Earlier this month, TOMS came out with their new line of ballet flats. They are suuuuper cute, and are supposed to be as comfortable and dependable as their regular line. Yay! Now I really can wear TOMS to work! My favorites are the Natalia Rose Linen, the Gisele Gray Suede leopard print, and the Alessandra Burlap flats.

The reviews are overall very positive, although it seems they run at least a half size too big. Nordstrom will start carrying them in March, so fans will be able to try them on in person soon.

Unfortunately, they are so popular that a lot of sizes are currently sold out. There are plenty of sizes available, though, so check them out!!

This weekend, I head to Chicago for my sister’s baby shower. I am of course looking forward to seeing both sisters, and the shower should be a blast. However, I’m a little concerned about what to wear. The outfit itself shouldn’t be a problem—I’ll probably wear a dress with tights, a sweater, and a coat. No problem. What I’m worried about is the shoes! Today it snowed 8 inches, and it’s supposed to snow even more before the shower on Sunday. I have some cute boots, but my cutest ones are not weatherproof. So what’s a girl to do?

Turns out the best thing to do wear the waterproof but less cute boots during transit, and change into cute shoes once we arrive at the restaurant for the shower. Genius! And simple! Bring the cute shoes in a tote bag, then change and put the boots in the bag for the duration of the event. That way I don’t have to worry about messing up my nice flats with salt and snow and other gross stuff, but can still have a cute outfit. Win!

Of course, this strategy works well with work too. Just make sure your tote is reasonably professional looking, and no one will look twice!

Readers, what are your tricks for dealing with snow and still looking professional?

I’ve been feeling in a very “shoe” mood this week, enough so that I think I’m going to go shoe shopping here in a bit. Hooray holiday sales! I’m torn, honestly. In a couple of weeks I’m going up to Chicago for my sister’s baby shower, so I think possibly I should look for snow boots. But I’ll use those twice, maybe three times a year. Perhaps I should look for flats instead? I’ll use those a lot! Decisions, decisions.

DSW has a lot of stuff on sale, both online and in the stores. Looove these Bare Trap Emilise boots. They are brown suede, with faux fur trim to keep you nice and warm. It’s all water resistant, of course, so you stay dry.

Or maybe these Caroline boots from Totes? A quilted waterproof upper keeps you toasty even when it’s frigid and snowy outside.

But on the other hand, what about these fabulous flats from Yellow Box? The Sabrina Flat has a pink and brown animal print (although I’m not sure what animal) topped with a large jewel.

These Mojo Moxie Jackie flats feature an oversize houndstooth print, lending a sophisticated air to any outfit. Available in black houndstooth and grey houndstooth. Fun!

So Readers, what kind of shoes are you looking for these days? Any sales I should be checking out?

Ever since I can remember, I have been in love with shoes. Throughout junior high and high school, my mom would constantly get on to me about my extensive shoe collection. In college, my roommates were aghast at the precarious mountain of shoes in my closet. And one of the ways in which I knew the Home Warrior was The One (besides how much he loves his dog) is that when he saw my extensive shoe organizing system, he didn’t bat an eye. True love. However, as much as I love shoes, as a general rule I don’t wear heels. Why would a self-avowed shoe fanatic separate herself from the vast majority of fabulous footwear? you ask. About six years ago I fell and sprained my right knee and ankle, and ever since have had some real balance issues. As in, falling on a regular basis with no apparent reason. So, despite my bottomless well of passion, no heels for me. Combine balance issues with constant travel and a lot of work presentations, and you’ve got a girl who has learned to appreciate flats. In fact, I would say that I love flats-cute ones, that is. And contrary to popular opinion, there are a zillion pairs of cute flats out there. Pointy, ballet, peep-toe, simple, bejeweled…. Virtually everywhere you go there is a cute pair of flats waiting for you.

Unfortunately, cute doesn’t necessarily mean comfortable. It baffles me that so many of these shoes, specifically designed to be comfortable, hurt to wear. People buy flats in order to be on their feet for long periods of time, yet shoe manufacturers insist on making adorable ballet flats with absolutely no support. Or they make fabulous jeweled pointy-toed flats with a paper-thin sole. I wore one of these so-called comfortable shoes last week, and could literally feel every rock on the sidewalk on my feet. After complaining to Home Warrior that I don’t care how cute they were, I am throwing these <expletive deleted> shoes away as soon as we get home, he said something so smart. “Why don’t you put some of those gel soles in it? They made my dress shoes way better.” The man is brilliant.

Gel soles are awesome. They are a girl’s best friend, a traveler’s best friend, a presenter’s best friend. Whether you are male or female, wear heels or flats, a home warrior or a road warrior. If you have a pair of shoes that you like, but doesn’t have enough support or cushioning on the bottom, add some gel inserts. There are a ton of varieties that range from padding under the toe to a little extra cushion throughout the foot to full-on arch support. They come in a range of prices, and are available everywhere from shoe stores to Walgreens to Target. My favorites are the classics from Dr. Scholl’s, the “For Her Comfort Insoles”. They are around $12, fit in most shoes, and have saved many a pair of shoes from getting thrown out.

So the next time you wish your shoes were just a little more comfortable, try gel insoles! Trust me, your feet will thank you.

All of the catalogs and store emails I’ve received in the last week or so have been focused on Fall. Apparently, according to clothing stores, it is no longer 105 degrees. It’s time to bundle up! Wear sweaters and boots! Layer! Honestly, it makes me feel hot and irritable just looking at the pictures of the perky models in their hooded coats. Well, in case you haven’t noticed, it’s still summer, in a lot of places. Since I haven’t done a shoe post in a while, I’m going to find peep toe flats to wear for travel. Because the weather will be warm for at least two more months in Texas, and I need to take the ventilation where I can get it.

These adorable Poetic Licence Danty Doll Flat will add a fun pop of color to an otherwise conservative outfit. I would wear them with a navy pencil skirt and blouse, or gray slacks with a pale pink top. Although it does kind of irritate me that they deliberately misspell “license”. Oh well.)

The Bandolino Warrick Flat comes in Navy, Black, and Gold. The neutral colors are a nice backdrop for the monochromatic floral adornment, which adds interest to an otherwise simple shoe.

Love this fun floral espadrille from Blowfish. Great for a more casual office, I would pair this with taupe slacks or skirt and just about any top. Very summery!

During my recent trip to Boston, I neglected to check the weather before I left. So I was wearing my current favorite shoes to wear with black, which happen to be made of cloth. In my black slacks, cami and cardigan, and black and white tweed flats, I looked great! Until I landed, and walked out into the rain. D’oh! Evidently it had been raining for a while, as there were puddles everywhere. My shoes were immediately soaked about halfway up, which was not very noticeable but was very uncomfortable. And since it was a short two-day trip, I hadn’t packed any other shoes. Not great!

The question is: what would I have packed, had I looked at the weather? Of course, you can always wear boots. But they can get hot, and look a little strange when it’s hot outside. Luckily, shoes exist that are great for rain in the summer. Here are a few characteristics to look for:

• Material. Rubber and patent leather are materials that will stand up to rain. Cloth is not a good idea, obviously. Leather can work if you pre-treat it, but eventually the water will take its toll.
• Sole. Non-slip soles with grip are a must. If you have shoes that you think would be good rain shoes but are slick, take them to a cobbler who can pretty easily add a rubber sole.
• Coverage. The more the shoe covers your foot, the less rain will get in your shoe. This is not the time for your super cute peep toes.
• Height. Normally I am a huge proponent of flats for travel, but when it’s raining a little height is a good thing. Look for a wedge or small heel to lift your foot out of puddles.

The Becca T-Strap Pump from Naturalizer would be a great rain shoe. It’s made out of patent leather, has a small heel, covers the foot, and is super, super cute.

Another option is the AK Anne Klein Shevanie. Also patent leather, it has a variety of colors and a small wedge.

Finally, regardless of what shoe you wear, wear a skirt or remember to roll up your pants. The bottom of my slacks were soaked! Sigh. I guess it’s been so long since it’s rained here that I just don’t remember what to do!

I know I spend a lot of time talking about shopping, and it definitely can be fun and rewarding. But unfortunately, between replacing items from my stolen purse, vet visits for my sick dog, and my triathlon, my shopping budget has been whittled down to smaller than normal. I keep making lists of things that I want to buy (yay lists!) but twice last week I found a similar item already in my closet. Whoops! Glad I didn’t actually buy those things!

The first was brown flats. I kept thinking, I have got to get some brown flats I can wear with this brown striped dress that is great for summer. As I was searching my closet for a pair of shoes for a different outfit, I found, not only brown flats (that I posted about buying in December) but also a pair of cream leopard print Nine West flats that worked perfectly.

Then, as I was packing my bag for my triathlon, I kept thinking that I needed to go to Old Navy and get a pair of $3 flip flops that I didn’t mind losing. While looking in the laundry room for my favorite socks, I found a pair of flip flops that had gotten shoved under the folding table, which I hadn’t worn in a year. Obviously I didn’t care if I lost those, since they had been lost for a year.

(I just realized that both things I needed to buy that I already had were shoes. Wonder what that says about me. Anyway.)

Now that my two big early June events are over (the triathlon and the conference), my goal is to clean out my closet and ORGANIZE my shoes and clothes.  Normally I dread this sort of thing, but this time I am excited. Who knows what wonderful things I might find? Things I think I’ve lost, and have put on a shopping list to replace? Saving money and getting cute stuff sounds like a winning proposition to me!

I looooove shoes. Unfortunately, due to an injury several years ago, I can only wear flats. Over the years, I have amassed quite a collection of fabulous flats. My favorites are the peep-toes, especially during summer. Of course, flats are more practical when traveling anyway. So it all works out!

Nordstrom is having their half-yearly sale, and it’s a good one. There are so many pairs of shoes on sale I almost can’t handle it. Here are a couple of my favorites:

Me Too Fianna Flat in Blue Pinstripe. The bow keeps it fun, and the light blue strip is the perfect summer color but still serious enough for work. I would wear with, well, almost anything. Light gray slacks and a yellow print blouse? Sounds like a plan! Plus they’re a steal at 33% off.

Jeffrey Campbell Hey Girl Flat in Red. Talk about keeping it cool! These flats are not only peep-toe, but woven too. Perfect for those brutal August days. They would go great with a tan skirt and short sleeved light blue cardigan. And at 50% off, a bargain for sure.

Bruno Magli Sidonia Flat in Black. As serious as a peep-toe flat can be. With black patent trim, buckled bow, and small peep for the toe, this lovely shoe will add a more formal tone to black slacks or a suit. Maglis are never really a bargain shoe, but during the sale they’re 40% off.

And I know these aren’t really work-appropriate for most places, but how adorable and summery are these Coach Dorris Flats? Maybe for a casual Friday you could wear them. love love love

Although it’s been debated before, it is certainly possible to look professional in an active job. Pants with stretch, knit tops that move with you, and supportive flats can take you far. But some days, for some jobs, it is just impossible to wear anything besides some sort of sneakers. I will be having one of those days next week in Manila–I will be on my feet at a trade show for 10 hours, with at least one hour before and after for set up and tear down. What’s a girl to do? Even my beloved Nine West ballet flats with reinforced sole and gel insert won’t cut it for that day. I have been looking into simple black sneakers to carry me through the night, and here are my favorites.

These basic sneakers by Simple are, well, simple, with a classic silhouette and minimal detailing. They have gotten high marks by reviewers, and are made from organic cotton and recycled tires. What’s not to love?

The Privo flat by Clarks is a cross between a ballet flat and an athletic shoe, which gives it support and a sleek style. And Clarks are known for all-day comfort!

And of course, there are Toms. Friends swear by these, saying that they are the most comfortable, supportive shoe they own. Combine that with the fact that they give away  a pair of shoes to a needy kid for every pair you buy, and it’s hard to turn down.

I haven’t decided which ones I’m getting yet, but I will let you know how they turn out!

Building a Business Travel Wardrobe is a new series here on Road Warriorette. The focus will be on the key pieces a woman needs to build a wardrobe that is ideal for travel. Based on the “capsule” wardrobe model, each week will feature an item that is professional, stylish, and that travels well.

You guys didn’t think I was going to forget about bags and shoes, did you?

When shopping for a business travel capsule wardrobe, some of the hardest working pieces are your shoes and purse. During travel, you will be taking your shoes off and putting them back on, walking through miles of airport concourses, and then having to look polished during your actual work. Your bag will have to hold your laptop, files, and normal purse stuff, get stuffed into overhead bins or under plane seats, and still look professional. Is it any wonder that I get the most questions about shoes and purses for travel?

What to look for with shoes:

• Comfort. I know I say this every time, but it is especially important that your shoes are comfortable. I never travel in heels, because I know that I will have to be on my feet so much. Try adding gel insoles for additional comfort. This sounds like a no-brainer, but please don’t wear shoes for the first time during travel.
• Easy to take off/put on. Make sure that you can quickly and gracefully slide your shoes off and back on for airport security. I have seen people with shoes or boots that buckle or lace up, which definitely takes longer.
• Neutral color. Colored flats are one of the great joys in my life, but I had several pairs of black shoes before I branched out.  I strongly recommend that you start with cute, comfortable shoes that coordinate with your suit first. They don’t have to be the same color–for example, if your suit is taupe, you can wear black or brown shoes. If your suit is gray, I recommend black shoes.

What to look for in a travel purse:

• Size. Make sure it will hold everything you need for work and for your flight.
• Pockets. A divided interior is very helpful, and small pockets on the inside will help corral items such as keys and cell phone that could otherwise get lost. Exterior pockets are great for holding your boarding pass.
• Comfortable straps. Too-narrow straps will hurt your shoulder, so look for straps that are at least an inch wide. I also like double straps.
• Looks. It goes without saying, make sure your purse is durable enough for travel and professional enough for the office.

Great travel shoes are available in a variety of price ranges and locations, so shop around for the right pair. Here are a few of my favorites.

These Bruno Magli flats are gorgeous, professional, and, well, pricey. But wow! Love them.

Geox is an Italian brand that designs shoes specifically for travel. These Sheila wedges are lovely, and would work with pants or a skirt.

DSW has a bazillion pairs of shoes online and in their stores. These Rocket Dogs brown suede flats look comfortable, professional, and adorable.

Travel purses are a little harder to find, but department stores and eBags are great resources. Wherever you end up buying from, make sure you know their return policies. Sometimes what looks like a great travel purse can not even last one trip. Once I had different purses break  three trips in a row!

I did a review on Lo and Sons purses last week, so you guys know how great these bags are. Perfect first business travel bag.

Ebags has tons of purses that would work well for travel, but this is the first time I’ve seen this green Samsonite laptop tote. It’s adorable, and very well priced.

Have you ever been to a store and felt like it was designed with you in mind? I discovered Modcloth about six months ago, and it has been my go-to clothing shop anytime I need something fun. Their quirky, vintage inspired, and indie designed clothes are fabulous and so fun. Granted, if you need to dress very conservatively, this may not be the best place for you. But if you want a punch of color or interesting accessory to brighten up your normal all-black, Modcloth is a great place to look. (I got my dress for my sister’s wedding here, and was complimented all night long.)

When perusing their website last night, I instantly fell in love with these beautiful flats. The patent blue with yellow accents is one of my favorite color combos right now, and the bow gives a ladylike touch without being over the top. I would style these with dark gray slacks or a pencil skirt, with a navy or deep purple top and my favorite long pearls.