Happy Feet

We all spend many hours on our feet, everyday. On average, I walk over 10,000 steps every, single day (thank you to my Fitbit for those stats!). So we must keep our feet happy and healthy so they can continue to carry us places.

The best thing you can do for your feet is buy good quality shoes. So, what does the extra money get you?

You will get better quality leather, which means they will mould to your feet better and they won't rub (blisters? no way).

The extra money also buys you more foot support under the arch of the foot and cushioning in the soles. This will absorb some of the shock and pressure from everyday wear. When you are on your feet for long periods of time, you definitely want a pair of shoes, that will provide the support your feet need.

And, the more you spend on your shoes, the longer they will last you, providing you look after them correctly. See my How to Care for your Shoes, for tips and advise. Now, in saying that, I don't mean you can only buy Salvatore Ferragamo or Christian Louboutin shoes, you can still find some good quality shoes in the middle of the range.

My 2nd tip, to happy and healthy feet, is buy shoes that actually fit your feet.

There are so many styles, cuts and shapes available, and I am sure you will find something to suit your feet. There is nothing worse then Bad Fitting Shoes, so make friends with fitting aids! Your shoes will fit so much better!

It is important to understand the shoe materials you are buying. A leather shoe is designed to soften and mould to your feet, so it's ok if they are a little bit snug, just make sure they are not, painfully tight. And those cute floral satin heels, you've had your eye on, they wont stretch very much. Maybe opt for a slightly bigger size and add some fitting aids.

And finally, my key to happy feet is, don't sacrifice comfort for fashion. Know the occasion before picking your shoes.

I personally love high heel shoes and I wear them, almost all day, everyday. But, I have a confession to make... I walk to and from work, in slightly more practical shoes.

I admit, it's not ideal, but walking up and down stairs, across uneven surfaces and running for trains, it's not practical in heels, so personally, I opt for sensible and appropriate shoes for those situations. My top picks for fashion savvy, comfortable shoes are, chunky heeled ankle boots or slip on trainers. You can't go wrong with those!

You can find some super stylish and super comfortable shoes around, so why not leave those pointed toe heels under your desk at work? Your feet will thank you later.

Currently Trending: Sports Luxe

I have to confess my love for the latest Spring/Summer trend.

Sports Luxe.

The sports luxe trend has been around for a few seasons now, but it does seem like more emphasis has been made on it, this Spring/Summer season. More designers are embracing it and more celebrities are seen sporting this trend during their downtime.

I think it's time, for you to get your hands, on some amazing sports luxe shoes, to complete the look.

My current favourite pair of slip on trainers are these beauties, from Witchery.

My favourite pair of sports luxe shoes, is definitely, a slip on trainer. They are super comfortable, incredibly versatile and come in an array of colours, prints and materials. I can guarantee, you'll find one, that suits your style. And you cannot forget the fashionable, wedge sneaker, which I also adore.

As per the Wittner Australia website, sports luxe shoes can be defined as anything from chunky heels and slides, to mules and slip on trainers.

Donna Player, the Group Executive Merchandiser of David Jones says, "Sports luxe is not about mixing two classic trends, it is about two very different aesthetics coming together to create something wonderful and new...Beautiful things often come to fruition when opposites attract - embrace it."

So why is the trend so popular?

Sports luxe, takes fashion to a whole new level. For once, people are opting for comfort over fashion. People are being more relaxed. And it's now, more acceptable. I never thought I would admit to it, but the sports luxe trend, is surprisingly flattering, when done correctly.

So how should you style your sports luxe shoes?

1. When it comes to styling your sports luxe shoes, make sure you get the correct ratio, when it comes to sports and luxury. Do not get too relaxed. Inject the correct amount of glamour and even throw in some leather too.

2. Style them with feminine silhouettes and elegant ensembles. They look fabulous with A-line and pencil skirts.

3. Sports luxe shoes are great to accompany your jeans and cotton t-shirts during the trans-seasonal weather.

4. Slip on trainers are a must have for the festival season. Style them with denim shorts or playsuits for an effortless, trendy (and comfortable) look.

Not everyone loves the sports luxe trend and it is one, that has caused a bit of controversy in the fashion industry. What's your opinion on the trend, do you think it is fashionable or are people just being lazy in their fashion choices?

Wedge Sneakers...Love or loathe?

Wedge sneakers have been popular for many seasons now. They were made popular by designer, Isabel Marant and leading sports brand Nike. Many celebrities are seen sporting these during their downtime and they have even appeared on the red carpet (Ellie Goulding and her gold Nikes!).

But, this is one trend that not everyone loves.

I admit, I loathed this particular trend for a long time. I thought they were ugly and only appropriate in a sports bar or gym locker room. But like most things, the more I saw them, styled differently and worn by different people, the more I liked them.

And I finally found a pair that suited my style and converted me into a lover.

Meet 'Nevan'... These amazing Nine West, wedge sneakers from their Winter 2014 collection, make such a bold statement, in my already overflowing wardrobe.

I love how different they are from everything else in my collection. When you have over 170 pairs of shoes, you tend to have the classics covered, so it's time for the statement shoes. I love the studded, gold toe caps and the lace ups. They are the perfect combination of chic and sports luxe.

They are super comfortable with the 10 cm wedge heel and are the perfect accessory for winter and trans-seasonal weather. They are great for keeping your feet toasty warm.

These shoes definitely turn heads. Everyday that I have worn them, someone has stopped me and told me how amazing they are. It is a good feeling when strangers stop you, to admire your footwear. 

I rarely wear the same shoes, two days in a row but I have to confess, these are my new 'go-to' weekend favourite. It's safe to say, I am a little obsessed with them.

So, what's your opinion of the wedge sneaker? Do you love them or loathe them?

Currently Trending: Monochrome Madness

MONOCHROME!

Monochrome is the hottest trend to hit the runways and red carpets, for the Spring/Summer season. And what better way to complement those beautiful monochrome prints and patterns, then with a matching pair of monochrome shoes?

Monochrome, is definitely nothing new. It is a trend that has been popular over the passed few seasons. The two neutrals harmonize well together and designers are constantly gaining inspiration for monochrome designs. So it's no surprise, the trend has come around again, this season.

As Coco Chanel once said, "Black has it all. White, too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the perfect harmony." And, I couldn't agree more. The timeless classic, is glamourous, sophisticated and flattering on all skin tones.

To me, shoes, are the perfect accessory. With a quick change of shoes, you can have yourself, a fashion savvy and on trend ensemble. And, if you invest in a pair of beautiful monochrome shoes, you'll be able to wear them all year round. Monochrome is a great trans-seasonal trend and you'll definitely get your money's worth.

So, how can you style your monochrome shoes?

1. Add a monochrome pair of shoes, to a monochrome ensemble. Be bold. They are the perfect accessory to complement all monochrome prints. Just make sure you don't clash too many prints or patterns, as monochrome does make such a bold statement and it can look messy.

2. Add monochrome shoes with a matching clutch, to a bright, bold colour. Yellow, red, blue, green and orange look amazing when paired with monochrome accessories. Just make sure the colour is one, block colour. If it's printed or patterned, the overall look will be too busy and confusing.

3. That little black dress...Add a monochrome pair of shoes and you have a fashion forward, on trend look, ready for the Summer season.

4. Add a splash of colour to your monochrome look. It will break up the black and white and soften your look. I like to add red lips or coloured jewels to my monochrome ensembles. Everyone loves a splash of colour.

Monochrome is a simple, and timeless trend. Most people have the classic pieces in their wardrobe already, so everyone can pull this look together, effortlessly. Have fun shopping for that perfect pair (or two!) of monochrome shoes!