Finding a Sole Mate in Cincinnati

 
If you’ve ever found the perfect outfit, bag and accessory only to struggle to find the perfect shoes to tie it all together or known exactly what shoe you needed but couldn’t find it anywhere you’ve come to the right place. We’ve even know where you can go to get your favorite heels fixed!

You step up to your full-length mirror to check yourself out. Outstanding outfit, check. Head-turning handbag, check. Awe-inspiring accessories, check. And so-so shoes. Yep, your look is officially ruined.

Shoes have the power to make or break an outfit. But searching for those one-of-a-kind gems can take a “heel” of a long time. The first step is to find the area’s best shoe shops to increase the likelihood of finding the right shoe for you.

Where to Buy
If you’re looking for something a little different, Shoetopia is the way to go! They offer everything from one-of-a-kind sneakers to high-end heels. These shoes aren’t for the faint of heart — wear them when you are looking to make a footwear  fashion statement. Check out this week’s feature to learn more about Jessica Andrews-Griffin, owner of Shoetopia and to watch a virtual tour of the store.

Conjure up your inner Cinderella and check out Royal Impression to find fairytale footwear. They offer ballroom dancing shoes for both women and men in styles imported from England, Germany and Canada.

Attention busy moms! Get footwear finds for the whole family at Head Over Heels in Hyde Park. They offer everything from gym shoes to designer heels and shoes for kids to adults.

Sole Necessity has a wide variety of shoes with extra support. Don’t worry — they’re not your typical orthopedic shoes! They offer shoes for any outfit — denim to dresses! In their Anderson Township location, you can get a free digital foot scan analysis to find out exactly where your foot needs the most support to make you more comfortable and help alleviate leg and back pain.

Bob Ronker’s Running Spot covers your every running shoe need. Ronker’s has been serving Cincinnati since 1981, offering knowledge to go along with his shoes. He also offers free injury clinics to help relieve sore feet, heels, knees, hips and backs.

If repairs are what you’re looking for, try Casablanca Vintage Clothing.This shop is known for its retro fashion, but also offers a shoe repair service that was ranked in Cincinnati Magazine’s February 2008 issue.

While you are looking for the perfect pair of shoes, keep a few things in mind. First, make sure to have your foot measured when you buy your shoes. Having shoes that fit properly is the first step to making sure you are comfortable and do not injure your feet, legs or back. You will want to make sure you have enough room to move your toes and the heel does not slip off when you are walking. Take your potential new shoes for a spin in the showroom to make sure they fit. Any discomfort you feel in the store will only get worse the longer you wear the shoes.

When you get tired of shopping, sit down and try on shoes. Your feet will already be sensitive and swollen from a day of walking, which is how your feet will end up after a day of wearing those shoes you’re trying on. You will be able to get shoes to fit you comfortably in all situations.

Finally, don’t think a shoe has to break-in to be comfortable. Besides, do you really want your new leather pumps to stretch?