It’s winter gentlemen, and most of you will battle the inclement weather with two coats in your wardrobe…your casual one for weekends or dress-down Fridays and your ‘good’ coat for regular work days and when your significant other insists you wear it for that dinner out.  Now, boys, that’s just not enough.  In North America,  our Fall and Winter seasons can be soooo unpredictable and you need to be prepared.  And besides, your vibrant lifestyle deserves more than just ‘good’ and ‘not so good’, doesn’t it?

Here are some basic jackets and coats to take you through October through April.  Take into consideration your lifestyle and budget and choose the ones that suit you best.  In my professional opinion, every man, especially if you live here in the Great White North, needs at least 4.

A Windbreaker or Nylon Sports Jacket

Perfect for those transitional months in the Fall or Spring.  If you’re dressed up more than dressed down, then opt for a ¾ length nylon sports jacket that you can get away with paired with some dress pants.  And find one that’s got a bit more pizzazz to it, rather than a simple bomber style.  Choose something in a light to medium weight or better yet, one with a detachable lining so that you can still be protected without feeling overly warm.

A Trenchcoat

A classic – you can’t go wrong.  Perfect for the commute during those rainy seasons.  Once again, you can find one with a removable lining for greater versatility.  Opt for a darker neutral tone so it can take you through Fall & Spring and won’t look so worn out from the elements after a couple of seasons.

A Peacoat

Another classic.  A peacoat, for those that may not be familiar with the terminology, is a military-style jacket – double-breasted, wool, usually, navy blue (but nowadays you can find them in different colours and fabrics, including leather and nylon).  They can be worn dressed up or casual and therefore are very versatile for work or weekend. 

A Topcoat

If you’re in suits 5 days or more a week, then you need a topcoat.  It’s definitely a dressier look, but tops off that suit in the sharpest way possible.  You can find them in wool, or if you’re so inclined, Mmmmm cashmere!  Charcoal, navy or camel are your best bet – black just gives you that funeral director look….not very sexy.

A Leather Jacket

The look…cool & sexy.  Depending on your personal style, look for a motorcycle jacket, peacoat or ¾ length car coat.  The only downside to leather is it doesn’t repel the elements very well.   So don’t wear it in the rain or snow and be sure to clean and protect it regularly.

A Parka

Canadian winters….need I say more?  They’re usually down-filled, but you can find some now with man-made fillers liker ‘Thinsulate’ that keep you just as warm, but are easier on sensitive noses.  One with a hood is a good idea especially if you enjoy lots of outdoor activities.

Finally, don’t forget to top off your topper with some great accessories – a rich, wool scarf, a cool or classic hat and of course, a great pair of leather gloves.   Remember guys, in the colder months, your coat is the first thing people will see, so make sure it’s both practical and polished.

Holiday season is upon us and just around the corner is the annual office party.  Some people dread this event as they don’t believe in mixing work and personal life.  They’ve got a certain persona at work and totally different one evenings & weekends.  God forbid, they collide!  But no need to fret…you can keep your office persona and drink your egg nog too!  Just remember to relax and keep your wits about you.

Err on the side of conservative.  Remember, even though you may be out at a restaurant or even a pub or nightclub, you’re still with co-workers and most importantly, your boss.  So don’t overdo it.  Keep your clothing tasteful.  Dress it up if it’s a more formal occasion, but no low-cut, up to the ‘hmm hmm’ cocktail dresses.  Keep your neck and hemlines in check.   Gentlemen, take it up a notch for this event – it is a special occasion – especially if you’re celebrating outside of the office.  Put the kicks aside for a nice pair of dress shoes and coordinating socks and maybe throw on a casual jacket over your polo shirt.

Now, some of you may not like what I’m about to say, and this is only my opinion.  But I highly recommend you lose the novelty sweaters.  Leave Santa and Rudolph with the light-up nose at home….pleeeeease!  Get on the decoration committee if you feel the need to indulge in Holiday trimmings.

In addition to keeping your clothing classy, do the same for your behaviour.  Take it easy at the buffet table – no double-dipping, use utensils to serve your food, and if you’re first in line, remember, there’s a long line of hungry people behind you who could make your working life very miserable if you take all their food.  

Ahh, the open bar…an oasis at the end of a brutal 4^th quarter.  Even if drinks are on the house, try to show some restraint.  You want to be remembered for your great conversation & wit, and not be tagged in some questionable photos on Facebook.

Speaking of conversation, choose your topics carefully.  Now is not the time to talk to your boss about that long overdue raise or complain to the office gossip about that nagging rash.  Steer clear of politics, sex and religion.  Keep it light…after all, it is a party.

Remember, no matter what you wear this Holiday Season, finish your look with a bright smile and a joyous heart.  No matter what you say or do, be sure to extend a kind hand and offer warm wishes.

Happy Holidays!

I wanted to share this article with you because it echoes how so many women feel about the impact their day-to-day life has on their sense of style…or, lack thereof.  But the story has a happy ending and shares hope that even the frumpiest slump can be overcome and more fashionable days lied ahead.

Can I Help You?  Jane Boyd – Elle Canada November 2011

I was a freelance writer in uncertain times – which is to say, living the normal freelance life  – when suddenly, I had to find a new apartment.  I saw a studio that I wanted badly (can you fall in love with a space and a view?), but to get it I needed a job with a guaranteed cash flow – a small miracle:  I needed the job that week or I’d lose the apartment.  Feeling like I was on a reality-TV show dramatized by a sudden, self-imposed deadline, I put the word out: “I need any steady job in three days – I’ll even work in a store!”  Three days later I had a job, in a store, proving that a) miracles exist and, b) people take you at your word.  I vowed to remember this last point the next time I offered to help friends paint a room or cat-sit “anytime!” and then signed a one-year lease.

The job was with an upscale fashion retailer in Toronto’s Yorkville district, 10 to 6, four to five days a week, leaving plenty of time to work on writing projects and admire my view.  How perfect was this?  And then, I had to dress for work.  I surveyed my “good” wardrobe – a task accomplished in 10 seconds.  One decent skirt and a pair of pants.  A black cocktail/funeral dress with a small moth hole.  Footwear I could stand standing in all day, not counting slippers, included flip-flops, running shoes and rubber boots.

Years of working from home had taken its toll on my wardrobe – my looks in general.  How frighteningly easy it was to wear old sweats and pilled sweaters day after day, to forget about mascara and highlighting my hair – even brushing my hair.  After all, who saw me on a daily basis other than the guy at my local variety store and couriers?  Even then I could yell from the window “Just leave it in the mailbox, thanks!”

Somewhere along the murky way, dressing down became dressing down and out.  I had a signature look, and it said “Let others be inspired by celebrities on the red carpet; I am inspired by celebrities at the airport, returning from long-haul flights!”  Note to Colin Firth:  When you saw me on the street, without makeup, in worn sweats on which bits of rice cake clung, please know that I don’t usually look like that.   (Or did I?)

But now I had to look good.  In public.  Four to five days a week.  I borrowed two designer jackets from a fashionista friend and created four outfits.  I made an appointment with my hairdresser, who remembered me.    Once I began work, I bought a few pieces with my discount, plus $300 Prada flats, reasoning that they would pay for themselves in no time in the sales commissions I’d earn from customers impressed by my sophisticated style and fashion savvy.  (I wasn’t bad at sales, but I lacked a pro’s killer instinct; my pitch was vague, almost apologetic:  “If you’re not sure, think about it…”  Instead of building customer lists, I dreamed up ideas for a musical about a writer who takes a job in an upscale women’s clothing store.)

At the end of a working day my legs ached, but this was a small price to pay for the weight loss.  Diet tip:  Standing for eight hours a day works way better than sitting at your desk eight feet from the fridge.

After six months my freelance business picked up, bringing my retail career to an end.  That’s when a friend pointed out that letting your looks slide can be symptomatic of feeling that your life’s going downhill or, at least, that you’re standing still.  Hmmm.  Now things were looking up for me; things were happening.  And I had the wardrobe, and the hair, to show for it.  I thanked her for the insight and wondered how to use the idea for a song in my musical.  Not long after, another friend said, “You look terrific lately; you should keep it up!”)  Translation:  “You looked like such a frump.  Do not let that happen again.”)  “No worries!”  I said, brushing my newly highlighted hair off my face.  And I meant it.  Now, even if I’m just going to the grocery store, I put on some lipstick and my Prada flats and check for food stains.  The next time I run into Colin Firth, I’ll be ready.

The weather isn’t quite frightful yet, but soon it will be.  And although the fire is delightful, heating systems are being cranked and drying out your skin.  So get it winter-ready now.

I’m not just talking to the ladies, but the gents as well.  You don’t have to be plagued by dry, itchy winter skin, here are some nourishing tips to keep your skin looking hot in the freezing cold.

Cleanse

A proper cleansing both morning and night removes the excess sweat, oil and bacteria that have built up over the past few hours.  Ladies, if you wear makeup everyday, this is even more essential.  Find a cleanser formulated for your particular skin type:  dry, normal, oily or sensitive.  Not sure what your type is?  Ask for the advice of a professional like an esthetician or your favourite beauty advisor.  The drier air from indoor heating systems coupled with the harsh cold air outside tends to make everyone’s skin a little drier.  So even if you’re oily, make sure your cleanser won’t over strip and dry out your skin.

Moisturize

After you’ve cleansed, make sure to replenish the skin with some soothing hydration.  Remember, we’re made up of 80% water – it’s essential to our health.  Now, I know I don’t need to convince my dry-skinned readers, but for the oilier types, there’s a misconception that moisturizers just make you oilier.  Actually, the opposite is true.  Moisturizers add moisture or water to the skin, not necessarily oil.  To be sure of that, choose a moisturizer that’s oil-free.  A good balance of oil and moisture (water) will actually help to regulate the oil production in your skin.  That’s why skin specialists are always encouraging us to drink lots of water.  It flushes out impurities that can cause skin irritation and acne, and replenishes much-needed moisture.  Be sure to moisturize day and night, and not just your face, but your entire body.

Protect

I know we’re overwhelmed with information about sun production in the summer, but did you know we need it 365 days a year?!  The sun may not be as strong in the cooler months, but it’s long-range effects can be just as damaging.  If you enjoy outdoor activities such as skating, skiing, tubing, etc., then you need to be extra diligent.  The reflective glare off the snow is not just hard on your eyes, but your skin as well.

Exfoliate

To help rid yourself of any dull, dry or flaky skin, exfoliate your skin once or twice a week in the evening in place of your cleanser.  Exfoliants come in many different forms:

• Scrubs are very common and effective.  Just be sure not to use them on open scratches or wounds as it won’t allow them to heal properly.  Also avoid them on an acne breakout as it can spread the infection.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Retinol and other anti-aging ingredients – rather than manually removing the dead layer of skin like scrubs do, these ingredients do it for you.  A caution to sensitive skins as these ingredients could be over-stimulating.
• Don’t like too many products?  A simple washcloth or body scrubbing sponge will yield the same effect.  Be sure to find a facial washcloth or exfoliating sponge for your face – they’re softer in texture and gentler on more delicate facial skin.

Our skin needs to last us a lifetime.  Although it naturally rejuvenates itself, as we age that process slows down.  So, a good solid skin care routine can help you withstand the elements and keep it looking younger and fresher, longer.

Not getting the most networking bang for your buck?  Having trouble getting noticed?  Not making the connections you really want?

If you’re not attracting the right people, you may need to reassess the message you’re sending to those around you.  When we’re networking we’re not only marketing our businesses, but ourselves as well.  Your company image is echoed through your personal style.  During a first encounter with a new acquaintance, you have less then 10 seconds to establish a positive first impression, and 55% of that first impression is based on how you look and how you behave. Therefore, your personal image and conduct need to be outstanding.

So how do you become outstanding?  First, define your corporate identity and message.  Think about what your business is about and what it stands for.  For instance, quality work/products, dependability, fair pricing.  Now think of three adjectives by which you, as the owner want to be remembered.  Confident, sincere, capable, etc.?  What is the message you want to instill in others?  “I can help your business grow.”  “I can provide you with customized solutions.”  “I can help make your workforce happier and healthier.” 

Next, look at yourself in a mirror.  Are your clothes sending the message you want to send?  Someone who is looking for an expert to help grow his/her business will be attracted to a look of experience and stability.  So stay away from the business casual look.  Try wearing a suit in a medium to darker neutral tone to promote experience and stability.  Show you are approachable, friendly and open for business through the colour of your blouse/shirt and simple but well-chosen accessories.

If your message is that you ‘provide customized solutions’, create a look that shows you are innovative and flexible.  Scrap the full suit.  Try coordinated tailored separates (jacket, skirt or pants).  Use colour and accessories to show you are creative and professional.  Keep your bottoms neutral to show stability, then add some creativity with a bold coloured or textured jacket or, maybe, pop some interest with a colourful striped or patterned shirt/blouse.  Remember to use only one creative focal piece in your clothing – too many is overkill.

When your business is all about making a workforce happier and healthier’, you will be expected to be up to date on health and wellness.  A pin-stripe navy blue suit and starched white shirt isn’t going to work.  You want to appear as stress-free as your client’s workplace will be when you are working with them.  Go for a more relaxed look.  Try separates in warmer, earthier tones.  Choose natural fabrics and accessories.  For example, tweed pants with a cream cotton top will reflect a calm, friendly yet professional approach.  Ladies, accessorize with wood, beads and stones.

The key is to stay true to who you are and what your business stands for, while always remaining professional.  Successful people want to do business with other successful people.  So take pride in who you are and what you offer.  Let that pride shine through the way you dress and how you communicate with others.  When you send the right message, the right answers will come and the right people will appear.

Leopard, plaid and preppy chic…oh my!  The fall is filled with animal magnetism, rich bold colour and preppy chic style.

Plaid

A huge trend this season – you’ll see it everywhere…from men’s shirts to ladies’ skirts to kids’ backpacks.  Whether the checks are small or large, the colours bold or subdued, everyone can incorporate this trend into their fall wardrobe.  The key is to keep this pattern as the focal point and not add in any other prints that will compete or overwhelm.

Colour

How refreshing to see so much beautiful colour this season!  And not just traditional fall colours, like orange, red, and gold, but vibrant yellows, purples, teals and fuchsia!  Uncertain about such a bold palette?  Keep it simple.  Start with neutral bottoms (grey, navy, brown, black, etc.) and bring the colour close to your face in a shirt, sweater or even more subtly in a scarf or tie.  If you want to try more than one bold tone at a time, then choose complimentary tones like teal with soft yellow or purple with bright orange or lime green and always anchor it with a neutral.

Preppy Chic

Think prep school and country clubs….now add some funk!  Guys, polo shirts are back – striped and solid.  Throw it under a bold coloured hoodie or military jacket.  Cardigans make a great layered alternative to a blazer.  For work, wear it with a button-down shirt and dress pants.  For play, pair it with a great graphic tee and slim-fit jeans.  Top it with a cool driving cap or a funky fedora a la Bruno Mars or Ne-Yo.  Ladies, plaid skirts are hot!  Make sure they come to the knee for more sophisticated flare!

Animal Magnetism

Leopard, zebra, tiger, snakeskin…sounds a little scary, but it doesn’t have to be.  For those who are a little more reserved, animal prints can be tamed by wearing them in small doses.  Try introducing them to your wardrobe through your accessories – in a purse, shoes, scarf, etc.  For the more adventurous, go all out!  Snakeskin boots, zebra print dress, leopard jacket or skirt.  Now I’m not saying wear these all at the same time!  Keep it simple – don’t overdo it by wearing a leopard skirt with matching jacket and shoes.  Also, don’t mix too many animal prints, like snakeskin shoes with a leopard skirt & zebra purse.  Choose one focal point & anchor it with solids.

Want to really stand out?  Pair an animal print with bold colour.  For example, a leopard print pencil skirt with a cherry red sweater looks hot!

Remember the key to mastering trends is to choose one or two that best suit your personal style and incorporate a couple of pieces into your existing wardrobe.  Too much of one trend or too many in general, looks like you’re trying to hard.  A few strategically worn items can transform your wardrobe from invisible to outstanding!

Queen Latifah dedicates a chapter in her book, Put On Your Crown, to Beauty – something about which everyone has an opinion or preference.  After all beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

It’s also something that many of us have difficulty finding within ourselves.  Latifah recounts a story about her mom – a high school teacher who strives to inspire a community of troubled teens.  She asks her students to complete a simple, but empowering exercise that I think we should all try.

Create a list of all the things you like about yourself.   They can be physical or personality traits, special talents or skills, emotional, mental or spiritual…the idea is not to limit yourself.  So, for example, here’s a couple of mine…

• I’ve got a great sense of style.
• I’m proud of keeping myself healthy.
• I take initiative.
• I’ve got great skin.

So now it’s your turn.  Start writing.  Try to write as many as you can in 2 minutes.  Take note of how long it takes you to write down your first item…

OK, 2 minutes are up!  How did you do?  Did you get 1, 5, 10 or more?  Did you struggle with your first item?  If so, consider why you’re so hard on yourself.

If you didn’t write down anything, go ask someone you love what they love about you and start with that.

Now, you need to tape the list to your bathroom mirror and read it to yourself, preferably out loud as that’s much more powerful!  Do this everyday, first thing in the morning to energize yourself for your day, and before you go to bed to inspire blissful sleep.  Some of you may think it’s hokey or you may feel a little weird when you first start.  But what’s the harm in giving it a shot?

Take note of how you feel after a week, two weeks, a month, of consistently reinforcing to yourself just how fabulous you are!  Self-love is the greatest love of all.  Without it, we cannot truly and fully love others.

“I wish every woman would learn to love herself and embrace what she was given naturally, even her small imperfections.  The point is to be healthy, feel good in your own skin, and play up your best assets.  Whether you’re short or tall, thick or thin, the beauty comes from how you carry yourself, how you care for your appearance, and the inner glow that confidence brings.  A girl can be born plain, but if she believes herself to be gorgeous, she can be the sexiest woman in the room.” – Queen Latifah

I came across this quiz from Marie-Claire Magazine March 2008.  It’s simple, and kind of fun.  It was pretty accurate for me….let me know about your results!  Enjoy!

1.  What’s your go-to first-date outfit?

A. The sexiest cocktail dress I own, with va-va-voom cleavage

B. Casual – usually curve-hugging jeans and a tank

C. A knee-length shift dress to show some leg

D. A blouse with a colorful, girly skirt

2. Your daily makeup look is:

A. Full on glam, with liberal mascara application and perfectly applied red lipstick

B. Pretty bare – lip gloss and mascara, with a touch of eye shadow when I remember

C. Put-together but not caked on – I usually stick to highlighting just one feature

D. Always changing – I love to play with different colors and styles

3.   You’re at a bar and notice a Clooney look-a-like sneaking glances at you. How do you flirt?

A. I go right up to him, introduce myself, and tell him I noticed him looking at me – he’s obviously interested, so why be coy?

B. I grab my friends and challenge him and his buddies to a game of darts.

C. I talk to my friends but smile and make eye contact to let him know he should come over and say hi.

4. Accessories can make or break an outfit – what piece do you always wear?

A.  A pair of big earrings

B.  A classic watch that goes with everything

C.  A simple necklace to subtly accent the décolletage

D.  Something with flair, like a cute Blair Waldorf headband or a funky brooch

5. What’s your favorite happy hour drink?

A.  Sex on the Beach, Buttery Nipple … anything that gets me talking dirty to the bartender

B.  A cold beer

C.  A classic martini

D.  A cute umbrella drink, like a mai tai

6. What’s your signature hairstyle?

A.  Bring on the hairspray – I love lots of volume for a perma-sex-hair style

B.  I always have it pulled back from my face in a sleek ponytail or braid

C.  I prefer long layers that I can sweep back for work and let loose for a sexy nighttime look

D.  I like to change it up with dramatic color changes and trendy cuts

7. Which celeb’s style do you crave?

A.  Christina Aguilera’s glam sexpot look

B.  Cameron Diaz’s chic girl-next-door style

C.  Dita Von Teese’s feminine and classy outfits

D.  Katy Perry’s fun, sassy wardrobe

8. Your nails are:

A.  Long, and always painted a bright shade – and I carry polish with me to instantly touch up any chipping

B.  Usually trimmed short and bare, but I’ll add nail polish for a special occasion

C.  Short, and almost always painted a light pink or nude

D.  Short or long, depending on what’s in style, and a different color every week

9. What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind on the weekend?

A.  To go out with my group of girlfriends for a weekend of partying

B.  To do something physical, like go for a hike or ice-skating with friends

C.  To go on a date, either with my significant other or someone new

D.  To do something low-key with friends or my boyfriend, like dinner and a movie

10. Which leading man regularly makes a cameo in your fantasies?

A.  Johnny Depp – his unique look turns heads whether he’s in a suit or keeping it casual

B.  Matthew McConaughey – his toned beach bod is irresistible

C.  David Beckham – he’s head-to-toe perfection

D.  Jon Stewart – hilarious and hot is a winning combination

MOSTLY As

ARCHITECTURAL HEEL

You’re bold, outgoing, and love to make a statement – just like this season’s extreme architectural heels. You’ll gladly sacrifice comfort for style, and love to be the center of attention. No heel is too high for you – in fact, you welcome the challenge. We won’t find any flats or muted colors in your closet. You strut your way through life, and just like your fashion choices, there’s nothing shy about you.

MOSTLY Bs

WEDGE HEEL

You’re the girl next door who’s ready for anything – just like the wedge heels in your closet. You’re versatile and flexible, and can easily go from being one of the guys to indulging your girly side with your friends. You’re always on the go and love to mix it up – and your cool and casual attitude makes that easy to do.

MOSTLY Cs

CLASSIC PUMP

Just like the classic pump, you’re smart, feminine, and sophisticated. Your friends are always coming to you, whether it’s for your great advice or to raid your closet for the perfect little black dress. You shine in every area of your life, from work to play. You’re never the loudest girl in the room, but you’re no wallflower either – and you have no problem channeling your inner femme fatale when the time is right.

MOSTLY Ds

KITTEN HEEL

Just like the kitten heel, you’re sassy, fun, and love to keep people guessing. You love to surround yourself with friends, and they know you’re the person to call if they’re in need of a fun night out. You’re edgy and like to express yourself with your style, which is always fashion-forward. You embrace your girly side without being syrupy-sweet, and pride yourself in being low-maintenance.

Summer’s been a great time to get more inspiration from the movies.  I recently re-watched ‘Kinky Boots’ – set in London, it’s based on a true story.  Charlie Price, the son of a sensible, conservative men’s shoemaker finds himself on a quest to save his family’s business, which is sinking fast.  Old-fashioned values are no longer enough to service the market – new and creative ideas need to be explored.  This is the story of overcoming adversity by defining a sexier niche market.

Sometimes as business owners, we feel like we can’t deviate from our original plan, especially when we’ve created something from scratch.  Even if the original plan isn’t working any more, we feel we’d be admitting to failure if we shifted direction.  We’d rather waste more and more time, energy and money trying to fix something, that perhaps shouldn’t be fixed.  Maybe our plan has just run its course and now its time to move on.

It’s not shameful; it’s practical.  Rebranding may be the key to survival.

It’s worked for some billion dollar enterprises, why not yours?

Although McDonald’s Restaurants have always done well in just giving us fast, fun and cheap food, public opinions and concerns do change.  In the last decade the trend toward healthier lifestyles has definitely impacted their reputation.  Documentaries, like ‘Super Size Me’ made a mockery of the business and emphasized their contribution to the obesity epidemic in the United States.  Since then, McDonald’s has added salads and more healthier choices into their menu.  The result…business has never been better.  So, be sure to pay attention to your customers and your critics – give them what they want.

One of my favourite examples is Old Spice.  I remember the old commercials from when I was a kid – sailing ships and rugged, manly men.  I must admit, up until recently, it was a scent I’d associate with my father’s generation.  Not something I’d buy for my husband.  But since Old Spice launched a fresh new campaign with former NFL player, Isaiah Mustafa and a series of clever and unexpected TV & online ads, they’ve engaged a whole new generation.  In this example, the product remained the same; the perception of that product is what changed.

So, is rebranding right for you?  Well, you need to consider some serious questions take lots of time to properly research your answers:

• Why do you want to rebrand?
  • Have you had some negative publicity?
  • Are you being confused with your competition?
  • Are your products and services outdated?
  • Have you changed ownership?
  • Are you branching out in a new direction?
  • What do you hope to achieve from rebranding?
  • What is the current perception of your company to the public?  To your customers? Competitors?
  • Will you be keeping your current target market or taking on a new one?
  • What will these customers expect or want from you?

Now, although I’ve given a couple of examples of rebranding that worked, it may not always be the answer.  Don’t be quick to jump into something new – perhaps just a change in marketing strategy might be what you need and a complete re-branding may be overkill.  The simple answer…take your time; do your research; consult with your advisors, especially your customers.

Ladies, our love affair with our shoes can be a torrid one.  Looking good can come at a cost – not just to our bank accounts, but to our feet, legs & lower back.   So, the question for today is ‘Can you really be comfortable in heels?’  The answer is ‘yes ‘ and ‘no’.  You need to consider the fit and function and be sure to practice moderation and get plenty of exercise.

If the Shoe Fits…

First, make sure you buy the right size.  For the same reason you shouldn’t try and squeeze into clothing that is 2 sizes too small, you shouldn’t wear shoes that are too small for your feet.  One of my pet peeves is seeing women who have their toes sticking out over the ends of their open-toe shoes!  How is that attractive?   Now, I know in some cultures, small feet are a sign of femininity, but in a multicultural society such as Canada, men don’t care.  Believe me ladies, small feet aren’t what they’re looking for.  Besides, ill-fitting shoes will just cause unwanted aggravation on your tootsies.   Our feet actually vary in size as we get older, so it’s important to get measured every year.  Also, our feet will swell by the end of the day, especially if we stand for long periods of time.  Therefore, I recommend shopping for shoes at the end of the day to ensure you get the most comfortable fit.

Consider the shape of the toe.  If you’ve got wider feet, like me, you’ll probably be more comfortable in round, peep or open-toe shoes.  They’re more forgiving and won’t cram your toes causing joint pain and bunions.  Also, ask the shoe store if they carry wider widths and make friends with a good shoemaker.  Many can stretch out a shoe slightly – don’t expect miracles, but at least a little more ease.

Function

Consider where you’re going and what you’ll be doing when you choose your shoe for the day.  I’ve got my ‘meeting only’ shoes – ones that are a little higher in heel height, but that I know I’ll only be wearing from the car to a meeting room where I’ll be sitting for most of the time.  And by the way, I don’t wear my heels to drive – NEVER wear your heels to drive!  Not only can you damage the heel, but it’s also very dangerous, especially in stilettos.  The pointy heel can slip easily under the pedals.  Not good for sudden stops or at higher speeds!

I have my ‘presentation’ shoes – ones that are a little lower in height with a slightly wider heel for better support.  Not as sexy as my stilettos, but still stylish none-the-less and they let me focus on a fabulous presentation rather than my aching feet.

Finally, I have my practical flats.  Good for driving, if I’m taking public transit or know that I’ll be doing a lot of walking.   If I must absolutely be sexy when I reach my destination, then I’ll carry my stilettos with me in a very fashionable shoe bag.

Moderation & Exercise

Varying your heel height from day to day or even within the day is very healthy for your feet.  Although heels lengthen and define our legs, they aren’t really necessary with pants, so why not opt for some funky flats on your pants days to give your feet a break.

Stretching and strengthening your feet and legs will also help in alleviating unwanted stress and strain.  Here are some simple exercises to help alleviate your tired tootsies.

Toe curls – Place a cushioned toe separator (like the ones they use for pedicures in salons) between your toes, squeeze for 5 seconds and release.  Repeat 10 times.  This will help to strengthen muscles and minimize cramping.

Toe stretches – Place a wide rubber band around all your toes and try to stretch it out as much as possible.  Release and repeat 10 times.

Calf raises – Standing upright (you can use a wall for support), raise up onto the balls of your feet, hold for five seconds and lower.  Repeat 10 times.  This will alleviate cramps and strengthen the feet and calf muscles.

Calf stretches – Sitting on the ground with legs stretched out in front of you, wrap a towel around the balls of your feet and hold onto each end.  Point your feet as far forward as you comfortably can while applying slight resistance with the towel.  Hold for 5 seconds; release.  Then flex your feet up and back, using the towel to aid in the stretch – hold for 5 seconds and release.  Repeat 10 times.

I like to do these exercises everyday whether I’ve been in my heels or not.  They take only 5 minutes and can be done while you’re relaxing in front of the TV.  And of course, never, ever forget the best treat for your feet….an amazing foot massage!  Best given by a professional or that sexy, special someone!

To close off, I’d like to share a quote from a fun, fashionable movie, ‘Kinky Boots’ – “Look to the heel – the sex is in the heel!”  But I also hope you look to this blog so you don’t neglect your comfort or your health for the sake of sexiness.  With a little bit of effort and common sense, they can both co-exist quite nicely.