Imelda Marcos, You Have Competition with Shoes

Dragon Fly

Shoes have always been in fashion and fun and many of us have a closet full. When I was unable to find my photos from the Kennebunkport Festival, where I had photographed shoes of attendees, I called my friend Angie Helton for help. She could give Imelda Marcos a run for the money. Every day, Angie wore a different pair of fun or beautiful shoes, which exquisitely matched her outfits. So Angie came through and pulled some of her favorites out of her closet.

Red Patten Sandals on a Weggie Heel.

In the 40s and 50s, platform shoes were the rage and spaghetti straps went wild. Women were shorter then, and platforms added several inches without having all the weight balanced on the heel. Women liked wedgies, but they were not as stylish as today. Saddle shoes and white bucks were a must for school, as well as penny loafers. Flats were boring.

Sparkle Sparkle Sparkle

In the 60s, platforms were gone and pointy toes with three or four-inch heels were the most popular. Occasionally, stilettos would appear, but not often. Dyed to match was the key for outfits, and shoe stores did not offer as many alternatives.

Red Silk Class

The 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s also brought practical shoes. Some were downright ugly. More focus was on comfort, which spoiled a lot of us.  However, the 80s also brought many more options, with high heel alternatives, printed fabrics and creative innovative designers.

Leopard and Ruffles

Pink Leopard

Let’s skip to the last five years. Anything and everything goes and it is time for fun. I’ll admit that I doubt I’d balance very well in some of those shoes now in fashion, but they sure intrigue me.

Sparkle Plenty

Red Suede Boots

In addition to having everything imaginable available in high-heels, cowboy boots are more colorful and fun, and they even come in rain boots. Flats are actually attractive, cute and practical, and comfortable shoes can look great.

Cowboy Boots with Class

Zebra-Lepord Rain Boots

This small selection from Angie’s collection is just a taste of what’s hot and fun. I’ve a friend who’s a shoe designer for a German company, and her designs are wild. I wouldn’t want to walk a couple of miles in either Angie or my friend’s, but I sure admire how they look.

Leopard Boots

A Different Take on Mary Jane’s

Blue Suede

Hope you enjoy.

Photos courtesy of Angie Helton.