December 7, 2009

Ballerina Flats

Ballerina Flats

Maybe you were teased as a child. And, you've politely ignored the references to your feet looking like gunboats. Well, the joke isn't on you anymore. Large size women shoes are widely available like never before. Whether you want a dressy pump or a comfortable athletic trainer, retailers and manufacturers are figuring out that there is an ever-growing market in large size women shoes.

With over 30 percent of all women's shoe sales being size nine and above, there is big money in selling large size women shoes. The fact is women's feet are getting bigger. While women over the age of 35 have an average shoe size of seven and a half, their younger counterparts average a shoe size of eight and a half.

This "growing" demand for women's shoes in sizes nine through fifteen has spawned many new retailers and shoe manufacturers who specialize in larger sizes. Twenty years ago, a woman with big feet had very limited options in shoes. Now, she can choose from a vast array of business, casual, and even golfing shoes.

It is estimated that approximately 85 percent of women buy shoes in the wrong size. Most often, they buy shoes that are too small. Ill-fitting shoes can contribute to a whole host of medical problems including bunions, corns, hammertoes, and calluses. With the larger sizes more commonly available now, women are finding the styles that they want in the sizes that they need. This is a welcome relief for the many women who have bought shoes in a too-small size because there was no other option.

If you are a woman with big, glorious feet, make sure that you have both of your feet sized every time you buy shoes. Take the measurement standing up and sitting down. Ask the salesperson for suggestions on shoe brands that might work with your foot size and shape.

If you are trying to minimize the size of your feet, look for shoes with rounded toes and moderate heels. You may want to stay away from pointy pumps, ballerina flats, and t-straps that can lengthen the appearance of your feet. It is also best to stick to neutral tones or colors that blend well with hose or pants.

Finally, keep in mind that if the average shoe size of women keeps growing, you may find yourself having smaller than average feet. Those jokes about your less than dainty tootsies will certainly be a thing of the past.

Chrisy Diaz is a fashion advisor for plus size women. She has been helping women of all sizes look their absolute best while helping them find fantastic deals on plus size apparel. For the hottest tips, secrets and additonal articles, not to mention some great deals on wide or large size womens shoes visit Plus Size Fashion Secrets.

	New Balance Men's 7516 Training Shoe
	? One look at the heel will tell you this is no ordinary training shoe ? Lightweight, durable synthetic/mesh upper ? Breathable LIGHTNING DRY lining ? Removable EVA insole ? Injection-molded EVA midsole provides firm and flexible support ? NB Pulse heel-cushioning technology features air-filled pillars that compress on impact ? Ndurance rubber outsole for maximum durability

	Skechers Little Kid/Big Kid Diameter-Confirmed Lace Up Casual List Price: $39.95
	? Cool casual style for the boy who can't wait to grow up ? Smooth synthetic upper with stitching and overlay details ? Padded collar and tongue ? Soft fabric shoe lining ? Cushioned comfort insole ? Shock absorbing midsole ? Flexible rubber sole

	Bass Women's Sade Ankle Boot
	Shaft Height: Approx. 5'' Tall. Heel Height: Approx. 1/2'' Tall. Sade is a lace up leather bootie. Beautiful soft full grain uppers. Padded insoles and flexible rubber outsole for comfort. Lightweight fabric lining.

	Born Cornflower List Price: $95.00 Average Rating:
	? Styled with a fun, vibrant energy ? Leather upper ? Leather-covered EVA insole ? 3/4" polyurethane platform sole ? 3-1/2" heel height ? Elastic-gored, adjustable buckle ? Big, bright flower treatment ? Half sizes order next size up

	Life Stride Women's Digit Slip-On
	? Irresistible details make this lovable skimmer anything but basic ? Shiny synthetic upper with pleated vamp accent ? Nailhead stud details add a dash of flair ? Lightly cushioned foam insole ? Flexible rubber-like sole ? 3/4" heel height

	Skechers Women's Straigntaway Sneaker List Price: $54.95 Average Rating:
	Take the lead on the straightaway in this racy sport fashion sneaker. This lightweight and comfortable slip-on shoe features a cool leather and mesh upper and sporty bungee-style lacing. The modern pronged outsole is durable and traction patterned for excellent grip...

	Duck Head Women's Judy Slip-On
	? Pick up the pace with the vibrant, festive patterning of this smartly-styled casual ? Smooth synthetic upper with tiny elastic-gored instep ? Laser cutouts and etched design detailing ? Cushioning foam insole with suede-like cover ? Light, flexible polyurethane sole ? 1" heel height

	Keds Women's Regalia Oxford List Price: $44.99 Average Rating:
	? Sleek style with a low profile and retro sport design ? Soft, sleek sateen upper ? Light, breathable mesh lining ? Removable insole with molded EVA heel cup ? Durable, immediately flexible rubber sole ? Padded collar and tongue

	New Balance Men's Ml574 Classic Running Shoe Average Rating:
	The classic 574 sneaker from New Balance will prove to be a staple in your casual wardrobe. The suede upper features retro-sporty lines and breathable mesh panels. The flexible rubber outsole and padded interior deliver the comfort and support you demand.

	adidas Women's Kanadia TR3 Running Shoe
	? Blaze your own trail in this aggressive, agile off-road running shoe ? Breathable air mesh upper and lining ? Gusseted tongue keeps dirt out ? EVA insole ? Shock-absorbing adiPRENE® heel cushion absorbs impact ? High-abrasion, all-terrain adiWEAR®/TRAXIONTM outsole