What Does Your Shoes Say?

"Shoes" - Vincent van Gogh 1888

Last week I went to a cafe with a friend who was telling me about his latest rare vintage find, a pair of fabulous shoes in tip-top condition. Just moments later a group of strangers felt the need to chime in on our conversation, stating something to the effect of "you bought old shoes to wear? ...wow, I could never do that." The handful of strangers chuckling slightly and with eyes rolling (as if my friend had struck a wrong note during a solo performance) gave him a full look from crown to sole, and then went on about their business. I believe that we both were a bit shocked at the whole matter that we actually paused briefly before digesting what had just happened.

We often say that you can tell alot by a person's shoes, yet when we have not walked in the footwear of others per se we are quick to judge them - their lifestyle, personality, their status.

Yes, it's true clothing may say much about who you are, your roots of inspiration, where you want to go, or even where you may have been, but don't let a brand, or lack thereof be the defining factor of a person.

Certainly these were just strangers that we could just ignore easily, however the same thing happens to many of us who pass judgement of others. From buying new, designer, sustainable, and acquiring vintage or thrift to eating meat or choosing not to - well, these are all personal decisions that we have the freedom to make.

Whatever shoes that you choose to wear walk in them confidently, but also know that it is absolutely okay for others to sport a different look.