The ONE Spring Shoe on ALL of My Clients Shopping Lists
This last week I had the opportunity to style a deserving nurse as part of an ambush makeover in partnership with WKYC, Legacy Village, LOFT, and Ladies and Gentlemen’s Salon. It was one of the most feel-good days ever! Photos of the makeover, both before and after, must remain under wraps until WKYC airs the segment (scheduled for May 10, 2022). I’ll be sure to link it up on my Instagram. And btw, I always post my TV pieces on the “in the media” section of my website as well - just in case you’re interested.
What’s an Ambush Makeover?
Basically, the “ambush” is a surprise. Meaning the person receiving the makeover transformation doesn’t know it will happen. The makeover gives the participant a whole new style consisting of clothes, shoes, accessories, hair - cut, color, and make-up - it’s all part of the transformation.
Catching the participant off guard is a large part of the fun - both on TV and in real life. I found myself getting misty-eyed more than once, seeing how making positive changes on the outside builds confidence and joy. That all being said, the surprise part is a considerable challenge for the makeover professionals, myself included. Since we do not know what the person is willing to change or not, we can not really prep. It’s more of an “in the moment” figuring it out kind of thing, which also adds to the fun.
But What’s This Have To Do With Spring Shoes?
Ahh right! As we were styling Laura, the deserving ICU nurse nominated by her adoring father, I was looking for ONE shoe that she could wear with both the outfit for her daughter’s First Communion and the outfit for Girls Night Out. And it occurred to me that this particular shoe style has been on ALL of my clients’ shopping lists lately. So, ding, ding, ding - it’s time for me to share the details of this shoe with all of you!
A Neutral Block Heel Sandal
What makes this shoe style special is two things: the shape and the color.
The Shape
A block heel is just that, a sturdy, chunky block. A stiletto offers a lovely form but is quite un-sturdy. And a wedge, while built for walking, can look heavy and clunky on the leg.
The Color
A neutral color pairs well with patterns, colors, and even black. And, it provides a light, warmer weather feel to an outfit. Plus, if the color is close to one’s skin tone, it creates the illusion of uber long legs.
Why is this shoe so dang great? It’s just that versatile.
It works for the office, dinners out, luncheons, country clubs, parties…
Wear it with dresses (long or short), jeans, slacks
Visually leg lengthening
Easy to walk in
Does it sound too good to be true? Well, the good news is this is an attainable dream.
Tips for Finding the Right Neutral Block Heel Sandal for You
Make sure the heel height is walkable for you - it doesn’t matter if it’s 1inch or 4 inch as long as you can walk gracefully.
Suede is typically softer and more comfortable than patent. And yes, you can wear suede in the summer.
For true legs for days, pick a color close to your skin tone.
But neutral can also mean a shade of tan, so don’t get too hung up on a skin match.
Less shoe on the top of the foot (called the vamp) creates a more seamless silhouette.
Having it hit above the ankle bone will be more elongating if there is an ankle strap.