During the winter months, our feet found refuge in thick winter socks and boots that shielded them from the harsh winter weather. But alas, summer is here and it is time for our feet to break free, and enjoy the sunshine and warm weather along with us. Some foot-conscious individuals actually take time to care for their feet year-round, but a large majority neglect their feet until warm weather arrives. Therefore, some time should be spent preparing your feet before lunging head first into cute, revealing footwear this summer. The three easy steps below will help ensure your feet have a smooth transition from winter into summer.
1. Treat yourself and your feet to a pedicure
For feet to be at their summer best, rid them of dry and calloused skin, cracked heels and neglected toe nails. According to Trish Fillart at Morgantown's Europa Salon & Day Spa, exfoliation is the first and most important step to keeping your feet nice for summer.
"Good exfoliation is key because flip-flops and sandals are very hard on your feet," Fillart said.
Nail salons and day spas like Europa offer various pedicure services. If price is an issue, there are some simple things you can do at home to keep your feet sandal-ready.
"Pumice stones are great for removing dead skin and softening feet," Fillart said.
Soaking your feet at home is a great way to keep them looking and feeling good, she said. Ingredients from your kitchen such as olive oil, salt, sugar and oatmeal are excellent natural moisturizers and exfoliants.
2. Find a nail polish color that works for you
When it comes to nail polish, there is a shade for every person and personality. Selecting a color from a new trend or an old classic can enhance the appearance of your feet almost instantly, Fillart said.
"Last summer's trends included a lot of oranges and corals, but this year it's like the brighter the better," she said. "We are seeing a lot of bright pinks and purples right now."
According to realbeau ty.com, a women's health, beauty and fashion website, neutral and pastel hues are also in style this summer.
WVU alum Ashlei Hazzard, 23, said she chooses nail polish based on how she feels and what she likes.
"I just wear what I think is pretty, and if it happens to be in style too, that's great," Hazzard said. "But if something is trendy and I don't like it, I still won't wear it."
3. Chose sandal styles that match your style
Sandals should fit your feet, as well as your personal taste.
Anne Dinan, an employee at Fig Leaf, a boutique on High Street in Morgantown, said many different kinds of sandals are in style this summer, meaning there is something for everyone.
"Braided ankle-wrap sandals are a big seller this summer, along with camel knit wedges," Dinan said. "In terms of colors, nudes, corals and rose-colored pinks are very in."
Last but not least, there is the always-popular flip-flop. Coming in various colors, styles and designs, flip flops are great accessories for everyone regardless of gender, age or taste, she said. Summer can be a fun time to experiment with fashion and beauty, so let your first makeover of the summer season be for your feet. They went through a lot during the winter months, they deserve a bit of pampering.
Source: yellowbrix
