April 6, 2006

From elegant stilettos to comfortable moccasins, footwear should strike a balance between comfort and style

There was a time when people ridiculed those who were of above-average height, but thanks to the media coverage and models, tall stature has become not only acceptable but glamorous as well. This has created a huge market for smart shoes that boast heels above two inches for women of all heights.

Walking down a street filled with shoe stores one will see sandals and shoes ranging from Rs150 to 2000. There is a huge variety available. The fun part of buying sandals is that not only are they inexpensive, they are also available in different colours and attractive designs.

Four to five inch heels are normally worn in parties and formal gatherings usually by the really adventurous females. However, there are some who can carry plateau heels up to five inches high, everywhere. Hats off to them!

Block heels are a big no-no, these days. The most chic shoes in vogue are the ones with delicate heels, also known as stilettos. They are difficult to walk in, but nothing surpasses them in the elegance they exude. They are worn by all and sundry.

Mostly embellished with elegant work, they give one’s feet an extra charm. In fact, fashion designers advise women to wear high heels when wearing formal dresses such as gowns, saris, skirts and lehngas, for it adds grace and sophistication to their gait.

Those who have back problems or have a lot of walking to do prefer shoes that are either flat or have minimum heels. These are also available in many designs. Young girls as well as the middle-aged ones buy flat chappals for casual wear, but if the colour is a perfect match, and the design too is not bad, it could also do for party wear. But be careful when walking on a polished floor, as they are quite slippery.

Court shoes or pump shoes are also available in plateau as well as block heels. They are usually preferred by working women or students. Not only are these comfortable, they keep one’s feet safe from dust and ultraviolet rays as well.

Moccasins are always in fashion and women from all walks of life, preferring comfort to style, buy them. One will find most of the girls in schools, colleges and universities wearing sneakers that have plateau heels. They are easy to walk in as well as they help one look taller.

Shoes resembling Roman sandals –– thanks to the exposure due to the Oscars and other Hollywood award ceremonies –– are also becoming popular with young people. However, it is always a good idea to go for comfort rather than style. n

Please Visit our Sponsor (Ads open in separate window)