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When it comes to footwear in the Colorado Rockies, fashion and function are key. After all, we’re faced with unpredictable weather—sunny in the morning with rain showers in the afternoon. Wonderfully snowy winters turn into slushy springs. We need a comfortable fit for all the walking we do in the warm-weather months—from outdoor farmers’ markets and music festivals to rodeos and county fairs. And we want to look good, too!
Tracy Bennett of Midland Shoe in Basalt, says there are certain brands her Rocky Mountain clients turn to time and time again. She always stocks a large supply of Dansko clogs. (“They are a staple,” she says.) And the UGG Australia sheepskin boot, which has seen resurgence in recent years, is actually a company that’s 25 years old. “The classic style is still number one,” says Bennett, who is in her 15th year of business of selling “fun and funky” shoes.
El Naturalista is a newer brand from Spain that is particularly eco-friendly. The company uses vegetable extracts and ground tree bark for tanning leather, as well as recycled rubber for its soles. Large hand-stitched swirls on some of the women’s Mary Janes and slide styles add a whimsical artisan touch to the shoes.
Bennett says the Romus mules and clogs, some with cheeky leopard prints, flowered satin or ornate velvet patterns, offer incredible comfort. “These heels actually have an arch, so they are soft and cushy and you can wear them all day long,” she says.
Keen Footwear is a “no brainer,” says Bennett. “Keen is the perfect mountain shoe,” with its waterproof leather, insole comfort, and rugged and casual styles.
La Canadienne “does fashion and function well,” according to Bennett, who carries the brand’s boots. Versatile and comfortable, the boots are made with Italian leather materials and the company guarantees waterproof protection for up to six months.
When it comes to handbags to pair with her the eclectic array of women’s shoes she carries, Bennett again points to brands that understand that purses need to look good and carry plenty. She stocks a wall full of Baggallini products, created by a pair of flight attendants, including backpacks, messenger bags and totes.
In another nod to the environment, OlovesM bags are made from scraps of PVC yoga-mat material that would otherwise end up in landfills. Yoga enthusiast and Aspen mom Merle O’Brien refashions the leftover material, as well as all-natural fibers and fair trade hemp and cotton, into hip shoulder bags, clutches, totes and yoga-mat carriers.
Although Bennett says that muted, neutral colors will continue to lead the way in 2008, a brightly colored handbag is fun way to add some splash to an “everyday” or “going out” outfit. Latico Leathers has a number of roomy hobo-style and sling handbags in pea green, orange, pink and red hues, as well as classic black and brown. |
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