clothes/shoes/shopping help

[packrat]

We went shopping today for Mother's Day. It's been oh...two years since I shopped for myself last and the time before that was..I couldn't even tell you. I remember buying clothes after London was born-she's 8 now. Anyway, I've been living in scrub pants and tshirts for so long now, I about don't know how to shop for myself anymore. I'm on a mission to lose weight, so now I'm stuck in between sizes, I'm super self conscious and wanted some "real" clothes. Got a pair of jeans at Old Navy..they fit ok I guess..I haven't worn jeans in a few years. They have a gap in the waist band. I got them anyway but I'm still on the fence so haven't taken the tags off. Are there jeans that don't have that gap? Is it b/c they sit so low? I tried on a pair of khaki capris that had a wide elastic band waist-they sat up higher and didn't gap at all, so that made me wonder if the jeans have the gap b/c they're low. Can that gap be fixed w/a belt or something? Jeez..I can't even dress myself!

I think I need Clinton and Stacey.

Also..we're going to the zoo and an amusement park this summer-separate trips. I would like a pair of shoes to wear that are comfortable for all day walking and that could get wet on some of the rides. I looked at some Keen's today. Don't know what they're called but they're like tennies w/a zip cord instead of laces and they have cut outs on them? Holy crap were they expensive. I'm on Amazon right now browsing Merrell's for ideas-they're expensive too. Any ideas on shoes that are good for all day walking, can get wet and won't make me cringe at the price?

 

[Lotus99]

Usually, when jeans have a gap at the waist, it means they're not quite the right size or waist-hip proportion for you. You could have a tailor get rid of the gap or wear a belt. Or, try a different fit or brand of jeans until you find one that's more with your proportions. If you're losing weight, it's all likely to change anyway. And stay strong on the weight loss -- you can do it!

I'm a big fan of Aerosoles shoes. I find them really comfortable and I find the price is right for the wear I get from them (I have several pairs I've had more than five years). I'm sure others will have suggestions on their favorites.

 

[Gypsy]

I really like Not your Daughters jeans. Yes, the name makes me feel like an old lady but I've never had a gaping issue with them. I buy the Sarah Bootcut usually (I'm in denial that skinny jeans are back).

You can get them altered. But usually just means they are the wrong style for you. It's not a size thing with me when the gap happens. They can be too big or too small and they still gap on me if the style is wrong.

Merrel's sandals are awesome when they fit right. Worth every penny. I wanted a pair a few years ago and they were made for my feet. Was too cheap to buy them. Bought two pairs of Clarks instead. Regretted and bought myself the Merrel sandals this year. Not all their styles are worth the money, but for the ones that fit my feet like a comfortable old shoe right in the store... worth it.


Also honey. Spend some money on yourself. Seriously. Without guilt. Did you read your post in the Mother's Day thread? Honey you are kinda of ticking bomb of resentment. If you indulge a little on slightly pricey pair of shoes then you can maybe let go of some of that an not detonate sometime soon. It's Mother's Day. Your are shopping for yourself. Live a little.

 

[artdecogirl]

Yay! new clothes for packrat!!! Thats awesome, you deserve it, that is way to long.. I know the price of the Keens is a little extreme but they are the best shoes ever in my book. I have multi of the sandals , I wear them all summer, hiking, in the kayak, running down the statepark trails, grocery shopping and everyplace else. Look on geartrade, backcountry sells there returns on there so you can get really good markdowns on new stuff, bought my last 2 pair there.

About the pants, I know what it is like to wear scrubs all the time then go to put normal pants on, they feel so constricting, a few weeks ago I got a pair of cargos at the gap outlet, they have a waist with a drawstring but it does not look stretchy if that makes sense and no gap in back and they are fairly fitted otherwise so you do not look frumpy, so comfy also they are a lighter fabric, good for summer in the land of a million mosquitos, I went back and bought another color a week later, I love these pants! good luck with your shopping and have fun!

 

[packrat]

Thanks for the replies! I think I'll take the jeans back. They fit nice everywhere else and that gap is just going to drive me bonkers-and it will only get bigger as I lose more weight. Ah well..a shirt is going back too. JD liked it but I wasn't too big on it. The sucky part to it all is that we only have a Kmart here in town-we have to drive an hour to get to any stores. We won't be going on our trips for a few weeks yet so we'll be back to the city before then.

Lotus, I've got Aerosoles up in another window to browse for styles that will be ok when wet, thanks!

Gypsy, I'm going to look up those jeans too..I don't know if they have them in the city but I'll sure check. I did get a pair of those shoes yesterday but they're on off brand and I don't think as comfortable as the others so I doubt walking 8+ hours in them. I think I'm going to have to suck it up and spend for the comfort.

artdecogirl, I'll check out geartrade, thanks! And there is a Gap outlet in the city, but we didn't have enough time to stop there. When we take the other stuff back I'll put it on the list to pop in and see what I can find.

Gypsy, I know. JD said "you can buy stuff too you know" when I was cussing on the way out of Target at the cost. I got myself all worked up on the drive home and ended up in the bathroom when we got to mom's to pick up the kids. Not counting the things that are going back I got two pretty tank tops, two short sleeve nice tops, two pairs of thinner jogging pants and a pair of jogging shorts. It's enough to get me by for a while-I'm trying for a new job (teaching assistant at the kids school!!) so if I get it then I get to go shopping again!! JD got a new job (police officer here in town) and he has informed me under no uncertain terms that I'm not allowed to run all over looking like an orphan living on the streets anymore.

I'm trying to settle down and allow myself some nice things. (I've got the AVC three stone after deciding I'm WORTH it and can keep it ) Shoulda seen the look on his face when I told him I'd been having my mom sew up my underwear for the last two years. I think I deserve to have a nice pair of shoes and jeans now, ha!

 

[winternight]

I'm also far from my ideal weight and hate shopping for clothes right now. What
you probably need to do is put some time and effort into it. And invest in tailoring if need be. A few weeks ago I had to attend a party and didn't have a dress. Shopping was pure misery but I finally found something. Know what? I got compliments on my dress, shoes, etc all night! That was a great boost and helped me to get back on track dieting. You don't have to be thin to be stylish and if you start wearing nicer things it keeps you more on track. Honestly, my pants are all fitted so believe me I notice a little weight lost or gained - not sure how you do that in sweats! So happy mother's day, please get yourself some clothes!

 

[iLander]

Go to Express (check their website for coupons). Try to ignore the loud annoying teen music. They have several different fits (that have names like Stella) in different lengths (regular, short, tall). They will sit low, but they all have different proportions and degrees of lowness. The sales nymph will help you find the fit that works with your figure and then your size. I've seen women with some of the oddest proportions walk out of there looking pretty hot. It will be annoying once, but after that you can buy them online and Express will email you coupons that make the price bearable. I am pushing 50, but I wear these because I don't want to look OL (old lady). They will stretch over time, and get slightly more comfortable. Get used to the idea that jeans now stupidly hover around your belly button.

Also try stretch jeans, and jeggings. They have a lot of spandex and fit everybody. They tend to get hot, though.

Those idiotic Crocs people came up with flip flops that are pretty comfortable; http://www.crocs.com/womens-flip-flops/women-footwear-flip-flops,default,sc.html Hated the crocs, like the flip flops because I can hose them off. Nobody seems to wear athletic shoes anymore for everyday.

I went through the same thing: I came out of the mommy phase, looked around and realized I had no idea what everyone was wearing. The jeans are the worst part. Now I have a teen girl who keeps me in line.

We also got to Ross, Marshalls and TJ Maxx, they have tons of cheap tops.

 

[Enerchi]

I just had a successful jean shopping experience at the Gap. I ended up with the line "Always Skinny" ... I'm pretty sure I bought them just for the inside label!!! As if I'd ever be in that category!!! NOT! I had my DD with me and she flat out said NO when I tried on the old lady/mommy jeans - NO mom, those look old on you. Well, there's a stopper for ya!

If you can find what you like in store, there are coupons on the internet and they ship for free. Like iLander said, the first trip in is annoying, after that, internet is your friend!

 

[packrat]

Well, the sweat pants I need when I go walking or just running to the store etc..I've been just wearing my old ratty sweats (from 15 years ago so you can imagine how nice they look now) or outside work clothes and JD said no more doing that!

Definitely will take some more time to get a few more things. I know I'll feel better about myself if I'm dressed better. I've spent most of the last few years in some sort of funk/depression and I just want to be ME again.

We have Kohl's, Old Navy, Gap outlet and some random mall stores. Maurice's too..but I think that's more for younger people. Younkers, JCP also.

ilander, we did used to have an Express but it closed-I got some jeans there years ago that were my favorites. They fit perfect so I had three colors.

And definitely if I can figure out what works for me in the stores I can continue shopping online-so much easier!

 

[VRBeauty]

Unfortunately the trick to finding jeans that fit seems to be trying on about a gazillion pair. Seriously, shopping for jeans is right up there with shopping for bras as my least favorite thing to do. Every now and again Marshall's will get in a huge shipment of jeans and I'll just spend time trying on all those that look like they might fit... sometimes I get lucky! I have had some good luck with Levi's jeans with just a bit of stretch in them.

If you're looking to make some serious additions to your wardrobe but the local offerings are limited, is there any way you could swing an expedition to a city or shopping center that's a bit farther away? Just make a day of it? Having access to a decent selection could make a big difference.

 

[soocool]

I am recommending that you find a store that has a personal shopper who can figure out what will look best on you. You don't have to buy anything, but you will learn what looks best for your body type.

Also, if you find a pair of jeans that look great on you, but are too long or gap at the waist then go find a seamstress who will shorten the length/take it in at the waist for you. Many times you just can't find things that fit right off the rack. For me, my waist is much smaller than my hips and I love Gap's long and lean (sz and have to have them taken in about 1 to 1 1/2 inches, but it is worth it since I know I will wear them and not toss them into the back of my closet.

 

[soocool]

I'm also far from my ideal weight and hate shopping for clothes right now. What
you probably need to do is put some time and effort into it. And invest in tailoring if need be. A few weeks ago I had to attend a party and didn't have a dress. Shopping was pure misery but I finally found something. Know what? I got compliments on my dress, shoes, etc all night! That was a great boost and helped me to get back on track dieting. You don't have to be thin to be stylish and if you start wearing nicer things it keeps you more on track. Honestly, my pants are all fitted so believe me I notice a little weight lost or gained - not sure how you do that in sweats! So happy mother's day, please get yourself some clothes!

It is so true that when clothes fit you they can slim you!

 

[packrat]

VR, we do have a mall and some other stores in a shopping plaza, an hour away. That's where we went yesterday. We're limited also w/the kids, spending a long time shopping w/them in tow is hard. We left them w/my parents yesterday but they get funny about watching them for an extended period of time so we only do it if we absolutely have to, like, once a year maybe. Next time we'll have to take them but..we'll just have to bribe them w/a toy or something!

soocool, I don't think there are personal shoppers around here. Maybe in the big cities but that's about 3 hours away, sadly.

 

[misssoph]

Just as a once off, (big shop, trying on a 100 pair of jeans to find the best pair) could you leave the kids with your partner for the afternoon and go to the mall an hour away. It is just impossible To try on clothes with small kids in tow.
Then next time you could use the Internet or if you go to the shop you can just pick up the one thing you know is likely to suit and pay for it which is much easier when you have small kids with you.

 

[iLander]

Well, the sweat pants I need when I go walking or just running to the store etc..I've been just wearing my old ratty sweats (from 15 years ago so you can imagine how nice they look now) or outside work clothes and JD said no more doing that!

Definitely will take some more time to get a few more things. I know I'll feel better about myself if I'm dressed better. I've spent most of the last few years in some sort of funk/depression and I just want to be ME again.

We have Kohl's, Old Navy, Gap outlet and some random mall stores. Maurice's too..but I think that's more for younger people. Younkers, JCP also.

ilander, we did used to have an Express but it closed-I got some jeans there years ago that were my favorites. They fit perfect so I had three colors.

And definitely if I can figure out what works for me in the stores I can continue shopping online-so much easier!

Well, I'm sending you a BIGGGGGGG hug. Sorry you felt bad, and I'm glad you're starting to come out from under. Kids are hard, and not for sissies!

 

[Loves Vintage]

Hi Packie - So, I know Lee jeans probably aren't super-cool jeans, but these are so comfy, I had to mention them: http://www.lee.com/store/LEE_STORE_...eans/comfort-fit-milan-straight-leg-jean.html There is some sort of stretch built into the waistband, but you don't see it at all, just looks like regular jeans. It's supposed to help with the gap issue. They have them at kohl's, so maybe these would work for you?

Shoes are tough. I think these are cute for summer and comfort: http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/63392?feat=630-CL1 I've had merrells before for fall/winter though, and loved them. I remember I bought a pair off of ebay one year and wore them for a long time. So, if you'll get a lot of wear out of the shoes, that will help justify the cost. Also, some websites (like piperlime and some other shoe websites) will do free shipping/free returns, so that might work for you.

Come back and tell us what you get!

 

[JulieN]

Levi's has these "Curve ID" jeans for different levels of curviness. Ignore the sizes/curve indicators, try them all on, and see which one works.

 

[packrat]

Misssoph, I would if I had someone to come w/me and look for clothes, give me opinions!

Thanks iLander, that's sweet!

LV, actually I did try on a pair of Lee khaki cargo capri's. These in Sand http://www.lee.com/store/LEE_STORE_US/en_US/product/women/capris/natural-fit-harrison-roll-up-capri.html They were really comfortable. JD liked a different pair better so I ended up not getting anything--but when we return the jeans etc, we'll be stopping to get the capri's b/c *I* liked them haha. I didn't see any other Lee's there but will look..they remind me of the 80's but if they're comfy and look nice not like MOM pants, then I don't care.

And those shoes are adorable! I actually was looking at them last night and bookmarked them. I'm planning on these for long walking trips http://www.backcountry.com/keen-newport-h2-sandal-womens (not sure on color, only have my size in a couple) but those others are cute for running around town and short trips..there's a water park close by the amusement park too that JD wants to go to, so those would work then also. Great minds think alike! (hey, so do ours! )

Julie, I tried on a pair of Levi's too but didn't have enough time to try on more. They must've been the kind you mention b/c they didn't have a gap at all. Definitely will browse more when we go back..planning on this week hopefully.

I really appreciate all the help guys, very very much!

 

[fleur-de-lis]

LINEN PANTS.

Okay, I know that's kind of out of left field, but they immediately came to mind as hitting quite a few of your criteria. They are more elegant than scrubs. They are cool and comfortable in summertime. They have a history of elegance with their gently swooping lines, but are casual enough to wear with the kids in parks. Good ones have tailoring details, but traditionally they also have an embedded drawstring within the waistband to bring it in for those who have small waist to hip ratios like yourself.

Google yields quite a few, but some ideas:

Juicy: http://www.zappos.com/juicy-couture-classic-linen-pant-white

Michael Kors in a dark color: http://www.zappos.com/product/7940740/color/81892

A dollar-friendly option: http://www.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx..._-1e82259&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=712951e82259

Good luck rebuilding your wardrobe-- it can be daunting (especially if you've been depriving yourself for too long), but in the end it's so worth it. Try to embrace the process and have fun!

 

[MichelleCarmen]

I get a lot of t-shirts & little stuff at Old Navy, but want to say their jeans are TERRIBLE!!! Their shorts and pants are fine, but the jeans get all weird after washing a few times. I always hang dry my jeans, but somehow the Old Navy ones still don't keep their shape. The kid jeans are great though...

I do have one pair of keens...I got them at a sale and paid $20 for them...originally like $130ish!!! They are cute but NOT comfortable for long walks. Merrells ARE. I ended up getting a pair at REI and they're very much worth it. I've had them for about five years and they still are comfortable (I wear them once a week or so fall thru spring). ETA - also, if you look at the style of shoes you're trying on, maybe you can find that pair on ebay for less than retail.

 

[Gypsy]

Gypsy, I'm going to look up those jeans too..I don't know if they have them in the city but I'll sure check. I did get a pair of those shoes yesterday but they're on off brand and I don't think as comfortable as the others so I doubt walking 8+ hours in them. I think I'm going to have to suck it up and spend for the comfort.


Gypsy, I know. JD said "you can buy stuff too you know" when I was cussing on the way out of Target at the cost. I got myself all worked up on the drive home and ended up in the bathroom when we got to mom's to pick up the kids. Not counting the things that are going back I got two pretty tank tops, two short sleeve nice tops, two pairs of thinner jogging pants and a pair of jogging shorts. It's enough to get me by for a while-I'm trying for a new job (teaching assistant at the kids school!!) so if I get it then I get to go shopping again!! JD got a new job (police officer here in town) and he has informed me under no uncertain terms that I'm not allowed to run all over looking like an orphan living on the streets anymore.

I'm trying to settle down and allow myself some nice things. (I've got the AVC three stone after deciding I'm WORTH it and can keep it ) Shoulda seen the look on his face when I told him I'd been having my mom sew up my underwear for the last two years. I think I deserve to have a nice pair of shoes and jeans now, ha!

I'm happy to see this. But honey, do it for yourself. Don't do it for anyone else.

I'm glad you kept the three stone.

The underwear thing is an example. Get yourself some nice stuff, not crazy 80 dollar a pair panties. But ones that haven't been darned to death.

It's okay to indulge. And when you do it, just really revel in it, tell yourself it is for yourself and really get the most out of the experience. If you feel guilty, tell yourself it's for DH or whatever, you are cheating yourself and you are building resentment. If you are going to buy it, own it and enjoy it. That way you get the most of the experience.

 

[Snicklefritz]

I bought these shoes for my trip to Disney World a couple years ago: http://www.amazon.com/Skechers-Wome...=sr_1_2?s=shoes&ie=UTF8&qid=1337029820&sr=1-2

They worked PERFECT! I couldn't recommend them more. They are light weight and fit snugly (don't feel like you're going to lose them). They have decent arch support, and there's no rubbing or blistering. They dont hold any water, dry very quickly, and they are comfortable. Best of all, they're not hideous! Just make sure to put sunscreen on the tops of your feet.

 

[lyra]

No advice on jeans because I try to avoid them. I wear capris during the summer instead.

I say spend your money on comfortable shoes. I have arthritis in one foot and will literally pay anything for a shoe that doesn't cripple me after a few hours. This year I founds some Clark's Wave shoes. The technology is great, very cushiony and supportive. I went for the sandals because it's really hot and humid here and they are able to get wet and dry. These are the ones I got, but I paid double because I'm in Canada and couldn't take a chance ordering online at Amazon (should have in this case since they worked!). http://www.amazon.com/Clarks-WAVE-WHISK-Womens-Wave-Whisk-Sandal/dp/B003UU1T84 I got them in 2 colours for wear with anything. I'm super duper fussy about comfort. Well made shoes last years, it's good value.

 

[onedrop]

Packrat: I am happy that you've decided to spend some $$ on yourself. You deserve to feel and look good, and I am big believer that adding some nice things to your wardrobe goes a long way in helping you to feel a little more "spiffy."

I 100% agree with iLander about the Express jeans and with Enerchi about the Gap "Always Skinny" 1969 jeans. Express has many different cuts, lengths and washes that it makes is easier to find something in your size and preference. As for the Gap 1969 jeans, I finally caved in on the skinny jean crazy and these were the first pair that I bought and I LOVE them. Despite the description, I think skinny jeans can flatter any body type, as long as you buy the right pair for you. Can't recommend either of these places for jeans enough. And since it's hard for me to find jeans that I like and that flatter me, I tend to by in bulk when I do find something that works.

Congrats to JD on the new job, and dust for you with the teaching assistant job.

 

[Loves Vintage]

LV, actually I did try on a pair of Lee khaki cargo capri's. These in Sand http://www.lee.com/store/LEE_STORE_US/en_US/product/women/capris/natural-fit-harrison-roll-up-capri.html They were really comfortable. JD liked a different pair better so I ended up not getting anything--but when we return the jeans etc, we'll be stopping to get the capri's b/c *I* liked them haha. I didn't see any other Lee's there but will look..they remind me of the 80's but if they're comfy and look nice not like MOM pants, then I don't care.

And those shoes are adorable! I actually was looking at them last night and bookmarked them. I'm planning on these for long walking trips http://www.backcountry.com/keen-newport-h2-sandal-womens (not sure on color, only have my size in a couple) but those others are cute for running around town and short trips..there's a water park close by the amusement park too that JD wants to go to, so those would work then also. Great minds think alike! (hey, so do ours! )

Yes, Lee reminds me of the '80s too!! But, I swear, I think they are really cute! And affordable!! I would never spend a lot on jeans, but no one in my neck of the woods really does either, so I don't feel compelled to spend 100s on jeans! If these work for you, you could order from Kohls on-line in the future, and then return what doesn't work to the store. Free shipping if you spend a specific amount. I always use my kohls coupons too -- I'm a thrifty girl!!

So funny that you bookmarked those same shoes. I still haven't ordered them, but I have to brace myself to spend the $50. I'm a cheapie, but trying to learn to spend on quality and not buy in excess for less. I have a similar pair of shoes from Land's End from last year so wearing those at the moment. Honestly, I like that they have the cross-strap. They stay on my feet. I need all the help I can get in that regard. I fell this weekend. Off of a sidewalk. That ended. That any normal person would have stepped off of. I fell off of it instead. I need shoes that stay on my feet!

I like those Keen's, but superliking the Clarks that Lyra posted, and I have amazon points from my amazon visa so I wouldn't even have to pay a dime for them!! Tempting!

Congrats to JD on the new job. That's quite a dramatic change in work, right? Does he have to go to training, an acadamy or something first? When do you find out about your potential job change?

 

[Loves Vintage]

No advice on jeans because I try to avoid them. I wear capris during the summer instead.

I say spend your money on comfortable shoes. I have arthritis in one foot and will literally pay anything for a shoe that doesn't cripple me after a few hours. This year I founds some Clark's Wave shoes. The technology is great, very cushiony and supportive. I went for the sandals because it's really hot and humid here and they are able to get wet and dry. These are the ones I got, but I paid double because I'm in Canada and couldn't take a chance ordering online at Amazon (should have in this case since they worked!). http://www.amazon.com/Clarks-WAVE-WHISK-Womens-Wave-Whisk-Sandal/dp/B003UU1T84 I got them in 2 colours for wear with anything. I'm super duper fussy about comfort. Well made shoes last years, it's good value.

That's quite an endorsement, Lyra. Is it just the Wave shoes that are super-comfy? I am tempted, but would probably prefer a closed toe. Which colors did you get?

 

[tuffyluvr]

I have seen Keen and Merrell's at Marshall's and DSW. worth keeping an eye out for them, as they are discounted 30-50%!

 

[packrat]

Thanks Gypsy, I appreciate it.

Fleur, I'll check out linen pants, thanks for the idea! I really like that first pair but yikes at the price!

Goh MC! Don't tell me Keen's aren't comfy for all day walking right after I decide to buy them!

Thanks for the shoe links, Snickle and Lyra, I'll check them out!

Onedrop, thanks from JD and thanks for the dust! Should hear something soon. And if I can find things that work for me, I'm buying multiples for sure. Get rid of the crap I have that half assed works for me and I'm kinda meh about.

Tuffy, we don't have those stores here but if I can find things elsewhere that I like, I can check online to buy more I bet.

LV, I looked online at Lee and Levi's and they have some really cute jeans/pants/capris. Hoping Kohl's has some of them in store so I can try more on. 80's be damned!

Yeah, it's a huge change from working at the packing house for 11 years to being a police officer. Funnily enough, it's LESS stressful. He comes home in a wonderful mood every day. I told him I think I should send them a muffin basket or something. He has to go to the Academy in January, for thirteen weeks, but he'll be home on the weekends. I talked to the Principal at the school last week and she said towards the end of the month she'll be hiring and I'll hear from her. She told me where to go online to sign up for the para educator courses so it *sounds* promising for me, I think. Three weeks of classes, and then I'll have the same exact schedule as London and Trapper! (And I started babysitting a couple kids today too, before and after school, so I'll be able to still watch them during the school year for a little extra cash for my RESET!)

Aaaaaand...I must admit..I dig his uniform and like it when he pulls up in front of the house in the squad truck..

 

[lyra]

No advice on jeans because I try to avoid them. I wear capris during the summer instead.

I say spend your money on comfortable shoes. I have arthritis in one foot and will literally pay anything for a shoe that doesn't cripple me after a few hours. This year I founds some Clark's Wave shoes. The technology is great, very cushiony and supportive. I went for the sandals because it's really hot and humid here and they are able to get wet and dry. These are the ones I got, but I paid double because I'm in Canada and couldn't take a chance ordering online at Amazon (should have in this case since they worked!). http://www.amazon.com/Clarks-WAVE-WHISK-Womens-Wave-Whisk-Sandal/dp/B003UU1T84 I got them in 2 colours for wear with anything. I'm super duper fussy about comfort. Well made shoes last years, it's good value.

That's quite an endorsement, Lyra. Is it just the Wave shoes that are super-comfy? I am tempted, but would probably prefer a closed toe. Which colors did you get?

Hey LV. I got the light Smoky Brown and Black. You should note that the grey part is quite visible on some of the colours. I tried on the bronze, but it clashed with the grey part. I would have picked the dark brown if it had been available. Yes, the technology in these sandals is great. My other pair were Joseph Seibel, and I've tried all the other comfort brands. These are the kind of shoe everyone wears around here in the summer. It's so hot and humid here. Maybe not totally stylish, but *I* will wear them with everything.

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Goh MC! Don't tell me Keen's aren't comfy for all day walking right after I decide to buy them!..

The ones I have aren't but they're not the sandal kind. They are lace up shoes. They're the only pair of Keen's I own...one day a friend told me they looked very "expensive," which made me feel good since I'm kinda into getting shoes at Nord rack or on sale, so I don't spend a lot!

ETA - these are the ones I have...picture looks darker. Mine are red...

http://www.zappos.com/keen-presidio-brindle-apricot?zlfid=111&recoName=zap_pdp_sub

I also finally went shopping for myself. We've been so careful about spending so that when I do go shopping, I get stuff for the kids and now my husband got a promotion so he has to wear different clothes, hence he comes home with new clothes every other week (whereas before, he wore the same stuff for like a year before replacing), so I felt a bit like I was neglecting myself. In fact, I know I have been, so I went to Old Navy today and grabbed a few things and feel better now.