10th Commandment: August 1
Aug 1, 2014
A reader e-mailed in asking if open-toe shoes are appropriate for work. My reasoning has always been that you need to look at two issues: 1) your own office culture (of course), do you see other women who are senior or equal to you wearing them?; 2) how much toe is showing?.
In my view, a peep-toe is fine, but showing all of your toes is not fine. Again, this depends on your office, but I like to be better safe than sorry.
Another thing she asked was if there is an alternative to a peep-toe for someone looking for a lighter warm-weather option. The answer is slingbacks. They give you a bit of a lighter look than a full pump. You could also wear d’Orsay heels, if you don’t want to expose any heel at all.
One last tip: If you’re wearing slingbacks, for goodness sake, keep your heels callous free. Best way to do this without a pedicure is to buy a PedEgg.
Now, for some slingback recommendations…
Elected Official
Hill Staffer
Kate Spade Saia Slingback ($149)
Paid Intern
Sole Society Denver Slingback ($65)
Gorgeous choices. Unfortunately, I can never seem to get the straps of slingbacks to stay on my heels, no matter how much I tighten them, so I’ll have to admire from afar.
Anyone else get that flip flop smacking sound when they wear slingbacks, or am I just doing it wrong?
It doesn’t happen on every shoe, but I HATE when it does.
Some moleskin on the inside of the strap will prevent that and prevent blisters.
Belle, Talbots has had this style for a long time and I swear by them. I have a very narrow heel, so I walk out of most pumps, whereas I can stay put in a slingback d’orsay.
I also have a great pair of nude-for-me slingbacks like this from sam Edelman. Great rec!
rh – I too hate that “they can hear you coming from a mile away” sound that sling backs can produce. But, I do like these offerings and would like to try again to find a pair that “stay put” or the back strap stays in place with a narrow heel. Going to Order the Kate Spade because of the heel height.
Nine West has called Sharina that I absolutely love that’s also fairly reasonable price wise.
Bligh slingbacks kill me, and sound no better than flip flops. I love d’orsay shoes as an alternative to traditional pumps, and Nine West has some super cute versions on sale now for less than $75!