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Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Five best shoes for traveling

What shoes do you bring when you travel? I used to get stumped, but over the past few years, I've thankfully come across five options that work really well.
For walking around big cities, like Paris, tan ballet flats are chic, comfy and won't make you look like a tourist.
For swimming at the beach, red-and-white striped espadrilles are fresh and pretty (and more grown-up than rubber flip flops).
For canoeing, camping and drinking beers with friends, Bensimon sneakers are adorable, tomboyish and last forever.
For exploring rainy towns and eating your weight in fish and chips, Hunter boots are the obvious classic. Your jeans will stay clean, and you'll look lanky and beautiful. Even the Queen wears them! (P.S. These short boots are cute, too, and might be easier to pack.)
For road trips with your crush, Minnetonka moccasins are my favorite. They're effortlessly cool (I spot them all over downtown NYC) and sturdy enough for whatever the day brings--and you feel like you're wearing bedroom slippers. I'll admit, I wear these every day. :)

Which of these five shoes would you wear? What are your go-to travel shoes?

(Top photo by Real Simple, beer girls photo by Brian Ferry)

214 comments:

  1. ooohhh good advice!
    i hate how a blister can slow you down when you're ready to GO explore!!!

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  2. agreed!!! so important to find the comfiest shoes:) i don't think i've ever packed a pair of heels on a trip!

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  3. Sperry's and TOMS carried me through Ireland - when it wasn't raining, of course. I brought some green rain boots (not sure of the brand) for when it was (most of the time!).

    I'm loving you're travel series - I'm leaving for Spain in a month and look forward to these posts every day!

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  4. I like the espadrilles idea. I can see them now in the sand in Nice.
    ohh I cannot wait to go to Jamaica this fall. I think I'm just bringing my wedding sandals which were handmade in an egalitarian society by someone named Tom. They're rope and a bit Jesus-y but I glued little flowers on them so they're more HiLLjO-y. I love them!

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  5. My friend who travels the world regularly swears by TOMS shoes. She wears each pair until they are thread bare!

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  6. Thanks for sharing your list of favorites. I love all of them, especially the moccasins and hunter boots (which I live in on rainy days in NYC). My go-to's for travel are usually:
    - beach / warm weather: J Crew leather capri flip-flops in gold. http://www.jcrew.com/womens_feature/NewArrivals/shoes/PRDOVR~74369/74369.jsp
    - flats for year round travel: Tieks. They are incredibly comfortably and fold up nice and tight to make room for other things in your suitcase. http://tieks.com/

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  7. I would definitively espadrilles as well, I like them alot:)

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  8. I switched from Converse to Bensimon recently and I love them! All those Parisiennes can't be wrong :)

    Loving your travel posts!

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  9. For a six-week trip across Europe, I wore canvas Grasshopper loafers (they look kind of like boat shoes) or ankle boots. Perfect for the weird "kind of chilly but not really" weather of Greece, Turkey, and southern Italy and Spain. Grasshoppers are a "comfort brand" by KED and the only thing that fits my double wide feet! :)

    But just in case we went anywhere fancy, I packed shiny black ballet flats that fold up into a tiny bag. They are kind of cheap looking but very comfy -- I think I may upgrade to these on my next trip: http://www.cocoroselondon.com/shop

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  10. i agree with Toms - a basic black pair for traipsing around everywhere, and a sparkly silver pair for tossing on with a skirt or your "fancy" jeans if the need arises. perfect for every situation you listed here!

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  11. Becca2:17 PM

    Great choices! I have a friend who only packs clothes (and accessories!) in black or white - that way any fun new finds she picks up on her travels she can immediately start to incorporate!

    Becca

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  12. I went with black patent leather ballet flats, Fluevog Chinoa boots, and Ugg sneakers (they look like Converse, but are more comfy) for my recent trip to Paris. A perfect mix!

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  13. Elizabeth2:19 PM

    For serious walking and school trips I have to wear Nike Airs! Anything else feels too flimsy. Not very stylish or eco-conscious I'm afraid! Here is a Nike Air travel story: On a road trip from Durban to Cape Town my mates and I got stuck in a small town near Storms River Mouth due to extreme wet weather and flooding. My lovely friend Laura put my Nike Air Max near an open fire to dry over night and when we woke up the air bubbles had melted and my trainers were no more :(

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  14. I have to agree with Minnetona moccasins for road trips.. I wear them whenever we are gonna be in the car for a while because I tend to get tired of shoes sometimes and want to wear something easy to slip off so I can put my feet on the dashboard when the hubs in driving, of course :) Hunter boots, leather flats both fit in my repertoire of vacation shoes

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  15. God I love your blog so much Joanna! I'm going to Paris for the first time and am thinking about what to bring. I've also been saving up for some Hunter boots. This post also makes me want to get some fish and chips ASAP!

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  16. Great choices. I was never into flats until I had a kid. They were a bit help. And of course, who doesn't like Hunter boots?
    http://www.thegirlieblog.com

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  17. I adore my minnetonka moccasins! Toms are also great!

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  18. I'm loving your travel posts, Joanna! I definitely think you should make this a more permanent part of your blog. It's giving me such wanderlust.

    Emily

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  19. Ballet flats are pretty much my standard at all times, so they heavily feature in the traveling section as well. These seemed like great summer choices (though packing Hunter boots seems tricky!) but in the winter, pack a pair of great boots.

    For cold weather, I'd go with these Merrills that are stylish enough to be worn around and are water proof: http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/12564W/0/Womens/Tetra-Launch-Waterproof?dimensions=0

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  20. these are some ugly shoes, and honestly they don´t seem quite comfortable for walking and traveling. Those soles wouldn´t last a week of walking!

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  21. These travel posts really give me the urge to go to Paris! I think ballet flats are best for traveling. They're so versatile because you can wear them with a casual outfit to see the sights and a dress out to dinner at night!

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  22. It's times like these I wish I didn't have to get custom-made shoes!! I love the ones for lounging on the beach! :)

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  23. I love this post! Great choices for all the right occasions... Moccasins are my all time favorite. I always love to add a little navajo touch to my outfits. Oh boy, now I want to go on a vacation to sport all of these shoes!

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  24. love your choices!!! I guessed the Tory Burch ones would make the cut! I've been drooling over those for a while, but trying tone strong and wait until spring to snag them up!

    I recently bought a new pair of Bensimon slip ons and luv them! I know I will wear them just as much if not more than the lace up ones I have.

    I'll also jump on the boat shoes bandwagon. I found a pair of vintage ones that were like new and I wore them all summer!!!

    ~abigail
    aka @GrayDayShop and tiptoethrough.blogspot

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  25. I wore Toms and Sperrys all over Scotland and London. Seriously- even in the rain they were great. And I loved them because I could wear them with easy breezy dresses when visiting castles and the countryside.

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  26. I have to say that THE LONDON SLIPPER from SUE LONDON is probably unbeatable .. it is pure haven..i can't even explain it ..you just have to try it... THE MOST COMFORTABLE SHOW EVERRR

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  27. Great post! Although I beg to differ on the point of Bensimon sneakers lasting forever. Mine usually last about 3-4 months (in New York, after wearing them 2-3 times a week).

    I still love them, and they are relatively cheap, so I don't mind ordering a new pair every year when it gets warm.

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  28. Great post! I'm always stumped when trying to pack shoes for a trip. I brought what I thought were a cute pair of Puma flats with my to NY, but they ended up being incredibly uncomfortable, and a mean salesclerk at one of the little boutiques was quite snooty about them. I just got a great pair of Toms for my birthday, so I'll probably try those out for my next adventure.

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  29. I've been thinking about this a lot today as I'm off to Quebec City for the holiday weekend and cannot decide what shoes to bring - its going to be SO cold (high of 1 on Sunday!!!) I was thinking about Hunter boots with a fleece liner and then riding boots for dinner/drinks in the evening... but this just seems SO bulky for a weekend getaway!!
    For warmer destinations, over the years I've been through many a pair of the Reef "Ginger" flip-flop in black. I can walk all day in them and not have my feet be tired. I usually also have a pair of black ballet flats I can dress up for going out or when I need to look a bit nicer.

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  30. I usually take a pair of 5fingers (the grey smartwool ones kinda blend in), and a pair of Uggs, and either cowboy boots or nicer flats depending on where it is. In India I nixed the uggs and took 2 5fingers + flipflops. Sailing all summer last year I just bought flipflops at Carrefour when I got to Spain and travelled in 5fingers. Ski trips I take waterproof boots instead of uggs. In Korea I took a pair of dressy shoes (platforms so I could walk in them all day) instead of the flipflops (was there for a wedding). I like having ONE pair that are presentable if I go somewhere nice, but the rest are all for walking and convenience :).

    Then all black and dark grey clothes, one fancy colourful thing (like a skirt or dress) and I'm set! Some places (like Korea) I even leave half my makeup behind because it's so much fun to go makeup shopping there...

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  31. I love wearing TOMs. Super comfy, such a wide range of colors, and easy to slip on and off at airport security. I also take with me a pair of brown leather sandals I got at AE last year whenever I'm heading to a warm locale. They are a perfect match with a swimsuit as well as with a somewhat nicer outfit.

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  32. I'm all about my TOMS!

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  33. Joanna--great advice! This week's theme is making me more wanderlusty than usual. I want to go go go!!

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  34. I lived in Scotland for a few years, and totally indispensible were my Paul Green riding boots(and Hunter wellies). I love your ideas and now that I'm in NYC, might have to get some moccasins!

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  35. Such a great list! I'm always the silly person packing heels and then relying on flip-flops. I'm excited to check these out!

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  36. Anonymous2:35 PM

    oh, i wish! i have a hard time wearing flat shoes. for me it's always dansko clogs and sandals!

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  37. Oy! Shoes are always the most difficult when packing! So many multi purpose shoes aren't cute. GREAT suggestions. Thanks! :)

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  38. 'Gotta be careful touristing with shoes that don't have a lot of arch support. I've made my outer foot sore for days by walking around DC in Minnetonka Moccasins.

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  39. I wore the ash gray Tom's all over Italy and Paris and never had a problem! They sell wedges if you want a dressy (but comfy) look.

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  40. Since all of our vacations revolve around hiking, my go-to travel shoes are a pair of sturdy hiking boots. My current pair has seen over 350 miles of trails.

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  41. Danskos! Flats aren't the best for LOTS of walking. Sometmes sturdy shoes are ugly but help the feet.

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  42. just came back from Paris and Mephisto all weather boots were chic and beyond comfortable...I walked for miles.

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  43. Great advice.

    Joanna, your posts make me miss New York so much. I left in November to move to DC, and I miss the city like crazy!

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  44. I'm all about TOMS wedges (the flat shoes look silly on me). And did you know they are releasing a ballet flat in 2012? Can't wait! http://www.toms.com/ballet-flats

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  45. Hi Joanna, I am italian and I have a blog where I talk about painting, italian kitchen, books and many other hobbies.
    I became your follower and I m waiting for you on my blog. soon.

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  46. Minnetonka Moccasins are the BESTTT!! I slip in a thin arch support into them (I find that they stretch out a lot) and then can wear them all day exploring!

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  47. Love this list! My go to summer holiday shoes are pull on comfy but stylish sandles, and on the beach I can never wear anything but flip flops or bare foot, as I hate sand in my shoes! For exploring it has to be chunky walking boots so you don't have to worry about your trousers, but I usually steer away from wellies as they always get stuck in mud and come of my foot!
    www.styleisalwaysfashionable.blogpsot.com

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  48. I love your ideas! I've been jonesing for a pair of Minnetonka moccasins and hunter boots for quite some time now!

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  49. I do a folding black flat, a brown leather loafer, and a pair of sandals. You can wear the loafer on the plane and the other two will squish nicely into your luggage.

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  50. SO TRUE! I didn't even realize my shoes weren't comfy until we were walking around Paris ALL NIGHT IN THE FREEZING COLD and my Florida-ready flats were NOT making me happy! You are clearly experienced! Thanks for the advice (and AWESOME PICS!). Now you've given me a whole new reason to go shoe shopping! :)

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  51. I have to say I took my Toms with me to the UK last summer and after a couple days of lots of walking my feet were KILLING me. They ended up in a trash can in Bath, Eng.

    My sisters and I swear by Clarks for trips when you'll be walking a lot...not the most fashionable, but they aren't the worst either and my feet were so much happier!

    And you can't beat espadrilles for the beach!

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  52. i adore my TOMS...on my second pair! perfect for any occasion; airport friendly too! i've gone on hiking adventures with mine also:)

    Sanuks are a great sandal shoe too :)

    this travel-themed week is making me SO wanderlust!! love love, xo

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  53. Catherine3:06 PM

    converse! low, white

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  54. I love reading peoples comments cause it helps me keep with the times! I've never heard of TOMs before so I looked them up. Not really my style of shoe, but it looks like they have ballet flats coming out soon that are super cute!

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  55. ps love the espadrilles and hunters! moccasins for road trips - great idea:)

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  56. I love every single one of these options!! Great post!

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  57. what great tips! thanks for sharing

    http://blogoftheprettythings.blogspot.com/

    xxx

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  58. have you ever heard of Sseko Sandals? they are AMAZING travel shoes! you can swap out the fabric straps out and tie them all kinds of ways so it is like packing 20 pairs of sandals! AND they are super comfy. AND they are fair-trade and help women in Uganda go to school. i live in mine. www.ssekodesigns.com

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  59. I've just ordered moccasins--they weren't even on my list of things I wanted until I saw them here!

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  60. Black leather biker boots made in Italy... Bought 7years ago and still the best boots ever!

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  61. Jaime3:19 PM

    Thanks for the ideas!
    I am having a hard time finding something for the streets of Rome!
    I am really stumped on what to wear!!

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  62. I love the moccasins but my go to travel shoes are definitely my TOMS shoes. They are so comfortable and sturdy that I feel like I can romp around in NY, sightsee in Chicago and even go for a mild hike in them :)

    http://hellohomeblogger.blogspot.com

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  63. Ooh! Perfect advice! I lovee hunter books and mocs!

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  64. I do wear ballet flats and wellies. I am just planning my next trip (to Iceland) and I'm not really sure about taking my wellies though, they take up so much space!

    I think a flat chic pair of boots go a long way. Especially if there is a chance of rain but you still want to look smart.

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  65. My trusty red, converse chuck taylors are perfect for everything. They have gotten me into (and out of) a lot of trouble!

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  66. When we travel, we walk a LOT. Hours and hours each day. I simply don't see how the leather flats could hold up to that! I either wear flat boots with good arch support and socks under jeans or my clark privo flats. they are extremely comfortable to wear for day after day of walking.

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  67. So cute! I'll take the leather ballet flats and the espadrilles, please!

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  68. Thanks for posting this! I am always stumped on what shoes to wear for what occasions that will not only look good but be comfortable. This little guide will be forever cataloged in my head.

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  69. i know the beer-girls-photo. it's from brian ferry.
    http://bferry.wordpress.com/2011/10/19/19-october/

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  70. I loved the Bensimon sneakers you featured!
    My husband and I both wore Merrills while traveling in Europe this past year. I was lucky to find a pair that were not super bulky and extremely comfortable.

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  71. I like the style of Hunter boots, very classic indeed. However, for me they just don't work. When I first tried them on they just seemed way too big around my legs. So, I bought Aigle boots and love them! Plus, they look like riding boots which I think is great.

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  72. oooh, I beg to differ on the flats advice. You need support. I walked around Paris and NYC for several days in flats and my feet KILLED. I was popping Advil every 4 hours. Wear shoes that have some support!

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  73. I wish there were cuter options for me! Because I'm unlucky enough to be flat footed and pigeon toed, I have to almost always wear perscription orthotics when I go anywhere that requires a lot of walking!! So this makes my shoes last half as long as they should since the inserts cut along the side of my shoes. Bummer!!

    I do have a pair of Minnetonka's I wear when my feet feel extra brave to be on their own though :)

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  74. My husband and I recently went to Scotland and I wanted something that would be comfortable but wouldn't make me stick out like a touristy sore thumb...something that looked "urban" but would still work out for wandering around meadows and into some heathery hills...I found the PERFECT shoe in the Dansko Veda (http://www.zappos.com/dansko-veda-black-canvas). I bought the black canvas ones (they come in suede too). They were perfect for traipsing all around Scotland and then London for a few days. They look cool, feel like sneakers, have great arch support (especially for my plantar fasciitis). Not dressy enough for dinner, but I LOVE them. The red ones are super cute too.

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  75. Anonymous4:08 PM

    I wear Melissa rubber flats in several different colors. Once you break them in (wear them for a week or so the month before you leave, I usually get one blister and then I'm good to go) they last YEARS, and because they're 100% rubber they're totally waterproof and very, very sturdy. It's all the style of a ballet flat with all the practicality of a Hunter boot and you can wear them day and night; I couldn't travel without them.

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  76. I am definitely a fan of flats for stylish travel wear. I wore them all the time in Paris (and a bit in London) this spring. Mine were cheap black ones, but they looked perfectly chic with cuffed jeans and a simple tee.

    The moccasins are also a fav for me. Definitely good summer roadtrip footwear. As for the sneakers, I would probably sub in my pf flyers. They're my favorite classic, tomboy-ish sneakers for those sorts of things.

    I LOVE the espadrilles and may need to get a pair. Definitely cooler than flipflops. But as much as I love Hunter rainboots, packing those seems like a huge pain. I would probably go with my trusty black combat-style work boots. I wear them all the time, with jeans, dresses, anything and they kept me warm and dry in Denmark and Iceland. I just always make sure to wear them on the plane since they're rather bulky and heavy.

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  77. Like the last suggestion so much! it looks gorgeous as well.

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  78. Do any of these have decent arch support? I have high arches and if I walk for hours in shoes with no support, they start to collapse and HURT. So I usually end up in rather matronly shoes. :(

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  79. i love my minnetonka moccasins, so comfortable and they go with everything.

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  80. I love ballet flats and moccasins!! When comfort and style merge, I am a very happy girl.

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  81. I wear my black low-top chucks everywhere. They're classic.

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  82. The Tory Burch Eddie flats are my FAVORITE! They are so comfy--I wear them around the house!

    thanks for your great inspiration and tips!

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  83. I just ordered some Chacos for my travels- unglamorous maybe, but practically required for the type of travel I'll be doing. I also got a cute pair of Clarks/Bostonian leather boots for walking and working!

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  84. definetly ballet flats and boots (i also have some spring/summer boots)

    but always wear those shoes for some time at home before the trip, so you get used to them and they are somewhat worn in :-)

    xx Nina
    http://nospetitesreveries.blogspot.com/

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  85. My favorite traveling shoes are the classic Clark's Desert Boots for women. I have the one in distressed taupe, and it's been with me for years. Ballet flats are good too, but they cannot withstand hours upon hours of hard walking, given the discomfort from hard flat soles. Every now and then, I like to wear high-top sneakers. My current favorite is from the Adidas SLVR line, and mine are understated in the fact that they're just simply all black leather without any flash. They are comfortable and can be paired up with many things. For dressier events when I travel, I always bring a pair of kitten heel pumps. I'm currently coveting Repetto's Gisele, but given the lack of reviews and its tiny tiny sizing, I haven't taken the plunge to buy a pair yet. Those would be perfect kitten heels.

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  86. I am always afraid of looking odd in Wellies. I've been wanting to try a pair for some time, but I hate the obvious look of rain boots. Although if Catherine Middleton wears them, I sure as heck could try it. And I love your suggestion of ballet flats.

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  87. believe it or not i LOVED my ballet crocs when i was in spain (i also walked miles/day) so it was necessary to have something super comfy! xo

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  88. I had my first pair of moccasins at age 4 and lost them walking through a muddy field.

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  89. you are a genius! and those pictures are beautiful.

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  90. Ok, now the only thing I'm thinking is I want to leave...with ballets on :)!

    Lens&anythingElse

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  91. i love these! and suddenly realizing my black flats need a nude companion. :)

    wish the photos had better credits, though. i tried to follow the tumblr link to find the source for one that i liked, went pages and pages (and pages) back and couldn't find it. i would be so conflicted if one had been a photo i had taken; simultaneously thrilled to be on your rad blog and also sad that no one would be able to know it was my work...

    this diagram is super cool: http://www.frolic-blog.com/frolic/2011/03/photo-credit-follow-up.html

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  92. Certainly my hunter wellingtons, however, they sometimes prove too bulky to pack so in that case I have a pair of loafers and ballet flats that are go tos. I love moccasins, but don't own a pair. I have seen the higher version with fringe and I really want a pair like that.

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  93. It depends on the season and where I'm going, but for Europe, I take my brown boring looking clarks flats (they're just meh looking, but they're like heaven on. HEAVEN.) and flat boots in black. ta-dah!

    I do have friends (who have not been to Europe most likely) who can't believe I don't bring heels, but I'm sorry, cobblestones and heels would not work for me. :)

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  94. I had a pair of Bensimmon's - wicked cute, but lasted me the summer before I wore the soles down to nothing - I wasn't super impressed.

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  95. What timing! I've just been stressing over what shoes to bring on our upcoming trip to Paris this spring. I agree with several other folks here about ballet flats just not having enough support (at least for me), so I was thinking I'd bring a pair of ankle biker-type boots and a super-comfy pair of open-toe heels from Naya (because I just couldn't imagine Paris without any heels!). I do rely a lot on my Minnetonkas and Hunters whilst at home!

    Also, I just posted about the cutest espadrilles I found the other day: http://solesatisfaction.blogspot.com/2012/01/summer-cant-come-soon-enough.html and will probably be doing most hopeful Paris shoe posting too... ;)

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  96. any suggestions for shorties? something with a low wedge...a leeeetle heel that's comfy?

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  97. HELP!!! What are some good shoes for the actual plane ride? I'm studying abroad this semester and going on my first over night flight with over a 5 hour layover with another flight after that. So I'm looking to be comfortable and be stylish. I'm going to Spain and they told us to look nice on the flight, so I'm in a bit of a pickle. I have a pair of TOMS that I adore but I wanted to see if you had another other advice! HELP! thank you :)

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  98. Hi Joanna and readers-

    Does anyone have any suggestions for rainy weather shoes that pack easily? I love Hunter boots for at home, but they take up half a suitcase! Does anyone have any recommendations for shorter styles?

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  99. These are lovely! And I love that you're posting a travel theme week! I'm going to Africa in November and it's great to see the little tips and tricks!

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  100. I live in my hunters, the joy of living in the countryside, I'm hoping someone will buy me some wellybobs for the spring :)

    I also adore my chucks :) so comfy and brilliant for walking, look great with jeans, leggings :)

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  101. Anonymous6:15 PM

    Oooooh that sheep photo!! This was taken where I live! - Dingle, Ireland. So happy to see a pic of it here... your blog is my favourite :)

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  102. Jeni S6:18 PM

    I heartily agree with your choices. I go for the espadrilles, and it's fun to find a new pair while in France. I love my Bensimon sneakers although I have
    LLBean boots. I have been wanting Hunters. Tall or short? Great post, makes me want to hit the road!

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  103. Great advice! Nothing screams tourist more than wearing trainers everywhere on holiday... eugh

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  104. Those are all great suggestions but I think I would've added a pair of heels for a night out. A nude heel seem to go with anything so color coordinating is easy especially when you're living out of a suitcase.

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  105. I actually have a rather high arch and tend to favor it in the way I walk, however, my go-to for long walks and city travel are Vans-which offer no support but somehow never seem to do me dirty!

    ..Aproned Animal :)

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  106. I was going to bring some rain boots on my trip to Ireland last summer, but they took up way too much space in my suitcase, and I would've definately stood out like a tourist wearing them... I didn't see anyone in Ireland wearing them except old men on the farms :)

    I really like cushioned ballet flats for city traveling. Jcrew makes a really great pair and so do aerosoles.

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  107. This post is inspiring me to get another pair of moccasins. I wore mine all the time, until my dog ate one. Literally, the whole thing besides the sole. Thank god she is past that phase...

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  108. I wear Toms when traveling, they are light weight and easy to pack!Plus they look cute.

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  109. I feel like I've seen that top photo in RealSimple. One of those photog roundups where each photog was shooting their significant other, and this particular photog's wife (in the photo) didn't want her face to be seen or something? It was from a few years ago now.

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  110. OH MY! This is the best post, the best! I am dating a guy who does not like to sit still for long, so we're often out on day trips and other travels where footwear can be a bit tricky. I need to be able to have lunch at a nice place, but also get up a steep hill in SF. Or play on the beach in marin. Unfortunately, most of your suggestions are for girls with lovely, small feet (I am 6'1 and a size 11), but you have inspired me! Thanks for the great post.

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  111. I always feel a little ambitious when I am packing and think I should take heels, but my bases are usually covered with flats and my beloved rainboots :)

    p.s. Hunters are gorgeous and classic, but I've had these for a year now and am in LOVE….

    http://www.amazon.com/Kamik-Womens-Ellie-Rain-Boot/dp/B000V24Z2Q/ref=pd_sbs_shoe_4

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  112. P.S. Looks like the top pic was from RealSimple Feb 2009, photo credit to Richard Foulser: http://www.martawrites.com/2009_01_01_archive.html. Okay thanks bye!

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  113. I love my moccasins! I went traveling for three weeks this Xmas (I blogged about it), and was in three different countries: England, Hong Kong, and Jordan. I brought one pair of heels (but bought another in HK that I just couldn't resist), one pair of flip flops for the dead sea, runners, winter boots, and cute flats. All my bases were covered.

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  114. My go to traveling shoes.... All Star Converse's. They have never ever let me down!

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  115. My go-to travel shoes, hands down, are my Bass oxfords with cute little elastic strips instead of laces. So great for slipping on and off at security gates, and they fully cover your foot during those chilly flights. And they have great arch support so I can walk around in them all day!

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  116. Anonymous8:38 PM

    I'm a huge fan of Melissa plastic flats - surprisingly comfortable and the Ultragirls have a built in slight wedge heel so no sore feet!

    No. 2 on my list is Doc Martens - classic and chic and like sneakers but look like cool combat boots

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  117. Anonymous9:39 PM

    My go-to shoes are Tieks.

    www.tieks.com

    They are the cutest and comfiest ballet flats but with a cushion sole. They also fold up and come with a cute little bag to stuff your flats back in. Love them!

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  118. Sperry Top-Siders all the way!

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  119. my favorite travel shoes are my TOMS. they are so easy to slide on and off and look great with skinnies. plus they make them in silver glitter and really cute patterns now. i always go to my trusty black ones though! love the espadrilles and i want hunter rain boots so stinking bad.

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  120. I'm used to walking, running to catch subways, hopping over puddles in whatever shoes. So most important to me is what to wear on the plane - something easy to slip off... and put back on to go to the bathroom.

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  121. Love them! It's raining right now and some Hunters would come in handy!

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  122. Toms are my new favorite travel shoe!

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  123. Hey Joanna! The 8th photo down is by Brian Ferry. Not sure about the other ones! Thanks!

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  124. love all of the recommendations! my go to shoes are toms!

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  125. My favorite shoes to travel with are currently my Acne Pistol boots in black. They are super comfy (even more so with arch support inserts), go with absolutely everything, and can easily go from day to night. I also take my old beat up pair of black Lanvin flats (that I bought at a consignment store) pretty much everywhere. Those two options, plus my Minnetonka moccasins, and I've had at least one pair of them at all times since I was five, pretty much keep me covered!

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  126. I wore sperries in Paris and London, and they were perfect! TOMS work as well, though they don't have as much support...but they are cheaper and in different colors and designs!

    peoniesandpaper.wordpress.com

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  127. You must be joking; those moccasins are "in" in NYC?!?!? Sorry, nothing personal, but YUCK!

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  128. TOMS, hands down! (for a casual look, anyway) so cute and so comfy!

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  129. I'm only ever backpacking, so generally don't have too many fancy places to go. I like to take a nice, good quality pair of black ballet flats for everyday (Clarks make some cute but extremely comfy and supportive ones) and a pair of rubber flip flops (for the beach & hostel showers)

    If winter: a pair of flat boots that can be worn with jeans tucked in, or with tights and a dress for a night out

    Ff summer: a pair of cute flat strappy sandals that you can wear day or night

    If you're taking boots or other chunky shoes, wear them on the plane so they don't take up room in your luggage. OR stuff them with rolled up clothes so that at least the space inside them isn't wasted.

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  130. Great ideas! What do you think about London in February? I bit too wet and cold for flats, and I think Hunter boots would be a bit to 'out in the muck'.

    thoughts?

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  131. Great post! I once made the mistake of buying new shoes for a trip. Breaking in new shoes while exploring the city is not fun, that's for sure :)

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  132. I have the Hunter boots and ballet flats. I always take a pair or Converse with me too.

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  133. Hanna / Sweden2:45 AM

    I think Birkenstock Madrid http://tinyurl.com/7m62cpq
    can look really chic in the summer. With rolled up baggy jeans or a pretty skirt. Not for the longest walks but as an alternativ to flip flops.

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  134. Rosie2:52 AM

    Love my Hunters, as where I live is rainy most of the time.

    Just a suggestion for anyone who might want to consider the notion of cultural appropriation and get a bit of background before they run out and buy moccasins:

    http://alagarconniere.blogspot.com/2010/04/critical-fashion-lovers-basic-guide-to.html

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  135. beautiful photos! loved the footware pairing with each photo... great post.

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  136. I love this post! I am always searching for tips and tricks when it comes to making my wardrobe go the extra mile.

    Each (hockey) season, my husband allots me one hockey bag. It's not easy to fit 8 months of stuff into that thing! Shoe-wise, this season, I brought various UGGs (because I live in them), All-Stars (in brown), runners (for the gym), black ballet flats, tan ballet flats, a pair of sandals, a pair of nude pumps, knee high Tory Burch boots (I had to), riding boots, and Sorels. It was more than I had planned to bring but ... So far, so good! The only thing I've missed is my crocodile Hunters!

    I think you hit the nail on the head with this one though! Something simple and flat. Something fun and flirty. Something casual but durable. Something for the rain and the slush. And something cozy.

    Thanks for sharing!

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  137. I love your choice! I would also include a pair of Converse. For travelling, for non travelling, always :)

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  138. Such a fun post and one I have learned about the hard way! Now, this is going to sound pretentious but I would vote Tod's over Tom's (save for the good cause aspect) because they are frickin' indestructable! I have a desert boot pair that are great on everything from a safari to hiking in New Caledonia and a pair of driving mocs that have served well in chic hotels in Bali to climbing the temples at Angkor!

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  139. Anonymous6:12 AM

    Great idea for a post - a perennial topic for female travellers. I just had a trip to Paris in December. I was so desperate to blend in, I even googled "what do real women wear in Paris" multiple times - quite a bit of info on the net actually! Anyway.... ballet flats are not common at all in winter. Women were wearing boots, boots and more boots. There were zero ballet flats on the streets. I wore skinny jeans and ballet flats which at home wouldn't draw a second glance, but in Paris this looked seriously out of place. I'm thinking it would be fine in summer though. Just a tip for people who really don't want to look like a tourist if at all possible (and I know that's not important to everyone).
    Great discussion Joanna!

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  140. Anonymous7:00 AM

    I love Cons for overseas travel.

    India

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  141. Hi Jo :D i need help! I will go to London in a few weeks and need to know good and cheap places to eat!! <3

    P.s. i am going with more people !!

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  142. trina, you're right!! i remember that now!! SO sweet.

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  143. jamie, i agree!!! i wish i knew the credits--i got them from pinterest, and there were no credits except to tumblr blogs. i'm trying to track them down, please let me know if you recognize any shots! xoxo

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  144. ooooh Toms. They are so comfortable for walking around. I wore mine on a recent trip to DC and they were better than any shoes i had worn walking around. I have the gold herringbone ones, so they are cute enough that you can wear them in the museums. But ballet flats are my go-to

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  145. emily, i think moccasins would be good for a plane right; you could wear them with a button-down shirt and jeans; or maybe a white button-down shirt and a cardigan and red lipstick. would look so pretty! :) what a fun trip, you must be excited!!

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  146. Lauren Newkirk, for smaller rain-proof shoes, you might try Loeffler Randall small boots, or Cole Haan does a great short rain boot that actually looks good!

    loeffler randall:
    http://www.loefflerrandall.com/lrcatalog.aspx?categoryid=68

    cole haan:
    http://www.beso.com/2727168655/detail

    xoxo

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  147. like many others, I love my Toms! and I have a pair of slip-on Pumas that are really comfy and cute, and are much better than my Toms when it rains.

    and now I really want some Minnetonka moccasins!

    this series is fantastic! thanks for sharing :o)

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  148. Thank you for sharing, I also like jimmy choo uggs boots very much. welcome to uggs clearance store and ugg tularosa and sequined uggs and sequin uggs very much.coach poppy.ugg sparkle boots.Thank you for sharing, sparkly uggs boots fashion style in winter.

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  149. Minnetonkas are the best!! I've been wearing my plain brown moccasins for the past year and I don't know what I'd do without them!!

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  150. i absolutely adore your taste in shoes

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  151. I think a pair of flats and a pair of sneakers (I like Superga) are all you ever need in a trip, or really, in life.

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  152. Anonymous10:40 AM

    Just came back from the bay area with gray suede ballet flats, chocolate Hunter boots and a pair of Chuck Taylors.

    If you wear the Hunters on the plane, they won't monopolize your suitcase. And they are super easy to take off and put on when going through security. Once on the plane, the boots go under the seat and I grab ballet flats or mocs from my bag.

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  153. I like to make sure I can rotate shoes, wearing the same shoe the whole time if you are doing a lot of walking seems to start aggravating a random spot at some point. OH and buying a 1/2 size bigger to account for a nice insert helps as well.

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  154. Anonymous10:54 AM

    my minnetonka moccasins pretty much melt on my feet when i wear them... i usually travel with my chuckies + i'd def look into buying some toms for my next trip. but i got through nyc with my ballet flats that fold up from the gap (no longer sold) that held up great + felt fantastically comfy.

    p.s. just a thought: other than the obvious reasons (like getting pick-pocketed,etc.), i vote for being who you are, embracing your touristy self and just having fun when on vacation :)

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  155. I've left a pair of flats in the trash can of almost every city I have ever traveled to. True story. I DESTROY shoes when traveling. I wish that those Puma flats with the little luggage strap looking motif were in the price range to be considered disposable.

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  156. Love your five picks. Bensimon comes in so many different colors. What do you think on color? Should I pop or stay more neutral?

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  157. I love my Minnetonkas! However, for cold weather/rain, they're no good. I agree with many posters here that think that ballet flats and TOMS just won't cut it while traveling and walking around a lot. I need arch support and I've heard that ballet flats are actually one of the worst things you can wear for your feet!
    When we went to NY for NYE this year I wore Keen Bern boots and Asics Tigers. I find converse to have ZERO arch support. I like the idea though of putting arch support in my moccasins since they stretch well.
    Nice post Joanna! I always struggle to find cute, comfortable walking shoes.

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  158. my toms! They are super easy to pack, really comfortable and for a good cause.

    plus they're pretty darn cute too =D

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  159. I will always love my mocs! I actually posted about this on my blog too! It's always hard to find a comfy yet stylish shoe to go exploring in. http://highheeledtraveler.blogspot.com/2011/04/moccasins.html

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  160. my sister bought me sparkly toms for christmas which i'm super excited about. I feel like they're perfect to be walkable but still a lil fancy.

    i just bought a new pair of minnetonka moccasins yesterday (i wore my previous pair into the ground!)

    and on the rainboots note, I have a pair of mid-calf Tretorn rainboots. I like that the soles look a bit like casual sneaks, and the mid-calf height is perfect for my athletic calves... hunters just do not work for me, no matter how much time i spend in the nordstrom shoe department.

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  161. kristy1:08 PM

    hi joanna, just wanna say that i dont think "Photos via Pinterest" is a proper credit. dont you think it's better to use images that we can credit rather than using random images without credit so that our blog could look lovely?

    i enjoy every single blog post of yours. but this thing kinda bothers me a bit.i hope u dont find it offensive :)

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  162. TOMS! Seriously....the best. Unless it's raining...

    I wore TOMS my whole trip to NYC a few years ago and my feet didn't hurt at all and we walked a lot!!

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  163. I wore my Toms for our trip to Mexico in November. I hiked all around Chichen Itza and climbed to the top (and back down ... scarry!) of the Ek Balam temple in them. They were so comfy! Not one blister.

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  164. shoes are a big big headache for me..bigger than buying bra or jeans & we all know how tough that is!
    i have really small feet like a US4-5(asian 35)..and packing for vacay is harder..i stick wither flip-flops/sandals/low arch wedges/gladiators.they suit me the best.

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  165. jenny3:03 PM

    @kristy i second that. i see the only photogs credited are the ones who have been identified by readers.

    it takes time and diligence to only use creditable photos. and the occaisional *this image is just too perfect to use, i have looked EVERYWHERE and cant find a source* is forgivable, but this is not what is happening here.

    it looks like the previous post also has no credit..

    as a well respected blogger who is making money off of her content, i think it would really be lovely to see you take it up a notch and set a good precident to all of your devoted readers.

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  166. Hi again Joanna--I find Google Images' drag-and-drop/upload function incredibly handy for identifying photo credits. You may know about it already but I only just stumbled across it the other day myself, so I wanted to pass along the info in case.

    Good luck with the credit finding!

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  167. Anonymous4:19 PM

    You're making me want those moccasins! What do you wear them with? Just skinny jeans? Do they look ok with bootcuts? I just got a hole in my skinny jeans...drag.

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  168. this post is filled with so many beautiful photos! it makes me just want to pack a bag and GO! (with all of the appropriate shoes, of course :) )

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  169. i'll be honest, footwear is always my problem. whether its daily wear or travelling (especially travelling!!) i never seem to get it quite right!
    i love your choices, and they totally make sense. i want a shoe that i'm able to walk around in and be on my feet all day, but look cute enough that when we stop to enjoy lunch at a pretty street cafe i blend in.
    yes, i've put alot of thought to my footwear, and i promise to be better at it!!!
    loove this post! i might ask for a simliar one more so dealing with different weather all in one trip.

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  170. I really like your blog but I agree about the photos and crediting. If you can't credit the work of someone, you should not use the work product. My brother is a photographer and it's tiring to see people use his photographers and not give credit - the most common excuse is not being able to find the source. It's unfair and not professional at all especially if it is done on a regular basis. You get a reputation.

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  171. vanessa7:05 AM

    Hi there,

    I can't access any of the photos on pinterest. That is really not fair to the photographers who took them. If you enjoy their work enough to share it on your blog, please credit them and their work. Especially on a popular blog like yours that has a lot of influence in the blog-world, this makes me pretty bummed out!

    Thanks, V

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  172. I love your blog and these are great suggestions but I am going to take issue with the "tan ballet flats" idea. They look GREAT when you first buy them but in cities like Paris or New York they get completely destroyed and look really crummy after only a few wearings. I would avoid.

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  173. I just returned from Paris with my feet destroyed. Next time I'll definitely take my Clarks desert boots, the most confortable pair of shoes I own. :)

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  174. Danskos are great shoes for touring--especially if you walk all over a city. They can look smart with jeans and I was happy to see a woman wearing them on the Sartorialist this year.

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  175. To be honest--I can't wear flats...they give me so much pain and I really like to be elevated out of the mud and dirt...I always wear a little platform or a boot with a study low heel...
    For summery...something like this has taken me walking 12 hours a day across Scandinavia

    http://www.shopbop.com/delsie-low-wedge-sandal-pedro/vp/v=1/845524441927258.htm?folderID=2534374302112442&fm=other-shopbysize&colorId=11616

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  176. I love flats, but my feet require a little more support than the run of the mill variety provides. These Dublin mary janes by Born might be a good solution for those of us with finicky feet -

    http://www.bornshoes.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=6808

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  177. Angelshoes!3:58 PM

    Are the Bensimons from France higher quality than the ones you get here in the states? I ordered a pair last year after seeing so much enthusiasm for them online, but was sorely disappointed in how cheap they looked and felt. I sent them back in disgust. Just wondering if I am missing something??

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  178. Anonymous6:30 PM

    The ballets are cute - but my feet would kill me after walking miles (and miles) as one does in Paris.

    Imagine the rough cut stones underfoot with that barely there sole!

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  179. Love this post! I live in my mocs as well--a leftover habit from college now turned cool. I knew it would catch on eventually!

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  180. Kusha7:34 PM

    Thank you for this post...i am flat footed, cannot walk too much in heel and also in way too flat shoes..but seems like these might do the trick.

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  181. What a great post! Your picture choices are amazing as well! Love them! When I travel, (even if it's going home for x-mas break) I end up taking way too many shoes and have yet to master limiting my choices down to 5. I took home multiples flats and boots in different colors for different weather possibilities. Sigh.

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  182. Minnetona moccasins are my staple. Of course I can't wear them for everything but they are so comfy for just walking around. I always put more shoes than clothes in my luggage :)

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  183. You have such an effortlessly cool style! I haven't even heard of half the brands you mentioned, but I love the looks of them so much! I'm all about comfort, which is usually why I don't pay much attention to style -- these shoes all look super comfortable though and STILL are very stylish. Win-win!! Thank you for the tips. :)

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  184. i'm glad to see so many folks commenting on the lack of photo credits in this post. Just because someone's photo got tangled up in the mess of un-sourced images on pinterest, doesn't mean they are for the taking. it's easy enough to find credited photos through flickr (using creative commons), stock photo sites, or by kindly asking the photographers. Even better, get creative and take your own photos -- don't make someone else do the work for you!

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  185. I'm new to the blogs sphere and a new fan of yours. the pics that you choose arde always so inspiringly spot on!! now let me go browse for my next vacances

    cheers
    Sam from London

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  186. Ha I love this! I will be traveling to Paris and London for the first time this summer! I will be sure to snag a pair of tan flats before I head over. Great images as well!

    www.qacreate.com

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  187. I love this list! I can't begin to tell you how often I head out in the cutest and most impractical shoes the first day of a trip only to end up blistered and sneakered the rest of the vacay. Although, I would add to the list (for tropics, beaches, hot spots and theme parks a pair of Natives (http://nativeshoes.com/)

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  188. Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to far added agreeable from you! By the way, how could we communicate?

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  189. Thank you so much for recommending the Bensimon shoes! After reading your post, I opened the link and ordered a pair in dark grey. They just arrived today, and I love them! They're perfect for chasing my toddler around all day :)

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  190. Those are all super cute, but totally lacking in proper support for walking, which is key on trips. I love Fit Flops for walking--they offer amazing support for my legs and back, and are incredibly comfortable. I can walk all day in them! In the winter/fall, I go with boots with good support (I like Anne Klein sport boots.) And heels for dinner and going out at night, of course!

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  191. Anonymous12:11 PM

    You are a professional journalist. Please learn the difference between "every day" and "everyday."

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  192. Just invested in a new pair of moccasins...gorgeous, though restricted to pottering around the house due to a (beautiful) frosty english morning.

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  193. Did you see these foldable rain boots?? I totally want a pair even though I already have a pair of rain boots--would be great for my upcoming trip to London I think!

    http://www.redfootshoes.com/Folding-RainBoot-c18/ (and there's a great groupon for them right now!)

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  194. I am a fan of all 5 choices, however I always make sure to take a cute pair of wedges for day and night chic.. And then my trusty pair on converse sneakers.. They go well with almost everything...

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  195. Just bought a pair of Bensimons! Thanks! :)

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  196. this is a great list. i travel frequently for work and i'm always stumped on the shoes. i do love my green Hunters and mocs - i need to put those into rotation.

    also love the joan didion list. i'm taping that up in my closet too!

    as always - great info, joanna! thx

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  197. Hi, does anyone have any advice on shoes to wear in Paris in February?! Going there on my honeymoon in a few weeks...

    Thanks!!

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  198. For exploring rainy towns and eating your weight in fish and chips, Hunter boots are the obvious classic schuh center

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  199. For traveling, I stick to my Puma running shoes (light and breathable since they have tiny holes in the front for air circulation), ballet flats if I'm wearing a dress/skirt, or if I'm in Paris ;)

    Rubber flip flops all the way (in the summer)

    And for hiking (in a forest), I have this one very old very used pair of rubber Keds flats that's a lifesaver. Good in rain too!

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  200. I used Bensimon sneakers in my trip to Argentina. Since the country has so many wild areas and National parks, I thought I had to be comfortable. Then when I got the Buenos Aires real estate, they still worked!
    Kim

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