Have you ever wondered, if I can get a generic pair of flip flops at the drugstore for $5, why bother paying more for brand-name ones somewhere else? Danielle has the answer: you get what you pay for. And she suggests a better quality alternative in this edition of the Solevoice blog, featuring the Reef Seaside.

As the sun continues to tease us, staying out just a few moments longer each day, we envision ourselves in typical summer garb of flirty skirts, cute capris, and the ever-popular wedge sandal. This season, a sub-trend has been spotted on the runways and earned a place as our word of the week: the micro wedge.

While the exact definition varies depending on who you’re talking to, the term “micro wedge” describes the heel of a shoe that at first glance looks like a flat, but upon closer inspection actually consists of a slim wedge (Solestruck’s requirement is 1″ or less).

While dozens of micro wedges are available on Solestruck.com, there’s not enough room to display them all in a single post, so I’ve chosen just a few of my favorites as seen at right. Top to bottom, they are: Exchange by Charles David Yipee, BC Footwear Automatic, Pastry Glam Fruit Ballerina, Faryl Robin Betty, and Roxy Mulberry.

You know and love Vans shoes for the look and comfort of their classic slip ons and similar styles, but did you know the brand has taken a step further into fashion and created a funky new moccasin-loafer? That’s right, and here’s Danielle to tell you all about it, the Vans Abby in hot pink fuschia satin.

Whether you’re a high-schooler, a college student, or your classroom days are behind you, weekends are still prime-time for parties. As the weather warms, the festivities move outside and it’s time to mix a few ice-cold drinks. And this, my friends, is where the Reef Fanning (right) proves a worthy investment.

I experienced the phenomenon for myself just this Saturday. Out with a group of college friends, I noticed one pick up a soda bottle, then look around as if searching for something. Curious, I watched as she located a pair of black-and-white flip flops (right) and used one to pop the lid off of her drink!

I immediately recognized the fabulous Reef sandal. And I wasn’t the only one. Several other party attenders had witnessed the act and were eager to try the unique bottler opener for themselves.

So you see, not only is the Reef Fanning a stylish choice for footwear, it’s also incredibly convenient, and it makes a great conversation-starter too!

Have you ever been in a situation where your dress is stunning, your jewelry is to die for, your date is the hunk of the month, and the event promises to be one of the best nights of your life, and yet you’re still searching for the perfect pair of shoes?

Worry no more, because Solestruck is here with the solution … our newly arrived collection of dyeable shoes, Touch Ups by Benjamin Walk.

Dyeable shoes have long been known as the choice for special occasions due to their customizable nature. Choose your style (Solestruck currently has 12 options from Touch Ups), then take the shoes to your local shoe shop or repair store where a professional will dye them whatever shade you choose. What will they think of next?

As temperatures rise, fresh fruits are making a comeback in our daily diets. And thanks to the newest Pastry shoes on Solestruck, they’re also a great addition to your footwear collection!

In this latest edition of the Solevoice vlog, Danielle shares about the Pastry Glam Fruit Ballerina, a micro-wedge skimmer embroidered with sliced oranges, berries and more.

Want to know more about this yummy shoe? Ask Danielle via email at danielle@solevoice.com. She’s always raving about Pastry shoes, so she’ll be sure to answer your question right away!

It’s not an overwhelming trend, but it’s enough to garner an appetizing name. However, many don’t know it, so I’m choosing “donut wedge” the Solevoice Word of the Week.

Wedges, as everyone knows, are hot right now. Great with jeans, skirts or capris, they’re ideal for the upcoming summer weather. To add a new spin to the old favorite, designers have taken a chunk out to create an exciting new silhouette dubbed the donut wedge, or the donut heel.

Solestruck carries several examples of this fashion frontrunner, each from a different brand, so there’s enough options to fit any wardrobe. Current offerings include (shown left to right below), the Steve Madden Champyun, the Seychelles Bachelorette, the Rocket Dog Candy Krunch, the Carlos by Carlos Santana Legend, and the Vince Camuto Maris.

If you don’t know already, let me be the first to tell you that one of my favorite brands, Jeffrey Campbell, is launching a new website in June. What’s more, the design gurus at Solestruck are part of the creative team behind it, and JC Sales Manager Ty McBride visited our office last week for an intense brainstorming session.

I also chatted with Ty about a blog that will keep fans “up to date with all the latest in the JC gossip circle”. In the first post, Ty talks about the site relaunch, the JC girl, and how much he loves the job.

So check out http://jeffreycampbellshoes.wordpress.com/ to get in on the gossip circle, and keep checking back at Solevoice for the latest news, too!

As the weather warms and swimsuit season approaches, many women embark on new or heightened fitness routines. A key element to any exercise program is proper attire, especially shoes, but you might be surprised to learn that not all athletic shoes are cr    eated equal.

Many people buy running shoes even though they never jog. Instead, you should consider the type of exercise you’ll be performing most often and choose a type of shoe that will provide the most benefits.

• Running shoes are flexible and light, featuring cushioning that absorbs shock as your foot hits the ground and helps reduce blisters. They are designed for forward motion, and don’t provide as much support when you’re moving other directions (such as in sports or aerobics).
• Trail shoes are similar to running shoes, but with increased traction to allow for movement on grass, trails, or other rough surfaces.
• Walking shoes are generally stiffer and somewhat heavier than running shoes, because they provide more support. It’s important because your foot rolls more slowly from heel to toe when you’re walking.
• Crosstraining shoes are the most versatile and therefore economical for people with varied workouts. They’re designed to support your foot during changes in impact and direction, so they can be a good choice for those who played a variety of sports.
• Specialty shoes are also available for specific sports. If you prefer one specific sport, such as cycling, soccer or hiking, and intend to participate in the activity several times a week, you probably want a shoe designed specially for that sport.
• Finally, lifestyle shoes often look similar to sport shoes … they could even be made by the same companies … but they aren’t truly made for athletic use. They don’t provide the same support and cushioning, and should not be worn for workouts.

Ever wonder how to dress up a casual outfit without completely changing your clothes? It’s simple; just put on a new pair of shoes! Danielle’s pick today is the Sam Edelmen Carmen in Pink Psychedelic Print. Check out her fashion tips in the newest edition of the Solevoice vlog.

As always, any questions can be asked via email at danielle@solevoice.com. Danielle would love to hear from you!