I overheard a couple of women today discussing the fall weather and fashion, specifically, their love of boots. One was wearing a pair of black suede boots with spiky heels, and the other was admiring them.
Now I liked the boots too, and was also quite enjoying my clandestine eavesdropping until one said:
My grandma always said “Don’t get caught wearing open-toed shoes in the fall. You just don’t do it…”
Now maybe it was my imagination, but I felt a quick glance at my favorite pair of navy blue open-toed shoes. I had a brief moment of shame. Had I committed a fashion faux pas? Should I sit on my feet to hide them? Do I give them…the look? Would I be in an upcoming edition of Glamour with a black rectangle over my face with the words that say “Don’t” across the image? In 78-degree weather, is there something wrong with the fact that I’m going to let my toes breathe for as long as I can stand it?
So I got a little defensive and stomped away in my shoes o’ shame, all the while wondering who writes these fashion rules we’re supposed to abide by unquestioningly. Who says my purse must match my shoes which must match my belt? Who says my fingernails must be painted the same color as my erroneously on-display toes? That the bra must match the panties? And my least favorite…that we can’t wear white in winter?
For the record, I’ve always faithfully abided by the “don’t wear white after Labor Day” rule. On the Friday before Labor Day, I was decked out like I was going to one of P. Diddy’s white parties. And then I stored it all away like a good Southern girl was always told to do.
The rule stood as I was bringing up my girls too. When one was 3, she had an absolute temper tantrum one wintry Sunday morning over why she couldn’t wear her white shoes with her Christmas dress. I relented (of course) and she wore them. I will always be grateful to the fellow churchgoer who informed me that day that the rule only applies to ages 4 and above. I breathed a sigh of relief as my mothering was still intact. I pondered over who made up THAT rule for about a minute, then quickly decided it was a mother of a very dramatic toddler, much like myself.
So this mere bit of eavesdropping, coupled with the leniency of motherhood, has provided me with a moment of clarity. I will no longer feel inadequate when my purse is grey and my shoes are black. I will no longer be concerned that my nails are french-manicured and my toes are pumpkin orange. I will cast aside all doubt when my hair shows blonde “highlights” during the holidays when everyone else is going dark brown or bronze. I may even pull those white pants out of storage and pair them with my bulkiest winter sweater. And as long as my toes aren’t in danger of frostbite, I will continue to wear my open-toed shoes with it all.

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Er… Is the no-white-in-winter thing an American rule? This South African girl sure hopes so!
Must be an American thing, particularly for us in the South.
I’m not a fan of those open-toe boots…they remind me of the gladiator shoe gone terribly wrong (the gadiator shoe is another things I’m not a fan of.) However, I think peep-toes in the fall are perfectly fine. And as for white – I wear it all year round too. As long as the fabric is seasonally appropriate, I don’t really care what color it is. It sounds to me like those two ladies are seriously insecure if they don’t have to courage to break some redic rule from their grandmother’s era.
The really do look like gladiator shoes.
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Rules (especially fashion rules) are meant to be broken! Love this post!
Clara
http://lovehateandinbetween.com/
You’re so right! Thanks!
I have never followed “fashion” rules, I wear white after labor day regularly, I wear open toed shoes and boots until the weather does not allow anymore, and my hair color stays blonde all year. I know I look good and thats all that matters to me. Don’t let anyone tell you you don’t look good because it’s the “wrong” season. Their are stars who break the fashion rules all the time and they get away with it, why can’t we? They are just people too!
Yes! They’re just like US! And I read too many tabloid magazines!
Nice one! I enjoyed reading your blog!
Nice blog about boots! You can visit my blog as well http://shoe-hill.com. I write articles about all kinds of shoes.
Thanks!
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Totally agree about not wearing white in the fall/autumn. I used to live in Italy and they wear white all year round there so it was disappointing to return to the UK and discover there are RULES about that sort of caper. White tops are fine but white skirts/jeans – a big no, no.
However, it is 28 centigrade (around 82 F) in London today so I have my white denim capri pants out in force. I figured it might my my last chance until next spring…
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I think fashion is about creativity and having fun, and rules are for insecure people who have no opinions themselves. My favorite motto is “I don´t follow fashion, I create it”. The only time I would react to people wearing open toe shoes would be if there was snow on the ground, cause then I´d wonder if the person in question wasn´t freezing. I´d say as long as you like it, wear your open toe shoes with pride!
Very interesting blog! I have always wondered where those wandering rules have come from, and better yet, why we continue to feel the need to abide by them. I say, if you like a piece of clothing that doesn’t exactly follow those unwritten rules, wear it anyways! Who is to tell you not to? I guarantee that we may think other people notice the rules as much as us, but in reality we are probably guilty of criticizing others of breaking the same rules. So, let’s stop now, and wear those open toed boots!
Yes! I’m all for breaking the rules. =D
I wore a white skirt to church the other Sunday, AFTER labor day, and I didn’t care. I thought about “the rule” but I did it anyway. I think most of those rules are silly. Besides, Stacy and Clinton say you don’t have to be matchy-matchy. I like that rule. So go ahead, mix brown and black, and all that!
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GREAT Post! You are too funny….and just FYI, us California Girls….we pretty much wear what we what, when we want! So if all else fails, move to California!
I work with Celebrity Stylists and every rule that “Grandma” told us just doesn’t hold true in 2011, so ditch the rules. Life is short, wear white when you feel like wearing white, carry a handbag that matches your personality NOT your belt and for heavens sake SHOW THOSE TOES GIRLS!!!! Afterall, we don’t pay all that cash for those mani pedi’s to be hidden under gloves and boots!
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“Shoes o’shame” is a fantastic term. Kudos.
Oh, and I have a very strict set of rules for fashion: If I Like It, I Wear It.
Why we can’t wear white in winter? I know about the purse-shoes-belt rule (so what
), but no white in the winter???? This is a good post for morning. I have a good start now
Those boots were made for walking and that’s just what they’ll do, one of these days those boots are going to walk all over you, except those horrid boots in the last pics. They look like something from a kinky sex parlour! LOL
Ah what a cute post! I’m with you, is someone really gonna call you out when things are according to fashion rule? Things are always changing I’ve seen magazines that suggest you wear 2 different prints at once! And I wear white all year ’round. But so does everyone in Los Angeles. The white rule seems to mostly apply midwest-east coast.
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Hmmmm, I don’t think I’ve ever owned a pair of white shoes or pants.
As a guy this can be confusing. You can wear white or black whatever during the spring and summer, but you can’t wear white after a certain date? What if you’re in the Southern Hemisphere?
Really enjoyed this post.
Oh, and just for the record, my bra and panties never match.
x
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Awesome post! I always “eavesdrop” in on conversation whenever I am commuting and could totally feel your embarssement! However, I wear open toed shoes pretty much until the first frost! I think as long as you’re not wearing an inappropriate outfit like shorts, a tank and open toed shoes, you’re all good!!!!
Great post! Love the boot story. While I own some nice open toe shoes, I’m always afraid they will be deemed ‘unsafe’ I lost my boots for about 6 years and finally found them in my storage unit. Not sure it really gets cold enough for boots here, but it does rain alot. Congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
this post is great! i’m all for trends and fashion, but comfort definitely come first
. Wearing boots with heels everyday just screams blisters to me….
Yep, I like the low, slouchy boots myself. Thanks!
Comfortable and nice pair women winter boots
http://www.dhgate.com/store/easylife
Comfortable and nice pair women winter boots
Magazine articles are even proclaiming the death of the uncomfortable shoe, as Ugg boots, brogues and low heels fly off the shelves. It’s true that most young women can get away with wearing any kind of ugly or clumpy shoes. Some may say the trend in Ugg boots is testimony to that (Ugg boots look great on the young, but a bit weird on the over 50s). But whatever your age, comfortable shoes have an undeniable appeal. Many fans of Ugg boots have said they‘re like wearing slippers. And perhaps Ugg boots have spoiled a generation of women who now walk defiantly down the street wearing boots, flats, sandals and trainers. It’s been dubbed an act of ‘collective fashion disobedience’. Let’s face it, if you’re running for a bus, chasing the children to school, negotiating a tube escalator or walking to work, six inch heels are simply impossible.
Hilarious…I’ve long abandoned the shoe & purse rule!
Hells yes! For a long time I wore brown shows every time I carried a black bag.
Thanks for the post. I share the love for boots too. I have lost count on the pairs of boots that I had owned.
Ilove you post! And the open-toed boots at the end! very cute!!!!
lifestyled-blog.com
I honestly don’t even get women’s infatuation with boots. But then again, you probably wouldn’t get my infatuation with cars or threesomes either…
Great post, so funny! Those rules about wearing white, open toe shoes and matching your bag to your shoes are looooong over! I totally think open toe shoes are fine if the weather is still warm enough….That being said, boots with open toes make zero sense to me hahaha. I actually included this subject in my blog post yesterday! To not just be repetitive, you can check out my opinions about the fall trends at http://thebestfsiveeverhad.wordpress.com/ Happy shopping!!!
I think is a few cases the rules should be totally ignored. And this’s definitely one of those cases.
Being unique is the best way to show oneself
Nice blog..
I love boots but it’s just so sad that it’s not practical for me to wear one since I am from the Philippines and we have a tropical weather. With fashion ‘rules’, I don’t think there’s one that exists. It just depends on how well you carry your clothes. Period.
As Jane Austen once said, “One man’s style must not be the rule of another’s.” And like I’ve always thought – break the “rules” and do what you like! Your open toed boots are actually pretty cute! I’ll keep my eyes out for those!
I think breaking rules, or doing what you want makes you unique for sure, There are some fashion musts or musn’ts I’m sure, but gotta put yourself out there! As long as you’re confident you can pull anything off!!
اليوم الوطني للمملكة العربية السعودية
thx
huh?
I love boots!! But, since I moved to FL, I hang out in flip flops most of the time. Don’t want sweaty feet in a state that has no winter!!!
Great post! Loved it.
Thanks!
I would wear boots all year ’round if I could! I love them and Fall THAT much
But I don’t know about these open-toe boots. If they were the only shoe trend in this world I guess I’d walk bare feet :-\
Great post!
be blessed!
Totally cute! Don’t they hurt your feet though? Check us out if you can http://www.lovehautestyle.com
I don’t know for sure, but would imagine they’re awkward. Liked your page, by the way.
There is a rule that you shouldn’t wear open toes in a month with the letter R in it
But hey you should feel comfortable so I say wear them and feel proud but also invest in boots so your toes don’t turn blue and drop off! I always need boots for winter in London, sigh.
Haven’t heard the “R” rule. I guess boots aren’t as exciting when you have to wear them all the time. Thanks for stopping by!
Rules are mean’t to be broken!!!! I wear white when ever I want!!!! If you look good and your confident work it…. Open toes in 78 degree weather is a yes even if it is fall…. I kinda walk to the beat of my own drum…. LOL
I agree. The key is to work it.
Bravo! I’m trying to “put in the back of my closet” some of those fashion rules. Although, like you…the white thing still catches me–however “winter white” is a good way around it. My most recent come-to-terms fashion no-no was wearing grey and brown together–until I had a professor who had a flare for dressing and wore the two together all the time…and she made it look really good. Good read.
Thanks! Funny how some people can pull anything off and get away with it.
I’m with you, girl… who are these fashion dictators telling us what to wear and when?!? And checking out your blog… now I seriously want a margarita…lol!
Thanks! It does look quite appetizing, doesn’t it?
thanks for sharing your blog! there’s nothin better than a new pair of boots for the fall:) oh and congrats on the freshly pressed!!
Emily
(emilymeyers.wordpress.com)
You’re welcome and Thank YOU!
You’re a great writer. Entirely. I love your sense of humor! I, myself, have never abided by the unsaid but universally “known” fashion rules. Matching one’s purse, belt (I don’t bother wearing those) and shoes makes for a boring, typical outfit. Choosing colors that contrast and maybe, almost collide is much more refreshing and fall-like (are all the leaves falling around us just orange? just brown? just red?)
Aun Aqui
Another good point! Thanks for the compliment!
I love to break fashion rules; I wear what I like when I like it, and could care less about what the rules are – although I find that these days, anything goes. So I think you should wear what you love and more power to you. I enjoyed your post.
Thank you1
I HATE people who impose dumb fashion rules…especially one so silly as no open toe shoes in fall! First off the weather is up and down until about November. Plenty of warm days in both September and October….UM HELLO…PERECT PEEP TOE SEASON!!! Are you kidding me…you should of did a little jig in front of them with ur open toe shoes on! Oh…those open toe boots…..NO GO!!
Love the blog…
check me out on thisiswhyihateu.com
Haha, thanks! I took a quick look on your blog and liked it. I’ll be back to read more…
Love the post, open-toe boots not so much!
What would Serial Mom say to all this?
Love it! But oh man do I feel inadequate. I live in WI and have yet to start wearing shoes again….
I am not very into shopping for clothes (I love wearing the new clothes – I just don’t like shopping for them) and dread it every season; however, when it comes to boots (not shoes, just boots) it’s a different story! I LOVE shopping for boots and could buy a new pair every day and never get sick of doing it – total addiction.
Forget the fashion rules that have been forced upon you and wear those open-toed shoes for as long as you want! But, the minute it gets cool enough, get out there and get yourself a hot pair of boots, woman! There’s nothing like ‘em!
Cute post and congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Thanks! I feel empowered!
It’s ok – you can all breathe again – I’ve just bought a pair of ankle boots. The world is once again on its axis. PS. I like your blog, very funny.
OK so I saw in Vogue or W or somewhere that it’s a-ok to wear your white jeans in winter, with bulky textured sweaters. whew.
I need some new boots, too. I was raised in the South, but I got over unmatched finger and toenails VERY quickly. I’m still working out my white after labor day programming.
I get really excited about boot weather. Fall means apple picking, cool weather, changing colors, holidays with family, and BOOTS.
By the way, I don’t follow any of those silly fashion rules. If I feel like wearing white and it’s not too cold for open toes shoes, I wear what I want to wear!
I think these must be US rules. Otherwise, someone really forgot to tell us Brits – people are still wearing flip flops when it’s actually cold enough for boots, coats and hats! I hate fashion rules. Fashion is about having fun and expressing yourself…it shouldn’t be about rules. But I do love fashion. And besides, I thought it’s all about being deconstructed and clashing right now – you shouldn’t match your shoes to your bag – that’s a no, no right now. Ditto underwear. Or is that a British thing? If it makes you feel better I’m wearing a nude bra with black panties. But closed toe shoes (but that’s because of the aforementioned weather!). As for white – well I’ll wear it whenever I damn well please!
PS. My mother never followed fashion – it’s probably her fault I’m like this.
Actually, I had to wear sandals last winter because I hurt my toe. I wrote about it here:
http://mybusinessaddiction.com/2011/02/18/footwear-my-toe-and-other-peoples-nosy-thoughts/
K
I’ve never actually seen anyone wearing these open-toe boots. But it’s an interesting concept
. Fantastic post, it’s engaging and funny. Well done. K
California. 98 degrees yesterday. Need I say more?
I must say I’m quite partial to wearing my open toe wedge ankle boots, whatever time of year it is. With bright coloured tights or long black socks. It may not work for most, but it works for me.
These boots are made for walkin, and that’s just what they’ll do
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lol was fun reading ur blog
super
lifesotough.wordpress.com
What a fantastic post! Congrats on the FP too.
I have no idea where all of those little fashion rules came from, but by God, I followed ‘em in Texas. Now I’m in Britain and apparently all of the rules here are completely different. I’m quite certain that I’m breaking every one every day, judging by the odd looks I get from the locals.
http://ukate.wordpress.com/
this is really such a nice boots…
Well obviously the two women knew nothing about fashion as open toes with socks and hosiery are all over the catwalk and on the streets of the fashion capitals at the moment! There are no rules anymore, black and brown, blue and green, it’s all gravy!
Rock your open-toes mama!
I will be wearing my open toe patent nude stiletoes all the way through winter… they’re just too pretty not too!
Wow! so many interested in it . http://www.tradebuybag.com/
In Hawaii we wear open toe boots, sandals, bikinis, white and espadrilles (and the list goes on) year round. But that’s of course because it’s basically summer year round. I must admit however, that I’m often envious of those of you who DO get to adhere to certain fashion rules that would otherwise have me looking like a fool in Hawaii. Boots, coats, scarves and other fashionable winter wear would have us Hawaii fashionistas melting in the tropical heat. I guess what I’m saying is…rock those open toe boots – they’re appropriate in the 808 state
Aloha. http://www.hawaiifashionfiend.com
I enjoyed reading your post. I live in the Philippines, and as far as I know, not very many wear boots around here; except working boots in the farms, rain boots in the wet markets, and cowboy boots during “Barn Dances” normally organized by schools and social organizations.
I wonder how it would feel to wear one? Specially those sexy pairs that makes you look sleek and pretty?
Just curious =)
http://www.forumrenkli.com/
Waiting for everyone to the forum.Nickie♀ +18… ツ
I didn’t know about this rules too… but I like the way you tell about. Unfortunately, my Mum refuses me to wear high shoes at school, and I really love this sort of shoes! I’m very angry about this, but what should I do? But if I want to wear some open-toed shoes in autumn, I won’t do because of your blog!
Thank you!
Wear what looks good on you. Simple rule of fashion which you can’t go wrong with as long as you know what looks good on you!
very nice pair of boots
Love your post! And there’s nothing better than a new pair of boots for Fall!
cute! i can see sarah jessica parker rocking those open toe sandal boots
Rules, schmules. If it’s warm, show your toes. And were those ladies directing that at you? Uppity! I’d have wandered really close to them and said loudly, “Oh, the weather is so nice! I’m glad it gives me a chance to wear my open-toed shoes a little longer!” Then again, maybe I’m uppity too.
I love this post. I love fashion, but I don’t understand typical fashion rules. Why should we conform to nonsensical guidelines like blind sheep? If we like a look, we should be able to wear it, no matter what season (well, no short-shorts in the middle of winter). Fashion is all about individuality and taste. I’m wearing blue and black together right now…I wouldn’t last a second in NYC.
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Be the fashion you want to see in the world!
- what Gandhi would have advised
I love, love, love this comment!
I’m always in need of boots
If I am correct… fall doesn’t technically start until Friday, Sept. 23rd – so wear your open toes with pride!
We just had a couple of fall-like days and all the boots came out. I always relate fall to back-to-school and football. But you are absolutely right.
Good thing where I live it’s hot for the most part of fall.
nice boots
I love the open-toed boots! Though i’m usually stuck with flip-flops! Everytime I have some extra money boots are the first thing I want, and usually get! haha
Can’t live without ‘em!
hi
Rules are meant to be broken… especially fashion rules!!! Great Post!
Carina
http://peaceloveandgirlythings.com/
I admire your attitude about going against the “fashion rules” and dressing how you want! Who says we have to dress like everyone else, or wear certain colors during a certain time of year. You should dress in a way that makes you feel best.
Fun post! And just where, may I ask, did you ever find that picture of the open-toed boots? I want them! I always dread–and I simply can’t express how much I dread– enclosing my feet, especially the toes, in shoes, boots, or socks when fall comes. Let’s just say I prolong doing that for as long as possible. I’m totally with you, girlfriend!
I tried to find the source, and unfortunately, I can’t locate it now. I think I googled “black suede boots” and then browsed a while. I’ll keep checking. Since I used the picture, it’s the least I can do. Next time, I’ll add a link so at least the seller can get some action. But apparently, open-toed boots are the new trend, so it shouldn’t be too hard finding some on the web. Thanks for the comment!
OK, I found the link. But I have no idea if this is where to buy them or just a blog…because it’s in French, haha. Maybe you can translate…
http://www.balibulle.com/tag/sandales-guetres/
I never knew about this rule, but I just don’t know what the rules of fashion are except that you aren’t supposed to wear white after Labor Day. Rules are made to be broken, right? As long as you aren’t wearing a velvet jumpsuit or your P.J.s outside I think that it’s probably all good!
Good point. If there are going to be any rules at all, white after Labor Day cannot be what’s at the top of that list. I can think of way worse fashion disasters.
As long as it’s 78 degrees out, why not? I would wear sandals in that weather. However, I do think the open-toed boots look terrible.
I’m with you…on both counts.
Seems we’re all obsessed with that “white” rule. Check out my post:http://cyclingrandma.wordpress.com/2011/09/02/fashion-advice…fter-labor-day
It takes me forever to change seasons – so will go bare-legged and wear sandals as long as I can.
Your link didn’t go to the post, but I found it. It was a great post and I’ll have to come back and check your blog out more closely. The part about the pantyhose stuck with me. The dreaded pantyhose. Thank goodness those are out!
Most of my shoes are open either at the toe or at the heel. Unless it is raining, I want some air circulation!
Cool boots !
Personally, I’ve never cared to follow the fashion rules mainly because I don’t understand why it matters. For example, if someone is going to judge me for wearing white after labor day I’m not sure if I’d really care to know that persona anyway. Those who care about you won’t mind if you break every fashion rule in the book [although I don't mix patterns and dress crazy either, I don't take any fashion risks]
I can’t into the whole open toe boot trend at all. check me out at http://tvhappyplace.com/
I love your piece. I don’t own a single pair of winter boots at all as I am living in Singapore, but definitely need to buy 1 or few in the next couple of days as we are moving to UK in a week time.
BTW, Congrats on your Freshly Pressed:)
Thanks! Yes, you’ll need some boots…several pairs!
yeah, balls!
me tooww!
people gonnna be like “not hot, meh??”
hahha!
If it makes you comfortable or happy…wear it! Life is too short to get Hung up on in a list of silly fashion rules!
I say letting the air in is good, and more healthy for your feet, and as long ass you’re comfy what else matters?
loved this post! But you know… the great thing about fashion nowadays is that most of those rules really do not apply anyway! …and I totally agree, 78 degrees should make it illegal to wear boots if anything, regardless of the season. I’m wearing flip flops in LA as we speak
Rules? What rules? People wear Uggs all year, anywhere. And they were invented by surfers, weren’t they? Go figure. Definitely edging toward boot weather in Colorado. I was so disappointed when I scrolled down from those beautiful slouchy sheepskin tops to open toes! Hilarious!
I didn’t know surfers invented Uggs, but I can see that. But if I had those first boots, I’d wear them year-round. I can only dream.
Actually this is true, an Aussie surfer Brian Smith invented these in the 70′s and they have been huge AKA must haves for many Aussies ever since, somehow very much an Aussie fashion icon
.
Unfortunately the “thong-boots” seem to be widely worn in Sydney, I really don’t understand why, to me it is akin to wearing thongs with leg warmers, what is the point?! I have seen many girls walking about Sydney with them on and their feet get so grubby it’s gross! These are boots that have been accosted by someone with a pair of shears!!!
I’m going to have to Google that, haha. Thanks for the comment!
I feel the need to confess that I wear flip-flops year round. Even worse? I run ultra-marathons and rarely have a full set of toe-nails. I say have your cake and eat it too; shop for boots, and then let those toes breathe any time they need it! Very funny post.
I’m with you…except for the part about ultra-marathons.
Thanks!
Fashionista in the blood..
Congrats on your Freshly Pressed
Thanks! For some reason, you were spammed…but I un-spammed you.
God I hate shoe shopping with my wife.
Haha…I’m sure she wouldn’t mind if you just gave her the money and let her go!
wwwww, those shoes were beautiful!!
Which ones? I LOVE the ones at the top, although I’d have to sell a car to pay for them. I can pass on those at the bottom. They’re just too different for me. Thanks for reading!
I live in Bali, and loooove those open-toed
Maybe I’m on to something. I can sell them on my site and get a kickback! Just kidding, but thanks for reading!
Thanks for sharing your fabulous blog. Connie
http://7thandvine.wordpress.com/
Thanks for stopping by! It’s turned out to be a really heavy traffic day (not that I’m complaining one bit!). When all this dies down, I’m seeing some great blogs from commentors that I need to go check out. I’ll be stopping by…
I’m pretty sure none of those rules apply in Florida, where it’s (practically) summer all year long. Move to Florida and join the bright side!
I’m not far. I’m in SC, but would love to dress Floridian year-round. That’s a definite option!
This is a great post! Thank you for sharing, check out mine – today I blogged about wearing socks with heels!
http://beingzhenya.wordpress.com/2011/09/21/sock-it-up/
Thanks, I’ll definitely stop by. We used to wear anklets with our pumps in the 80′s, haha. 80′s fashion – that would another great idea for a post!
luv to get kicked by a woman with boots on! thanks for the post
Haha. I’m making a note to check out your blog. Thanks!
I just feel like you can’t be all things to all mankind and so just dress to please myself and my kiddos! I love dressing to please us! It’s liberating and once you’ve made the leap of not worrying what those other ladies in the line think, there is freedom there, too.
I don’t know who makes those rules, but I don’t think it matters all that much. I personally don’t agree with any of the rules you mentioned. I do watch a lot of What Not to Wear though and I’ve learned that matching your purse to your belt and shoes is actually a little tacky sometimes, choosing colours that compliment each other makes more of a statement (unless you’re the gorgeous Anna Friel on Pushing Daisies, who can pull off anything) but still it all comes down to personal preference. As for open toe shoes, I can’t stand them myself because I don’t like toes… or feet in general… but if you like them then go for it! I don’t really understand open toe boots because it kind of defeats the purpose.. but I see them everywhere, so it must be ok for Fall after all. And this is coming from a girl who lives smack-dab in the middle of Canada!
Just bought myself a lovely pair of boots today
But I agree, I wear open toe shoes until the weather refuses to cooperate, then it’s time to hide them! This was a great post!
Awesome, I loved this… you are your own trendsetter. I had a similar experience when I was oh… say ten when I wore sweatpants to school and a classmate answered a question in front of class and stated why he thought sweatpants made you look like you had an accident in your pants… yes ten! I haven’t worn sweatpants outside the gym since. After reading this story, maybe I should for the heck of it. Thanks again!
-Jacob Ryan Paul
Love my boots! But in 78 degree weather, I’d be wearing open toes too. Or at least flats!! I’m itching to get into my boots but not that desperately!
Lauren
http://eyeblinkfashion.wordpress.com
I abide by the ‘rule’ of no open toes in fall only because i have great fall boots and the season is so short that there is no time to wear all the shoes I own. Here is my selection for today (purchased on super sale early summer) http://www.flickr.com/photos/katymac79/5899884714/in/set-72157627110623114
That old no white between Labor Day and Easter sticks with me, too, from my childhood. I’m glad winter white is available.
Going to spend some time surfing in Mexico–no need to follow the rules….Boots, maybe some rain boots before October. Life in the City, oh well let the waves rule.
love boots!
-grace
I’m not much for open-toed boots, but I do so love wearing flip flops in the fall. A buddy of mine actually wore his flip-flops all through our (Chicago) winter back in high school – I’d admit that THAT was overdoing it.
But I need a new pair of boots, too. If a pair of Tory Burches or Stuart Weitzman leather boots wound up on my doorstep, I sure as heck wouldn’t complain.
I’m intrigued by the fact that I can somehow understand and empathize, yet not at all relate. To me this is like a soap opera come true – I care naught for fashion, perhaps because I live in a country which requires me to wear gloves before the summer is truly over.
I understand, at least to a degree, because I can’t imagine those types of rules about clothing either. I like clothes, shoes, and shopping, but I would never ever call myself a high-fashion person. I guess we should appreciate the freedom we have to wear what we want all the more! Thanks for commenting!
I’m sure your snarky fellow shopper’s grandmother also subscribed to the notion that only bad girls went out in public without wearing a girdle.
Some ideas are antiquated and simply don’t fit into the evolving world of women’s fashion. For heaven’s sake! You can’t swing a dead cat without hitting a pair of open toed boots these days!
Back in the 80’s when I worked in a store that sold clothing aimed at professional women, we had winter white wool suits (cream) that sold like hotcakes. The new rule seems to be that as long as you have a seasonably dark top on, you can encase your bottom in whatever color you choose. You should probably stick to dark shoes though.
Even I don’t break the shoe law.
And in answer to who comes up with the majority of these “laws” – People who enjoy feeling superior at the expense of others.
i want a pair as well!!! =)
http://travellersdiningdepot.wordpress.com/
It’s okay to wear open toe in the Fall if it’s still warm. Especially if you pair it with patterned tights, knee highs or thigh highs. That’s one of my fav looks!
It’s also still hot enough to make wearing boots uncomfortable, at least it is in NYC.
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Thanks so much for the share!
I work at the home office of a big fashion brand and the second it dipped below 80 for a couple days the crazy fashionistas came out from hibernation with their scarves and leather boots. It had to be 85 one day when I saw a chick in knee high boots. No thank you. I love boots too, but it needs to actually be autumn for me to break them out…
Haha…that’s exactly what happened here this week!
I definitely love a great fall boot. Especially if the bottom sole can withstand the harsh winters here in NYC. So I don’t think I can pull off open toe boots. I really enjoyed reading this post
Thank you. I’m wondering if NYC women will be sporting the open-toe boots this winter. Anything for the sake of fashion?
Nice! I love buying new boots! (note to self to go shopping)
Go for it!
Rock those peep toes, girl!! I LOVE peep toe heels, and I wear them in the winter (I didn’t know that was wrong, but it’s not going to stop me!). I only own one pair of boots, so I should probably find another pair asap or I’ll hear a snide comment about my feet…
Too funny…and I still don’t think it’s wrong.
I think open toe in fall is okay if you are lightly dressed. Sweater and maybe a scarf, but open toes when you’re wearing a jacket scarf and hat just makes no sense. I loathe the open toe/sandal boots. Personally I like letting my pedicures slip when cold weather comes.
I agree. Those open-toed boots are just strange, and I have no idea what outfit those would go with.
In this modern day and age, those rules are history. Don’t worry! Wear whatever you want, whenever you want! You can even mix prints now, as long as it’s done with class. And one time in a women’s bathroom I had someone say, “I’d never be caught dead wearing white shoes after labor day,” and then she gave me a mean look and stared at my white pumps. Some people just can’t let go of those ridiculous rules! It’s pathetic.
It’s funny that it would never bother me what someone else wore. I’m too focused on what I’m doing right or wrong.
I’m wearing white flip flops today and I live in Canada. I’d hate to hear what those ladies would say about me.
My daughters wear flip flops year-round pretty much, and so do other teens. In fact, I do too once I get home from work.
So good! I never understood that stuff either…I’m one of those people who wear brown and black…actually, I mostly dress like a rainbow
fun read!
Thanks so much!
I think the only rules to fashion should be: don’t look ridiculous
San Diego is like 80 degrees in fall…boots are only an option at night. Not all fall fashion applies to every state,city,country or continent.
-Bianca at http://theinbetweengirls.wordpress.com/
Same here in South Carolina. I think we hit 80 degrees today, and I looked at the shoes in the elevator. They’re ranging from flip flops to open-toed pumps to thigh-high boots. I’m considering September “wear what you want” month.
i could do with a new pair of boots! mine are near on falling to pieces i wear them that much. I love boots myself and think they are a really great piece to add to a casual outfit especially during the winter months.
Really nice post. Enjoyed reading it.
Amy.
Thank you! Time to go shopping!
Great post – thanks for making me laugh
Thank you…and thanks for letting me know you laughed.
Great post. I have to say though I am a woman who never wears white pants or white shoes. My mama always told me to wear bone. I love boots! Wear all the open toe shoes you want. I wear flip flops in the winter like most gals from Texas!
Flip flops seem to be a common theme coming from the Texan commentors here. Then again, I’m from South Carolina and we love them too. It’s nice that we’re able to get away with dressing either way, since our winters aren’t too harsh.
I never could wrap my head around all the fashion do’s and don’ts. Unfortunately, in college I had the nickname “Stevie Wonderful” because it looked like Stevie Wonder dressed me some days. Perhaps those rules are to protect others’ sensibilities and retinas. I know I’ve improved over the years but in my mind, fashion is purely about self-expression. Sometimes it’s fun to blatantly disregard the “proper” thing to do and stand out in the crowd of conformists!
I say wear white proudly and enjoy it! Chances are you’ll cross paths with at least one person that day that will be envious of your gumption
Thanks! I like the Stevie Wonderful reference. I may have to borrow that one day. Not to steal for the blog, but to make a point to my husband, haha. We always joke that we can’t tell what time of year it is when we look at old photo’s, because he’s dressed the same year-round – in shorts!
Well that is a silly and outdated rule. Trite, but rules are made to be broken, and moreover, we’re in the second decade of the 2000′s – a chic woman makes her own rules…keep rocking your open toed shoes whilst it’s still practical!
Well said. I’m going for “chic”.
The only rule to abide by in fashion is, “Don’t follow the rules.” Find what you like to wear and what looks good on you (that’s the most important part) and wear it proudly. It doesn’t matter if some been-around-forever rule says your can’t.
You’re so right.
One of the better FP posts around here. Liked it a lot.
Thank you so much! I love your profile picture, by the way.
The good news is that so much has changed in the fashion world…long gone are the grandma “rules”. Wearing white is encouraged after Labor Day, denim on denim is ok, purses don’t have to match anything (actually a pop of color in a handbag looks amazing), and patterns/prints can be mixed. So go ahead, mama, and wear what you want!
You’re so right. And we don’t have to let ourselves go or wear grandma hairstyles either.
Fall is the BEST time of the year! Cute sweaters and boots
Agreed. All this talk is really putting me in the mood for shopping.
Great post!! I love the boots!
Thanks! And I appreciate the comment!
I agree…Wear those opened toes shoes as long as possible!
lol! Would love to see one pull off those open toed boots. I still wear open toe shoes. Last week we hit 65 days of triple digit weather. So I too will wear the heck out of them as long as I can! Though I love boot too. Plus fall isn’t technically till Friday!
Love love love! Great post my fashionista friend!
http://www.jlee5879.wordpress.com
Why thanks!
That’s what fashion is for – to love or hate
Very true!
I’m with you girl! Throw those nonesense rules out. I don’t get how I can read a DO in one magazine and another prints the same thing as a DON’T.
If i’m happy with what I see in the mirror then I call it a definate do
p.s. I am loving the boots in the picture (the closed-toed ones, of course).
Sara
I agree. It’s all just someone’s opinion.
The approach of fall must have us all thinking of boots. I’ve been drooling over boot ads for days!
I know! Who knew boots would be a hot topic of the day?
Women ALWAYS need new boots!
Agreed. And I’ll be sporting mine as soon as I find the right ones…like those ones at the top of my post. A little less expensive, however.
I love boots and my toes have never matched my finger nails. I sometimes wear white after labour day and my purse never matched my shoes or my belt.
Obviously I’m a fashion disaster and no one has ever said anything to me. I think you’re good.
Haha…glad to know I’m not alone.
If you wear the open toe shoes with black tights, you are allowed to wear them after labor day as long as the shoes are darker in color.
Another rule I didn’t know! Thanks for commenting!
Ive never been a fan of rules; they are for people who don’t know what they are doing.
Im more inclined, however, to wear boots when inappropriate than to wear open toes when inappropriate. And I probably wouldn’t wear open toed boots because.. I like wearing socks.
I also need a new pair of boots. As I was recently researching for a blog on Star Wars style I realized that I don’t have a pair of flat, slouchy, semireminicient of Luke Skywalker boots. I don’t care if it is only a Texas winter, or hell, if its Texas summer… I could wear boots every day.
Yes, I love flat, slouchy boots. Such a great pick-me-up to jeans! Thanks for reading!
My philosophy on shoes is that they interrupt my toes’ freedom. Fashionable or (most likely) not, I’m the flip-flops-through-the-winter kind of girl
Great post!
I agree. Flip Flops or boots and no in-between.
haha love this! Sometimes committing fashion faux pas make you edgy and original, right? I’ve been toying with the idea of white skinny jeans tucked into brown boots with a navy blazer, it sounds cute to me but definitely breaks the “don’t wear white after labor day rule!”
http://cookingthroughcollegeblog.wordpress.com/
I say “go for it”! We’ll start our own trends…with our own rules!
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Hi, thanks for the plug!
Seriously? Are those boots for real? Sometimes I think fashion designers sit around in a secret club and take bets on which humans they can dupe into wearing what when. If we (mainly women) fall for it, they get rich(er). When the designers brought back low-slung peddle-pushers (recycled as capri pants with wide belts) and the girdle as Spanxs, I couldn’t believe we all fell for the jokes a second time. I decided then that we were one large manipulated group of consumers. So I’m giving myself a cut-off point for all this fashion, food, and prohibition nonsense. When I’m 70 years old (7 years from now, yikes!), I plan to wear the hell out of whatever I want, eat whatever I want, take up smoking, drink hard liquor, and exit stage left in a blaze of glory!
My tombstone will read: Here lies one happy, fat and sassy, unencumbered storyteller — she has no regrets! http://www.howthehelldidienduphere.wordpress.com
I’m with ya’! And they’re real. Up until last night, I had only heard about them.
Will you marry me?? Hahaha!
Great post! Thanks for the smile this morning
You’re welcome! Thanks for the feedback!
Open toe boots? Don’t think I could pull those off….
I know. I can’t imagine those anywere but the runway.
Oh my goodness on the open toe boots. What is the world coming to?
I’m also a fashion “don’t” beacuse I’m going to continue to wear my open toe shoes until I can’t stand it anymore. I’m ok with not following the “rules”
Me too. In fact, I’m still wearing them. Too hot for boots right now in the South.
I live in the midwest and I think about Suede boots all of the time until it rains. Fall means rain and puddles to which ruins Seude boots. I think that white rule was written by jealous Northerners who can’t wear white after summer because we get so much rain and puddles that ruin white paints.
True, it always rains when I wear suede.
I find it strange that people still abide by those rules. Thankfully I am pretty ignorant to them. Those boots at the end… interesting.
Sounds like people aren’t abiding by the rules any more, at least not those that are more fashion-forward. So you’re not “ignorant” at all.
I need a good pair of boots to wear to Pennsylvania in November. The problem with living in Texas is I don’t own any cold weather clothes. Not good since I’m moving to PA in 10 months…
Better go shopping…then again, you can wait and shop the sales.
Great post and crazy boots.
Thanks. Even my teenager thought they were too crazy.
I like the boots in the first picture. Are they Christian Louboutin’s ?
They are. Aren’t they great?
Another beautiful pair of unreachable boots *sigh*
I live is SF and it is actually really warm here right now. It is very rare to have warmer weather in SF. And because of the wonderful weather right now, you would see a lot of us wearing sandals and open toe shoes. Even though it is fall, I do not see anything wrong with wearing cute open toe shoes in the fall, especially if the weather is beautiful! Plus, there are some open toe boots these days or open toe oxfords that are so incredibly fashionable. You should get those and strut your stuff in front of those women! ^_^
Did you like the open-toe boots in the bottom photo? I’m still not sure about those. Then again, if they become trendy, who knows? I never say never.
SF = hillsets : ) Try some bouncy moonboots!
Hey now: You’re safe until Friday, the official first day of fall!
I heart boot weather. Can’t wait!
Good point. I love boots too. Writing this post made me ready to shop. Thanks for stopping by.
In Texas we wear open toes year round! But definitely not open toe boots. Not a good fashion choice in the state of cowboys and spurs.
You have a point there!
i need some too
I’ll pass on those open-toe boots though. Can’t figure those out.
I somehow have the feeling that open toe kinda defeats the purpose of wearing boots. But then I live in the north of Europe. Boots are for winter … except white ones perhaps
I agree. It reminds me of the girls that were wearing toe socks with flip flops a couple of years ago. I don’t get it.