Almost every day, I bitterly complain about how Tufts is built on a steady incline. Living at the bottom of the campus, walking up to class is my daily dose of exercise.
Unfortunately, this Himalayan hill deters me from wearing anything with the slightest heel around campus. Some days, in order to appease my feet, you can see me wearing my Birkenstocks or my navy blue suede Pumas.
My own experiences have led me to believe that everyone, regardless of whether they are students, professors or graduates, should own a pair of fashion-savvy sneakers. Think about it: Such a pair of sneaks would give you comfort and fashion points.
Over winter break, I went sneaker shopping for my brother. We decided on a pair of red, blue and white Onitsuka Tigers ($83.95 at www.classicportshoes.com). A branch of Asics, Onitsuka Tigers creates vintage-inspired sneakers in a variety of colors and styles. We picked one with red lines because it was a color that isn't prevalent in my brother's wardrobe. Red, however, goes with most of his clothing, which is predominantly blue and neutral toned.
Your stylish kicks should be a color combination that complements your outfit. If you mainly wear dark, neutral colors, I suggest going with sneaks that have a bright accent. If you want a unique color combination, Puma (www.puma.com) offers its Puma Mongolian Shoe BBQ. You can "cook up" your own special footwear. Prices range from $100 to $130, but it is totally worth the money. Keep your shoe to the most basic of colors with one or two defining accents. You want this new fancy footwear to complement your outfit, not overshadow it.
Two major phenomena around campuses nationwide are Vans and Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars. Let me briefly discuss the two. Both come in a variety of styles and color palettes. That, however, does not mean that all of them should be purchased.
One girl I knew in high school had Chucks in almost every color, low-top and high-top. Although they may be comfortable, I don't see the need for every single style. Like Puma, you can design your own pair on their Web site, www.converse.com
I prefer the low-top over the high-tops. Low-tops worn with a casual summer dress or short shorts are flirtatious looks, but you'll have to wait unt it's warmer to pull that outfit out of the closet. In any case, the low-top ends below the ankle, which elongates the leg.
Like Chucks, there are certain styles of Vans that one should stay away from - skate style being one of them. This particular style is bulkier than the rest, giving the illusion that you have swollen feet. Hands down, that is quite unappealing. Classic styles like the slip-on are more acceptable. Custom slip-ons are also available online at www.vans.com.
I can understand if you are not interested in a particular brand. If you're looking for something with universal appeal, try the white canvas sneaker. Worn during any season, this style can be easily manipulated to suit the preppiest to the most alternative or emo dresser.
White canvas sneakers can be ultra-feminine or super-macho. They're a blank canvas from which to develop your outfit (pardon the pun). Best yet, they are both inexpensive and comfortable.
Next time you have second thoughts about those toe-pinching wedges, give them a rest and reach for your sweet sneakers. You won't regret it.
Lumay Wang is a freshman who has not yet declared a major. She can be reached at Lumay.Wang@tufts.edu.
