I have to admit, I have two obsessions: shoes and bags. It started in high school. My first pair was an expressive Nike SB Dunk Hi-Tops. A young girl told me “nice kicks,” and this was when I knew I was poisoned by footwear’s kiss. From then on, I knew that shoes actually matter in an outfit. Be it a job interview or a first date, the things you put on your feet can say a lot.

So where do we go from here? What is fashionably right and what is wrong? For both sexes, mandatory shoes should always be sneakers/trainers and a nice pair of boots. I always had a heart for the Converse All-Star. If you want to own something a bit more different, try looking on the Flight Club New York Web site if urban/”hypebeast” is more your look. They have a wide selection of Nike SB Dunks, Air Jordans and Vans – all legit, of course. But be prepared to take a bite in the wallet if you want something less run-of-the-mill; exclusive SBs can cost $300 to even $1,500.

Of course we should also have much more mature standbys. One trend I have been noticing is that men and women alike are putting more attention to leather shoes and boots. Oxfords are a classic entry into a man’s closet, as are loafers and boat shoes (the latter should be confined to summer wear).

Boots are a different story. While most make the mistake of tucking jeans into cowboy boots (a HUGE no-no), there are much more elegant and fashionable choices to be made. Men have a wide selection of choices, but my favorites are often “Chelsea” boots. Mod fashion indeed, but they can still be pulled off today. If you want something not in-house and more designer, take a look at the inventory at shops or Web sites like SWEAR London Shoes or Surface To Air.

Junior business major Bianca Ruiz shows off how good boots can look without breaking the bank. Her JCP boots give the illusion of a high priced luxury item and match well with her tights and horizontal striped shirt. Her jewelry also brings attention to her hands and her sunglasses match well with her outfit. Who ever said looking good needed to be expensive? Frugalista indeed! Until next time: May your closet be full and your mirror filled with smiles.

See you!

Style Stalker