August 8th, 2008 by admin

When I conceived the idea for “Shoe of the Moment,” I assumed I’d always be writing about a style that I personally couldn’t seem to take off. I generally tend to be fairly level-headed and unsentimental about my shoe choices – if I like it, I wear it all the time – as opposed to, say, my headgear. (I often find myself buying hats that sit in my closet for months because, let’s face it, one can’t exactly throw on a veiled pillbox with jeans.) In fact, this whole approach explains why Barefoot Tess carried so few heels during our first year of operation - I knew I wasn’t personally going to wear them, so they just didn’t appeal to me.

Years later, I’ve seen hundreds of shoes come through our store, and while I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty of a teetering stiletto, I’ve stuck firmly to my principles with regard to my own wardrobe – flats, usually black or another neutral color, and preferably with some sort of interesting detailing. That is, until I came across this ‘Dodie’ platform from Corso Como …

Back in the 90s, while flipping through the scrapbook where I kept magazine clippings of my favorite dresses from Vogue, Bazaar, et al., I was so infatuated with a certain Kate Moss that I could often be heard remarking that I would “totally become a lesbian for her.” (And although Kate’s been looking a little rough around the edges lately, I like to think of myself as pretty loyal so if she ever comes around, I’ll be right here waiting. Little Lila Grace would make an adorable stepdaughter, dontcha think?) Anyway, getting back to my original point: I would “totally become a heel-wearer for the ‘Dodie.’” And isn’t that the mark of a great accessory – something that shakes your sense of style to the core? My gosh, at this rate I’ll be wearing gaucho pants and a SHRUG the next time you see me!

Personally, I’m partial to the bone color (through all three options are stunning), because with the perfect little black dress, they kind of play off that whole tuxedo vibe. No other accessories required – these are the rare shoes that can truly carry an outfit by themselves.

I think I'm in love.