have words. As a self proclaimed “shoe aficionado” and a gal who hearts fashion, I feel it’s my blogger duty to fill you in on the basics. Now, if you are thinking to yourself, “but, I can’t wear four-inch heels in the airport”, fear not. I may prefer a towering platform heel, but I also know how to pick out something comfortable and functional without losing my sass. So, pay attention ladies, it's time to learn.

It’s my personal belief that shoes shouldn’t simply be an accessory to an outfit, they should be part of the main event! A fabulosity shoe can make all the difference and take you from simple caterpillar to runway ready butterfly – even in the airport. Let it be known, I am not a supporter of the just-rolled-out-of-bed-for-my-early-flight look.  There is ALWAYS time to run a brush through the locks, some jet black mascara to wake up the face and a swipe of lipgloss (my go-to products below).  Like I said, fabulosity makes all the difference.  The same rule applies for your travel shoes. I can accept a pair of flip flops and I can even accept Ugg boots (barely, and never with a jean skirt), but I cannot accept CROCS, ever.

So, what shoes do you wear when you want to be comfortable, but not lose your flare? Good news gals, you have three options!

Option 1: If you prefer some height you can never go wrong with a wedge. Elongate the leg, lift up the booty and avoid the pain of a spiky heel. The wedge is almost always on a platform so your foot will be at a comfortable angle for all the walking you’ll do and you’ll feel like a glamazon - even when you have a 6AM flight. CAUTION: I don’t guarantee comfort all day long – plan carefully. You won’t catch me in heels if I am spending more than 6 hours at the airport. I’m loving these Jessica Simpson wedges @ piperlime.com (Ashlee; $59), great with dark denim and a deep v-neck tee.

Option 2: Meet the ballet flat. A practical choice and with this shoe I can almost always guarantee all day comfort. The one rule that you have to remember when you wear the flat - wear pants that won’t get stuck under your feet! Never drag your pants. Tatters and tears are so 1995, circa the JNCO jean - ew. I like a skinny ankle pant, a cuffed boyfriend jean or a boot cut. This summer I am all about bright colors and ankle straps – these flats by ALL BLACK @ endless.com ($55) are extra fancy with the jewels on top.

Option 3: Learn to love the Puma – perfect for the sporty chicks. I love these shoes! They look so great with shorts and summer sweaters since they are part preppster and part play-time. Finally, a tennis shoe that doesn’t make me feel like I should be at the gym but rather like I’m dressed down in a really cool, girly way. Some advice if you do decide to go the Puma route – keep these puppies bright white so that they look as polished as you’ll feel. A dirty shoe fosters a lazy wardrobe! Scoop up a pair of these GV Love sneakers @ endless.com ($70) - free overnight shipping and no tax! Now that you are in shoe shopping mode, start thinking about your next trip and the perfect shoe for the journey. Don’t forget, comfortable doesn’t have to mean boring or that you should sacrifice your style. Fabulosity should always be part of your wardrobe– whether you’re at work, out with the girls, or catching the red eye. Time to show those CROCS whose boss! xoxo,