It’s toe-time again. With sweltering temperatures and long, sunny days, my sandals and flip flops have slowly inched to the front of my closet, stepping on and over boots and pumps, and finally kicking me in the ass to say “Hello! It’s time!”
I really thought I’d be ready this year. I’d planned to take a long luxurious day to dust off the cob webs, and polish and pamper my peds with a decadent spa pedicure. I guess because my feet are way down there at the end of my legs—snuggled in socks, securely hidden from the public in shoes, just toeing the line, doing what they do—they’re way down there at the end of my list, and beauty budget too.
So this year, like last year, and the year before, I fell back on my girl scout powers to prep my piggies for the public. My DIY route requires a long soak in hot water, an exfoliating scrub, and intensive moisturizing. Sing it with me “easy as 1,2,3.” To moisturize, I apply a liberal amount of lotion, wrap my feet in Saran wrap, pull on a pair of cozy old socks, and spend a few hours on the sofa, watching old movies and letting the lotion do its thing. Yes, I suffer for my style. Then once my shiny soles are unmasked, I add a lick of paint and go about my summery way.
This year, I fell asleep during my intensive moisturizing routine, and when I woke up the next morning, I had a serious crick in my neck, a serious drool stain on my cushion, and … a serious pair of shiny happy feet. I’m talking born again feet!
Now I can’t just pick a random polish and squash ‘em into last Summer’s slides—the fashion Gods have obviously given me a second chance and I’m determined to thank them by showcasing my feet in style.
What’s The Perfect Polish?
According to nail technicians at the snazziest salons in San Francisco, summer colors are generally lighter than winter ones, and this year is no exception. Pale pinks are always hot for summer and most nail technicians will suggest a light color for that natural look. Light colors are more flattering on your feet and they don’t chip so obviously either—so I’m sold. (I’m all about getting mileage out of my pedicure.)
Essie has a new line of polishes for this summer called “It’s Better in the Bahamas,” and I think Essie is on to something.
