Supernatural Botanicals

Do you know a peep toe pump from a platform shoe?  Do you know a stiletto from a sling back?

Shoe Terminology 101:

The Stiletto:  Stilettos are long, thin, and super-high heels  found on boots and shoes.  Stiletto heels may vary in length, from 1 inch to  10 inches or more if a platform sole is used…however, we’ve come to think of stilettos as being extremely high, with a pencil-thin heel.

Peep toe:  Not quite an open toe, and not quite a closed toe heel, the peep toe offers just a glimpse of your toes and your pedicure (make sure to have one if you opt for the peep toe).    Since it’s not quite an open toe, many times you can pull the peep toe off in the corporate world.  It can be professional when done properly.

Sling backs, an ultra classic.  What makes them a sling backs?   It’s the strap around the heel that makes it a sling back.  Otherwise, this would be a platform pump.  The sling back is a super sexy option, and makes your legs look long and shapely.

The platform:  Almost no heel has gained as much popularity in the last five years as the platform heel.  Once a choice of exotic dancers everywhere, platforms hit the Hollywood scene, and crossed over into the luxury set.  Platforms are actually more comfortable than you might think.  The front base of the heel creates the illusion that your foot is arched far more than it is.

The Wedge:  So the 70s called and demanded to be relevant again.  And that’s exactly what happened.  We embraced the wedge heel again as if were were tree-hugging-hippies in 1976 and added our new millennium chic twist.  The results have been phenomenal, and the wedge is relevant again.

Two things I adore in the gym are the Bosu balls and the steps (for aerobics), so my excitement level advanced to a full DEFCON 1 when I found out about this new hybrid called the Step 360.  It’s a hybrid of the step and the Bosu ball.

Excellent for cardio and strength workouts, and because the platform is supported by two air chambers, and you’ll get a tough balance challenge as well.  It features platform anchors that allows you to loop in a resistance band for strength moves and its grips make planks and push-ups doable.

Be one of the first to snag a Step 360 for yourself.  Jump over to Shape for your chance to win one.

Valentines day is in 10 days…are you ready?  You can start at Zappos.