Hot looks in summer shoes 2003 - Beauty & Style

Ebony, July, 2003

SUMMER is in full bloom and feet that have been bundled up all winter want to get out and enjoy the sunshine. With the vast array of sandals and other summer shoes available, it is easier than ever to find just the right pair of shoes to dress up your toes and help put your best foot forward.

Hot styles for the season include classy sling-backs, mules and slides, in addition to strappy, lace-up sandals. Colors are bright and sassy; aqua blue, tangerine, lime green and hot pink are popular. Chocolate is also an "in" color. And, as always, red is still a hot hue for summer, and crimson can be found in flat sandals, lacy leather mules as well as patent leather stilettos.

Jeweled, beaded and embroidered footwear also are popular this season. It's easy to find flat thongs as well as expensive heels that are adorned with fancy stitching and beading.

When planning your attire for warm-weather social events, make sure you have the ultimate accessory: a great pair of summer shoes.

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR TOOTSIES LOOKING GREAT ALL SUMMER

Pretty feet are in, and you must take the time to care for yours. Professional pedicures cost from $30 to $50, depending on where you live and the type of salon you choose, and last from three to four weeks.

* Learn to give yourself a pedicure. It can be awkward and it takes time, but you can do it. The rewards are pretty, well-maintained feet, in addition to the money saved by doing it yourself.

* Choose nail color that complements most of your sandals and wardrobe. Natural, neutral tones are in, but vibrant colors continue to be popular during summer months.

* Keep feet well moisturized. Great shoes deserve feet that are not rough and ashy. But don't make the mistake of using petroleum jelly on your feet and immediately slipping them into your expensive sandals. The petroleum jelly will stain leather, suede and cloth.

* Don't buy or wear shoes that don't fit properly. A heel hanging over the back end of a sandal is not a pretty sight.

* Keep feet clean and dry in summer heat. Each foot has thousands of sweat glands and hot weather makes perspiring feet fertile ground for bacteria.

* Select shoes that flatter your particular feet. if you have pudgy feet, avoid strappy sandals. You don't want the unsightly bulges, if you have skinny ankles, ankle-strap shoes may not work for you. If you have corns, bunions and hammertoes, don't wear sandals that expose them.

* Keep in mind that men find pretty feet sexy. Yes, the feet are an erogenous zone. Take full advantage of this powerful asset.