Is There an Art to Buying Sandals?

Quick Tip

Do you go to the shoe store with anything special in mind when you add a new pair of summer sandals to your wardrobe? Most people don't... a pretty pair catches their eye and without another thought, they buy them. But, there is a smarter way to go about it. Here's my list of things to think about before you hand over your money.

• Collect flip flops/thongs is colors that will work with your wardrobe. They can be as plain or as fancy as you like and the price is definitely right... making it easy to own lots of pairs.

• Be sure to really look at your sandals. We tend to hold on to them long after they have outlived their worth. If they look beat up, get rid of them. While we might not notice, other people do.

• Compare prices. You might as well get as much bang for your buck as possible. I once bought a pair of strappy sandals at a Payless Shoes and 4 summers later, I'm still wearing them and they look great! If you have a favorite shoe store, be sure to go back for more.

• Consider the heel height. Can you comfortably wear them to the mall, or are they strictly for show. Be sure you know why you want that particular pair and if they are good value for the intended use.

• Consider the placement of the straps across the toes. If not properly made or are the wrong size, they can cut into the outer toes and be extremely painful.

• One last thing just occurred to me... when you buy your sandals can be a factor worth considering. While you might pay more at the beginning of the season, the selection is far better. On the other hand, it can't hurt to check out what is left as summer comes to a close. Can you ever have too many sandals? I think not!

More Summer Fashion How-To's

How To Accessorize an Outfit
Summer Fashion Mistakes
Ten Ways to Accessorize a Tank Top
How To Look Ten Pounds Lighter
An Art to Buying Sandals?
Summer Halter Mistakes
Your Shape... Your Swimsuit