Prioritize comfort in footwear

DEAR LUCY,

I really do not like wearing rubber shoes, but when I travel, I need to be comfortable. Do you wear rubber shoes? Or it is a fashion no-no?                                                            

JUANA

My position always has been that comfort and fashion can and should marry, especially where footwear is concerned, that is why we pay extra for quality and comfort. Rubber shoes or sneakers may never be as sleek as their pure leather counterparts, but there are styles to choose from that will pass beautifully.

Repetto is very comfortable. But if you want something with rubber soles, check out Tod’s, and for sneakers, Adidas and Tiger Onitsuka. My basic rule is, no tiis ganda. Especially if you intend to do a lot of walking, then by all means wear the right shoes or match your outfit to your shoes, not vice versa. Always prioritize comfort when travelling. Simply put, it is suffering for fashion that should be a no-no.                                                                       

LUCY

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Hip dressing for big hips

DEAR RISSA,

The rainy season is here and our air-conditioned office gets colder when it rains. I’ll need to wear a jacket to keep myself warm and dry. I’m just very conscious because I have big hips and I’m worried I’ll look bulkier. Do you have any style tips to share? Please help.                                                        

CESCA

 Fashion is like the world of magic — it’s a world of illusions. With the right kind of garments, you can look picture-perfect all the time. To shrink a large bottom, select a jacket that falls past the derriere. Fingertip length is a good guideline. Choose a variety of loosely fitted or flared styles, such as the straight or A-line jacket to camouflage heaviness. Also, opt for jackets with well-shaped shoulders — this doesn’t just balance the upper torso, it makes you look sharper and sleeker at work, too. Go for details that bring the eye up, like epaulets, a studded collar, or a statement necklace. Slash or diagonal pockets can also trim inches off your hips. Make sure to avoid belted waists because it will only make your hips look larger. Lastly, don’t pair your jackets with bold patterns or light colors for skirts or pants. You only draw attention to your lower torso. Remember, dark colors make heavy areas look smaller.                                

RISSA

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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil. Send Regina Belmonte your questions at vivatregina.tumblr@gmail.com or tweet her @vivatregina.