If The Shoe Fits: Susan's Shoe Shopping Tips

Being "shoe fit certified" and working for many years at the # 1 retailer known for its amazing shoe department, I can give you some sage advice:  never scrimp on shoes; always remember, FEET FIRST!! Your feet support your entire body and it is important to treat them right! Here are some tips to be sure you put your best foot forward:

• You can put together an outfit on a very limited budget, but do buy the best shoes that you can.
• It is important to have your feet measured periodically.  Go to a retailer who provides shoe measurement, including width, as very often your shoe size may change.  
• Look for sufficient inside padding and good support; especially as we age these things are vital.
• If you consult with a shoe fit professional, you will save time, money and possibly a trip to the podiatrist.  I have seen first hand how people have ended up with severe problems with their feet due to wearing ill-fitting, tight or very high-heeled shoes. 
• Be sure to shop for shoes at the end of the day, because our feet expand as the day progresses, especially in the heat.  
• Never wear the same shoes day-to-day; switch off because the shoes need time to air out.  
• I love Cole Haan shoes because they have Nike Air sneaker construction even in their highest heeled shoes.  Also, Munro shoes come in wide widths, are made in America and are superbly comfortable. 
• The number one website for shoe deals is 6PM.com.  We have blogged about this website previously; many of the shoes are up to 70% off and some of the styles are "just off the department store floor."
   

Now that you are all set with some insider tips for your next shoe shopping trip, here are some of the hottest spring and summer trends to be on the lookout for when you are in the stores:

• You don't have to be a cat lover to wear "kitten heels."  They are feminine, classic and above all comfortable, especially if you stand for long periods of time. Check out these adorable printed kitten heels from Tory Burch's Spring 2012 collection.
• Nude shoes have already been a hit; this year pastel colors will also be showcased.
• Sheer booties and other transparent shoe styles are seeing a comeback for summer.
• Metallic toes dominates. We've already blogged about the VC Signature line from Vince Camuto which features a fabulous metallic toe heel, and there are many more amazing metallic-tipped styles coming for spring/summer.
• Metallic shoes in gorgeous golds and silvers are still going strong; check out some of the exquisite new styles from Elie Tahari.
• Ankle-strap sandals are a strong trend; these from Isabel Marant have been seen on numerous celebrities and are sold out online.