Friday, September 30, 2016

Auctioning Your Shoes

Start with a fabulous picture

Use a good quality picture to display your shoes you are trying to sell! I take pics of the side, front, back, and underneath. This will help to show the quality of the shoe. If there are any unique features, take close ups of them! Also, if there is any damage to your shoes, take close ups of that as well! You want your buyers to know exactly what they are buying so you don't end up having to deal with a return. Use the macro feature on your camera to accomplish this. 

Provide a description

Not only do you want your pictures to tell the story about your shoes, you should write a lot of detail about the shoes. 
Things you may want to include:
  • Name of the brand of shoe
  • The size of the shoe : If the shoe runs big or small, let the potential buyer know.
  • Material of the shoe
  • If the item is used, describe how many times the shoe has been worn, where the item is worn at on the shoe etc.  
  • What packaging material comes with the box? IE If you are shipping the shoes in original box, let the buyers know.  
Remember, NO SURPRISES to your buyer. 

Set your price

Try to do some research to see what other people/sites are selling your shoes for. If it's a shoe that is very popular and cannot be found in stores, you may be able to sell it for higher than you paid. If the shoe is very worn out though, you will want to deeply discount the shoe to reflect the usage.

Now in auction, you will want to consider what is the lowest price you are willing to sell it for. On many auction sites, you can set a ceiling price as to the lowest you are willing to sell it for so you don't have to part with your lovely shoes if you don't get the price you want. 

Package it up!

Congratulations if you got the price you wanted for the shoes! Now time to package it up for your buyer. When I ship shoes I put them in a box bigger than the shoe box, and then put the air bubble packaging inside. Often times I see companies ship out shoes and not provide the extra bubble and then you end up with mashed up sides of the shoe box, NOT good.  The other tip I can offer is put some rubber bands around the box length and width wise.  This should keep your shoes safe and sound! 

6 Essential Tory Burch Shoes

Tory Burch designs some of the most popular casual and dress shoes in fashion, thanks to her bold and iconic logo design and comfort-oriented styles. For those who are new to the world of Tory Burch shoes, learning about her most essential styles can make finding the right pair easy. Consumers who get to know Burch's most well-loved styles can then find their ideal pair via traditional outlets, or explore the user-friendly experience available via online retailers like Macys.
1The Reva Ballerina
The Reva Ballerina
Perhaps the most iconic Tory Burch shoe, the Reva ballerina, is a traditional ballerina flat that features the confident addition of a toe cap Tory Burch logo. A padded lining, leather insole, and elastic back at the heel make the Reva ballerina a secure and comfortable shoe, while its style elements elevate it to a statement accessory that can brighten up any outfit. Available colors and styles include a lizard printed leather version in black, coconut, and electric eel blue, as well as metallic shades. The Reva ballerina even comes in a unique, all-rubber version for an edgier take on this classic.

2The Miller Sandal
The Miller Sandal
The Miller sandal, one of Tory Burch's most popular designs, combines bold styling with a classic thong design. Instead of the basic V-strap that comes with most thongs, the Miller sandal features a large, laser-cut version of the Tory Burch logo in leather placed right at the top of the foot. A leather-lined rubber sole gives wearers the comfort and durability they need to wear these sandals with ease throughout the spring and summer. A wide-ranging color palette makes the Miller sandal one of the most diverse shoes in the Tory Burch catalog, and includes everything from basic black to corals and turquoises.

3The Leighanne Flat Thong
The Leighanne Flat Thong
The Leighanne flat thong features an elegant T-strap design with a bow and logo detail resting right at the top of the foot. Available in a wide array of colors, the Leighanne flat is a great choice for those who want to dress up casual summer styles. Its minimal form factor goes well with anything from skirts to cropped jeans. Available shades include an entire rainbow of patent leather choices, a snakeskin version, and a gold metallic version. The leather sole also gives the Leighanne flat thong durability not often found in casual summer footwear.

4The Sally Wedge
The Sally Wedge
The classic ballet flat silhouette gets an upgrade in the Sally wedge from Tory Burch. The form factor and fit of the ballet flat sits on top of a 2.5-inch wedge to give Tory Burch fans a comfortable take on heels. The Sally wedge has the polish necessary for settings as diverse as the office and an evening out. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, including black and tan versions for more formal environments, and a bold polka dot version for more fashion-forward settings. As with the Reva flats, the Sally wedge has a large Tory Burch logo component on the toe cap, which comes in either leather or metal depending on the version.

5The Kira Flat Sandal

Built on the foundation of the popular gladiator sandal style, the Kira Flat reimagines this classic silhouette with unique materials and style choices. Instead of leather, Tory Burch uses clear PVC in the side strapping of the Kira, giving this sandal a distinct look. Running down the top strap of the sandal are small leather bows with central Tory Burch logo elements in metal. All of this comes together to make the Kira flat sandal a true Tory Burch version of the gladiator. A leather sole ensures a comfort fit and long-lasting stability for wearers.

6The Ethel Mid-Heel Pump
The Ethel Mid-Heel Pump
A day at the office or Sunday brunch with friends is an ideal fit for the Ethel mid-heel pump. This polished and refined pump features one of the more conservative designs in the Tory Burch catalog. The heel rises only 2 inches high, making this a manageable pump for those who are not accustomed to heels. A leather upper accentuates the stability and comfort of this shoe, while the detailed styling choices, including a color-blocked cap toe, subtly piping, and a petite Tory Burch logo detail on the toe, give this modest pump a subtly confident and fashion-forward vibe.

Top 5 Jimmy Choo Shoes for Brides

Jimmy Choo shoes have adorned the feet of Princess Diana and a multitude of other celebrities. Choo's flair for shoe design remains at the pinnacle of fashion, and his bridal collection offers comfort and unique style. The bridal shoe collection delivers elegant shades of neutral white, from dreamy cream to satiny pearl. The attention to detail sets Jimmy Choo wedding shoes apart from the crowd. The bridal shoes chosen to set off that one-of-a-kind dress should complement and not compete for attention. Jimmy Choo bridal shoes tap into the bride's desire to stand out without sacrificing comfort. The decadent material and sleek lines coalesce and exude a graceful charm. Buyers can start with the top options when shopping for shoes for their special day.
1
Vantage Peep Toe Sandal
Vantage Peep Toe SandalThe Vantage peep toe sandal is a vision in nude lace and suede. The Vantage delivers the perfect accent to a creamy vintage wedding dress or a sunny summer bridal dress. The neutral nude color of the lace and suede accentuates antique whites and creams, as well as satin matte shades.
The 3.9-inch heel provides enough height to deliver a statuesque silhouette. The heel and lace work together to offer a stunning shoe that complements a shorter summer-style dress and adds enough height for longer gowns. Ruffles, lace, and satin dresses blend effortlessly with the open lace peep toe of the Vantage sandal.

2
Evelyn Peep Toe Pumps
Evelyn Peep Toe PumpsThe classic styling of the Evelyn peep toe pump offers the simplicity of clean lines in a sumptuous ivory satin finish. The Evelyn complements every wedding dress without competing for attention. It embraces bridal grace, relying on soft lines and color rather than accents and detail.
The Evelyn bridal shoe glides perfectly under long satin gowns and peeks playfully under ruffled lace. The 3.3-inch heel is high enough for long gowns and comfortable enough for a day full of walking and dancing. The ivory satin material is smooth and soft, and the sides and heel provide a stable step. The Evelyn is a bridal staple for its classic looks and easy comfort.

3
Kamba Peep Toe Sandals with Hot Fix Crystals
Kamba Peep Toe Sandals with Hot Fix CrystalsThe Kamba is a beautiful peep toe sandal in nude suede with crystal accents. The crystals dot the open work front and gracefully swirl on the backside. The Kamba is a d'Orsay sandal; the front has open work loops, the sides are open, and the enclosed heel features accents with a cutout swirl and mesh inserts. This shoe is snappy enough to add a flash of style without taking over the show. In addition, the nude color is just right for any shade of white, and the dainty construction looks great with either a short or long gown.
The 3.3-inch heel is high enough for long gowns and comfortable enough for dancing. Soft nude suede shows off the hot fix crystal accents, and the insole is leather. The crystals swirl around the design elements of the shoe without too much flash, making the Kamba a popular choice for brides.

4
Abel Leather Pointy Toe Pump
Abel Leather Pointy Toe PumpThe Abel pump combines sleek styling with a choice of bold color or classic nude. The pointy toe of the Abel defines this stiletto pump, giving it a chic profile. The shoe upper features luxurious kid leather available in patent or matte finish. The Abel is dainty and feminine, and the padded leather insole cushions the foot in softness. This shoe is perfect for all wedding dress styles; the silver Abel coupled with a silver Jimmy Choo clutch adds a dash of boldness to an otherwise classic dress. The heel measures 3.9 inches, giving enough height for longer gown choices.

5
Nova Platform Slingback
Nova Platform SlingbackThe Nova platform slingback offers a crisp, clean style with a dainty crystal accent buckle on the slingback. The Nova features a platform with a slim heel; the platform measures 0.4 inches and the heel is 3.9 inches. The platform adds stability and comfort that blend in with the silhouette of the shoe. Long classic gowns and short wedding dresses look perfect with the unobtrusive style of the Nova. This ivory silk and satin shoe is demure and classic, but the bold sparkle of the glitter ties in perfectly with a Jimmy Choo silver clutch purse.

Women's Athletic Shoe Buying Guide

Buying a pair of women's athletic shoes can be overwhelming at first, given the range of choices that seems to increase with every season. The ideal athletic shoe is designed to serve the needs of the individual player in her particular sport. It should fit comfortably, providing the necessary support without bruising the toes or creating friction and blisters. There should also be adequate cushioning, if needed, for shock absorption. Other construction features are meant to optimize performance for different body types, player types, and terrains.

One of the most important steps in choosing a pair of athletic shoes is determining one's foot type. Differently shaped feet have different tendencies, and different risks when subjected to high-impact activity. In certain sports, shoe design can help prevent injury for particular foot types. The different foot types are discussed in the following sections.

Next, buyers should consider the needs of their sport, and look at available models in athletic shoe stores or online at manufacturers' websites. Reading customer and professional reviews of shoes may also be helpful.

Women's athletic shoes can be purchased in sporting goods stores, athletic shoe stores, through Internet merchants, or at online auctions like eBay. Informed shoppers will find it helpful to do some research before buying, so that they can find an athletic shoe that best meets their needs. The right athletic shoe is an investment in one's enjoyment and performance of any sport.

The Complete Womens Athletic Shoe Buying Guide

Foot Type
The first step when purchasing any athletic shoe is determining one's foot type. This will help in the selection process, since different foot types have different cushioning and support needs. There are three basic foot types: flat, high-arched, and neutral.

Determining Foot Type
Foot type can be determined in different ways. Specialty athletic shoe stores often offer foot-type analysis, but people can also assess their foot type themselves by analyzing the shape their bare foot makes in sand, or a wet footprint on a piece of paper.

If the footprint shows no arch whatsoever, but rather complete, continuous contact between the entire bottom of the foot and the ground, these are flat feet.

If there is a pronounced arch between the heel and ball of the foot, with a thin outer edge at mid-sole, these are high-arched feet. Some high-arched footprints even have a gap between the ball and the heel.

If the footprint shows a small arch, with an outer edge no wider than an inch, this is a neutral foot type.

In addition, examining the wear on the soles of one's current athletic shoes may give an idea of whether one overpronates or supinates. Wear on the outside of the heels usually indicates supination, while wear on the inside of the heel is a sign of overpronation.

General Guidelines and Tips
Although shoes for different athletics differ in terms of features, design, and performance, some general guidelines can be applied to all women's athletic shoes.

Fit
Feet can be asymmetrical, and most people have one foot that is larger than the other. Shoes should fit so that, while standing, there is a thumb's width between the shoe's end and the longest toe on the longer foot. Sizes should be bought for the larger foot.

Trying the Shoe On
Feet tend to swell during the day, so shopping at that time helps ensure a proper fit. Shoes should also be tried on while wearing the socks that will be worn with the shoes.

Shoes Should Match Foot Type and Athlete
Analyzing foot type before buying athletic shoes helps buyers find a shoe that helps them perform their best, featuring the right combination of support and flexibility. In addition, the shoe should match the athlete. Some shoes are intended for certain types of players or runners, according to factors like position, style, or playing conditions.

Buying Women's Running Shoes
Women's running shoes should match not only their foot type, but also the kind runner they are. The level of support and shock absorption are the main criteria when assessing what kind of running shoe is best.

A Woman's Guide to Choosing Ferragamo Shoes for Formal Occasions

Few shoes carry the brand recognition and prestige as a Salvatore Ferragamo shoe. The designer combines classic elements with sleek, modern designs to create gorgeous heels perfect for formal occasions. Selecting the right Ferragamo shoes for special events simply means browsing through the styles available, finding an appropriate pair for the occasion, and matching the shoes to your outfit. Review the various heels styles, heel heights, patterns, and embellishments available. Once you have a good idea of what is out there, you can find the perfect pair for your formal occasion.


Picking the Type of Ferragamo Heel
Fortunately for women both short and tall, Ferragamo manufactures a wide variety of different styles of heels and heel heights. From kitten heels to 4-inch stilettos, you can find a Ferragamo heel that is appropriate for a cocktail party, wedding, or black-tie ball. Here is a quick rundown of the various styles of heels.

A Woman's Guide to Choosing Ferragamo Shoes for Formal Occasions

Peep-toe pumps are generally less formal than closed-toe shoes, and pointy-toed shoes produce a sexier effect. Always match the color, pattern, and embellishment to your outfit. And if you wear a simple dress, pair it with a flashier shoe; if you wear an extravagant outfit, pair it with a more demure shoe.
Ferragamo embellishments are relatively simple and not meant to detract from the rest of the shoe or an outfit, but rather they are meant to complement the other elements of an ensemble.


Ferragamo Heels for Specific Occasions
Formal occasions could range from a celebrity-filled music launch party to an elegant wedding to opening night at the opera. Not all Ferragamo shoes work for every formal event. Below is a guide to specific events and Ferragamo shoes that are appropriate selections.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Your Guide to Buying Womens Clogs

Clogs used to be characterized by closed toes, open heals, and wooden soles. However, times have changed and now clogs are referred to as any shoe with a platform heel, thick soles, and the closed toes and open heels. Mules and clogs are often confused for being interchangeable. However, the difference between mules and clogs is that mules can have any type of heel including stilettos. There are a few select clogs that do have closed heels, though. These types of clogs are designed for women in professions that have to be on their feet all day and are commonly seen in the medical field.

Clogs were in high style in the 1970s but their recent appearances in popular fashion magazines has brought the trend back. Clogs add attitude and volume to an outfit. Their bulkier build makes them stand out and be noticed rather than be discretely tucked away under a pair of trousers. They are also versatile in that they can be worn in all seasons. They are warm for the winter but they also look perfect with a summer dress. This guide will discuss the history of clogs, how to find clogs that fit properly, types of clogs, material options, how to wear them, and where to buy them.

History of Clogs
Clogs have their beginnings in cultures around the world and can be dated back as far as the 1200s though evidence points to them being around as far back as ancient Greece. Those that originated in Europe were chiseled out of a block of wood. Around 700 years ago, these shoes had their beginnings as protective footwear for farmers, factory workers, and fishermen before turning into a cultural tradition. Contrary to popular thought, the shoes did not start out as solid wood. They began with a leather strap that was tacked onto a wooden sole and then eventually switched to being entirely wood. The wooden shoes are claimed to be cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and moisture absorbent.


Your Guide to Buying Womens Clogs



Today, they are mostly a piece of history and culture in European countries. They are seen at cultural festivities such as clog dancing, they are used for decoration, and they are still used in traditions such as when Dutch men give their new fiances a pair of wooden shoes.

Selecting Clogs
Clogs are basic, straightforward shoes. Their variations take place mostly in materials and styles. However, there are a few different types of clogs to choose depending on the look the wearer is trying to achieve. The chart below lists several types of clogs as well as their optional materials and whether they are intended for casual, dressy, of professional wear.

How to Wear Women's Clogs
Clogs are a great addition to an outfit that needs some character. They are bold and draw attention to themselves. Because of this, they go well with outfits that can balance them out. Shirts that are billowy, adorned with features like frills, or are layered compliment the shoes. Consider wearing kimono, dolman sleeved, or wrapped shirts with the clogs.

With shorts, skirts, or dresses, clogs are usually worn with bare legs and feet. Some clogs can be worn with tights to dress up their look. Pantyhose, however, are too formal. Something to keep in mind with clogs is that they can easily make small calves look smaller. Women with petite calves should consider wearing smaller clogs.

Slacks and jeans can both be paired up with clogs. For a business look, clogs with darker heels and leather material can be worn with slacks. To create a semi-dressy outfit, wear dark jeans with dressy clogs and a satin shirt that has a belt around the waist. Pearls would add a finishing touch.

Lastly, wear larger jewelry or accessories with clogs. Necklaces that are long with large beads, wide bracelets, or scarves look classy when combined with these shoes.

Where to Shop for Women's Clogs
Since women's clogs are in style, they can be found at brick-and-mortar locations such as department stores, women's clothing stores, outlets, and specialty shoe stores. However, clogs are just one of the many types of shoes available so it is difficult for stores to have a large selection of them. For this reason, many women turn to places where they are able to find a large selection of clog shoes like online at eBay. On the eBay website, there are clog shoes of all types, styles, and sizes. The nearly endless selection of clogs and the quick purchasing process makes eBay a go-to source for many ladies.

How to Stretch Your Shoes

Finding the perfect pair of shoes is a great experience. There's nothing quite like finding a pair of shoes that look fantastic with that special outfit, or a pair of shoes in the latest style at a great price. However, getting them home and realizing that they are too tight is a big disappointment.

Or, perhaps shoes that once fit are now tighter on your feet because of growing or swollen feet. Whatever the reason, you don't need to part with shoes you love just because they aren't quite roomy enough. There are several simple ways to stretch them out and make them completely wearable.


Wear Them at Home First
Before you attempt to wear too-tight shoes for long periods of time, such as to work or to a party, they need to be made a little more comfortable. Try wearing them around the house, starting with short amounts of time. Wear them until they become very uncomfortable, and then take them off to give your feet a break. Wearing them this way several times will help loosen up the material and stretch the shoes out. You can even try wearing thick socks, even more than one pair, with the shoes to speed up the process. When the shoes are loose enough that you can wear them comfortably at home, then it's time to wear them out and about.


High Heel Shoes

Try Freezing Them
Water expands as it freezes. Put this knowledge to use by filling your shoes with sealed plastic bags full of water, and then placing the shoes in the freezer. When the water freezes, remove the shoes from the freezer and take the bags of water out of the shoes. You may need to let the water thaw before you can do this. Try the shoes on; if they aren't quite loose enough, try another round of freezing.

Be careful with this method. You will need to make sure that the bags are sealed properly so that the water does not leak into your shoes. This is a better option for shoes that can get wet without sustaining damage, such as canvas. In addition, some materials will tend to shrink back to their original size, such as faux leather; shoes like this may require several rounds of freezing. Also keep in mind that this method will take several hours each time.


Use Heat to Stretch Your Shoes
Heating shoes that are too small is another method that often works to stretch them out. One way to do this is by putting on a pair of thick socks and then wearing the shoes you want to stretch. Then, use a hair dryer on the high setting to aim heated air at the areas of the shoes you want to stretch. Move your feet around inside the shoes as you do this, bending your toes back and forth and flexing your foot. This can stretch shoes to anywhere from a half to a whole size larger. This is a good method for leather, as it is unlikely to shrink back to its original size.


Use a Tool Designed to Stretch Shoes
You can maximize the effectiveness of this method by spraying shoes first with a shoe-stretching spray. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the spray, as they work to soften the shoe prior to stretching. Make sure not to use this spray on shoes that have dyes that may bleed if they get wet; liquid stretching solutions are good options for leather, suede, nubuck, and some synthetic materials. Incidentally, liquid stretching solution can also be used to stretch leather items besides shoes - the thigh area of a pair of leather pants, for example.

Using a liquid stretching spray can be effective on its own; the moisture works to stretch the shoes out quickly as you walk around in them. Or, you can combine this method with a shoe stretcher. Insert the shoe stretcher into the shoe. Shoe stretchers typically have knobs you can turn to crank them open wider, stretching the shoe out as you do.

Try stretching in small increments to avoid overstretching. Stretch a little and then try the shoes on before stretching more. You can also try leaving a shoe stretcher or a shoe tree inside your shoes when you are not wearing them; this will prevent them from shrinking back to their original size. Using liquid stretching solution with this method reduces the likelihood of the shoe tearing.


Hire a Professional
When home methods fail, or if you just prefer the convenience, take the shoes to a professional shoe repair shop. These shops often have stretching machines that apply heat and/or pressure to areas of the shoes that need to be stretched. Professionals can usually target the length, width, toe, or instep of the shoes for focused stretching. You can have the shaft of a boot enlarged or even have specific points on most any shoe stretched to accommodate bunions or corns and relieve pain.

Be aware that you may have to leave your shoes at the shop for a day or so. A professional should also be able to advise you on the safest method for your specific shoes. For instance, some shoes do not react well to heat and may fall apart (this is why many shoes should not be placed in the dryer).

5 Must-Have Fall Boots & Where To Find Them



Fall fashion themed emails are starting flying in, showcasing the latest and greatest in fashion trends. Regardless of what the style is or whether trends come and go, boots and booties are here to stay forever! There are five must-have boots that every woman needs in her wardrobe and the best time to find great deals is in between seasons. 

Riding Boots

A gorgeous riding boot is one of Fall's must-have items and believe it or not, eBay is the best place to find them! Frye boots are classic and will last you forever. I bought a gorgeous pair of brown riding boots here on eBay last Fall and just pulled them out last week for a polish. Yes, they are expensive, however you can find great deals on some of the top brands if you keep your eyes peeled. 

Ankle Boots

A great bootie will take you places! I love to wear mine with dresses, skirts or jeans. Booties like these cute dressy ones from Steve Madden are a great option for those who don't wish to wear knee-highs and still want the look of a boot. 

Wedge Boot

It's all in the heel! A wedge heel on a boot or bootie is one of the most comfortable options you can wear. TOMS Wedges are my favourite! 

Western Boots

There really is nothing like a good ol' pair of Western boots! The catch with these...well, they can be kind of pricey.  Shop around and you can find some like these beautiful Corral's for up to 50% off. 

Rain Boots

Regular old rain boots won't do. You need a good pair. Ones that will last you forever! Hunter Rain Boots provide comfort and class to your feet. They are a fashion statement all on their own (psst, they are the rain boots of choice for the royal family don't you know!).