Q&A: Shoes for Busy Moms

June 12th, 2008

Q:  My children are 4 1/2 and 1 1/2 and when we are headed out I often wear a uniform of a polo-style shirt and shorts.  I have lots of variations on this theme from Lilly Pulitzer to more subdued colors.  My problem is in the shoe department.  I need an updated, basic pair that would go with almost any shorts & shirt combo and isn’t too hot or, well, ‘mommy-ish.’

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A:
Makes sense–if you’re following toddlers and small children, you’re going to be on the go all day.  A simple shirt and shorts, both in easy care fabrics, are going to be your best bets for warm weather.  As for shoes, classic-with-a-twist styles will satisfy your need for style while keeping the shoes accessible for all outfits.  But no matter how stylish a shoe is, it needs to be comfortable, especially if you’re going to keep up with your kids!  Here’s four slip-on shoe styles that marry comfort and classic-with-a-twist style–and will keep you on the go:

Naturalizer Mirrors Flat
Naturalizer Mirrors Flat | $59.95 at Nordstrom
The kicky pink color makes these flats fun, but the gel inserts and orthotic footbed make them comfortable.  If you’re not into pink (or find the color too limiting), the shoes are also available in black or beige.

Söfft ‘Reva’ Thong Sandal
Söfft ‘Reva’ Thong Sandal | $84.95 at Nordstrom
We’re loving the bright yellow color–sure to spice up the most neutral of outfits.

Geox ‘Priscilla’ Thong Sandal
Geox ‘Priscilla’ Thong Sandal | $114.95 at Nordstrom
Classic and comfortable, these patent leather thong sandals look great with your casual shirts and pants–but they also work when you want to dress up a notch.

Asgi Footwear ‘Leda’ Wedge
Asgi Footwear ‘Leda’ Wedge | $124.95 at Nordstrom
Also available in black, which makes more sense for running around at the playground.

Moms, what are your favorite go-to sandals? Share your style with us in the comments!

Entry Filed under: Q&A,Ready Made Outfits,Shopping Guide,Women,Women's

9 Comments

  • 1. s  |  June 12th, 2008 at 5:50 am

    there are certainly some shoes that are comfy but are not THAT ugly. Ugh those are true frumpy shoes

  • 2. carlina  |  June 12th, 2008 at 2:55 pm

    If mommy shopping is what your after check out http://www.shopmanhattanite.com, they are an amazing site that cater to the stylish woman looking for anything and everything from: eco friendly clothing, gift shops, trendy tot looks, to Haute mama!! This site is enough to make any mom feel sassy and stylish! My fav ‘s are the beauty and fitness shops…

  • 3. Mimi  |  June 12th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    I like the pink Naturalizer Mirrors Flat. I’ve always wanted some pink shoes!

  • 4. RobynT  |  June 12th, 2008 at 5:29 pm

    The Naturalizers verge on Mom-ish I think. Probably cuz they’re what my mom (in her 50s) wears. But maybe other people think she’s hip. haha.

    Anyway, I’m not a mom but I am all about comfort. I think classic Converse are pretty versatile and are hip in a certain way. Oh and insoles make them super comfortable.

    I also like Reef flip flops which I guess may be more or less acceptable depending on where you live.

  • 5. Trisha  |  June 12th, 2008 at 10:57 pm

    Any other suggestions for comfy shoes that don’t look Mom-ish?

  • 6. Elsie  |  June 13th, 2008 at 1:46 pm

    It can be challenging finding cool flat shoes but wow, it’s not THAT hard. For sandals, K. Jacques makes great all-leather flats that break in to complete comfort and last and last. Try Puma for sneakers — I do like Converse but they have so little arch support that they don’t work for everyone. Puma has lots of slip-on styles and also cut-out sandals like the Zany Cat. And this season it’s impossible to overlook gladiators!.And Cole Haan has flats with Nike Air cushioning built in . . . I could go on and on but I think the bottom line is while it’s hard to find time to shop when you’re a mom, you need to hit the stores (or at least Zappos, shopbop, etc.!) and give yourself something to work with!

  • 7. Peach  |  June 15th, 2008 at 6:14 am

    I highly suggest Chacos for the mom-on-the-go-outside! Awesome arch support means no backaches that are not from hoisting children. Highly functional Vibram soles make for great trips to the park, the woods, or around the backyard without danger of slippage. The Zong and Hipthong styles (my own mother rocks a pair of Hipthongs, btw) are some of the less “hard-core” looking sandals and the pretty colors go with anyone’s wardrobe! Caution: you may be mistaken for a super-cool and outdoorsy college kid…but is that so bad?

  • 8. Abra Cat  |  June 17th, 2008 at 3:29 am

    Keen’s “Carmel” is my favorite– I wear mine with shorts, jeans, skirts, and dresses, and I have 3 kids to chase after. Very lightweight and very comfortable!

  • 9. Amber  |  June 18th, 2008 at 1:49 pm

    I am a mom of a 3 year old, I have CHACO sandals. They are the best! I have slip on, flip flop and basic sandal with back strap. We walk everywhere (up to 12 miles in a day) and I have never had blisters. They are great for hiking, just taking a long walk or hanging out at the beach. My son even has a pair – their my shoe of choice for summer.

    Puma is great as well but I mostly like their shoes not so much their sandals.


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