Dallas Fashion Consultant, Julie Bartlett of Colour IQ, adds to your Shoe IQ with Shoeology 101.

Dallas Fashion Consultant, Julie Bartlett of Colour IQ, adds to your Shoe IQ with Shoeology 101.

Are your shoes safe to wear at work?  If that’s one of your key factors in shoe purchasing, you may want to shop on-line for these specialty shoes.

Safety and Level of Protection:

Shoes or boots with leather uppers are the most protective against punctures and cuts – to your toes. Did you know, when treated with a moisture barrier, leather shoes and boots can protect from moisture and even seepage of some hazardous materials such as house-hold chemicals or oil spills while still retaining some breathe-ability? This “Weatherizing” is a process you can do yourself or have done at a shoe repair shop.

Canvass uppers have the advantage of great breathe-ability.  Why does a shoe need to ‘breathe’?  If you battle athletes foot or other foot ailments, you know why! This type shoe is often inexpensive. Canvass cannot, however; protect against puncture  injury or from any liquid that may seep into the material.  And I doubt many employers would appreciate you showing up in a sneaker.

Uppers of man-made materials are durable but not breathe-able. When combined with an advanced shock-absorbing sole, this type shoe can be very comfortable. This type can run in cost from inexpensive to “Say Whaaat?”

Shoe shopping online? Should you have an adventurous spirit, are looking to save money or just like to shop from home, you need to know your exact size by American measurements. That’s right, shoes made in Europe are, like clothing, often sized differently than U.S. made shoes . Don’t worry, on-line shoe stores will help you with that.  Call an on-line store and speak with a representative if you have any questions. Remember to check the “Return Policy” of the store.

Dallas Fashion Consultant suggests using a Brannock Device.In Part 1 of Shoeology 101, we shared how to measure your foot at home.  You could also stop by a local shoe store and, using their Brannock Device, measure your foot and write down the dimensions. A store attendant may even help you with this. Use these dimensions when ordering shoes on-line.

The subject of shoes is a lifelong topic as we need different types for specific activities, physical needs, or workplace requirements.  We end our series hoping to make your shoe selections easier, especially if you’re on your feet all day.  Treat them well and they will return the favor throughout your lifetime.

Have we increased your Shoe IQ?  As your Dallas Fashion Consultant, it is my mission to help my clients always look fabulous, without being a slave to the whimsical ways of fashion trends.  I am passionately committed to making sure my clients always look their very best in order to help them achieve their personal and business goals.  If you have any questions or are interested in a personal consultation, please give me a call at 214-223-2200.