Ta-da. There they are. A bit worn. Size 17. Short blog.
I suppose I should say a few things about them, and my relationship to shoes in general. That I remember having these types of shoes more often then not, as in the lace-up-boots instead of the pretty, shiny shoes that most little girls wear. Because I think I had some sort of foot issue and needed the support. It's permeated everything in my life. At least my shoe philosophy, which is something like, "I'll only give up comfort and support if it's really important." Qualifying as really important: my wedding, other people's weddings, fancy parties and dates with tall people. Because if there is any kissing to be done, my neck will take the brunt of it, unless I let my feet.
My favorite flats - Sigerson Morrison
Today I have 50 51 52 53 pairs of shoes. (I keep on finding more shoes in my apartment.) 54 if you count my first pair. I was trying to figure out if that was a lot, so I texted three friends, letting them know I have 53 pairs, and inquiring about their numbers. Francesca diplomatically responded that her number was probably over 53. I pushed a bit so she counted and texted back. 85. Sigh of relief. I'm not crazy or overindulgent.
My favorite heels - Dolce & Gabbana (Francesca has these too)
Toni texted back saying hers was in the range of 90-100, not counting flip flops. In her defense, she works in fashion, so it's kind of her job to have a lot of shoes. And I'm not just saying that because we wear the same size, and I'm afraid my library card to her shoe closet is going to be revoked. Or that she'll take me out of her will. Don't get me wrong, I would be devastated if something happened to her, but if I had to see the silver lining in it, I'd look smashing at her funeral, in her signed Christian Leboutins. I'd of course be doing it to honor her. Sensing that perhaps her shoe collection is a bit too extensive, Toni sweetly reminded me that "every shoe has a story." Preaching to the choir.
One of my 9 pairs of Stuart Weitzmans, courtesy of my ex-husband
I remember when and why I bought every pair of shoes in my closet. I have breakup shoes, happy shoes, accomplishment shoes, just because shoes, and shoes I've been given as gifts. Oh, and Ellie emailed back and put everyone to shame, with an impressive 110. Best of all, she did it without an apology, excuse, or explanation.
I told my friend Guy that based on my quick survey, my conclusion was that 53 isn't a lot at all. He accused me of manipulating the results by choosing from a slim, shoe obsessed group, and suggested I text some "working class friends." I reminded him that we don't live in Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations," so I won't be texting the people down at the factory any time soon. Or the cobblers.
My "congrats for graduating the AFI" sandals - Sigerson Morrison (mine are black)
Stuart Weitzman wins the award for having the most boxes in my closet. There are nine of those purple boxes, and inside, shoes that are both sexy and somewhat comfortable. I say somewhat because let's face it, unless you are Toni, you can't walk on high heels all night, without being in pain the next day. But with Mr. Weitzman I sort of can. Which makes Jimmy Choo my nemesis. Too high. Too stiletto. Perhaps Jews should wear shoes made by Jews and Asians for Asians? Because Toni does just fine in her multiple Jimmy Choos. Coincidence and attempt at racial stereotyping? Probably.
Favorite suede boots - Stuart Weitzman
After that it's Sigerson Morrison, Tod's (regular and Ferrari Collection,) Tory Burch, and more. Mostly flats, because I still need support. Emotional as well as arch. And by the way, don't think that just because a shoe doesn't have a high heel, it's boring. There's plenty of flash and sparkle in my flat collection.
As my brain loves and is obsessed with organizing and categorizing things, I decided to do it with my shoes. Here's the breakdown:
- flip-flops (4)
- uggs (2)
- running shoes (3)
- other tennis shoes (3)
- wedges (2)
- pretty little summer heels (3)
- sandals (3)
- ballet flats (4)
- loafers (4)
- open toe heels (2)
- closed toe heels (2)
- strappy sandal heels (6)
- crocs (1)
- stripper shoes (1)
- stripper boots (2)
- boots (11)
You might think that 11 pairs of boots is a lot, but when you consider it's about half leather and half suede, some are ankle boots, there are varying heel heights and colors grey, tan, brown and black are represented, it's not that bad. So I rest my case. Or I sound completely crazy trying to defend myself before anyone's accused me of anything. Take your pick.
My favorite strappy sandals - Stuart Weitzman
After going over the breakdown of my shoes, I've now gotten up and decided to see if I can cut my collection down to 45. That means 8 pairs of shoes must go. That's going to be a challenge. Definitely the crocs can go. I almost threw them out before writing this because I didn't want to have to admit to owning a pair. I even have "flair" for them. A Swedish flag you can stick into one of the holes. I know. I was in a weird phase. I haven't worn them since I moved back from Ojai.
Fave flip flops - Tory Burch
And I think I can survive with one less pair of flip flops, one less pair of running shoes and tennis shoes. Do I need the stripper heels? God, if there was ever a time my reading audience could get a clear glance into what goes on in my mind, it's now. One pair of boots are sort of worn. I can lose them. Two more to go. Scanning my closet. Hmm. Can't do it. But six isn't bad. So I'll own 47 pairs. I feel content. Probably more than working class girls, but still way less than Francesca, Toni and Ellie. I can live with that. Until I find another pair I need.
In conclusion, my philosophy on shoes is like my philosophy on men. Who doesn't want those pretty, hot stilettos? They make you pant when you see them in the store. You know they are bad for you. Not worth the headache. But your brain is screaming "I want. I want." You take them for a spin, you feel sexy, desirable. They make you look so good. But the next morning, there they are, next to you, and you don't want to put them back on. And you're happy you have your Sigerson Morrison flats to slide your feet into. Or even better, those fuzzy Uggs that warm your feet and your heart equally.
I would die without these. My security blanket. My best friends.
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