Stepping Up to Chic and Sleek Footwear
Question: I’ve searched in vain for a dressy pair of shoes to fit my narrow size 12 feet. I can find plain black leather pumps, but I need something more suitable for my new black satin dress with front shirring. Something delicate.
E.S.
Answer: The black satin pump illustrated here has a delicate 3 1/2-inch heel and is decorated with tiny straps that cross the vamp, where they are secured with a rhinestone pin. Polly Bergen designed both the shoes ($112) and the rhinestone-detailed satin shoulder bag ($39). They’re both available at the 9 to 12 Shoe Salon, 10750 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City, where the shoes come in sizes 9 to 12, narrow and medium widths.
Q: I have a pair of Bally half boots that are wearing out, and the style--Sussex II--has been discontinued. The firm’s New York office says there is not a pair left in any American store. Do you know of a shoemaker who can duplicate these shoes? If so, what does he charge? I would prefer to spend less than $250.
M.B.
A: Bring your half boots to Sergio Benavides at Civic Center Shoe Repair, 232 West 2nd St., Downtown Los Angeles. He will custom-make a copy of your boots for $85 or more. The exact price will depend on the leather you choose and the intricacy of the design.
Q: When I wear my Candies slides without panty hose they’re fine because my feet cling to the shoes, and this prevents them from slipping. But when I wear these backless shoes with panty hose, my toes slide right through the cutout and protrude over the sole. What can I do to prevent this?
S.H.
A: You can buy a product called Slip-Stops. They are latex mini-soles designed to cushion the balls of the feet as they stop them from sliding forward. The material grips the foot but does not snag hose. Two pairs are priced at $1.98 at drugstores and supermarkets. They come with a three-month guarantee.
Q: What shoes should I wear with my geranium pink satin cocktail dress? The dress is a slip style edged in a tiny floral applique. I have some silver sandals, but they don’t seem quite right.
J.R.
A: You’ll be in the pink from a fashion standpoint if you wear pink shoes to match the color of your dress. Pink sandals, for example, or sling-back pink satin pumps would both look right in this monochromatic fashion season.
