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Franco Sarto Women’s Griffen Sandals
 

Cliffs by White Mountain Women’s Carnation Sandals

 

Madden Girl Women’s Tandumm Sandals

 

Naturalizer Women’s Panya Sandals

 

Asics Women’s Gel Kayano Running Shoes

The post Top-Rated Shoe Styles: See What’s Trending For Summer appeared first on Famous Footwear.

Tune-in to Good Morning America every Friday between 7 and 9 AM Eastern Time, tweet or Instagram @FamousFootwear using #SummerConcerts and you’re automatically entered to win one of our weekly $100 Famous Footwear gift cards.

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Ahhhhh, can you hear it now? The splashing of water, waves crashing on the beach, birds chirping overhead, kids laughing…it’s the sound of summer!

Summer is a time for vacations, backyard barbecues, lounging by the pool or beach, and the list goes on! Because you’re family is spending so much time outdoors this season, it’s important to have fashionable, easy-to-wear shoes that  work with every outfit and occasion.

We’re loving neutral canvas slip-ons in colors like cream, navy and white. With this casual, everyday color palette you can wear them with a swimsuit, flowing dresses, and even bermuda shorts.

Details like crochet, stripes, and contrast stitching take your shoes to the next level…and don’t think your friends and family won’t notice!

Did we mention canvas is also easy to clean!? Just use a cloth, warm water and soap to wipe away dirt and sand…and your shoes will be looking as good as new!

Are you a fan of canvas shoes? Share with us!

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I Speak From the Heart, Thanks to Mom 
Written by Nelli Tokleh, GenPink

Ever since I was a kid, my mom has always been my biggest fan. Back then, I loved participating in extracurricular activities, and she was always there to support me. Whether it was going to band practice, rehearsing for the school play, playing volleyball or writing for the local newspaper, my mom never complained about driving me everywhere and the impact that had on her daily schedule. She saw my passion for these activities and encouraged me to stick with what I loved to do as it would help make me a well-rounded person. I attribute my success in life to the moral and intellectual guidance she provided me with.

When I was growing up, Mom frequently shared a Persian proverb with me: “Whatever is in the heart will come up to the tongue.” I know she shared this to teach me about the importance of being honest about my feelings (not holding back) when something is important to me. She taught me that, if I care deeply about something but don’t say what’s on my mind —whether it’s to my sister, my parents, a guy I was crushing on or a best friend — I could regret that choice later in life.

Mom’s advice for me in this area influenced me probably the most in my relationship with my younger sister. We’re only two years apart and share similar interests in pretty much everything. My mom taught me to be especially open with my sister because I’m a role model for her. And, although we used to bicker as sisters sometimes do, I value our sisterly bond even more now that we are adults. Her friendship is invaluable to me, and I owe it to my mom for helping me realize the importance of our relationship. Mom’s advice also lends an added benefit: my sister and I always know where we really stand with each other on just about anything. That kind of trust is really something special if you ask me.

Mom’s advice on open communications also rang true for my academic life. So, it’s no surprise to note that school is the area where I’ve seen the most success over the years. My mom’s biggest push throughout my entire life was focused on education. And now I find myself in grad school, earning a second degree to advance my career! Mom wanted my sister and me to receive the best education and, in turn, the best jobs, because she never had that experience when she lived overseas in a war-torn country.

Looking over my life, I know that all her support and good advice over the years is rooted in a loving mission for me and my siblings. All she wants in life is to see her kids become successful people and help make a difference in this world.  And the best part of it all: when we reach our dreams and goals, she shares each and every victory with us.

Thanks, Mom, for being a mentor, a best friend and for simply being my mom!

Harnessing the Courage to Succeed in Life, Compliments of Mom
Written by Barbara Akowuah, L.A. Fashion Trends Examiner

My mom has inspired me in so many ways. She has always wanted my brothers and me to have every advantage we could have in life — even those she didn’t have. And, when it comes to a role model for compassion, empathy and caring for others, she leads by example — especially where family is concerned.

Mom always encouraged us to do well in school. It’s one of the ways she pressed us to great things and advantages that she didn’t have growing up, as she wasn’t able to complete her studies. I took it to heart, and I worked hard in school. I also worked hard at being a good friend and a kind, giving person to others. But, I couldn’t shake the shadow of worry that followed me around through my later childhood and teen years. I realize now that it’s because I was a perfectionist.

I can remember being worried about everything being perfect — especially where other people’s opinions were concerned. By the time I was a teenager, it started to feel like the more I cared about something, the less I was able to do about it. And, because I was so afraid of not measuring up, I sometimes hesitated to try new things.

When she noticed this, Mom would tell me, “Don’t worry about everyone else or else you won’t be able to do anything. Do what makes you happy.”

Thanks to Mom’s advice, things really turn around for me, and I flourished! I found myself doing things I never would have tried in the past, like walking a mini cat walk in heels in the middle of Times Square and sitting in the front row of all my classes. And, in class, I raised my hand so often that my teachers would say, “Not you again. Give someone else a chance!”

Now that I’m an adult, I can see so clearly how Mom’s influence led to my success not only with school and academics, but also with people. She’s the kind of family-oriented person who simply doesn’t feel content if anyone in the family is troubled, unhappy or facing big life challenges. In fact, if anyone in our family has a problem, it becomes her concern too. And, her loving, caring spirit and careful attention to all of us proves that she still leads by example.

I learned to be compassionate towards others and to help those in need where I can, thanks to Mom. And, my brothers and I are all college graduates, something that wouldn’t have been possible without Mom’s drive and support. She gave us all a wonderful gift: the courage to succeed.

I want to wish my mom and all others a very happy Mother’s Day!

Mom’s Advice on Friends 
Written by Jasmine Anderson, FashionGrail

This Mother’s Day, I’d like reflect on the inspiration and encouragement my mom has given me throughout my life. Much of my drive comes from her, and she’s a woman that gets things done! She tackles things head on without thinking twice. Her energy has always amazed me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I soldier on with a mental image of my mom doing a million things at once with a smile on her face.

As I was growing up, my mom used to say, “Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres.” It translates to, “Tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are.” This saying has always helped me wisely choose the people I surround myself with, and I also share the quote with my kids in English. I believe in surrounding myself with positive people that I respect and love; it’s reflected in everything I do.

I think I’m where I am today in life thanks to Mom. For example, when I look at my boys, I feel successful. I genuinely like the way they are turning out! They’re amazing in so many ways, and best of all, I can’t even take all the credit because they just make it too easy for me. From the moment I became a mother (and I was all of 19), my mom always believed in me and respected the way I parented. She could have easily jumped in on many occasions, but the best thing that she did was let me raise them my way and just be there when I needed her advice.

I truly appreciate my mom for all the life lessons she taught me, and from the bottom of my heart, I want to wish all moms a very happy Mother’s Day!

A Legacy of Strength 
Written by Pam Lutrell, Over 50 Feeling 40

Life on an East Texas oil lease was not easy for my mother and her four siblings, but what made it even harder was the alcoholism of my grandfather.  He came home drunk and abusive most nights.  My mother taught me the value of diligence and perseverance, no matter what your circumstances happen to be.  She taught me to overcome any adversity and to realize the strength of a woman. It is this strength that enables me today to handle many tasks at the same time.  Currently, I am a mother, wife, grandmother, high school teacher, freelance writer and professional blogger.  It takes the tough, diligent attitude my own mother modeled.

Born in Louisiana and raised in East Texas, my mother had some funny sayings, but the sentiments were good!  She always told me not to settle for less….strive for excellence!  The saying goes like, “It’s like trying to and can’t!” (Make sure you say this with a Texas twang!) She had little patience when I did not give my best efforts.

My mom’s influential hard-working attitude has surely passed on to me. Because my mother was strong and tough, I truly believe I can handle anything with success.  The number one area I enjoy the most in life is mothering my own three children and being with my new grandson. We persevered through much, but all three young adults are stellar. I am so proud of them. When I desired private school for them, I went to work for the school in order to make it happen for my kids. There I met Mrs. Billy Graham, who once said she prays daily for a tough hide and a tender heart.  I have the tough hide of an East Texas independent woman and the tender heart followed after.  This proved to be the best combination for becoming a mother who remains close to her children today.

If she’s near you, go hug your mom a little tighter this weekend and wish her a happy Mother’s Day!

The post Happy Mother’s Day – Letters To Mom appeared first on Famous Footwear.

One of the lessons she always taught was to find ways to celebrate the small things. We’ve had impromptu birthday parties at periodic times of the year even if it wasn’t our birthday, just so that we could blow out the candles and make more wishes.

From a very young age my siblings and I were engaged with loads of activities, and Mom never hesitated to support us, whether it was sports and school clubs, or other extra-curriculars.  She did this, not only for me, but for other students as well. She always gave 100 percent to everything, no matter how small or large a task it was. It’s this kind of spirit and tradition that I hope I bring to my children.

The most motivating thing she ever said to me was, “I am what I am and the best is yet to come from me!” She actually wrote this sentence on a post-it note and stuck it on my dresser mirror as a daily reminder.  Mom loved my poetry and writing from a very young age and always encouraged my creativity. And, this mantra springs eternal in my thoughts — especially when it’s time to overcome fears and anxieties in life.

Over the years, I’ve realized that the personal, family, creative and even business sides of my life seem to be interconnected in a lot of ways, and Mom has been my biggest supporter in all of them. I can’t really even describe what a difference that has made and still does today.

Second to my kids, my freelance career is one of the parts of my life where I’m the most passionate. When I started my blog, it was a horrible time in my life. I was going through custody battles and financial problems, and it was a real challenge to stay positive and productive at times. She constantly assured me that I would overcome my obstacles, and she was always reading what I wrote.  There’s something so powerful about that kind of support. Some days I think it actually helped me move mountains.

As a mother, I find myself in a situation comparing my decisions and actions to what she would have done. While I don’t think everything was perfect, I’m comfortable in understanding how her experiences shaped her decisions. It helps me grasp and understand that my experiences shape me and will shape my children. In my opinion, you have to always be cognizant that what you give to the universe — and the people you love — can actually transform lives.

So, thank you Mom, for sending me love and inspiration. You make a difference to me every day.

Famous Footwear is celebrating this Mother’s Day by sending gratitude to mom with real stories from mom bloggers that we admire and respect. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there who make this day possible! And a special thank you to Heather Buen from Dallas Single Mom for telling us about how her mom’s support has changed her life!

The post Mom’s Support Means the World to Me appeared first on Famous Footwear.

Thanks for visiting Footnotes and have fun sharing this video and #momknowsbest quotes with all the moms who make Mother’s Day possible!

The post Mom Knows Best appeared first on Famous Footwear.

One of the biggest transitions I made in my life was leaving my teaching career to stay home with my son. I made this adjustment, so I wouldn’t miss out on one moment with him just like my mom didn’t miss a step with me. I’m fortunate enough to have my mom (or Grandma as she’s now called!) close by, which means the world to me, so that she is able to dedicate her to time me and my son. Now as a stay-at-home mom, I realize how much she sacrificed for me, and I do the same for my son.

One of the most resonating words of encouragement my mom shared with me at a young age was to always practice the golden rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I’ve found that this statement has stuck with me for many years, and it’s a great reference to have in life. I plan to teach this to my son as he gets older and can only hope I make an impact in his life the way my mom has impacted mine.

Thanks, Mom for being my role model and inspiration!

Famous Footwear is celebrating this Mother’s Day by sending gratitude to mom with real stories from mom bloggers that we admire and respect. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there who make this day possible! And a special thank you to Melissa Jennings from Stockpiling Moms for this ode to mom. 

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1) My ideal vacation is:

A.  Visiting a theme park
B.  Family fun on the beach
C.  Backpacking across Europe
D.  Cancun club scene

2) Shoe shopping is an indulgence like:

A.  Chatting with my best friend
B.  Getting my hair done
C.  A day at an art fair
D.  Girls’ night out

3) My friends would describe your shoe collection as:

A.  In need of some excitement
B.  Pretty basic
C.  Bursting with color
D.  Needing two closets

4) My wardrobe consists mostly of:

A.  Yoga pants and tanks
B.  Jeans and tees
C.  An eclectic mix of trends
D.  Classic skirts and dresses

5) My shoe mentality is that they’re:

A.  There to get me from point A to point B
B.  A nice complement to my look
C.  A form of self-expression
D.  The one thing I build my outfit around

6) When it comes to trends I’m:

A.  Not interested
B.  Skeptical
C.  Open to mixing in a few
D.  A trendsetter

7) My favorite way to exercise is:

A.  Going for a walk outdoors
B.  A group exercise class
C.  Painting in an art studio
D.  Strolling through the mall

If you got…

Mostly A’s: You’re a Comfort Cruiser

You believe that fashion should play a supporting role but not bog you down. There’s a lot of living to do, after all, and the last thing you want is to be slowed down by 4-inch heels and pinched toes. Sandals with comfort features are just what you’re looking for. We recommend the b.o.c by Born Macedonia.

Mostly B’s: You’re Cool & Classic

When it comes to shoes, you crave comfort and casualness, but still want to keep it fresh and exciting. You’re aware of the newest thing, but never overdo it. A T-strap sandal with stylish metallic accents like the G by GUESS Lindsey, brings just enough cool to your classic style.

Mostly C’s: You’re Boho Chic

Any amount of time you can spend daydreaming, being creative and letting your imagination take over is your idea of pure bliss. This free-spirited attitude translates into your fashion sense, making you an ideal boho chic kinda gal. Beaded sandals with artistic accents are what make your heart sing. Check out the Zigi Soho Milan.

Mostly D’s: You’re Feminine with Flair

Pretty embellishments, eye-catching details and everything girly-girl is right up your alley. You have a passion for the “pretty” things in life and shoes are no exception! Slip into a feminine, floral-accented sandal with rhinestone bling like the G by GUESS Ritz.

Which sandal style are you? Comment below to share your style with us or forward this quiz on to your friends so you can compare!

The post What’s Your Sandal Style? Take the Quiz! appeared first on Famous Footwear.

Aerosoles

Women’s Chlambake

$39.99

Go for a perfectly boho chic look with the Aerosoles Chlambake black and silver sandals when you pair them with stacked wooden and metal bangles, a tie-dyed maxi dress and a wide, pewter beaded belt.

With soft, natural-looking makeup and a loose braid you’ll read cool and collected, a nice break from the summer heat!

B.O.C.

Women’s Cersei

$39.99

Are you a sucker for shorts as soon as the temps start climbing? If so, you’re not alone! We’re swooning over the casual sophistication of this outfit with citrus-colored shorts.

Grab some gold-rimmed sunnies, a printed tank, bright shorts, a neutral scarf, and your B.O.C. Cersei metallic sandals to accomplish this relaxed look.

Steve Madden

Women’s P-Kale

$44.99

If gold Steve Madden P-Kale sandals with multi-colored rhinestones, don’t say summer, we don’t know what does. Pair them with your favorite colored jeans, a white tank, jean vest and printed scarf for an effortless all-American look.

We even love a complimentary layered look on your wrists. Try  mixing gold bangles with colored ones and woven bracelets. This outfit is approachable and fun.

Madden Girl

Women’s Tandumm

$39.99

When hanging out with your girlfriends or the little ones, go for a sweet and feminine style this summer. The coral and iridescent stones of the Madden Girl Tandumm, work in tandem (pun intended!) with a flowy, floral skirt and simple tank.

Then top off the look with some drop earrings and a light-colored fedora. And that, friends, is how you make metallics work with your current wardrobe for a little extra summer glam.

The post Precious Metals: How To Wear Metallic Sandals appeared first on Famous Footwear.