Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/655581
maltatoday, SUNDAY, 20 MARCH 2016 17 News Triq id-Dolmen, Qawra. Tel: 2158 3434 Email: dbistro@dbhotelsresorts.com Pizza, Pasta, Salads & Grills istro feel like they are too short, and that heels can make them look taller and thinner, and if that gives them confi- dence, then it shouldn't be a problem, as long as they don't think they should all conform to one ideal of beauty." Naudi added that very often, the idea that wearing heels equals looking smart and sexy is pushed by societal stereotypes (coming from both men and women), the media and even the fashion industry itself. The idea is in fact reiterated by the association of po- diatrists of Malta, which blames such misguided notions on the media and the fashion industry. "Fashion can be said to send sublimi- nal messages. In this case, the message is that 'high heels will give you more of a feminine image' or that 'you will have an enviable sophisticated look'," a spokesperson for the association said, stressing that these factors end up con- ditioning women towards these men- talities. Although they admitted that the in- dustry has indeed led to such condi- tioning, the bloggers at The Clouded Revolution say fashion houses and their traditional reliance on high heels on the runway, seems to be on the way out. "Realizing the need for a more practi- cal take on fashion, designers over the past few seasons have started to fo- cus their entire collection around flat shoes only," Galea said. "It will prob- ably influence trends in women's shoe choices in the near future." mborg@mediatoday.com.mt High-heeled shoes are a staple in most women's wardrobes no matter how much discomfort they cause. But if these pretty contraptions are the source of injury, does it really have to be this way? MARTINA BORG asks as bunions, hammer-toes and bunionettes," they said, adding that these deformities can result in bony prominences which in turn lead to areas of high pressure and bring about problems such as inflammation of certain joints, corns and calluses, and even foot ulcers in diabetics. Shoes with narrow fronts also cause compression of the toes and feet. "This often leads to the impingement of nerves in the feet, something that can be as painful as it sounds, requiring surgical excision in severe cas- es." Women are also more likely to twist and sprain their ankle while wearing high heels and some an- kle sprains may be so severe that they cause tears in the ligaments in the ankle, that may give rise to chronic instability and increased risk for re-sprain- ing the ankle in the future. without a fire: What the pain of high heels can really mean The Clouded Revolution's Nicole Farrugia and Claire Galea have a strong belief in flat shoes, and they have compiled a few tips for women aspiring to look equally fashionable and comfortable: "The much-desired lean silhouette can also be achieved with flat shoes," they say. The important thing, according to them is not to swamp yourself in longer, or wider cut bottoms. "Think of a sixties silhouette instead, with ankle-grazing cigarette cut trousers or knee-length shift dresses." They add that it would be wise to invest in a pair of classic nude ballet pumps or loafers. "Not only are they great for their neutral element, but they will give the illusion of longer legs." On the other hand, if you absolutely feel like you have to wear heels, at least take the association of podiatrists' advice and explore the different kinds of heels out there. "Shoes with a lower heel ensure the heel of their foot isn't raised as much, and wider heels tend to provide more stability and grip, reducing the risk of twisting ankles or tripping," they say. Logically, wider toe boxes are also recommended as they will not cram and compress the toes as much. Furthermore, the association recommends slings or straps that keep the foot from slipping forward and further cramming the toes. "You might also consider taking a second pair of more comfortable shoes with you whenever you're out in heels, so that you can change into more reasonable footwear when it all gets too much." Tips for footwear that won't necessarily leave you in tears Claire Galea (left) and Nicole Farrugia from The Clouded Revolution show how to dress smart with flat shoes