It’s time to start Christmas shopping. As someone who went on a spree as early as last weekend, I could safely say that while this tip is seemingly not a priority, having the right shopping shoes makes the long search for gifts worth it.
The trusty sandals
Sandals are your no-brainer shopping pals. Beware, because the cheap but low-quality types offer only short-lived style and minimal comfort.
A handful of names, however, can be trusted to have the richest leathers, softest soles, and velvety suede.
The Naturalizer Whimsy Sandals, for instance, flaunt a trendy lace-up front design and a sleek snake print. With its lightweight materials and breathable lining, this pair can make brisk walking look like a fashionable catwalk.
The modern loafers
Speaking of light things, I’ve always loved Aerosoles for its cushion technology. Its Trend Setter loafers employ the brand’s famous Memory Foam Insole, a comfort foam footbed and padded insole your feet can sink into, and Diamond Flex Soles that are designed to disperse friction away from your foot. If you want to be on theme, this pair has a two-toned black and gold design fit for the holidays’ razzle-dazzle.
The retro mules
The loafers’ distant cousin, the mule, has also made a comeback. Dubbed by many as Fall 2016’s new “it” shoe, mules have gotten slimmer.
I’ve been eyeing on a few pairs myself, such as the Steve Madden Razzi. This hybrid mule-loafer silhouette sports a classic velvet coat with a golden horse bit ornament, giving the vintage shoe a timeless, luxurious feel. Its .5-inch heel height and slip-on design are a huge help when you’re shopping for shoes; no need to fuss about untying laces and pulling out your boots.
The elegant ballerinas
Flats like those from FitFlop are equally comfy. Designed with the brand’s ergonomically engineered cushion tech for the midsoles, the shoes sport the third and latest collaboration with designer Anna Sui—the Superballerina flats. They come in tropical Tahitian Pineapple prints and a cooling palette of blues and greens—in latticed suede and leather.
The ride-or-die sneakers
Year 2013’s athleisure fashion trend may be dying, but a collective love for sneakers isn’t gone yet. They get you through thick and thin; the Adidas Stan Smiths have been the staple pair for many. I love its Vapour Pink rendition, the pastel pink motif complementing its minimal, clean-cut design in soft nubuck. It’s a feminine, muted break from the season’s flashy bling.
The fall-appropriate boots
But if you’re the type to stay fashionably in-season, and if you’re shopping elsewhere around the globe at this time of year, you can’t go wrong with booties from European brand Sofft. (Yes, I spelled that right.) Its suede Vinton bootie is equipped with a leather footbed and microfiber lining, both designed for ultimate comfort and easy wearability. Its barley shade also makes it easy to pair with other fall items in your closet. —CONTRIBUTED