I
recently received a query from an occupational therapist on behalf of a patient
she is working with.
Being
an ongoing battle of my own also, this query regarding shoes was particularly
appropriate!
The
lady in question was having difficulty finding stylish shoes with the practical
elements she now requires.
Having
recently started walking again during her rehabilitation, she now naturally
requires shoes with adequate support, an issue I’m all too familiar with
myself.
Factors
including mid heel heights, stability, secure fastening, strong supportive
materials and comfort, are difficult to find in a stylish fashionable shoe.
For
everyday wear, sports shoes can be the most comfortable and practical, but for
attending a special occasion or event, we obviously need a shoe in the right
style and colour for the outfit. (I’ve often found myself planning an outfit from the bottom up, starting with the shoes, to
eliminate some of the stress).
Given
the circumstances, we can immediately rule out the usual go-to occasion wear –
high heels - along with some of other regulars such as sandals or wedges or
even ballerina pumps.
Sounds
like I’m being fussy, I know. From a
personal perspective, I’ve often felt I’m putting the store assistants through
their paces as a difficult customer.
I
may sound like a picky, hard to please shopper, but this is the way it has to
be I’m afraid. No point any of us risking injury and further restriction for
the sake of heel height, is there?
So,
given the limitations, these are some of my preferred options when shoe
shopping. Have to say I’m loving the
trend for brogues at the moment, as it makes life easier and still allows for
some stylish options. One pair in every
colour please..
I
think it is always a good idea to go for quality in shoes if support is an
issue. Cheaper brands can be ideal for a
once-off event or a holiday, but won’t last beyond the season (or be approved by the
physios).
When
choosing shoes for an occasion, I try to buy with other outfits in mind as
well, to make sure I get value for money.
Neutral colours such as black, navy, nude and white are obviously a wise
choice, and generally easier to find in the most suitable style.
These
are some on my spring/summer wish list at the moment –
Clarks:
Zara:
