Happy Feet

July 10, 2019

By Tricia Cusden

This morning on the radio I heard Mary Beard (64) say ‘when my daughter and I go shopping together we can’t possibly shop in the same places for our clothes but we can at least shop for shoes together. After all, shoes fit everyone!’

For a long time I tried to cram my feet into something tempting in (say) Selfridges' fabulous shoe department. These objects of desire would then sit immaculate in their boxes in my cupboard as painful reminders that I just can't wear shoes like that any more. My feet are nominally size 5 (38) which is good, but in reality my left foot is half a size smaller, so no pair of shoes ever fits both feet. Invariably the right shoe fits fine and is too big on the left or the left foot is fine and the right is excruciatingly painful after a few minutes. I also have some arthritis in my toes, so heels are a no-no. I feel that skirts and dresses look much nicer on me with a heel (however small), so I have decided that it’s trousers and comfy shoes for me, probably until I push up the daisies.

The Sporty Shoe (or Trainer). I must admit that I abhorred trainers for daily wear for a long time. I have never understood the fashion for sports clothes (i.e track suits) worn when not actually engaged in some form of physical activity. I know that I am showing my age here (and channelling my immaculately dressed mother) but I used to think that wearing such unstructured clothes was not for me. And then I heard an item on Woman’s Hour from a couple of young fashion journalists saying how the ubiquitous white sports shoe was very fashionable right now and how you could wear it with everything. Which drew my attention to the fact that practically every woman I saw was wearing white lace up trainer-style shoes. So I went to John Lewis and tried a few pairs to see if they were as comfortable as they looked. I soon discovered that the best ones had leather insoles so they were less hot and sweaty than the rubbery ‘plimsoll’ type. My perfect pair were by ‘And/Or’ and as you can see they have been jazzed up with some leather tassels making them look a bit more sophisticated.

Smart Casual Summer Shoes. For several years now I have bought ballet-style pumps from Hobbs for summer comfort because my feet tend to swell in the heat. Every summer I’d buy a couple of pairs in black or navy suede and wear them until they (literally) fell apart. This year (thanks to the white trainers) I’ve only bought one pair of Hobbs ballet pumps (see below) and I also decided to try a very pretty stripey pair I’d been eyeing for some time from a small online brand called ‘Mandarina Shoes’. Their marketing manager is an old friend of mine so I asked her to send me a couple of pairs of shoes so that I could try them for size and comfort and tell you about them. Their selection of pumps is full of interesting and quirky colours and styles and I do love the pair you can see here. They aren’t quite wide enough for my short fat feet, so they weren’t comfortable on me, but if your feet are narrow then I think they’d be a great choice for smart casual wear.

Posh Shoes. Every now and then I yearn to wear something a bit more grown up on my feet with a nod towards a heel. Last year I bought a pair in John Lewis by Kin - which is apparently their own brand. As you can see they are red patent with a small heel and are fabulously comfortable in a ‘car to bar’ kind of way (in other words I can’t walk miles in them but they’re fine for a meal out). I still wear them with trousers but they are perfect when I want to dress up a bit. The other pair below are also by Mandarina Shoes and because they are a wider fit they fit my feet better than the narrow pumps and are very comfortable. They are a lovely bright pink suede and would be a great ‘occasion’ shoe for (say) a summer wedding if you wanted to wear a small heel. Mandarina Shoes are offering you all 10% off any order, including sale items, using code LK10. And just to reassure you Mandarina Shoes are not paying me for this mention of their brand either with shoes or cash.

Please join in the conversation below about your trials, tribulations and triumphs when it comes to your shoes (and feet). It’s an aspect of getting older I don’t enjoy much, but I refuse to completely give up on style for practicality. The key thing is to find solutions which fit your feet and your head. However, as I have found to my cost (many unworn shoes in my cupboard) sometimes my head gets the better of me!

This week we have a special offer of 15% discount on any 3 products in my Summer Essentials Collection. Choose from Light Look Beauty Balm, Real Radiance Blush, Enduring Summer Bronze, Bring Back Brow Shape Set, No Shimmer Eye Shade Trios, Lithe Lash Mascara, and Lustrous Colour Lipstick. During the week we’ll be sending out emails with some new videos from me about easy summer makeup which I do hope you will enjoy and find useful. Insert SUN15 at the checkout to redeem this offer. The offer expires Saturday 20th July at midnight.

The A-Z of Positive Ageing

Behind the Scenes at This Morning's Fashion Shoot

90 Comment(s)

Lynda

Jul 24, 2019 13:41

As expected this topic is a very important one for older ladies (and many younger ones!). I used to wear wonderful high heels all the time until I broke my ankle at 42. Nothing has been the same since! My feet are not very wide but they are very painful - plantar fasciitis -so I need arch supports and plenty of padding, especially on the ball of the foot. My other problem is that my big toes seem to stick up and so many shoes press on them painfully. My sense of style does not allow for trainers - ugh - with dresses which is what I mostly wear. I have found Clarks Cloud steppers to be very good (mine have a small wedge). I still wear high heels with gel pads in the evenings on holiday. I would caution against ballet style shoes with no fastenings as you have to scrunch up your toes to keep them on and they are too flat. Boots in the winter are a godsend however.

Lynda

Jul 24, 2019 13:28

It is often thought that bad shoes cause bunions but it is actually an inherited condition. Bad shoes do cause foot problems especially 'fallen arches' which require extra support

Meg

Jul 21, 2019 10:42

I too take Turmeric, cynically at first, but it REALLY works. Those stiff feet when I first get out of bed are a thing of the past. With feet no longer hurting it makes a huge difference to the shoes you can wear. Being 5' 9" ( I am 70 so taller than average for my generation) high heels never featured greatly in my wardrobe. I am eternally greatful to Princess Diana for making pumps 'the thing to wear' hence the great styles we have today

Penny gibbs

Jul 21, 2019 10:40

Love your articles. Want to try your products. Which would be the 3 you’d think were the best to invest for a strapped cash pensioner.

Meg

Jul 21, 2019 07:32

melnaie

Jul 20, 2019 07:17

i have wide feet and one bigger than the other, i also have a good collection of Hobbs flat pumps, they do the soft suede ones and more leathery versions too, these have been my work staples for years. thank you for the link to Mandarina shoes - i have seen at least 3 pairs i love!

Karen Bullinaire

Jul 18, 2019 07:55

I have found the same problem with buying fashionable shoes. Have discovered Gabor which are super comfortable and come in different widths.

Karen Bullinaire

Jul 18, 2019 07:55

I have found the same problem with buying fashionable shoes. Have discovered Gabor which are super comfortable and come in different widths.

Margie (USA)

Jul 16, 2019 13:51

I purchased two pair of Vionic Gem Caballo pointed-toed flats...one pair is leopard and the other is silver "snakeskin." I get tons of complements on both shoes....they have arch supports for my plantar fasciatis and the cut of the shoe covers my "just starting" bunion. I've been on my feet hours at a time in these shoes and they are the most comfortable flats I've ever worn. I would suggest these to anyone who wants a pair of stylish flats. BTW I'm 77 years old.

Deborah

Jul 16, 2019 13:05

I have had very good luck with the Hotter and Alegria brands. My sister, a nurse, turned me on to Alegria shoes, which come in an enormous (and fun) variety of colors and patterns, and are worn by many of her nursing colleagues for their comfort through a long work day.

Judith stephenson

Jul 16, 2019 07:37

Sole Bliss and Calla do fashionable shoes specifically for bunions. Not cheap but very comfortable

Jane

Jul 16, 2019 05:53

Loved this article which I can more than relate to! When finished college in early 70s had no money but 65 pairs of shoes all with high heels. Today well retired with bunions on both feet and arthritis, relegated to flats but after a hip replacement now have to have orthotic insoles. So gave in to trainers,have discovered Sole Bliss for my car to bar shoes specially for wide and bunioned feet!! Moshulu also make lovely flatter shoes so pretty fun shoes are all out there, but, just may be I should have listened to my mother....but life and shoes would not have been as much fun !!

Christine Gilbey

Jul 16, 2019 05:46

Spot on again Tricia when it comes to ‘Old Feet’ which unfortunately I have developed over the years. It has to be Skechers or Gabor for me now and they do a lovely range of colours and styles.
Enjoy your holiday.

Cynthia Rigby

Jul 15, 2019 13:13

Having lived in Central Africa and then Malaysia and Singapore for 12 years wearing flip flops almost exclusively, my feet are wide and finding shoes which are comfortable is a real challenge. Some of Hotter shoes are reasonable to look at and wear . My daughter has found ‘Sole Bliss ‘ who make shoes for women with bunions , in two widths , they are very pretty and stylish,she says that they are extremely comfortable.They make a variety of heel heights but unfortunately the shoe with a flat heel is only available in regular width.I shall be asking them if the flat heeled shoe will be made extra wide in the future. Thank you for the tip on trainers , I shall look for a pair

Orla

Jul 15, 2019 12:15

Gabor, Ecco, Hotter, Van Dal - and Strive or Vionic for sandals, flip-flops, and slippers (from a plantar fasciitis sufferer!)

Mary Katherine

Jul 15, 2019 07:26

This was the year I came to grips with the need for Serious Shoes (not to be confused with Sensible Shoes). I've been wearing Clark's for a few years now (they've never let me down), and this year before a trip to Italy, I invested in Ecco, Wolky, and Taos. These all proved their mettle on the cobblestones, but I was most impressed with Taos (they're even gorgeous). I've also had Walking Cradles recommended very highly. For dress shoes, Aerosoles still deliver, and I have a large supply of gel pads for ball of foot, heel grippers and various insoles. Because if my feet aren't happy, ain't NOBODY happy!

Carole Keith

Jul 15, 2019 06:55

My feet are also wide. I also need a new hip so heels are definitely a no-no. I wear really nice sandals by fitflop also nice white leather trainers. Ive also just spent 2 weeks abroad wearing nothing but sketchers - very comfortable and smart. I

Mary Bailey

Jul 15, 2019 06:34

Thank you for the great and thoughtful answer. I applaud your honesty and practicality. I’ll certainly use this information.
Mary

Margaret Genders

Jul 15, 2019 05:25

I am lucky with shoes here in Tasmania because we seem to only ever wear sandles or boots,its very rare that I need closed in shoes. Which is just as well I find them very uncomfortable now.

Jane

Jul 15, 2019 03:52

Fitflops shoes are very comfortable especially the trainers. Good discounts online and at John Lewis however sizing can be tricky.

Barbara Hopper

Jul 15, 2019 02:16

I am 61 but am told I look younger, although you never know if people are just being nice. Like you I have one foot smaller than the other due to inflamatory arthritis and also love shoes but have difficulty in finding any that fit so will certainly look on the Mandarina site. Also intend to look at your web site as I rarely wear make up and feel I really need help in this department.
Thank you for the advice.

Tricia Cusden

Jul 14, 2019 17:14

Hi Mary
This is a good question. With only 'carry on' available I'd wear flat or very low ankle boots in the autumn/winter and probably my white 'sports shoes' in warmer weather and then (because they take so little room in a small carry-on case) I'd take my trusty suede Hobbs pumps. I only wear trousers anyway, so that way I'd have what I'd need for walking - boots or trainers - and something pretty and lighter for evenings. When we went to the Oscars (!) last year I travelled in black suede ankle boots (it was snowing in London) and took some black Hobbs pumps in my hand luggage for swollen feet/arrival into LA sunshine. I knew I'd be standing for hours at the Oscars event - so I bought a really long black dress and wore my ankle boots underneath (nobody could see them) and my feet were perfectly fine. Hardly glamorous but I absolutely had to opt for practicality over massive discomfort. Nowadays I always travel for comfort (say to an event) and take shoes to change into on arrival . Hope that helps! Triciax

Anne Thomas

Jul 14, 2019 13:57

Thanks so much for this post Trisha! When I was younger I arrogantly assumed that some old people wore flat shoes because they had no sense of style. Then I got older myself, developed a neuroma, and realised that flat shoes were the only way I’d actually be able to walk! My issue is that my insteps are narrow so I always have to have buckles or laces to keep shoes on my feet, slip ons just slip off. So the trend to white trainers suits me fine!

Miranda Fagandini

Jul 14, 2019 13:51

I have had ‘old lady’ feet for years, despite being only 64! For many years, I only wore Ecco, which I still love - they are all leather inside and out, with a shaped foot insert, so kind to feet in the heat too. My son got married last summer and after deciding on a long dress (Gina Bacconi, gorgeous and really long too!), a friend recommended Avanti Shoes in East Molesey, so I went there with the dress. The very knowledgeable owner suggested I try wedges rather than heels, as I was going to be on grass all day, and they were amazingly comfortable! The wedge gives that impression of height and elegance but in actual fact, the rise was only a couple of centimetres at most, so they are almost like flats. They look good with a knee length dress too, so were a really good buy.
If you’re looking for some prettier trainer types, Ecco have some, and their sale is on at the moment. I can’t stop thinking about some really cute peachy-pink flowery ones, may have to go and have a look!

Pat Anderson

Jul 14, 2019 13:51

My mum announced, after years of trailing around shoe shops with me during my teenage years (1960s) in a fruitless quest for narrow AA shoes that were remotely fashionable, that she considered her duty done now I was grown up and I was now on my own when it came to shoe shopping. I do envy those for whom mother/daughter shopping for shoes was fun! I now buy most of my shoes from James Inglis, who specialise in narrow footwear. They’re based in Peebles but have a website and will send a template so you can measure your own feet and order on-line. They’re not cheap but I don’t buy many shoes and now have several comfortable pairs from flat to reasonable heels. Including a red pair, which would have been unthinkable previously. And if you have narrow feet their shop in Peebles is like being let loose in a sweet-shop! I wear Mephistos for walking and they’re comfortable even though they don’t do width fittings, and I have Fitflop adjustable sandals which are really comfortable. Life’s too short to put up with sore feet!

helen

Jul 14, 2019 13:33

I can not wear high heels any more. I do like Hotter shoes as they fit and are very comfortable.
I treated myself to a pair of shiny pink trainers for the autumn. They do some fashion shoes as well and I find if the heel is not very high I can cope for the evening! I am sorry to not wear Heels any more but feeling happy in my footwear is great.

Gilly

Jul 14, 2019 13:17

I have huge wide feet

Lois

Jul 14, 2019 12:57

Thank you Tricia,
Thanks for sharing about the unworn shoes in your closet. I too have that dark secret. I just bought a pair of neutral lace-up “trainer” type shoes that I just love called “softinos” sold in Canada. They hide my bunions and are very comfortable. I think I’ll clear our my shoe failures and focus on my few successes.
Lois

Sandie Gowland

Jul 14, 2019 12:16

I totally agree with everything you've said. My own problem is compounded by being a size 35 and most decent shoes start at 36. Russell & Bromley do excellent classic loafers in their children's department but not much else to my taste. If you know of anywhere that stocks a 35 it would be brilliant. There is a shop in York Street in London but they tend towards very high heels, not brilliant with short feet! Boden do lovely flat shoes but only from 36 upwards.
With thanks, and I love your emails!

Carolyn. Williams

Jul 14, 2019 12:15

I too have had to change my footwear. When I was working I wore gym shoes ,as I was walking around all day. Now I find that over time my metatarsal arches ( ball of the foot area) have dropped,so it feels like walking on marbles,ouch!! So now I too look for flatter shoes. It's sad as I loved my high heels ho hum! I have found that the love of memory foam,we seem to have ,has improved the insole of many shoe styles,including some very low heels. They are cushioned to accommodate my "marbles". Over here in Canada, Naturalizer brand works for me and a German shoe Reiker also works.As the love affair with workout attire continues,companies have had to adjust their offerings to fit the need for comfort and style and I've found that shoes are wider and much more comfortable now. I have to admit that I still have one pair of party shoes with a heel,pointy toes and black sequins!! They are comfortable enough to walk in ,sit down and walk out again!!
Love the blogs! Thanks Tricia!

Sara Parrott

Jul 14, 2019 11:57

I have always been a lover of high heels, but at the age of 58 have just had to accept that working 12 hour days wearing those from mainstream retailers is really no longer an option for me. Luckily I have discovered Sole Bliss online and not looked back since. Although designed specifically for women with bunions, they have narrower options available and they are both stylish and supremely comfortable. I like the suede courts and also have the sling-backs, lower block heels and kitten heels. Not cheap, but so worth it for me. Their customer service is brilliant and they have a completely no quibble returns service. I have also had some success with Hobbs “Annie” kitten heel sling-backs and for a couple of years I’ve bought flat sling-back summer sandals from Mandarina (a cobalt blue suede pair last year that have earned many compliments and navy suede this year) to wear with white jeans. I really appreciate the discount code and shall use that – thank you!

Joanna

Jul 14, 2019 11:33

I would highly recommend the FitFlop F-sporty sneakers. I have them in a range of colours. Excellent quality, leather 'trainers' with cushioned support for complete comfort. I wear these to death. As soon as they start looking a bit shabby I just wear them for dog walking and order a fresh pair!

Jill Naylor

Jul 14, 2019 11:30

I am definitely a shoeholic and must have over 100 pairs of shoes!! Unfortunately, I can no longer wear a lot of them as, I too have arthritis in my big toes. I can no longer totter around in high heels either. It really frustrates me when looking for an attractive, comfortable pair of smart shoes or sandals as I also have 'cankles' (legs continue same size into the ankle!). Shoe designers seem obsessed with ankle straps which just don't do it for me - my legs end up looking like tree trunks and they are really not flattering for cankles. I also find shoes that come too far up my foot are not a very flattering look on me, and I also have to ensure they don't cut across just where the arthritis is at the joint of my big toe. Ballerina pumps can be fine if they are cut low down on the foot. I can still wear a kitten heel for a smarter look and try to buy ones with a bit of padding in the insole. I bought a red suede and a black patent pair of kitten heel court shoes from Nine West which are comfortable but as for sandals, I just cannot find any with a kitten heel and no ankle straps!! I know exactly what I would like but cannot find it! For casual wear I wear Birkenstocks and have recently bought a couple of pairs of Sketchers which are very comfortable.

Jane

Jul 14, 2019 11:22

Due to being born with a talipes (thankfully, successfully treated in childhood) my right foot now measures 5 and my left foot 6 and a quarter. This means that I have to use double insoles and anything elegant with a heel is a 'no' unless it's just for standing up in! John Lewis knee length suede boots are my autumn/winter staple and flat Clarks pumps or sandals for summer. At 5'2" it would be great to add a bit of height though!

Angie

Jul 14, 2019 11:03

You are a woman after my own heart! I gave my embarrassingly large collection of DMs away to a friend’s daughter when I hit 40 - failed attempt to be a grown up. Now in my 50s with short wide feet, I’m rediscovering my love for them as the most comfortable (ridiculous, fun, heartlifting) shoes in the world!

Jane reynolds

Jul 14, 2019 10:57

Oh, how I agree with Tricia. I actually hate “trainers” and don’t wear them. I do however wear a superb white leather pair I bought from Hotter two years ago. They were not actually called trainers, but suppose were a lovely “punched out” design From their range and I can’t speak highly enough of them. For my dressy shoes, I wear pretty little grey/blue leathers from Rieker which have a small heel.So comfortable (and I have bunions and am a size 37) and my latest two pairs of “gems” are from a company called Vionic. Expensive, but so edgy. Have one pair in snakeskin, sling back and open toe and other in grey suede .Because they are a wide fit I had to go down in size to a 3 but they are
just heavenly to wear and have a fairly high chunky heel. All I need is somewhere to go!
Hope these ideas help. I love your make up and am am converted. I have not yet tried your skin care, but I shall give it a go now that I know how good your service is, if something dosn’t suit, which is what customers need and I thank you for it!
Best wishes. Jane.

Lindsay

Jul 14, 2019 10:54

Shoes! What a great subject for your blog, Tricia. I have small feet, always a 3 for most of my adult life but now (at 68), I have to go to 4 or even 4.5 in some styles as my feet swell during the day. I have a reliable pair of Hotter black leather with velcro closing for every day here and there (on my third pair) and also some of their nubuck trainers but when I want to "dress up" I have discovered a pair of Van Dal with a low wedge heel. A lot depends on the style of the shoe, too wide and they look like clown's, too narrow and they pinch my arthritic toes. I also have the complication of small, narrow heels, if my toes fit OK, the shoe may be too big at the heel - I tried pumps but left them behind as I walked. So like all the other ladies, it's flats and comfort for me.

Elaine Mackie

Jul 14, 2019 10:51

Like you I have suffered with my feet but have discovered two things that have helped.
Turmeric capsules have alleviated the arthritis in my toes to the extent that they now actually bend!
Sole Bliss shoes fit higher on the foot and cover my joints and they fit so well that there is no rubbing. I am now wearing heels comfortably for the first time in years.

Bev Bailey

Jul 14, 2019 10:29

In Australia There is a brand called Frankie4 which are designed by a podiatrist and they are not only stylish they are the most comfortable shoes ever. You can also buy them online
They sell them in selected shoe shops round Australia if any of your Aussie readers are interested

Jean

Jul 14, 2019 10:20

Check out Hotter for shoes, a great range of styles, some frumpy but others suitable even for mother-of-the-bride, most of them “foot-shaped”!
Love the blog as well as the products, had a super makeover in Guildford. Best Wishes, Jean (73)

Margaret

Jul 14, 2019 10:14

I haven't worn heels for many many years because of arthritis in feet even though I have special insoles to help, plus now I have a very swollen instep with arthritis so am restricted in style of shoe so understand exactly what everyone is saying. I will look at mandarin shoes, not heard of them before.

Gill

Jul 14, 2019 10:14

Following your article on shoes, Primark are great because they do wide fit shoes which are fashionable and cheap!

Gill

Jul 14, 2019 10:13

Teva sandals are the comfiest ever and have been worn all summer long by fashionistas everywhere. The trend for wearing white trainers with floaty dresses and skirts has made my year.

Susie Stevens

Jul 14, 2019 10:12

Personally, I live in FitFlops all summer. I find them the most comfortable footwear ever, and the style suits my taste. For posher wear I have some very comfortable higher platforms, as well as an ancient pair of heeled sandals which are still relatively comfortable. I too have invested in a couple of pairs of high heels which have been sitting in my wardrobe for a couple of years as they’re only good for getting in and out of the car, if that! In winter I wear boots, ankle or knee length, with a small block heel and cushioned soles, which for me are essential. As for skirts and dresses, I gave them up many years ago!

Sarah

Jul 14, 2019 10:11

There are alot of people who find it difficult to walk in any shoe. So having a selection of unwearable shoes is just making people who find it near on hard to walk in any shoe, even more aware of their inability.

Sue Black

Jul 14, 2019 10:09

Hi Tricia, this is one blog I really associate with, I'm 67 and for years I suffered with Arthritis in both my big toes, and due to the pain I ended up just about living in trainers or sensible shoes, I hated the thought of going to weddings or anywhere that required dressing up, my self esteem just disappeared. Two years ago I had an operation, Big toe fusion on both toes. It was the best thing I have ever done,what a difference, within six months I could wear shoes again, I now feel like a new woman, I can wear smart shoes with a small heal which means I can once again go out dressed up or down feeling confident in myself and with very happy feet.

June Lewis

Jul 14, 2019 10:08

I think this maybe one of the things you say about getting older I most dislike I too have bought lovely heels from Peter Green after a knee replacement thinking I’d be able to walk in them ended up giving them to my young niece after along while in their boxes and me looking at them longingly at least she loved them so back to looking at flats xx

Claire

Jul 14, 2019 10:05

I very much doubt that the Mandarina shoes are actually a "narrow" fit. As someone with narrow feet, I have found the choice in this country is pathetically limited and I mostly have to buy imported American shoes. The Mandarina website makes no mention of width fittings in their sizing guide. I am so fed up with shops or brands offering what they call a choice of width fittings, when what they mean is standard or wide only! People with wider feet are really spoilt for choice compared with people with narrow feet. I can wear standard width boots or lace-ups with an insole, but I find it impossible to wear standard courts or ballet pumps as the heels just slip off with every step. It is even harder for my daughter, who takes a 3.5 or 4, because most imported American shoes start at 5. What can Mary Beard be thinking of! "Shoes fit everyone" indeed!

Barbara Milne

Jul 14, 2019 10:04

I have problems getting shoes to fit, wear trainers most of the time for casual wear, and ballerina shoes. Had a broken leg and dislocated ankle some years ago, my ankle swells up like a balloon so shoes are a great problem, I have to get size 5 1/2 or 6, unable to wear heels or shoe or sandal with bar across or round ankle. Had new ankle as foot is really no good. But I manage, no good buying open back shoes because my foot is numb and walk out of this sort. I went to a wedding three years ago and bought a pair of suede black shoes with a heel not high they have only been used once, and back in the bag and box. They say your feet are precious and it is true, they are the most used part of your body, look after them.

Barbara Dixon

Jul 14, 2019 10:00

I have huge trouble with shoes because of narrow feet. I was an A as a child which are not made now, then a double AA as an adult now because of bunions and arthritis back to an A. Even so cannot find shoes to be comfortable in. I would love some nice ballet pumps for every day wear, I do have trainer types,but would prefer I shoe, cannot afford the very expensive ones now we are retired, still I like to be smart and modern if possible. So if anyone knows where I can source the impossible please let me know. I live in the north east so do not have easy access to London. Thank you

Pamela Woodbridge

Jul 14, 2019 09:51

You mentioned YouthDew by Estée Lauder a while ago and yes you can still buy it. I always have a bottle and it is always commented on when I wear it. It is the first perfume she made I think, and still very popular. Pamela .

Anna

Jul 14, 2019 09:51

Wonderful blog. You write so well.and you combine style and comfort.

Wendy

Jul 14, 2019 09:47

I'm nearly 58 and having comfy shoes is non-negotiable for me now. I also have one foot that's a little bigger than the other and last winter I developed a really quite painful right foot which I suspect was due to the fact that my bigger foot was squashed up in a pair of boots which fitted my left foot nicely but were a bit too tight for my right! Shame, cos they were really comfortable boots but sadly they'll have to be dispatched to the charity shop for some lucky person. I think there's trainers and trainers. The huge, white, clumpy, 'dad style' trainers are awful but there are some really nice, much more feminine styles available which tick all the comfort boxes and look great too.

Estelle

Jul 14, 2019 09:43

Hi Tricia: I had bunion bone operations on both feet about fifteen years ago so that I could comfortably wear satin heeled shoes to my daughter’s wedding. However I now have a bone growing on top of my bunion joint on one foot and the other foot was over corrected, which means shoes are a no no. I have to wear boots a size larger in winter and Birkenstocks or toe post sandals in summer. I did manage to find elasticated strap wedges from M&S one year(so I bought a black pair and a nude pair) so fine if I need to get dressed up. I’m currently awaiting corrective operations, so hope to have more choice of shoes once healed (forgive the pun)!!

Linda

Jul 14, 2019 09:42

I suffer from Morton's neuroma so almost all closed shoes cause me pain under my right foot as the nerve from the middle toe gets pinched. I need a wide spread fit. Very difficult to find. Strappy low healed Sandals are my choice in the summer months. I have a couple of low healed long and short boots I wear during the cold months. Otherwise it is slippers around the house. My hunters wellies when walking the dogs. I try not to look at shoes anymore. Very disappointing.
Maybe doc martens is a plan.

Fiona

Jul 14, 2019 09:39

I have horrendously wide feet, so my go to shoes are Gabor comfy wedges with tiny heels and smart shoes with low heels . Not very rock and roll but comfy. They go from a d to a g fitting

Julie Pemberton

Jul 14, 2019 09:35

I dream of wearing a ballet pump but, unfortunately, I have inherited my Mother and Grandmothers bunions on both my feet. I need to have a wide fitting shoe with plenty of support and toe room and I need comfort, as my toes and ball of the feet can get painful. If I do wear a slight heel I pay with it for a few days discomfort. I have a selection of go to shoes, trainers and sandals in my wardrobe but see so many others in the shops that I would love to wear. Companies selling wide fit shoes seem to sell ones that ,frankly, your Granny wouldn’t be seen in. If anyone has any suggestions for wide fit shoes I would love to know.

Susan Astin

Jul 14, 2019 09:32

I love the Mandarina shoes website but unfortunately they start at size 4 and I’m a 3. Sooooooo disappointed!!!!

Yvonne

Jul 14, 2019 09:29

Hi Tricia
Im glad to see you have a red shoe fetish like me! I too struggle with painful feet and have all but given up heels, although I never wore anything higher than a kitten heel anyway. I was always too tall.
Anyway I now have a plate in my left foot having had my mid foot joints fused! I too like the other blogger have lived mainly in Ecco Cool sneakers, Ecco soft Chelsea boots and off road sandals (I call these tractor tyres!). Skirts and dresses have all but gone out of the window!
This year, however, Ecco have produced a lovely strapped sandal, I bought the black pair which were a bit dressier. Not only do they look good they are supremely comfortable and you can walk miles in them with no discomfort. I also bought a pair of their bronze ballerinas. I’m in Italy at the moment and brought both of these and some Ecco cool white sneakers. I’ve changed the laces in these with Hickies, not only do they look a bit funky but no laces forever coming undone and I can slide them off and on without grovelling on the floor!
I cannot believe I’ve come away with 3 pairs of shoes- I normally bring half a suitcase full and still not get it right.
I will have a look at your Mandarina ones when I get back, I just cannot resist red, orange, pink or lime shoes - not to mention purple (think I need counselling!)

Anna Roberts

Jul 14, 2019 09:29

Yes, also have the problem of one foot being a different size so that one always has an extra inner sole. Pity I can’t rectify having one leg being slightly longer, one ear slightly higher as is one of my eyebrows, hey ho such is life!!

Claire

Jul 14, 2019 09:27

Good Morning,

Love the multi stripe pumps, they would lift so many summer looks
and be fun to wear at the same time!. A real shame they are a narrow
fit , difficult for me as well. Perhaps Manderina will consider a slightly
wider fit for next Summer, these shoes will never date.

Warm Regards
Claire
PS They would also be terrific with a small heel as well as the flat pump.

Joan Kinnear-Nock

Jul 14, 2019 09:25

I have a walk in shoe cupboard and it breaks my heart when I look at many of the shoes lined up that I will probably never wear again. Like you Tricia, I have one foot half a size larger ie 4.5 and 5 but even though my feet are narrow I have developed bunions on both and also arthritis. My preference was always for a high stilletto heel ( probably the reason for the bunions) and very occasionally I can manage to wear a pair for evening out but only if it is car to restaurant and usually by the end of the evening my feet have begun to swell and I am desperate to take them off. I don’t really feel “dressed up” if not wearing a heel. I do love the flat ballet type shoes for normal day wear but find many of them are too low cut and dig in where the bunions are but do have a few pairs which are comfortable. This time of year my preference is for a wedge sandal which gives me some height but are comfortable and in the Winter, boots with a chunky mid height heel. There is one Company which makes shoes which they say are specially for those of us with bunions but quite pricey, around £120 per pair. Oh to be young again with no problem running around all day in those high heels!

Heather Broadhurst

Jul 14, 2019 09:24

Www.butterflytwists.com

Like wearing slippers everyday.

Kati Lurot

Jul 14, 2019 09:22

Dear Tricia,

We met 2 or 3 years ago at Jenni Kravitz's Simply Dancing Partners. I am still dancing and at 75, I competed in a Pro-Am Competition in Blackpool this year (8 months after a full hip replacement).
I have always been more tomboyish than sophisticated and had to wear heeled shoes for the competition (ouch).

My absolutely most favourite shoes are Chinese plimsols called Feivue which cost £13.99 a pair (yellowmountain.com). I always have 3 pairs - a dirty pair for walks in the park, a middle dirty pair for every day and a pristine pair. They are supremely comfortable with no high bit at the back to irritate my rather sensitive achilles tendons.

Like you, I am a trousers and flats girl - most of my flats come from French Sole who do lovely velvet and grosgrain pumps for special occasion. I also find Thierry Rabotin shoes really comfortable.
I am lucky that I have "good" feet.

I think what you have done with LFF is inspirational
.

Cathy

Jul 14, 2019 09:12

Nice to hear about Mandarina. I have recently taken to Dr Martens. Not for everyone but most comfortable sandal I I've worn since the mid 1980's. More styles than I expected.

Tricia

Jul 14, 2019 09:04

Morning Tricia, another interesting blog , due to breaking both my ankles within two years after falling over, I have had to give up wearing heels , I was quite sad at first until, white trainers became fashionable , hurray , I own two pairs of white one trimmed with gold the other leopard , I have a pair of silver from M& S that I can dress up , a pair of navy with gold trim from Dune, and a pair of pink Skechers , I love wearing them all with everything and I don't miss heels at all, it,s the best fashion out at the moment , for me anyway,
I think the reason we all love shoes is that they will always fit us no matter what size our bodies are, unlike clothes that can be white depressing when we can't do the zip up because we have eaten too many pies ,!!

Jan Smail

Jul 14, 2019 09:03

I am a very active 80 year old & certainly don't consider myself past it on the fashion front.However ,like you, I can no longer wear high heels but buy them in the hope that I can at least endure them for an evening out.Therefore I was delighted to be introduced to two new (to me)makes of shoes. Also,since using your products I keep getting told what a lovely skin I have - very good for one's morale !

Mary Barber

Jul 14, 2019 09:00

I have discovered that unless you have wide feet there is little choice on the high street. I have been trying to get a pair of sandals for a couple of years. Too wide and your feet just slip through. For all of us B or C fitting wake up high street. PLEASE. And don't get me started on M & S.

Christine

Jul 14, 2019 09:00

Hi Tricia. I can completely relate to your blog this week. I also have odd feet with one foot size 5 and the other 5.5 with the added complication of an inherited bunion on my right foot. I had surgery on the left one in 2008 which was the most painful post op experience and took a year to recover to ‘normal’. I was very pleased with the result but have never had the courage to have a repeat procedure on the right foot which was not causing pain. In hindsight I wish I had been brave enough as buying shoes would have been a lot easier and my once slim feet now require wide fit. I have several pairs of beautiful shoes in my wardrobe which I know I will never wear again and in particular both pairs of shoes bought for my sons’ weddings. A gorgeous pair of purple satin peep toes with 3 inch inch heels from Phase 8 and a pair of 40’s style heels in softest blue leather from Bond Street. I just can’t bring myself to take these to the charity shop but regard them as ‘keepsakes’ of happy events. On a more down to earth note I have found my most comfortable and go to shoes have been from Gabor and Josef Seibel. Also, my all time favourite coral pink Nubuck suede trainers from Hotter have brought many compliments and also allowed me to complete several 5k charity walks over the years and they are still going strong! It just takes a lot more effort to find the right comfort fit. That said, I still occasionally fall into the trap of convincing myself in the shop that the shoes are fine but after a couple of times of wearing them they are left to linger at the back of the wardrobe! Christine

Nuala

Jul 14, 2019 08:39

Couldn’t agree more. I am 66 and for quite a few years now have been unable to wear just any shoes due to my once straight little size 5 feet becoming more irregular looking! Due to slight bunion situation I can’t wear heels cos they put pressure on front part of foot - torture! I too would have balked at the idea of trainers for normal wear or indeed flats of any kind, but comfort (with of course stylishness!) is soooo imperative to me now. If someone had told me I would be saying this 30 years ago I would have laughed myself silly!!

Evelyn Ransom

Jul 14, 2019 08:34

Tricia I forgot to say I loved the idea of tassels on trainers!!!!! Evelyn

Jeannie Kelly

Jul 14, 2019 08:33

About 6 months ago I developed an awful pain in the ball of my left foot, after visits to doctors physio & finally a podiatrist it was diagnosed with some long name but caused by too much high impact exercise consequently I cannot wear heels or flats with no padding so the white plimsol have been a Godsend I also love Hotter Daisy shoes which are very comfortable. I recently wore some low cream slingbacks at a wedding but paid the price the next day! I love your bright shoes Tricia. X

Evelyn Ransom

Jul 14, 2019 08:33

Well Tricia I am sure you will have opened up the flood gates with your shoe blog! After our hair the second thing in life that gives us problems is our feet......not including the men in our lives.
The unmentionable, unfashionable 'B' word.....bunions aargh. I had chemo a couple of years back and it has left me with pins and needles in my toes and my right foot bunion has taken on a life separate from my own. And I don't know what to do about it, I recently had an appointment with an NHS podiatrist. Basically she told me to get rid of all my shoes and buy some from Hotter. I do not tippy toe around on high heels, never have as other probs preclude that. Pumps (mostly Hobbs from Gunwharf shop) Depressed I visited my local Hotter and long story short, although the lovely manageress spent more than an hour trying to help, I came away with nothing better than I already own. Even more fed up I have just let the matter ooze on. Your blog set me alight, I simply have to try harder. Your red patent lovelies have possibilities as they would cover the bunions, so many shoes cut right across them. So Thank you Tricia for the wake up call, there might be sensational square toed shoes, there might be shoes that will cover the offending articles and even if there aren't it will certainly be fun looking!
Thanks also for all the "educationals" you changed my eye make up design and now working face with your new serum and day + night cream.....that was a great offer.
Kind regards and best wishes, Evelyn Ransom

Wendi

Jul 14, 2019 08:25

Have you tried Calla shoes, great if you have bunions or awkward feet as you get older. Expensive and only available online, made in the softest goat skin. They do heels as well as flats and boots. Their shoes have stopped me from feeling frumpy when dressing up.

Patricia Kirk

Jul 14, 2019 08:04

Good morning Trivia, Ooh this week's blog made me laugh. I too have small fat feet so can identify completely with what you said. I long to be able to wear a little strappy affair especially at this time of year but sadly cannot as apart from small fat feet I'm also lucky enough to have a funny small toe on my left foot that ends up sticking out of strappy sandals!! I remember one break I had with my elder daughter to London. We had of course done a lot of walking and London for us from Scotland is always very warm. Anyway my feet swelled up to resemble pigs' trotters!! She seemed to find her mother's plight hilarious! Your shoes look very nice. Keep up the search for the holy grail of footwear and share your findings with the rest of us!

Susan

Jul 14, 2019 08:00

This article resonated with me as I find it tricky to buy stylish shoes to fit. I love the shoes you have shown, but apart from the trainers they wouldn’t be ok for me. My feet are wide & I need a style which fastens (with a strap or laces). I do sometimes need to wear an orthotic in my shoes for arch support. This limits my choice so much. Sandals are easier to find. The last couple of years I’ve bought the same style from Gabor. Many shoes for people with wider feet are not attractive & look frumpy. If anyone has more suggestions on brands etc I would be grateful. I’m 61.

Joanna

Jul 14, 2019 07:55

Your style and colour of shoes look lovely, I so wish I could buy shoes of similar style, I unfortunately have small feet 2.5 to 3, most shoe manufacturers don't think women with small feet exist, there are very few that make shoes for women with small feet, but you are looking at between £100 & £200 per pair (no way, and not designer) M&S sell size 3 but they are so unpredictable in their sizing sometimes their shoes fit, sometimes they are too big even though they state size 3, very frustrating. When I can get the size I want, you are so limited for style and colour, usually black and flat. Anyway, one day perhaps there might be a manufacturer, you can always hope.

Cath

Jul 14, 2019 07:49

Your blogs are always interesting Tricia and this week's is very near to my heart! I love clothes and shoes.The wrong footwear can so easily spoil the overall look of clothes. I have arthritis in my knees so my shoes have to be comfortable now. I must say that I too have discovered white trainers, which work with my style. My favourite trainers are from River Island; they have white platform soles and pom-poms on the laces. (My lovely d-in-law often borrows my clothes and shoes...she gets so attached to some that they end up finding their way back home with her.)
I wear Dr Martens, Other Stories and Lofina which are all comfortable and complement my clothes.
After a recent knee replacement,my surgeon was very taken with my red velvet Dr Marten ankle boots...his words: 'You get good support with these and yet they look so on-trend and not frumpy.'

I don't wear heels any more but I will now look at some of the small heel shoes you mention.

Carol

Jul 14, 2019 07:26

I absolutely agree that we older women, who need to wear lower heels and wider fittings, find it almost impossible to buy stylish shoes. Gone are the days when I wore 6” heels! I also feel much smaller than I used to!

Julie Askew

Jul 14, 2019 07:23

I’m surprised you haven’t touched on Hotter shoes. My shoe wardrobe is steadily being replaced with many of their shoes. Some have a slight heel and they’ve sell shoes in various widths and gorgeous colours and styles. Like you I have arthritis in my toes and my feet also swell in the summer. Not totally an age thing mine have been like this since my 20’s!

beryl

Jul 14, 2019 06:07

I think there's few things more ageing than pointy toed footwear on mature feet. If you've been foolish all your life about wearing sensible shoes with room for your toes you'll almost certainly have bunions. The best shoe suppliers I've come across recently are Clarkes and Ecco. I speak as a 74 year old with
left footed 5.5, right footed 6, broad fitting kind of feet.
Stick with the trainers.............

Sheila

Jul 14, 2019 06:03

Hi Tricia
Just loved the Shoe blog & I think all older ladies will have a shoe story to tell, mine being I injured the tendons in both feet 12 months ago & thought I would never be able to wear any of my shoe collection again, however 12 months down the line I am back into comfortable wedges as I do like a bit of height, Reiker sandals have been my saviour & they do have very trendy styles with a medium heel & I personally could walk for miles in them. A Podiatrist I saw told me never to wear flats so that was music to my ears as being petite I do like a bit of a heel. Love my Sunday read Tricia.

Adrienne

Jul 14, 2019 04:53

I am 47. I have wide feet and I have a lot of trouble finding shoes because of my little toes! However, Pavers are really good... I am lucky because there is now a store near me where I can try them on... usually I will be my ankle boots and sandals in there. For work wear I normally wear ankle boots because I can wear them with my office crop trousers and dresses and I can also dress them down with leggings and jeans when I am at home. They can also be worn glammed up on nights out, so they are pretty much my go to. I love little heeled ankle boots, the only flat ones I wear are Emu boots which are my snuggly ones for the winter. In Pavers I can normally go true to size. In Emu boots, I generally size up one. Other places which are good are Joe Browns, I love their shoes and boots, I find these good for my wide feet, I love the heeled shoes and I have recently bought some of their boots too. As a wild card (!) when I want something completely different, I will wear Bed of Roses boots. I normally size up in those... they are part of Irregular Choice... Irregular Choice I love but sadly they do not fit my feet without hurting for comfort, but the Bed of Roses boots are pretty good, quirky and different. For Joe Browns, I have been able to stick with my normal size.

Bellaire Beauty

Jul 14, 2019 04:46

So far I can wear the shoes I want. I have never worn 3+ inch heels as my feet are short and thin. I
wear a US 6AA(narrow) which is a Euro 36-37shoe ,which is impossible to find now. They make them in the medium width but not narrow. I have to put padding in the shoes I choose to keep... I love kitten heels which seem to be more popular now. I usually spend more for my shoes to get the better quality and fit. I do not like trainers. I really liked the colorful shoes in the photos. I keep my shoes a long time and have quite a few. Yes, I am a shoeaholic!

Charlotte

Jul 14, 2019 04:38

As a nurse, I have spent my life on my feet. I always bought good, supportive work shoes. Now, at age 71 my feet hurt. I am now converting ALL my shoes to Alegria. They started with professional shoes, then branched into casual shoes, too. They make attractive dress sandals with heels that I can wear all day without my feet hurting. They make pretty clogs and professional shoes that are attractive, without being too clunky. No, they don’t go with dresses, but I don’t wear dresses anymore. They are supportive, attractive, and comfortable. For me, they run true to size in sandals, and I size up in shoes. On their web site, they have a sales tab, and that is where I look. Cost is better, there.

Irene

Jul 14, 2019 03:36

Enjoyed reading your shoe article. I like you, same age, felt the same way regarding wearing trainers as fashionable, I definitely wear mine to the gym and only sometimes if there is a lot of walking involved.

I always loved a heel, but, alas, I feel like I would hurt myself and frankly just look silly, so, when I do get dressed up a little, I am loving a blocked heel or a wedge, makes me feel a little taller and more confident.

I always enjoy your articles!

Regards,
Irene Croasdale

Mary Bailey

Jul 14, 2019 03:35

Dear Trish,
I know you have been traveling quite a bit in recent years. Please describe the best shoes for that purpose. Because I like to travel with only "carry-on" luggage, it would be ideal to have one pair for dress, yet comfortable enough to wear for walking tours, and another, more casual pair for use while participating in activities and to have in case the first pair breaks.
Several years ago, I bought a pair of low-heeled, wedge, black, handmade leather pumps from Born. After breaking them in, I ordered a smaller size and was satisfied I had made a great choice. Our flight was cancelled. We scurried all day, literally running, ( very unladylike )until we finally boarded that evening. Whatever I did to my feet, broke down the area around the ball of my feet and they have never recovered. I also packed black leather oxfords, very plain. Note that I did not even have time to open my suitcase to retrieve the more comfortable shoes. Later, I suggested that my best friend purchase similar oxfords for her upcoming European vacation. When she saw the photo of me in the oxfords, she exclaimed, " You look like a nun!"
I should consider that a compliment, but since that was not the look I was trying to achieve, I couldn't help but laugh. So please comment on the perfect travel shoe.
Thanks,
Mary

Vivien Kerr

Jul 14, 2019 03:15

Much as I would love to buy brands such as Mandarina they are too expensive for me on a pension. I do occasionally buy an 'expensive' pair £67 winter shoes which I wear all the time, but normally rely on brands such as Cotton Traders or Pavers. Maybe I am fortunate in that I take size 5 1/2 or 6 and do not have any problems with my feet.

Linda

Jul 14, 2019 03:11

I hear you, Trish, when you talk about the problems of older feet! My difficulties started when I was teaching in China. Somehow I found Hotter Shoes, a wonderful family company based in England. Their shoes have air bubbles in the soles and are so comfortable and pretty to wear. I bought boots and booties, and dress shoes. I highly recommend them, even though I can’t wear them any longer. My feet continued to deteriorate with my health problems, becoming extremely tender and sore, with my toes slowing spiraling out of control (called hammer toes and other such descriptive names). Shoes started making sores and even ulcers due to a rare autoimmune disorder. My feet and lower legs took the brunt of this disorder, manifesting in a loss of balance and inability to walk very far. After returning to the States in ‘14, I found Dawgs clogs, with fleece lining and wide toe box. I bought every color available of this inexpensive shoe. I also tried other shoes, far more expensive, which also sit in my closet or were returned. And I long to wear pretty sandals or a shoe with a heel.

Margaret

Jul 14, 2019 03:01

I left a comment but it obviously didn't 'take'. Here goes again. I too have wide, size 5 (38) feet. I had polio as a child (in Australia in 1945) so comfort and steadiness are much more important to me than snazziness. I rely on Hotter shoes (and I love their handbags, too, particularly the cross-body ones). Hotter do Extra Wide Fit, and even Extra Extra Wide, and I rarely buy any other make.

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