Do not want: Doc Marten Sandals

These actually exist. 

The Bernadette boots combine the worst features of boots and sandals into an unfortunate franken-shoe.

The thing is, I love combat boots. And Doc Martens normally produce fantastic looking boots and shoes that I would love to wear. But these are not that. These are combat boots that look like they wear half eaten by a dog, with large sections missing. And then someone decided to pass that off as a sandal. I'm really disappointed that Doc Martens would produce such an unfortunate shoe. Not that they are the only company to produce the awful design...

This is a trend that I'd like to see pass soon please.

Usually, I'm not a fan of sandals. They do not protect your feet; they generally provide an uncomfortable, flimsy walking experience; I hate not being able to wear socks; etc. But they do have some upsides, and in the right context (at the beach or pool) they aren't a horrible thing. They let your feet breath and are great for the summer.

Boots, on the other hand, are my go to shoe always. They provide ultimate sturdy travelling experience; they are perfect protection for clubs and shows; and provide warmth on cold days. Unfortunately they do not breath (prepare to suffer in the summer); once wet they take forever to dry; and if you wear them to the beach they will be awful and fill with sand.

These awful shoes/sandals/boots seem to combine the worst aspects from both shoe types. They don't look like they breath well, they look like they'd take forever to dry one wet and fill with sand easily (so the beach is out). They also look flimsy and hard to walk and run in, provide no foot protection (so no good for clubs and shows either).

Do you see my issue with these?


Personally, I would never wear these. I just really can't see these being comfortable.  But hey, that's just me.

Would you wear them? Is there an upside to these shoes that I'm missing?
Let me know in the comments!

-Twiggy
Listening to: "sing sing sing" - Jazzbit

Take Advantage of the Trends

 

Alternative subcultures revel in avoiding mainstream culture and fashion right? But what about when the mainstream borrows for the counter-culture fashion statements?
While some might despise the trends, I say indulge and take advantage of them! I personally love when the "dark alt look" becomes fashionable. It means the styles I love are easily accessible and I can often find them for more affordable prices; instead of having to order online or seek out a specialty shop, I can march into my local department stores, seek out the sales rack and find something I'll enjoy wearing.

View my full list after the break:

What do I put on my feet?

Corporate Goth Shoes by goth-proxy on polyvore.com

Creepers, combat boots, steam-punk stilettos and not a single work shoe in sight. And there's no way you are about to go out a spend good money on an boring work shoe.
You might already have a pair of mary janes or flats, and those will do just fine with any work outfit. If you've got a pair of plain combat boots and can pull your pants over top they will also work fine as work shoes. But if you don't have any of these options, you might want to consider finding a pair of work appropriate shoes. It doesn't have to be painful though.

I've put together this collection of shoes I've found around the web (in both men's and women's styles) that appeal to my gothy practicalities. You can generally get away with most of these styles in most settings, although the boots are better suited for the winter months and the sandals are better for the summer. Keep your dress code in mind and don't panic, you can find shoes that appeal to your own sense of fashion.


Cheers,
Twiggy Pop