With the temperatures soaring, loose and free flowing clothing may have been a huge hit with everyone but often the footwear gets ignored.

Accessory designer Rina Shah - who runs the label Rinaldi - emphasises that people do take their footwear for granted. "In such a hot weather, it's important that you take good care of your feet; it's imperative that your feet breathe. So closed shoes are a bad idea.

Even where sandals are concerned, go for non-leather fabrics that would caress your feet - for eg, cotton. Open sandals in lighter colours such as blues, pinks and white - preferably with floral prints and some embellishments, say opaque bead shells - are safe bets. Also, gladiators, high tie-ups, strappy stilettos and peep-toe shoes are very in right now," Rina says.

Sonali Dalwani of Crimzon accessories agrees when she points out that turquoise blues, oranges, reds, parrot greens, ivory whites and gold are very popular at the moment.

"Gladiators are doing very well and so are funky heeled wedges; in fact, some of these heels are multi-coloured so they do brighten up even the plainest of outfits," she notes, adding that now is the time to go easy on embellishments and keep them subtle.

"Big paisley prints and gota work is a good option but avoid bling and boots at all costs. But slippers with criss-cross patterns and booties (boots with the sides cut away) are ideal choices as they provide enough ventilation for the feet," advises Sonali.

Harsh Kotecha of Stoffa feels that metallics are their shining best at the moment. "I recommend bright colours - particularly gladiators. Closed shoes are a no-no. Rubber flip-flops - not the kind one wears at the poolside but the thicker version with a formal air about it - are a new addition to the scene. Tie-ups and open flats are also very good. The bottom-line is comfortable footwear," he ends.

Also Read
* Salsa and Aqua Aerobics: Workouts for Summers
* Bata launches safety footwear

Share this article

---

---