2011 Spring Fashion 101: Time to Expose Those Toes!

Tops, dresses and pants aren't the only items that'll get switched out as the snow melts one final time and the temperatures rise for good. We’ll be kicking off the boots and telling our Mary Janes see ya later, but what to replace them with? 

 All fashion is somewhat subjective, and shoes more than anything because there’s so much more than looks to consider. Our feet are working for us all the time, so we’ve got to keep them comfortable and happy, and everyone’s shoe needs differ. 

Some factors to consider ...

Work: What’s the level of activity—a lot of standing, walking, running around?  What’s the dress code—suits, jeans, somewhere in-between?

Play: What kind of terrain are you going to cover—Wheeler Park, the dance floor at Villa Verone, pounding the pavement at Geneva Commons? What are your feet’s particular requirements—arch support, sizing, special conditions?

With all that to consider, you’ll be happy to know a large variety of fun shoe styles are coming to Geneva this spring—many are already here!  

What’s the first place to come to mind when you think “shoes in Geneva”? , of course. And Gregory Geische (the store has been family-owned since its inception in 1890) graciously showed me around and told me about the trends he’s seeing for Spring 2011. 

His customer tends to be more casual and active, and comfort is a priority. So he’s happy to see that ballet flats and skimmers will be popular this season.  These traditional shoes get an updated look with material interest, such as cutouts and interesting patterns and textures. Which is not to say Geische doesn’t carry anything on the wild side. The store has a nice selection of spikier heels and jeweled evening shoes.

Also popular this spring, especially in the junior category, are canvas tennies. But they’re anything but basic with new twists in stitching and laces.  And this '80s girl is happy to report that Sperry Top-Siders are making another comeback!  Warmer temperatures will be calling many to the great outdoors, and Geische Shoes is well known for its lines of active wear, such as Keen water-friendy closed-toe sandals, Merrell and Teva outdoor and sports shoes, and Birkenstock casual comfort shoes.

Another store around town that’s getting known for their shoes is The Meeting Place.  The store has seen its shoe business take off as more people discover Naot footwear, a brand for which both comfort and fashion are a priority— making these shoes a nice complement to the boutique's stylish clothing.  Christine Kasnik, fashion consultant at The Meeting Place, tells me she’s seeing a lot of platforms and embellishments, particularly circles and rings, in sandals this spring. 

The Meeting Place at 15 S. Third St. has already received a large shipment of spring shoe styles and will be hosting a Shoe Party next weekend: Thursday, March 3 to Sunday, March 6.  It’s a perfect time to see for yourself what’s new and decide which styles will make your feet most happy.