Heaven Has Heels | Summer Travel Issue Summer 2015 | Page 86

six essential travel shoes HOW TO TAKE YOUR SHOES ON VACATION. There are a few universal, human struggles: death, taxes, when to clean out your DVR...One such burden is packing. Like a soothsayer, you’re expected to know what you’ll need for the next six days (seven nights). And even a weekend trip is fraught with complications. Will the style be dressy? Casual? Sporty? And no single accessory is harder to pack than shoes. They’re a bulky necessity and every occasion calls for a different kind! To help travelers, renowned NYC podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Levine has assembled a simple guide to starting your vacation on the right foot. “Whether you are headed to a weekend in the Hamptons, a party in St. Tropez, or a trek in the Tetons, it’s important to avoid any extra weight.” According to Dr. Levine, almost all trips require only three to five pairs of shoes and her mantra is: “Comfort, confidence, class.” Pick and choose from the following list for what fits your trip. — InstituteBeaute.com CHIC DAYTIME WEAR: Ballet flats. Whether they are Chanel or Sketchers, you don’t have to be a prima donna to feel like you’re dancing through the streets with this versatile and packable choice. One caveat: they don’t have much support. To help, Dr. Levine has engineered gel inserts called Pillows for your Feet® that rest comfortably under the foot’s arch and are reusable. This one-two punch takes up no space at all. STYLISH BEACHWEAR: Foam platform or high plastic sandals. They are fashionable, dry easily, and support your foot well. Look for shades that match your skin tone to elongate the leg and give a leaner illusion. A good pair can take 10 pounds off your appearance. WALKING SHOES: One of the best parts of traveling is seeing the sights. And what better way than on foot, getting lost in a new city or exploring a coastal town. Most athletic companies like Nike, New Balance and Adidas make a lightweight sneaker with a flexible, synthetic shell. And luckily, all offer stylish options. EXERCISE WEAR: Depending on your sport of choice, you can either pack a running shoe or cross trainer. If you plan on hiking or exploring different terrains be sure to look for a shoe with ankle support. A walking shoe can often pull double duty in this department. EVENING WEAR: Ideally, a heel should be 2 to 2 ½ inches high. Always pack a simple black pair, and when in doubt, a neutral shade is a good second option. And if your shoes are new, you must wear them in slightly before your trip. For minor pain associated with wearing heels, Dr. Levine has a created a topical numbing spray called Stiletto Rx® that applies effortlessly and reduces pain for hours. WONDERFUL WEDGES: Wedges are huge this season, but they’re also bulky. Find a comfortable pair that fits your arch and wear them directly onto the plane. You’ll board your flight in style and save room in your suitcase for all the good stuff you’ll be bringing back from your trip! HEAVEN HAS HEELS summer 2015 | @HHHEELS