I am a little bit of a shoe horse. In fact, right now I am in the process of rearranging my closet to make space for the ridiculous number of pairs I own. Flats, heels, pumps, mules, slingbacks, peep toes, sandals, platforms, wedges, boots, booties, you name it, I have it in at least three colors. My husband cannot understand why I would ever need more than one pair of black shoes, but some shoes are for work, and some are for weekends, and some are for parties, and some are for when I need to remind my husband of why he keeps me around when I am spending so much money on shoes.
I like a good heel. I'm on the short side, and I like what a heel does to the look of my legs and how it levels my personal playing field. However, I don't think heels are a requirement. Ultimately, you have to wear what makes you feel comfortable. If your feet hurt, it is hard to project power and confidence. The important thing is that your shoes reflect your position. No scuzzy looking, overworn shoes. No twee, childish looking shoes. No ridiculous, party girl shoes. Own all of those shoes! Variety is the spice of life. Just don't wear them to work.
If you are a flats wearer, there is a world of fashion out there. I reference Candice Bergen in her role with Boston Legal. Her shoes were generally very attractive versions of a ballet flat or a fabric styled loafer, frequently in a brocade or velvet, but always a flat, or a 2" chunky heel at the most. Try to avoid dour penny loafers and orthopedic looking footwear. Those may be comfortable, but they look bull-headed. As a manager, your wardrobe needs to reflect that you understand the balance between utility and packaging. Your look needs to be functional and fashionable. The scale too heavily tilted to either side, and it is unbecoming.
Whatever height your heel, your trousers should be hemmed to the top or middle of the heel. Trousers should not be hemmed above the top of the shoe quarter (rear and sides of the upper shoe that covers the heel and lie behind the vamp), and should not cover the entire foot. You are neither Buddy Holly, nor a Clydesdale.
The pump is usually a 2" or 3" heel. I think one of the prettiest versions is the slingback. For example, I give you the glorious Dixie Carter in a suit and heels that stand the test of time. Twenty years later, this cream colored ensemble still looks fresh. Be aware that light colored shoes require vigilance of care.
Another excellent choice is the kitten heel, modeled here by Mad Men's Peggy Olsen (http://prettygirlsays.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/mad-men-1.jpg). Her frock is definitely after 5, but those shoes would translate well into the office with a black dress or slacks, and turquoise jewelry. Joan Holloway's pumps would also translate well into the office, and I need that dress. Betty Draper's more artistic heels are best left to the cocktail party. Remember that you will be walking in these, perhaps walking quickly. Betty's shoes aren't made for roaming the office.
Let's be very honest about high heels. Not everyone can wear them. The first rule of wearing heels is that if you can't walk comfortably in them, you shouldn't. Here's a test: Can you cook dinner in them? If you can't, don't wear them out of the house. I don't care how pretty the shoe is, if your feet are hurting so much five minutes into standing in them that you are lurching around like Julia Roberts in Ocean's Eleven, no one is going to be paying you any compliments. Your shoes should fit, and fit comfortably.* I cannot say enough, do not buy a shoe that is uncomfortable. If it doesn't feel good at first try, imagine how miserable it is going to make you after standing and walking in it.
High heels for the office need to be functional. If you do a lot of walking, consider a thicker heel like the one fast talking, always moving Lorelei Gilmore wears. Even the fashion fanatic Amanda of Ugly Betty sports the healthier sized heel. The wider base on the heel means more support for your feet. Wedge heels are also a good choice for more support, or if you are uncertain at great heights.
Of course the world's best televised shoe show is Sex and the City, where the footwear is as much a part of the story as Carrie's latest conquest. That said, if Carrie Bradshaw has worn it, keep it out of the office--shoes, skirts, blouses, accessories, hairstyles, whatever. Watch Miranda's feet for cues on what is business sexy. Frankly, I think Miranda's costuming is a fantastic example of professional attire in most cases.
Best Foot Forward for Female Managers:-- 3" heels or lower are just about perfect.
-- Try to avoid anything higher than a 4" heel.
-- Covered platforms only.
-- Must have colors include a flesh tone to wear with neutrals and blues, and black. A navy shoe is terrific to have, but a good flesh tone will match with more.
-- Change up plain pumps by adding accessories. Clip-on earrings can take a shoe from day to night.
-- No ankle bracelets or visible toe rings. Ankle bracelets and toe rings look tacky, especially under hose.
-- If you are wearing a peep toe, sling back, or mule, be sure your feet look good. No beast feet.
-- Keep up with appearances. Find a cobbler for the big fixes. If you lose a heel cap, replace it. If your shoes are scuffed, polish them. If they are beyond repair, kiss them goodbye.
-- Use odor eaters if you need them.
-- Keep an extra pair of low heeled or flat, neutral colored shoes in your car or at your desk. You might need them one day.
*If you have a uniquely sized or shaped foot, you may have to finesse your fit. For example, I have a wide ball and a narrow heel. This means if I buy a wide shoe to fit the ball, the heel is going to slip. I am also a little of an in between size. If the vamp of the shoe is snug (not tight, only snug), you can fill a ziploc baggie with water, place that in the toe of the shoe and freeze overnight. The baggie will expand as the water turns to ice, and it will stretch out the shoe slightly. Some department stores will stretch shoes for you--just ask.
I have found that corn pads work well to buffer loose heels. They are generally sold in flesh tones, so you can find something that matches your skin and either place one at the back center of the shoe, or two at either side of the center line. This will keep your shoes from slipping and flopping, and causing blisters.
Lane Buckman has been in love with fashion since she realized that her first Easter dress came with matching gloves, shoes, and purse. Growing up in the entertainment industry this former beauty queen, model and actress turned corporate career woman understands that dressing for success is just another form of costuming. And, since she has run the size gamut from 2 to 18, Lane understands dressing a variety of shapes. She has written dress codes and conducted Business Style and How to Dress seminars for Fortune 500 and finance companies, boutique agencies, and an international non-profit organization. She gives her stylish Southern mother credit for teaching her everything she knows.
Just discovered you all and hope you don't mind that we used this blog post as our tip of the day on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/dwcnetwork.
As for my shoe preferences. I like a heel with a platform sole and a lot of ankle support. Easier on the balls of the feet (and my ankles that are a wreck from years of sports).
Diane K. Danielson
founder, Downtown Women's Club
http://www.downtownwomensclub.com
Posted by: Diane K. Danielson | 04/30/2010 at 06:47 AM
Thank you so much! I'm sure I speak for Lane as well when I say it is great to meet you and your site looks like a fantastic endeavour!
Posted by: Arwen | 04/30/2010 at 07:26 AM