What to Wear When Your Toes Are No-No’s

As it gets warmer out, we all want to cast aside our sweaters, corduroys and knee-high boots and slip into florals blouses, flowy skirts, and sandals.  But for a lot of us, this isn’t exactly an option.  Just because the weather calls for one thing, doesn’t mean the office atmosphere agrees.  So how are you supposed to incorporate spring trends when your workplace forces you to cover up those toes?  Or perhaps your office doesn’t care, but you feel it’s still a wee bit early to bare those ten teeny appendages.  After all, they haven’t been given proper maintenance, no pedicure, etc.  They need time to breath and ease into being on full display.  But worry not, fair fashionistas, for you still have many options, even when your toes aren’t one of them.

Colorful flats are the easiest way to add a little spring sunshine to a more conservative wardrobe.  You’re not pushing too many boundaries, but you’re definitely adding a punch to an otherwise plain outfit.  Everything from bright blue to floral and art deco patterns line the shelves, so whatever you’re preference, you shouldn’t have any problem finding it.

If you indulged in the ankle bootie trend in seasons past, don’t shove them into storage just yet.  So long as they are lighter or more neutral colors, they are still definitely appropriate for the season.  Just disregard the tights and you still have an adorable spring shoe.

Boots.  Boots are tricky.  Boots are heavier, clunkier, and obviously, cover a lot more skin – which can be good and bad.  If you have a pair of flat boots that you can pair well with a knee-length dress, then do it.  But try to steer clear of tucking in the leggings or jeans, as this is a bit too wintery for the season ahead (and you run the risk of heatstroke).

Platforms, wedges, and our good friend colorblocking.  This season, there are tons of spring heels that don’t involve your toes.  Slip into an oh-so-high wooden-heeled wedge, or a bright purple pair of platforms, or a chunky canvas or patterned heel, and strut your stuff.

For more inspiration, flip through the images below.  Have  your own solution to the no-toes-allowed office atmosphere?  Give me a heads up in the comments section!

After graduating from college in ’09, Allyson Barkan flew off to Greece to teach English Literature at a private high school and explore Greek and European culture for a year.  Since returning stateside, she now works in Entertainment Public Relations in New York City.  For travel advice, stray observations as a 20-something in the big city, and the occasional hilarious misadventure, follow Allyson atwww.allysonbarkan.com and on twitter at @aebarkan.