Monday, October 16, 2006

Does Beauty Have to Mean Pain? Not if you Choose the Right

Kathy Steinemann

Sexy shoes or boots can turn a humdrum outfit into a stunning
creation. However, too many women choose footwear based purely
on appearance, willing to experience pain in the name of
fashion. It doesn't have to be that way!

Stiletto heels are adored by most men - and many women. They
make beautiful legs look stunningly gorgeous. However, spike
heels can be very uncomfortable, even painful. If you learn some
basic facts, you can avoid the pain and wear a smile instead of
a frown.

* The Perfect Design *

An incline of over 2 inches from toe to heel can increase the
impact of each step sevenfold or more. Choosing a pair of heeled
boots or shoes doesn't rule out sexy stilettos. If you purchase
footwear with a stacked toe, keeping the incline to 2 inches or
less, you can create the illusion of real stilettos - while
avoiding the pain.

Modern materials and manufacturing techniques for athletic shoes
are also utilized in today's women's shoes. Try to find a sole
with air pockets and a see-through construction. The air pockets
reduce painful impact, and the transparency gives the impression
of floating on air, while making shoes look dainty.

Insist on sturdy, quality construction with straps that hug
(without chafing) to provide firm support. Shoes with leather
uppers will wick away moisture and heat, allowing your feet to
breathe in comfort.

Whatever your choice, footwear should be comfortable from the
first moment you try it on. High-quality footwear does not
require a breaking-in period.

* Perfect Sizing *

Don't try to squeeze into something that is too small. If you
must wear a 7 1/2 wide instead of a 7 narrow, do it. Comfort
must always be number 1 on your list of priorities. You may have
seen commercials for high-heel comfort gel inserts. While there
is nothing wrong with this extra layer of protection, it cannot
replace proper style and fit.

* The Tryouts *

After you have found your 'perfect' footwear, try it on and walk
around inside the store for a few minutes. Place your weight
gently, heel first, rocking forward onto the ball of each foot.
Take small steps, legs close together, pretending that you are
wearing a really tight skirt without a kick pleat. Toes should
be pointed to the front, not to the side.

Do you feel absolutely comfortable? Great! Ring up the sale! Do
you wobble from side to side when you walk? Do you feel
unsteady? Pick out something else! Wobbling is unsafe and
unsexy. If you sprain or break an ankle, you won't feel very
attractive hobbling around on crutches.

Keeping your sales slip handy, proceed at once to an indoor
location with a smooth floor. Stroll around in your new shoes or
boots for about an hour. Practice walking around corners,
navigating stairs, and making turns - like a model on a runway.
After the hour has passed, how do your feet feel? Do they burn?
Do they have blisters or tender spots? If the answer is 'yes',
return them to the store immediately and look for something
else. The soles will still be in near pristine condition. Once
the final decision has been made, spend more time practicing. Do
not venture out in public until you feel confident walking on
floors, uneven surfaces, and carpeting. If you plan to go
dancing, rehearse for awhile in front of a mirror.

* Now - Soak Up the Admiration! *

Your careful selection may take some time - but the reward is
worth it! You will feel like a starlet as you walk, and the
comfortable, radiant smile on your face will force everyone
nearby to take a second look at a beautiful, poised YOU.



About the author:
Sexy footwear can make a romantic adult getaway extra special:
http://www.adultescapes.com/ . . . Need some relationship advice
to go with those new shoes? See: http://www.advice4daters.com/ -
and Kathy has more articles available:
http://www.triple1.com/free-articles.htm on travel and romantic
getaways.