THE PERFECT “SOLE” MATE ON YOUR WEDDING DAY!
Joanne P. Pike
When asked to review Tana’s Smiling Feet gel supports, I was the perfect candidate hands down. Well, in this case “feet first”! A history of chronic foot and knee problems has created many a disastrous fashion statement for this shoe diva. Just speak to my Editor-in-Chief, and I am certain she will vouch for me on this one!
Alas ladies cry no more…when it comes to these hidden treasures from Tana, these pros bring a whole new meaning to the perfect fit. Humm….Cinderella’s fairytale wedding may not have happened at all if her wicked step-sisters got their hands on these little beauties.
Whether to compliment that perfect wedding dress with the soft touch of a delicate dress sandal or the fashion shoe that you have been gazing at every time you open your closet, Smiling Feet has the answer in five wonderful styles. (The Anti-Slip Pads and the Gel Heel Cushions are my personal favorites) These unique gel pads are designed to bring out the princess in you by creating comfort, confidence and the ultimate sexy look!
There are six styles of gel based products that retail for $5.99 each. The Heel Cushions are great for pointy-toed stilettos, providing cushion support to the heel of the foot, and the Anti-Slip Pads are perfect for mules and slides preventing slipping under the forefoot are two for brides-to-be to look at. To discover your perfect sole mate view www.tana.ca or call 1-800-263-8262 to find your closest retailer.
THE BAREFOOT BRIDE
Gina Greschner
eet tend to be forgotten due to lack of foot-care knowledge. Caring for your feet on a daily basis is the first and most important step. Start by investing in a spa-quality foot file and give heels and rough spots a quick file-down after you step out of the bath or shower, when feet have softened. If you have hair on top of your toes, by all means give them a wax or a shave.
Never skip moisturizer on your feet. Apply it right after you take a shower, as that is when you lock in the moisture your skin is retaining from the water. Coconut oil is an excellent choice, as it is rich, quick-absorbing, and contains caprilic acid, which is naturally exfoliating. If you find the oil too greasy for the daytime, you can either use a very small amount or switch to a water-based cream. Before bed, give your feet a generous coating of coconut oil, put on a pair of socks, and you will have baby-soft feet in the morning.
If you take care of your feet every day, it will be no problem to whip them into star condition whenever you need to. A pre-wedding or shower pedicure party can be a great deal of fun! If you choose to do a pedicure on your own, in a group, or as a couple, follow these steps:
Pedicure steps:
1. Soak feet in a basin of warm water for 20 minutes. Adding 1/4 cup of Epsom salts will soften feet, soothe aches, and pull toxins from your skin. If you add 1/4 cup of milk to your water, the lactic acid will naturally slough away dead skin cells. An additional 1/4 cup of olive oil will soften and moisturize, as well as kill any bacteria (olive oil is a natural anti-fungal).
2. Use a professional foot file to file away any calluses or rough spots. Trim and file toenails. Trimming nails into a slightly squared shape helps to avoid ingrown toenails.
3. Massage a rich foot cream and allow five minutes for the cream to absorb. Use a cotton pad (one designed for polish removal) and remove every trace of cream from toenails.
4. Be meticulous about your polish application – taking time to properly complete all of the steps will ensure a lasting pedicure without chips and peeling. Apply a thin layer of base polish and allow 10 minutes to dry. Choose your color and apply a THIN layer. Dry for 10 minutes. If you have reached the desired intensity, you are ready for the topcoat. If you want richer color, apply another thin layer. When polish is dry, always finish with a topcoat for shine and protection. Visit www.vitalsciencecorp.com.
Your polish can be exciting!
Nail art is becoming more popular and is another way to accessorize yourself and the wedding party. For brides, a French manicure on the toes is elegant and timeless. A coat of clear sparkle polish can be applied on top for added glamour. Be creative with your toes by adding crystals to your polish in your own custom design. Crystals can be found at a drugstore or beauty supply or craft store. Remember – less is often more. When adorning your toes, go sparingly. If you have never done your own nail art, a practice run may be required.
To Apply Crystals:
Let polish dry. Use a small dab of nail glue or clear polish on the area you are applying the crystals.
- Use tweezers to pick up the crystal. Gently press into glue or polish.
- Complete the design and apply topcoat.
For information on the Groove gold sandal pictured above, please visit www.lovemyshoes.com. |
