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Tuesday 12 April 2011

Mum on the Run - For those who don't like their toes!

Today is day three of taking a look at the areas which present us with difficulties during the summer months. 

So far I have taken a look at how to give your legs some colour without resorting to fake tan and the hazards that come with it. I have also taken a look at alternatives to jeans and leggings if you don't want your legs on show.  Today is the turn of shoes which are closed (or almost closed) at the front. 

I know that there are some ladies who don't like their toes on display and would rather keep them hidden from view.   I have not covered the classic court shoe, or Uggs or Crocs. Instead I have tried to give you some prettier summer alternatives involving prints, colour and floral options.  There are also other options with stripes, stars - you name it, it's out there! 

So, first off, jewelled flats or ballet pumps to be followed with flat slingbacks, espadrilles, converse style shoes and then a couple of dressier options.  Of course it is always worth bearing in mind the peep toe shoe.  Depending on the size of the "peep" some literally just show a flash of a painted nail rather than a toe - so they too may be worth considering.

  • Jewelled flats or ballet pumps.  These are everywhere, in every colour and with different prints from hearts to spots to sequins.  If you don't want your toes on display and you want to wear flats, I can imagine that you will have lots of these in your wardrobe. These are from Boden - no denying that they are full on but if you are going to go for a bit of embellishment you may as well do it big time!


  • Here is a more casual pair of flats, which you could wear on the beach instead of flip flops. These are by Cath Kidston and I can assure you, they can stand anything that the sea has to throw at them!



  • A flat slingback is also an option for those who don't like their toes.  Next has some nice patent pointed ones with a kitten heel, as does Topshop.  The ones below, which are also from Boden, are completely flat and come in several different colours.

  • Espadrilles - they always make me think of Wham and Club Tropicana - but they have come a long way since then! Cath Kidston has done these pretty floral ones which have a slight wedge to them. The heel is cut out and they have an ankle strap - tricky for some to wear but not others. 
  • As an alternative if the floral business is a bit too much for you, you could try these Boden ones which have a slightly higher wedge.  They also come in several different colour ways.

  • Now, on to the converse style shoes.  Converse are really popular - because they work. They come in lots of different colours, can be machine washed and are very comfortable.  I have shown you a similar idea from Cath Kidston, which are really reasonable priced at £18. Similar styles can be picked up at most high street stores. 

  • This is Boden's version -slightly dressier as they are in satin and, as you might imagine, come in a variety of colours.

  • Now on to a slightly more substantial pair of shoes from Dune.  More of a court shoe with a medium height heel.  Again they are floral but not too overpowering.  They are also fairly neutral albeit in a floral kind of way so they should be really versatile.
  • And my favourites? These fantastic shoes are by Olivia Rubin for Dune.  They are a lovely print -definitely a statement shoe to be worn with pride and a smile on your face!