POST PANDEMIC FOOTWEAR

My last consistent work-week inside of a corporate office was in January 2020. I was elated to see my co-workers following the Christmas break. So, I made it a point to wear my best, corporate-appropriate booties. During the conversations with returning staff, there were brief mentions of a virus in China. However, the conversations of what we now know as Covid-19 were quickly overshadowed by post-holiday banter and how cute my boots looked. After that week, I never returned to the office, and have only seen my co-workers in person once over the last four years. Since then (and even now), I’ve worked from my home-office and wear my finest work-from-home footwear – HOUSE SHOES.

Due to this life-changing transition in footwear and proximity to a corporate environment, I’ll never be the same and neither will my feet. “Flats Are For Quitters” is not only the title of this blog, but the story of my life. I’ve recently “quit” so many things, and so have my feet. I was always a heel type-of-girl in corporate environments. But now, once my day begins I immediately search my vast selection of footwear which consist of house shoes (some call the slippers) both purchased and gifted. Gifted? Yes! My family consistently buys me house shoes as gifts because they’re now a thing for me.

So, why does all this matter?

• Many of us are still impacted by the effects of the 2020 global pandemic. This is not the worst change that occurred, and is not meant to make light of the many lives that were lost. This is a reflection of what is now present in my life as a result (9 to 5 house shoes), and what is gone (heels Monday through Friday).
• The cultural norms have shifted. Shoe attire still matters in a corporate environment, but what does this look like post-pandemic? Obviously house shoes are not acceptable, but are sneakers? What shoes are we wearing to work? What type of footwear are people who are new to the corporate environment wearing? What about women – are they wearing flats or are they still committed to heels?

I once heard the phrase, “Fashion makes you feel.” That is so true – even with house shoes. Each member of my collection has a specific feel and purpose. Do I want to feel elevated? Let’s go with a platform. Do I want to slide around all day? Let’s go with a closed-toe and slightly, worn heel. Is soft and cozy the preference? Bring on the fuzzy slippers! Lots to explore.