Whether you like it or not, how you dress says a lot about who you are and how you choose to present yourself. Facing the fact that you’re a shoe embarrassment might increase your chance at date, a job, or even a friendship — self-awareness is the first step in shoe recovery.

Athletic Shoes (ALL the time) – Don’t get us wrong, wearing athletic shoes sends the message that your care about your personal health and fitness but when you never take them off you’re sending a different message: “I am insecure and want everyone to know that I am athletic (even though I only run on the treadmill).”

Kitten Heels – “I use to only wear flats until I became self-conscious about my height but I’m still to afraid to take the plunge into pumps.”

Toe Shoes (NOT the ballet kind) – If you’re one of those individuals who wear toe shoes, you know the ones that go between each and every toe, TAKE THEM OFF and save yourself the embarrassment of our critique.

Combat Boots – We are all for the combat boot trend and are guilty of it ourselves but there is a right and a wrong way to do it. Right — Skinny jeans and a tee or a lace dress to add a touch of femininity. Wrong — Combat boots with ripped jeans, ripped shirt, and skull/cross jewelry… You’re scaring the little children.

Crocs – These go up there with toe shoes and the “slob” title. We understand they are comfortable (actually we don’t because we refuse to step a foot in them) but they send the “I don’t care about my appearance” vibe, meaning no dates and no new jobs in your future.

The shoe infractions go on and on, as do our not so nice words of advice. By no means are we criticizing you, we are pushing you to be a better you: one with confidence and class. Shoes are meant to be accents not costumes.

By: Ashley Tschudin