March 10th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

The Cross-Country Road Trip

You and your ragtag crew will crank the tunes and cruise from rib joint to national park to Indian casino, all the while sleeping in dingy motels and taking turns pumping the gas.  You’re going to want to wear your play clothes because you’ll spend a lot of time crumpled in the back of the station wagon or climbing monuments until the guard motions for you to hop down and back under the railing. That’s not to say you shouldn’t look adorable at all times.  You still want to make an impression at the local bar.  So no cross trainers-wear cute sneakers and the second you hop off the mechanical bull you’ll have cowboys standing by to flirt and offer you a Bud Light.  This land is your land, woo!

The Sneakers: The Superga ‘Bologna’ ($65); The Simple ‘Satire’ ($69); The Ed Hardy ‘Dubai’ ($59)

March 9th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

Spring break is on its merry way, and lots of us (not including me) are hightailing it out of town for some R & R*, and also some D & P*.  The destination options are endless and we all know what that means–so are the shoe options.  As per usual, I’ll walk you through: 1 vacation a day for the rest of the week.

*Rest & Relaxation

*Drinking & Partying

The Tropical Romp

Grab your wayfarers and jump on a 5am flight to where the sun is 3rd degree-burn inducingly strong, the all you can eat nachos are included in your package, and the frozen drinks come in tall plastic souvenir glasses.  You’ll stumble through the week napping on the beach, dancing with boys in Hollister polos at Señior Frogs, and being subjected to countless “Which girl deserves the most attention?” contests.  The shoe you’re looking for is a sassy flat sandal that will match both your bikini and your going-out shirts–they’ll keep you looking put together no matter how many daiquiris you’ve had.  And for the love of God, don’t come back with braids!

The Sandals: The Bernardo ‘Mojo’ ($129); The Dolce Vita ‘Dori 2′ ($49); The Dolce Vita ‘Ontario’ ($69)

March 2nd, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

It’s upon us: that stretch of time when you’re just waiting for winter to end.  You’re sick of shivering in your tights.  You’re tired of not wearing your suede pumps because the slush will ruin them, and every day you’re a little more anxious to leave your apartment in a light jacket and flats.  The worst part about this desperation is that it forces us to under dress at the slight hint of mild weather, and by 4 o’clock we walk around bracing ourselves saying, “I swear it was not this cold when I left the house.”

Everyone deals with waiting out the end of winter in her own way.  Mine is to buy Spring clothes and shoes, take them home, and try them on with every other article of clothing I own.  It’s fun and it beats the winter rut we all know and hate.  You don’t even have to buy new stuff to do this.  In fact,  shopping in your own closet can be very rewarding and having a clothing swap with friends is one of the most fun things a girl can possibly do.

A word of caution: If you make a go of it and and try on all of your clothes, preferably with music blasting and uninhibited singing and dancing involved, put things away as you go.  Otherwise, you’re going to end up with an intimidating pile of clothes when you’re done.  And they’re not going to put themselves away.  Those of us who are familiar with the practice are, of course, also familiar with the pile.

The bed pile–It sits there on your bed, forcing you to sleep in the fetal position night after night.

The desk chair pile– It threatens to knock the already teetering chair over and deprives you of a workspace.

The floor pile–It prevents walking and causes injury due to hoping, leaping, and climbing.

I’m really warning you because I don’t want you to try out my “beating the winter slump” technique and subsequently blame me for the pile.  I have my own pile to be held accountable for (I’ve been sleeping in the fetal position for a week), so I can’t take on yours too.

Enjoy!

And just in case you’re looking for spring shoes to buy and try, check out the Barefoot Tess Classic Flat

February 13th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

Valentine’s Day is on its way and there are countess ways to spend it.  We all know what that means: countless shoe possibilities.  Whether you’re in a 20-year marriage, single in the city, or something else in between, there’s a way to celebrate and corresponding footwear.  A disclaimer: by celebrate I mean acknowledge the “holiday” at all.  We all know it’s sort of made up and definitely hyped up.  But hey, one thing’s for sure-it’s gotta be more fun than New Years.

The ‘Putting some spice back into the relationship’ Romantic Evening: As per your subtle hints over the past month and a half, your significant other of who-knows-how-long-it’s-been has booked a couple’s massage and the presidential suite.  Room service and matching white robes are going to be involved.  He might have also hidden a little blue box in his overnight bag, so you’re probably going to want to put out.

The Single Girls’ ‘Burn Your Ex’s Stuff’ Party: After getting together for brunch and subsequently going to see Valentine’s Day, (Who am I kidding?  Everybody’s seeing that.) you and your girls will gather at someone’s apartment, ex’s stuff in hand, and  fueled by heartache, rage, and white wine, you’ll climb out onto the fire escape and burn a bunch of boxers, teddy bears, and probably a retainer.  By the time the firemen and your very angry super have left, you’ll feel ready for dancing.  Dress for that.   You’ll be making out with someone else’s ex in a dark club in no time.

The ‘I can’t believe he asked me out on Valentine’s Day’ Date: This is new, real new.  You’ve hung out a couple times and now he’s asked you out on this day of all days?  You may very well be too distracted analyzing his every move, word, and past text to enjoy your pre-fixe meal and the second least expensive wine on the list.  So at least feel confident in your shoes, beautiful but not too dressy.  And then come on, he did ask you out on V-Day after all.  He’s into you-enjoy it.

Hint: Don’t stress if you can’t return the sentiment.  There will plenty of time for meeting your single friends for dancing later.  They’re already wasted and smell like fire-they’ll be out all night.

The ‘Creative Boyfriend’ Date: He planned a surprise and you can bet it’s not just going to a restaurant.  Wear comfortable but very attractive flats, the kind that can transition from day to night.  Just remember to try and take a break from staring into each other’s eyes and petting long enough to enjoy the activity.  God, you’re so cute it’s making everyone else gag. Who even cares what you wear?!

The Shoes:  The All Black for BFT Crosstoe II, The Madden Girl Century, The All Black for BFT Quilted Flat, The Delman Anouk (All available at Barefoot Tess)

February 4th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

Simply recycling just doesn’t do it anymore.  Now, if you want to be truly environmentally responsible, you have to eat local, carry your own reusable water bottle, and drive a hybrid car.  Actually, forget about driving entirely and get a bike…a used bike…rebuilt from the parts of other trash bikes.  There’s a lot to keep track of, and endless advice to be dispensed, but every vegan and her yoga teacher are qualified to do it.

I am not a yoga teacher.  I am not a vegan, nor do I ever want to participate in a recipe exchange with one.  I am however, a girl who knows shoes.  So I’m going to pass this little environmentally friendly fashion tidbit onto you.

Want to do your part?  Wear sustainable footwear!  Note: I would never be making this suggestion if these sneaks weren’t cute.  Sometimes I leave the lights on when I go out.

The Simple ‘Satire’: $69 at Barefoot Tess

February 2nd, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

After all that about how I hate to be a houseguest, I threw a bathing suit and some sundresses into a duffel and flew to West Palm Beach to visit my grandparents last weekend.  None of my complaints held true on this trip: I watched a lot of TV, I was never cold, and my grandma prepared every meal specifically with me in mind.

Here’s something that did bother me though.  Why do people think it’s OK to get on a plane looking like they’re actually planning to get in bed?  They’re not my style, but I’m all for cute sweats.  I’m not taking issue with those.  But pajamas?  On a plane?   Being comfortable on a long trip is of the utmost importance, but unless you’re an infant on an overnight flight, actual pajamas seem like overkill.  I’m not alone here-studies show that nicely dressed people are more likely to receive quality service from flight attendants and receive an upgrade at check-in.  PJ’s aren’t the answer to being comfortable on a trip across the Atlantic.  You know what is?  The world’s first fully reclining flat bed in business class!  So considering you’re way more likely to be rewarded with this when you’re looking snappy (and you’re nice to the check-in girl,) (and you’re also very late so that the rest of the plane has filled up,) you should look presentable whilst you fly.

A suggestion for a pair of go-to travel shoes:  The All Black ‘Crosstoe II’: Their elastic back allows them to provide comfort indefinitely.  Plus, they’re simple enough to match most outfits with just enough detail to make them an accent piece.

January 28th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

I don’t think I’m alone here, but I do think most people are afraid to admit it.  I hate being a houseguest.  I don’t mean crashing on my friend’s couch with my shoes on, slipping out early, and leaving an endearing thank you note scribbled on an old receipt.  I mean spending three days and two nights in the guestroom with towels specifically for me and my belongings confined to a leather weekend bag.

As much as they insist you may come and go as you please, you are still at your hosts’ mercy.  They’re aware that you just want to watch TV alone.  They’re keeping track of when you use the bathroom and how long it takes, especially when you get up at 3am to pee.  And then there’s their most egregious offense: they are in change of the thermostat.

The reason this offense takes the cake is because no matter how nice and hospitable they are, leaving mints on your pillow or serving gluten-free pasta just for you, there’s no possible way you could be comfortable if you’re too hot or too cold.

In terms of the hot, the best you can do, short of stripping down to your underwear and panting dramatically while splayed across the couch, is make underhanded comments:

“Do you mind if I help myself to some ice water?  For some reason I feel flushed and a bit faint.”

“Excuse me for a second while I go get some Tylenol.  I think I’m running a fever.  Want to feel how hot I am?”

“Woo!  I think I just had a hot flash.  Is 23 too young for uh…oh, never mind.”

With the cold, you can make the comments more tactfully:

“Oo, is that a working fireplace?  I love a working fireplace.  That’s such a beautiful fireplace!”

“Do you mind if I wrap myself in this decorative throw?”

“I brought this hot cocoa as a hostess gift!   Shall I make it for you?”

The cold has one very useful advantage.  You can always add a layer.  I visited a very cold house recently, a house where the family took their shoes off at the door.  I learned a life lesson that weekend.  If you’re visiting someone’s home for a winter weekend, BRING CUTE SLIPPERS.  They would have made all the difference.

The Slippers: (left to right) Mocs Fringe Slipper, $79; Relknit Monkey Slipper, $29; Mocs Suede Slipper, $69

Blog Reader Exclusive: Use code ‘SLIP’ for 20% off all slippers.

January 26th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

Meryll was the shy twin, short and chubby enough that her mom watched her snack intake.  She just loved trail-mix with a little too much fervor.  She liked to play with magic cards, and read Time Magazine, and look for tiny elves in bushes and under stones in the back yard.

Lucy was the outgoing twin.  She wore the same pigtails, but they hung so nicely, just a little nicer.  She could eat all the trail mix she wanted, not that she even liked it that much, because she was always dancing.  She took some time to play house with the neighborhood girls.  Meryll had the time, but not the invitation and that was a shame.  And why would she want to play with Lucy anyway, for Lucy was god awful mean.  Meryll could not understand why the neighborhood girls wanted to play house with Lucy anyway, for she lacked imagination.  Nothing happened when Lucy played house.  Feed the baby, put it to bed, smoke a crayon cigarette, wake the baby, and so on and so on and so on.

One day Lucy had to go to dance class and mom had to go to the doctor.  Meryll, she said, you’ll have to watch Lucy’s class.  There’s no one to take care of you and no one to play with you.  And Meryll nearly died of dread for fear of having to take a dance class herself.  I’m not a mover or a shaker, she told her mother.  And no one thinks you are, dear, her mother promptly replied.  And then they went, off to Fancy Feet Dance School, Meryll fighting the urge to jump out of the moving station wagon all the way.

Fancy Feet Dance School was just as Meryll could have suspected, bright white walls and hot pink everywhere, dazzling gold trophies, shiny wood floors.  Everyone up and greeted Lucy as she arrived.  She seemed to be their golden child.  What a change from home, Meryll thought and rolled her eyes.  No one noticed.  You’re to sit on this bench and watch, Lucy pointed and Meryll sat.  Class started, and the girls began to dance, and Meryll pulled out a Time Magazine and baggie full of trail mix.  You there, the teacher called out and Meryll looked up to observe the commotion.  Yes you, on the bench, it’s not a watching class.  Meryll’s chest tightened. I don’t dance, she said, surprised she’d found her voice so quick.  Well ya do now, said the teacher.  It’s a new routine and you’ll learn it with us. And she bent to fasten her tap shoe. But I really don’t dance, Meryll called back.  Well ya will or you’ll leave, now get up here.

Well, Meryll had no choice and she knew she was doomed, but no alternative was available.  She stood and brushed the peanuts from her lap. Not there! Come on over here and follow the steps with me, the teacher pointed out a spot and Meryll followed.  The routine started and something happened.  The music was so lively, the steps so uplifting. Meryll couldn’t help but dance.  She couldn’t help but dance extremely well. Flap ball change, wings, a double time step!  By the end of the hour, she couldn’t help being the best student in the class.

And that’s how it’s done ladies. The teacher held her hand out to Meryll.  I’d like you to join my national team.  Your smile’s adorable, your pigtails are just a little out of place, and you got some quality.  You’re my golden child.  Meryll shook teacher’s hand and promised to return next week, and she knew she really would.  Lucy pouted , and Meryll knew she probably had to fight the urge to jump out of the moving station wagon all the way.  Now she was only the silver child.

The Dance by All Black, $59

January 20th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

January 13th, 2010 by The Barefoot Blogger: Laura Kleinbaum

On my ‘About Me’ page I offer to dispense fashion and particularly footwear advice to anyone who e-mails me.  Now, I typed this feeling really excited about the prospect of spreading my own fashion knowledge, but knowing full well that no one was going to ask me a damn thing. Well, guess what!  After months of nothing, Annie D. finally spoke up.  She wrote,

“Dear Laura,

A bunch of my friends have been wearing Frye boots and I like them, but the big sizes are mens’ and way too wide.  Plus, I borrowed my sisters and despite the fact that they’re already broken in, they gave me a huge blister.  Frye is too expensive to get a blister from.  Do you know of any cute boots, like Frye that are cheaper? FYI, I’m a narrow 12, so that complicates the matter.  I want WOMEN’S shoes!

I’m sad,

Annie D.”

Woo, I’m practically the footwear version of Dear Abby!

Dear Sad Annie D.,

I have the perfect solution for you.  Check out J. Shoes from Barefoot Tess.  They have the same great utilitarian feel as Frye’s, but they also have feminine touches, like pretty ribbon laces.  BFT actually offers them below the suggested retail value, so check ‘em out! They come in women’s sizes exclusively at Barefoot Tess.

Forget about Dear Abby.  Watch me turn into Oprah!

P.S. Annie D.,

Since you’re the first girl to write to me for advice, I am going to send you a pair of J. Shoes ‘Bridles’ in your size and the color of your choosing!

Anyone else have fashion/footwear questions?  Post them to the blog or e-mail me and I will publish and answer them! Don’t forget: comment of the week wins 50 bucks and your questions count as comments.