If you love shoes this is the place to be. The Doctors at Gulfcoast Foot and Ankle will have many tips and articles about the importance of good shoes for your feet and how to select them. We will also feature the most outrageous of shoes and trends.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Top 7 Shoe Storage Products - Shoe Racks, Boxes and Organizers

Top 7 Shoe Storage Products - Shoe Racks, Boxes and Organizers
by Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide

Shoe storage - from shoe racks to shoe boxes; and shoe bags to shoe closets, the options are endless. But, if you're like me, you might not have given much thought to organizing your shoes. After all, who wants to shop for a shoes rack, when you could be shopping for shoes? But when you realize there are no less than five pairs of shoes (all belonging to one person!) residing under your kitchen table, it's time to start shopping for shoe storage. Here are a few really great shoe organizers.

Oh my, this shoe rack is cool. If you have a space about 36 inches wide, ten inches deep, and less than five feet tall, this is the shoe rack for you. It is freestanding, and the seller claims it locks together easily in seconds. Holding up to fifty pairs of women's shoes, this may just be the shoe rack of your dreams. Also available is a thirty pair model - but, who are they kidding? (Image provided by StacksandStacks.com)

These silver-colored shelves would be great for storing anything, but are ideal for shoes. They have a clean, streamlined appearance, and can be stacked on any flat surface -- but the best part is, they require no tools to assemble.

This over-the-door shoe rack will hold up to two dozen pairs of shoes and will easily hang over most standard doors, or can be mounted to the wall. My favorite thing about this system is that it displays the shoes upright, instead of in pockets. It also has adjustable shelves to accommodate shoes or boots of any height.

Okay, this shoe rack is really cool if you or someone you know is not opposed to doing a little handy work. Each shelf hold three pairs shoes, and attaches to the wall. In addition to being very sleek and easy to place, this slanted shelf is a steal at less than $5.00 -- meaning you can place them all over the house.

These shoe organizers have open ends for easy access. This version holds 20 pair of shoes, but there are also versions that will hold 30 or 40 pairs. If you're looking for easy access to your shoes, and want a clean design, you should definitely check out these shoe organizers.

In addition to getting big points for being chrome, this shoe rack is also expandable from 26 inches to 47 inches wide, accommodating a lot of shoes. It has a very clean and contemporary look, and would be the perfect shoe rack for anyone who is looking to turn a bit of extra shelf or floor space into a happy place for shoes.

When it comes to shoe boxes, I have a very simple theory: clear is cool. And these clear shoe boxes are the coolest. They have a slide-out "drawer," little rubber feet that allow them to be neatly stacked, and a handle for carrying -- genius! You can learn more about them in my review, or head straight to the Shoebby Web Site to check out all the details.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Tips to Look Thinner

Women's Shoes - Tips for Looking Thinner

By , About.com Guide

While these tips won't actually make you thinner, they will help you choose the right women's shoes and accessories for a thinner appearance.

Shoes with Heels will Make Your Legs Appear Thinner

The heels don't have to be terribly high, but there's no doubt that if you want to appear slimmer, bit of a heel will help dramatically.

Pointy Toe Shoes will Help Make Legs Appear Longer

If your legs look longer, they will also appear thinner - and shoes with pointy toes will help make your legs seem longer. So, even if you think your legs are long enough, if it's a thinner appearance you're after, try a shoes with pointed toes.

Match Your Shoes to Your Hose or Tights

Matching your shoes to your hose or tights, when wearing a skirt or a dress will help your legs look thinner. If your skirt is also in a matching color, you'll look thinner from the waist down. Avoid wearing light-colored hose with dark shoes and a dark skirt.

Opened-Toed Shoes

Shoes with an open toe or high heeled sandals will give your thighs and calves a slimmer appearance than a closed-toe shoe will.

Avoid Shoes with Ankle Straps

Shoes with ankle straps will give the appearance of shorter legs and, as discussed above, longer seems thinner whether it is or not - so skip the ankle straps if you want your legs to look slimmer.

Wear Slingback or Backless Shoes

If you wear backless or slingback shoes instead of pumps, your legs will look thinner and longer.

2010 Fall Shoe Trends

Fall Shoe Trends 2010

Top Trends in Women's Shoes for Fall 2010

By , About.com Guide

Looking for the women's top fall shoe trends for 2010? Look no further, as this article highlights some of the latest styles and top trends in women's shoes for autumn.

If you'd like a look at all the top boot and shoe trends for the whole family, be sure to check out the complete guide to Fall Shoes for 2010.

Women's Short Boots and Ankle Boots

fall-shoes-2010-ankle-boots-jpgStuart Weitzman 'Buck Rogers' Image: Zappos.com

Fall 2010 Trend: Open-Toed Booties

sexy-booties-women.jpgBCBGeneration 'Malina' Image: Endless.com

Women's Clogs and Mules for Fall 2010

fall-shoes-2010-womens-clogs.jpgVince Camuto 'Christies' Image: Zappos.com

Western Boots for Fall

fall-shoes-2010-western-boots.jpgFrye 'Harness 15R' Image: Zappos.com

Fall 2010 Shoe Trend: Oxford Shoes for Women

fall-shoes-2010-womens-oxfordsJoan and David 'Rivka' Image: Endless.com
Menswear-inspired shoes are back again this Fall, but unlike the high heels we were seeing a couple of years back, this season's styles are mostly flats -- great news for those among us who aren't enjoying the sky-high heel trend.

Perfect for pairing with jeans, suits and pants, there are two ways to go with masculine shoes such as these: 1) you can pair them with a totally masculine outfit, and glam out on the hair and make-up, or 2) you can wear them with jeans and something totally feminine like a ruffled blouse or shimmery tank. I've even seen some women wearing flat oxfords with skirts and dresses, although that's not a look I can personally condone just yet.
Giddy-up all you cowgirls and cowgirl wannabes, this year western-inspired footwear is back in a big way, and cowboy boots can be had in heights ranging from booties to over-the-knee styles.

If, like me, you're not much of a rodeo type, then you'll be thrilled to know that boots with edgy, rocker accents are running a close second to western styles, and some I've seen have actually managed to encompass both vibes. Of course, you can pair these styles with skirts if you choose, but my favorite way to wear either kind is with a pair of well-worn jeans.
Clogs and mules have finally made their return after several years on the back burner, and I have to say I'm pretty excited to see them again. Now, I have to clarify that in this case, I'm referring to higher-heeled fashion clogs, and not the kind of clogs that food and health professionals wear for comfort.

Clogs and mules are easy to slip into, comfortable to wear, and a great way to dress up your favorite pair of jeans.
Open-toed booties and boots will be back again for another round, and I know I'm not alone in wishing that wasn't the case. Unlike a lot of women though, I don't think this is a particularly illogical idea, I just don't find most of these styles all that flattering. Of course, there are some exceptions, and I'd never want to see fashion become so conservative that designers weren't willing to take these kinds of chances.

Having said all of that, I know a lot of you adore these open-toed styles, and for you, I'm happy as can be -- that's why I've included several open-toed styles in my top picks for Fall.

Yes, over-the-knee boots will be back again this Fall, but this year we'll also be seeing a bit of a backlash to that trend via an abundance of short and ankle boots. Flats and low heels are really making headlines, but never fear heel-lovers, there's plenty ofplatforms and stilettos as well.

The best thing about a trend like this is that it doesn't really matter what your style is, there is an ankle or short boot to suit just about every woman -- the real trick is in choosing the most flattering pair for your outfit and body shape.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

High heels dangerous to women’s health

Nearly three million women suffer high-heels related injuries which need medical attention, a recent study suggests. The Sun reported that 3000 women in the age group of 18 to 65 were studied by Hot Shoes, makers of comfort footwear.
REUTERS
A model displays a creation as part of the Prada Fall/Winter 2010/11 women's collection during Milan Fashion Week February 25, 2010.
Most women twisted an ankle or tore a tendon but there were serious cases also of smashed teeth, broken bones and nasty falls. Yet, even this is not enough to dissuade 60 per cent of those interviewed for the study who said that they will continue wearing heels.
Almost 90 per cent of participants reported discomfit and ruined nights because of high heels. And 61 per cent reported sitting the night out due to the pain.
Only two per cent of those interviewed said that they did not wear high heels. Medical reports suggest that high heels could lead to foot deformities, posture problems, neck injuries and permanent damage in some cases. A 2001 Harvard study also found that high heels can set the stage for osteoarthritis of the knees.
Another study done by the shoe firm MBT claims high heel-induced injuries like twisted ankles, bunions and ingrown toenails cost the UK £29 million a year. The MBT study that included 1,000 women found that four in 10 women suffered an injury in their heels, such as falling over or twisting their ankles from wearing glamorous footwear.
A worrying trend is that women are getting cosmetic surgeries to fit into their Manolo Blahniks and Jimmy Choos. More than half of the 175 members of the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society who responded to a recent survey by the group said that they had treated patients with problems resulting from cosmetic foot surgery.
The society will soon issue a statement condemning the procedures, said Rich Cantrall, its executive director.
Celebrities routinely undergo such surgeries as they more than anyone develop foot problems and ugly bunions and toes due to constant wearing of high Heels. Victoria Beckham was recently in the news for such a surgery.
High heels have been in fashion as far back as 1000 BC.  They were a social status symbol. Women in the 16th and 17th century took it to great heights and teetered around in 5-8 inches high shoes. They had attendants to help them move and sometimes carried  stylish canes to support them. It is only in the 20th century that demand for comfortable, fashionable shoes came from liberated women. Whatever the evidence to the contrary, it is still very difficult to separate women from their high-heels as history relates.



This article is copyrighted by International Business Times, the business news leader

15 unbelievable shoes that sum up this year

15 Outrageous Shoes For 2010

www.thefashionables.com


1. Valentino Garavani stilettos

The 2010 collection of Valentino will give him a new name in designer heels. These heels are elegant and are designed with a fairy tale theme with laces on the ankle which will bewitch the younger generation.
This design of shoes are similar to Ash Shoes – You’ll see what I mean when you visit their site.
The beautiful silk lace looks like an ostrich feather and it fits brilliantly on the heel. The shoes were created by London-based milliner Philip Treacy which thought of this amazing idea and made these elegant pieces with a precise craftsmanship and focus on young generation.
Designer : Valentino

2. Lady Gaga’s fashion inspiration

Alexander Mcqueen comes with some of his outrageous platform heels. He designed one of Lady Gaga’s heels in the form of skull which was looking fabulous. The color combination and the 4-5 inches of heel make this one of the most outrageous designs from the 2010 collection.
Two straps are provided for comfort purpose which you can tie up easily. Tone of greys, blue and earth tones along with suitable material gives it a beautiful metal like shining look. Alexander Mcqueen made famous by his unique shoes has once again made a boom with this designer collection.
Designer : Alexandermcqueen

3. Gucci’s Gianni collection

Frieda Gianni has once again presented the bold and seductive image of women by her high heeled shoes designs. She has taken care of the comfort aspect by providing balance through massive platform with complex strapped construction.
The one of the outrageous design of her collection was heels wrapped around legs with wider leather belts. These heels are a must wear with mini skirt. This design is available in classic colors like black, white and gray and F. Gianni hasn’t given attention to decoration but to form and comfort of the shoe.
Designer : Gucci

4. Camilla Skovgaard shoes

This designer is really becoming popular among fashion followers by her beautiful and gorgeous designs that set her apart. This time also she has focused on one form rather than variety and different colors. Her shoes are famous for providing best quality and everlasting comfort.
This time comfort is taken into account by chain cross strap sandal and the price of her designs are moderately high. The shoes have a designer platform which provides a good grip while walking. It’s all the small features provided in her shoes that sets her apart.
Designer : Camillaskovgaard

5. John Galliano designs

The designer is known for his romantic and overwhelming designs and this design is no different. He uses the trend of sky high platform and made the heel with string of pearls attached together.
Other decorative items used were silk patches and polka dot lace used for making a bow. His collection is very artistic but is quite unsuitable for regular work routine as the heels are outrageously high. The designer has a targeted market which would love to wear his designs.
Designer : Johngalliano

6. Dolce and Gabanna collection

The D&G designer collection is always unexpected and outrageous to such an extent which makes it unfit for daily usage. However, the use of black lace and fishnet material makes the shoe more appealing and attractive.
From the front, the designer has given it a shoe like look with laces above the lacy material. The collection is unusual and beautiful too. But again it targets the specified market only and not the general masses.
Designer : Dolcegabbana

7. Bruno Frisoni collection

The designer believes in simplicity, quality and style of the design instead of decorations with huge accessories. Once again the purpose is to provide comfort and not just the design. The booties would be a hit next season and various materials have been used for booties including leather.
This time the designer has used satin as a material for booties which will give a shining look and would provide a more appealing appearance for the fabulous shoes. This design is being made available in dark colors only- black, dark blue, dark green, violet and red.
Designer : Brunofrisoni

8. Giuseppe Zanotti’s ankle boots

This is one of the famous brands for making high boots, ankle length boots with all kinds of designs and decors. This time, for 2010 they have prepared their designer ankle boots collection with little bit of decor giving it a fabulous look. These sandal boots are provided with sliced straps of leather all over the foot.
With reasonably high heel, they are quite comfortable to wear in daily routines. The designer used various kinds of material like silk, leather to beautify the product and the foot is provided with enough exposure with these cut outs leather stripes. The boot is available in classic colors like black, off white and gray.
Designer : Giuseppe-Zanotti

9. Thigh high boots collection

The designer, Stella McCartney has designed the most unusual thigh high leather boots with metal stiletto heels. These boots are a must for every short skirt wearer as it gives an extra charm to thedress. The designer has taken care of the comfort of the foot by providing continuous exposure through small dotes.
These shoes provides an alternative to tights or leggings, you can easily wear over a short skirt or over sized sweater. These boots are basically targeting high fashioned societies those who just need to follow fashion trends without considering climate of the place.
Designer : Stellamcartney

10. Miu Miu collection

The designer has made an elegant pair of shoes with beautifully carved platform heel. The target of this design is grown up women who just love to wear comfortable Mary Jane shoes in their regular routine and also wear the so pretty and child like prints.
The designs are beautifully made on silk cloth and the prints also extended right to the feet of the models. The designer was successful in bringing out the childhood memories through its flowers and animal like prints.
Designer : Miu Miu

11. Fendi’s collection

The designer has blended simplicity with the design. He has used the light weight material that wraps around the leg giving an elegant look. The shoes are having a transparent platform in a rose tinted form.
For comfort purpose, a strap is provided which is being hidden with the extra clothing which is forming a bow at the end. They are available in classic colors like black, brown and dark brown. Over all the design wasn’t extra ordinary but a simple one with comfort.
Designer : Fendi

12. Nicholas Kirkwood’s collection

The shoes are design oriented with platform heel at the back and embossed leather decorations. The design gives a shimmery look with the color combination it has been used on.
The designer is known for his quality pertaining in design and for the comfort of his platform heels. The colors provided are usually dark including violet, black and brown. This exposed design is most suitable for party oriented young generation.
Designer : Nicholaskirkwood

13. Balmain shoes

This leather tribal beaded high heeled elegant shoes show the unique and imaginative mind of the designer. The embossed mesh detail on the leather strap gives it an open shoe tribal look. This design is made to target general masses who can afford it. The same design is also available in flats too.
The color combination used is of personality colors like yellow, black, red. The Balmain shoes are known for their unique designs and best quality.
Designer : Balmain

14. Proenza Schouler collection

The designer tried to give young and fresh look to the designs by using fluorescent colors in their shoes. The design has wedge shaped heel made of snake skin which makes them quite expensive.
The shoes are very comfortable to wear and the focus is on quality and not on decorations. There are various bright colors available in it like yellow woven on black, orange woven on brown and pink woven on blue. This is one of the young and fresh exposed foot collections of 2010.
Designer : Proenzaschouler

15. Ruthie Davis’ collection

Bright colors would be a great trend in 2010. This is again being shown by our designer fabulous stilettos. The designer made the heels with colors like purple, yellow and gem stones instilled on them as an add-on to provide an attractive look to the design.
These shoes can be paired up with evening dresses or gowns for a trendy party. The material used is shining leather which also gives a sex-appeal to the design.
The colors available are pink and purple, dark green with brown and black with pink.
Designer : Ruthiedavis