Our Appreciation

Resources: http://www.avesphotographicdesign.com/blog/?p=8457

We Waste Too Much Precious Time

We always think we're too busy to do the things we should be doing. We hang out on social networks, we stay late at the office, doing the one last report, we leave our kids in front of the TV while we read the paper or catch up on emails and more.

Ask yourself if you really need to be doing these things or if they can wait. Ask yourself the last time you spent quality time with your loved ones, children or even just you, away from all the noise and distraction. You might be surprised at how freeing and rewarding it can be.

Don't Be Afraid to Make Mistakes 

As children, we're unafraid to take risks. We see the world as one big adventure, and if we hurt ourselves along the way we simply shed some tears, get a kiss from our parents and move on to the next adventure. It allows us to grow, because we know not to make the same mistakes that hurt us in the first place. 

Unfortunately, as adults, it seems like we've forgotten the art of learning from our mistakes. We stay with abusive partners, we accept shit from our boss instead of looking for a job where we're valued and we never take action on that one big idea we have, because everyone will think it's stupid.

The thing is, though, we became the adults we are because  we learned from our mistakes as children. And we turned out all right (mostly). There's something to be said for that, no ? Don't be afraid to make mistakes, you're only hurting yourselves if you do.

Thanks For All The Fish

Bloggers are a strange breed. We basically share our personal thoughts in public, looking for feedback and endorsement ( or disagreement ). It's almost like reverse narcissism.

Yet from that weird approach, magical things happen. Communities are built, friendships are grown, mindsets are changed. And sometimes, just sometimes, movements are created from the springboard that a single blog post can create.

I'm incredibly biased, but I see you as one of the best communities on the web. You've never been afraid to challenge, whether that be my thoughts or that of other guest writes or commenter's. You've discussed topics with respect for each other, and helped us grow as a person. Say what you want about online relationships, but you're all as real and valued as anyone we know offline.

Thank you for being with us while we was on this little blogging journey. It would have been boring as hell without you and maybe we can continue our conversation on the other side. Underworld, anyone ?

Takeaways and Wishful Thinking

We hope we've kept you entertained on this journey about shoes. We've formed bonds and connections with and we'll be a little sad for finishing our blog here. 

If there are any takeaways that we hope we can depart with. it's that maybe, just maybe this blog helped you realized more information about shoes and understand the need of stylish shoes to be wore and that having belief in your convictions is never out of fashion. Maybe gave you the odd bit of business advice along the way.

Take care guys and thanks for the memories and experience !




Resources: http://dannybrown.me/2011/07/16/if-this-was-my-last-blog-post/



-Kesi-

Tips for men !

MATCHING SOCKS TO SHOES

When wearing dress shoes or casual leather shoes, always match your socks to your pants. 

You can wear athletic socks and casual socks with sneakers. But unless you're on a basketball court don't wear sneakers and shorts with anything other than ankle-length casual socks.

Finally, when all else fails, remember this rules: The more formal the occasion, the darker the socks.

Resources: http://www.blacklapel.com/thecompass/ask-a-black-lapel-stylist-how-to-match-socks/

TYPE OF SOCKS

Socks fall into three main categories (not to mention the area between the wall and the dryer): Dress, casual and athletic.

Dress socks - are usually made from silk, cashmere or fine variants of cotton and wool.

Resources: http://www.amazon.com/Jockey-Argyle-3-Pack-Dress-Assorted/dp/B00A353ZMM/ref=lp_1045726_1_14/175-0793586-2218149?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1438271057&sr=1-14

Casual socks - come in cotton and wool, and are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns and thicknesses.

Resources: http://www.sierratradingpost.com/smartwool-diamond-jim-socks-merino-wool-for-men~p~14403/?filterString=mens-casual-socks~d~301%2F&colorFamily=34

Athletic socks - are usually cotton and available in grey or white. This type differs most obviously from casual socks by virtue of their size. Athletic socks tend to come up to the mid-calf and higher, or simply right above the heel ( ankle-length), making them invisible when wearing sneakers.

Your sock size should be 1 to 1.5 sizes bigger than your shoe size. In other words, a size 12 shoe means a 13.5 size sock. Some brands divide sock size by small, medium and large.

Resources: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2010/12/15/guide-to-socks/

RIGHT TYPE OF SHOES FOR BEST FIT

Shoes for Jeans

You can wear almost any color or style of shoes with jeans, but avoid very shiny shoes that were obviously in tented for more dressier outfits.

Boots, lug soles, sneakers, loafers and sandals all work great with jeans, so you may find it helpful to let the style of your shirt guide you. 

For example, a sporty polo shirt might work with a loafer, t-shirt go well with sneakers or retro-style shoes; long, artsy button-downs work well with sandals or contemporary styles.

What to Wear with Casual Pants

Whether you call them Dockers, chinos or khakis, there are a variety of loafers and other men's shoes that work well with casual pants.

Let the ornamentation and style of the shoe guide you towards the look you're trying to achieve .

For example, a tassel or a buckle is a little more on the dressy side, white a woven pattern or heavy stitching is a little more on the casual side.

The Best Footwear for Dress Pants

With dress pants, shoot for the same type of shoe that you might wear with a suit. Shinier materials usually indicate a dressier shoe, as do less bulky heels and soles. Choose a shoe that is the same color or darker than your pants, and if wearing a belt, match your shoes to it.

Resources: http://www.fashionstork.com/mansbeef/best-shoes-to-wear-dress-pants-or-trousers/

Color-Matching for Men's Shoes

Black Shoes work well with navy, grey or black pants.

Brown shoes are best suited to tan, brown, beige, greens, other darker earth tones.

Burgundy shoes work well with khaki, lighter browns, blue, grey.

Tan Shoes look great with lighter earth tones, blue, beige, lighter tan.

-Kesi-

Do's and Don't on choosing Wedding Shoes

When you're choosing your dream pair of shoes to go with the dream gown, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Resources: http://i0.wp.com/emmalinebride.com/wp-content/uploads/red-wedding-shoes.jpg

Choose a Special Pair of Shoes

Award wining shoe designer Rachel Simpson says " choose shoes that makes you feel amazing ! Even if your dress is floor length, giving your guests the occasional peek of an exquisite pair of shoes will make you feel like a true princess. Wedding shoes don't have to be boring, combine classic style with fashionable detailing and you'll love them for years."

You need to Find Comfortable Wedding Shoes

Remember, you will be wearing your shoes from early in the morning until the last thing at night.

Proper wedding shoes are specially designed with comfort in mind and have additional padding exactly for this purpose. Don't make the mistake of buying cheap shoes that lack this padding and the extra support that makes wearing them not just tolerable, but comfortable, on your big day.

How should your bridal shoes fit with your dress ?

It's really important that you have your shoes for your dress fittings. This mean that your dressmaker can tailor the hem of your wedding dress to the perfect length.

Thus is why we always suggest that you order your shoes with plenty of time, particularly if you are having them customized. This will take a lot of the pressure off you, and ensure that when the time of your big day comes around, everything is perfect.

Heel height, sexy heels or versatile flats ? 

Our suggestion to brides is that they sticks what they are used to and comfortable with on their wedding day. So, if you normally wear 4 inch heels and you choose this heel height for your wedding shoes, then you know that you'll be comfortable.

Ultimately, if you're not used to wearing sky high heels, then why take the chance on your big day ? It's probably not the time to experiment, and comfort is probably the most important factor for brides.

However,if you do want some height then great alternatives are available like platform heels or lower kitten heels, while satin ballet slippers make beautiful bridal shies for those of us that prefer flats.

Wear them in

New shoes can pinch and cause soreness from rubbing. Pop your new wedding shoes on with clean feet a few weeks before your wedding day ad walk around on a carpet  floor ( You'll look like a superstar in your slobs and wedding shoes whilst cooking your dinner). By doing this, you will feel where the shoes is causing any rubbing and give you time to make any adjustments and stretch them out some more.

Put a strap on it

Pick wedding shoes that will allow flexibility, wear ability and most importantly stability. The last thing anyone wants is a black eye from our shoe flying off mid-way through the ketchup song. The best thing you can do is pick a shoe with a secure heel hold or a strap that will help it stay on your foot ( may sound obvious but it's so important you don't injure anyone around you). If you have chosen to wear heeled shoes higher than you normally would, then we would highly recommend purchasing a strap shoe for comfort.

Wedding Shoe Mistakes to Avoid

There are plenty of to-do's on your wedding list, but your wedding shoes can make or break your day If you pick a pair of wedding shoes that's uncomfortable, unflattering, or downright painful, you'll be sorry you did. But, if you take a few of these wedding shoe tips to heart you'll keep you feet happy, accentuate your style and you'll be able to dance the night away.

Forgetting to break in your shoes before the wedding

The last thing you want is the wobble down the aisle or deal with blisters on the best day of your life. Once you buy your wedding shoes under your desk at work to break them in.

Wearing the wrong wedding shoes for you

White wedding shoes are not a requirement. Bright pops of colour are in, and we give them bonus points for being re-wearable after the wedding day. Also, heels aren't your only option. If you don't like heels or never wear them, skip them first you don't want to trip in them. Second, you won't feel comfortable in them if you're not used to the added height. And third, you should stay true to your own personal style. A certain style of shoe isn't set in stone. it's more important to be yourself abd feel comfortable in what you're wearing. Would you rather wear sandals, cowboy boots, sneakers, or go barefoot ? Do it !

Forgetting a spare pair 

Stuff happens, heels break, your shoe can make your feet hurt, or you may want heels for photos but sandals for dancing. In a case, bring a spare pair of shies just in case.

Wearing the wrong wedding shoes for your dress. 

It is best to buy your wedding shoes before your dress fittings. The shoes you choose will play a large part in your overall look. If you want to wear flip flops or go barefoot, you'll want your dress to be long enough to cover your feet. If you want to wear heels, you'll want to make sure your dress is lengthened to allow for the extra height so it's not too short and the same goes for wearing flats. You don't want your dress to drag on the floor. 

-Kesi-

Ways to take care of shoes

One important aspect of life includes taking care of those items that we value and what can be more valuable in our closets than that favourite pairs of shoes? If we can extend the life of something, like our favourite stilettos or that perfect over-the-knee boots, then we will be able to avoid spending more money just to replace them. And let's face it, there is no such thing as REPLACING that very favourite pairs of shoe, no matter how many new heels we buy. So, lets take a look at these 9 method to take better care of your shoe and see how we can not only save ourselves some money, but also prolong the life of our favourite pairs. 

Resource: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/11/14/shoe-care-101/

Resources: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/11/08/shoe-shining-guide/

-Kesi-

How to care of leather shoes

Fine leather shoes will pep up any ensemble and will with luck, last you a lifetime. Follow these five simple steps to ensure you get extra mileage out of your designer kicks.

Resources: http://www.luxury-insider.com/features/2012/guide-how-to-care-for-leather-shoes

You will no doubt have heard of this time-worn aphorism that the measure of a man or woman can be found in his or her shoes and that expression, however clinched, may just hold true. After all, premium dress shoe are quite literally the foundation of an outfit, and we, along with bags, some of the savviest style investments a discerning sartorialist can make for his or her wardrobe.

Whatever their nomenclature- loafers, pumps, brogues, or wedges, all shoes require a spot of tender loving care. Leather shoes are organic objects, and need tending to if they are to remain as gloriously lustrous as when you first locked eyes upon them at the boutique . The fact is, shoe are one of those rare " essential" luxuries, choose the right pair, treat them well, and they will be reassuringly familiar companies for many a year. Here's how, starting with the basics, getting acquainted with the heart and sole of your shoe.

KNOW YOUR SHOE

Show-making savoir -faire is an esoteric art form that only reams of devoted documents could possibly do justice to. Suffice to say, one reason why you should treat your bespoke shoe with respect is the respect it was accorded while being crafted in its botter of origin.

• Like a sandwich, a shoe consists of an upper and lower, with the welt being the sturdy layer holding the two sections together.
• The shoe upper, or body, is further divided into the front portion ( the vamp) and back ( the quarter), and is traditionally wrought from leather.
• Different leather types and other materials such as coated canvas or even neoprene may be mixed and matched on the upper to offer textural interest and aesthetic flair.
• The lower-commonly thought of as the heel-is in fact composed of the outsole ( the bit that makes contact with the ground), the shank (a rigid intermediary which prevent the shoe from buckling with use ) and the heel proper, a raised platform that cushions your feet from the impact.
• The outsole of the plushest of dress shoes and stilettos in leather.

 

Resources: http://www.luxury-insider.com/features/2012/guide-how-to-care-for-leather-shoes

HOW TO CLEAN 

• Most shoe labels, like Berluti and Church's will have in-house shoe cleaners and creams so always ask the boutique assistant for care tips and recommended products.
• First, take the laces off your shoes. Use a soft bristled brush to sweep off preliminary dirt and dust.
• Keeping your hand under the flap to keep the upper firm and flat, use your other hand to apply a suitable cleaner or saddle soap all over the leather parts of your shoe.
• Use the same brush to gently work the cleaner into the skin. Pay particular attention to any noticeable scuffs or marks.
• Let dry for about 20 minutes before proceeding to polish.

HOW TO POLISH  & CONDITION

• Think of conditioning as moisturizer for your shoes, which will dry out over time. To prevent flaking and wrinkling, dab a dollop f conditioner on a soft cloth and rub gently all over in a circular motion.
• Choose a polish in a hue that matches your shoe. Experts generally recommend a lanoline-based beeswax polish which will soften and protect at the same time.
• Wipe off excess polish with a soft clean cloth, and buff the shoe with surprise - a pair of panty hose for slick - as - a dime shine. Well, nylon gets the job done, too.

HOW TO WEATHERPROOF

• A spray on water repellent is an essential, fool-proof way to safeguard against the elements.
• Before application, use a warm sponge to prep your shoe. The gentle heat will increase the porosity of the skin, allowing for better absorption.
• Look for "breathable", water-based repellents, which will allow excess moisture to dissipate for pliable, butter-smooth shoes.

HOW TO STORE

• A quality shoe tree is a worthwhile investment. Unfinished cedar is best, because it sponges up moisture an any disagreeable odors.
• Once you're home, stuff your boot toe with butter paper then string them up on the tree immediately.
• Regular use of a tree will maintain your shoe's original shape, and will go miles towards preventing shrinkage and creases. 

SOME FINAL TIPS

• If you've been polishing your shoes for awhile, there may be residual wax build-up. Use a specialized pre-cleaner before the cleaning process outlined above.
• It may be a no-brainer, but if  you've just stepped out of a shower, make sure your feet are fully dry before slipping on your shoes.
• Use a good tortoiseshell shoe-horn to ease your foot in without creasing the back - a surefire recipe for shoe breakdown. 
• Every few years, head back to the boutique or trusted cobbler to re-sole your shoes, which are like the tires of your car and require regular upkeep.
• Lay your shoes on their side to dry out, if you've been unlucky enough to have been battered on by a surprise rain shower on your way home.

-Kesi-

Quick tips on shoes

For some people, trying on shes is merely a necessity, for others, it's a pastime but either way, there are a few rules you should follow when trying on footwear. Be sure to check them out before your next trip to the shoe store.

HERE'S HOW

1. Feet swell over the course of the day, so to insure a proper fit, always try on shoes later in the day.

2. Always try on both shoes. most people have a slight size variance from one foot the other.      Obviously, the larger of the two will dictate which size you actually buy.

3. If you have your feet measured, be sure to stand up while doing so.

4. Be sure to stand and walk a bit in any shoes you're considering.

5. Wear the socks or hose you'd normally wear with the shoes you're considering.

6. Don't allow for a " breaking in" period. Shoes should be comfortable when you first wear them.

7. Try on a variety of brands, styles and sizes. You might find shoes that are far more comfortable or stylish than what you're used it.

8. If you have trouble finding shoes that fit properly, visit a full-service shoe store, and have your feet professionally measured. A knowledgeable staff member may be able to recommend a specific style, brand or insert that will help accommodate your feet.

9. If you actually ending buying a pair of shoes, choose the actual pair you tried on to be certain you're getting exactly what felt good.

10. There should be just a bit of space between your heel and the heel of your shoe. Too much is bad,but the heel of the shoe should not be rubbing, or pressing into your skin.

11. You should be able to move your toes freely in any shoes you're planning to buy. Shoes that constrict or pinch your toes will make you miserable fast, and can lead to painful, and more serious problems down the road. 

Year of wear and tear can be hard on our feet. So can disease, poor circulation, improperly trimmed toenails, and wearing shoes that don't fit properly. Problems with our feet can b the first sign of more serious medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and nerve and circulatory disorders.

 WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT FOOT PROBLEMS

# Practice good foot care.

# Check your feet regularly, or have a member of your family check them. Podiatrists and primary care doctors ( internists and family practitioners ) are qualified to treat most foot problems.Sometimes the special skills of an orthopedic surgeon or dermatologist are needed.

# It also helps to keep blood circulating to your feet as much as possible. Do this by putting your feet up when you are sitting or lying down, stretching if you're had to sit for a long while, walking,having a gentle foot massage, or taking a warm foot bath. Try to avoid pressure from shoes that don't fit right.

# Try not to expose your feet to cold temperatures.

# Don't sit for long periods of time ( especially with your legs crossed ).

# Don't smoke

Resources: http://shoes.about.com/od/shoes_store/ht/trying_on_shoes.htm

Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well can prevent many foot ailments.

HERE ARE TEN TIPS FOR GETTING A PROPER SHOE FIT : 

 1. The size of your feet changes as you grow older so always have your feet measured before buying shoes. The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day when your feet are largest.

2. Most of us have one foot that is larger than the other, so fit your shoe to your larger foot.

3. Don't select shoes by the size market inside the shoe but by how the shoe fits your foot.

4. Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot.

5. During the fitting process, make sure there is enough space ( 3/8" to 1/2") for your longest toe at the each shoe when you are standing up.

6. Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe.

7. Don't buy shoes that feel too tight and expect them to stretch t fit.

8. Your feet should fit comfortably in the shoe with a minimum amount of slipping, the shoes should not ride up and down on your heel when you walk.

9. Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right. Then take them home and spend some time walking on carpet to make sure the fit is a good one.

10. The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material to match the shape of your foot. Shoes made of leather can reduce the possibility of skin irritations. Soles should provide solid footing and not be slippery. Thick soles cushion your feet when walking on hard surfaces.Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer and less damaging than high heeled shoes.

-Kesi- 

shoe quotes

I have always loved fashion because it's a great way to express your mood. And I'm definitely a shoe lover. The right pair of shoes can change the feel of an outfit , and even change how a woman feels about herself. A woman can ear confidence on her feet with a high stiletto, or slip into weekend comfort with a soft baller flat.

Quotes shoe will definitely make you feel even better about shoes.

Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

Resources: http://www.azquotes.com/author/22482-Leslie_Browne

Resources: http://www.whowhatwear.com/shoe-quotes-womens-shoes-heels-fashion-shopping-2014/slide9

Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

Resources: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fashion-Christian-Louboutin-Marilyn-Pillow/dp/B00GUJAB5O




Resources: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/275775177156445743/




Resources: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/shoe-quotes

-Kesi-