A Chronically Ill Girlie's Guide to Shoes

Alright ladies, it's time to talk about shoes. If you're anything like me, you love them. And have lots of them. And if you're also anything like me, most of them are accumulations from before chronic illness hit. For me, they still sit neatly in my closet, waiting for the day when I can wear them again. But in the meantime, it's just not possible. I've always refused to let my style suffer when faced with the limitations my health tried to place on it. But being safe and comfortable also meant that a pivot was necessary. So after exhaustive research, I have compiled a list of my go-to's when it comes to footwear.

Now, I preface this by saying that everyone's chronic illness is different; it presents differently, and therefore the symptoms can vary from person to person, to say the least. As such, our fashion needs vary, too. This list is based on mine, which center on feet that are swollen, sensitive and tender, and are not as mobile as they used to be. Some of that is due to my figure skating days, but, let's be honest, most of it was bestowed on me by Lyme and autoimmunity. That's the thing about chronic illness. The heartbreaking realization that you can't do - or wear - the things you love. It gives us two choices: we can lie down under it, or we can stand strong and forge ahead.

I did the latter. I carefully placed my beautiful, hot pink pumps, and supple black suede over-the-knee wedge boots (among others) in my closet, and looked forward. I thought about what my foot needs were, and shopped accordingly. And you know what? I found some really cute things. And every time I put one of my new shoes on, I don't just feel pleased in the fashionable sense of things. I feel like I overcame. Lyme and autoimmunity can only take things from me if I let them. It doean't mean that I still don't feel sad about my pretty shoes sitting in the closet. But I can put these new ones on and smile, knowing I'm still beautiful no matter what's on my feet, and the fact that I have these new pairs of shoes means I'm a badass who won't let chronic illness get me down. Or cramp my style. You can do the same. And know this: true beauty comes from within. Clothes and shoes are just the wonderful icing on the cake. But the reality is that we're beautiful just the way we are.

Alright, my Cinderellas. Here's the shoe guide. And remember, I saw a quote once that said Cinderella never asked for a prince. She asked for a night off and a dress. So you never know what good things are right around the corner. Especially with the right footwear.

Like I said, these are recommendations based on my personal experience. Friendly Reminder: I'm sharing what helps my own body manage chronic illness, but I am not a doctor! Please consult your specialist for personalized medical shoe recommendations.

Ugg Disquettes

These shoes have been a game changer for me. Not only are they super cute, but they also feature Ugg's signature sheepskin lining, which makes them blissfully cozy and warm. For sensitive feet that are always cold, these shoes are a life saver. Are they technically slippers? Yes. But Ugg does state on their website that they are made for outdoor wear. I can confirm that they are. They don't offer half sizes in the Disquette, so if your feet are swollen and tender like mine, I'd suggest rounding up a half size. So if you're a size 7.5, go with an 8. They come in a variety of colors, and can be worn with virtually anything. I wear a lot of leggings, so these fit in perfectly with my outfits. Specifically, I like to pair them with leggings, a tee or babydoll tank, and a slouchy cardigan. Wearing cute shoes that I also don't have to covertly take off in public to relieve the pressure on my feet? A win - win scenario.

Topo Phantom 4

These sneakers are awesome. My feet bear witness to both countless hours in the rink, and the scars of autoimmunity and Lyme. My PT's had long suggested sneakers with a wide toe box to accommodate them, but I always associated those kind of shoes as being the anthesis of fashion. So I squeezed my foot into normal sneakers for a long time. But eventually, I listened to my soles and begrudgingly got a pair of Topos. I got the opinions of podiatrists and PT's alike, but one of my favorite PT's recommended the Topos. I trusted his judgement, since he was a marathon runner, and had a lot of experience wearing sneakers himself. And after doing my own research, I agreed with his suggestion. Because they feature a wide toe box, I ordered them in my size, and it ended up being the right call. And the best part: they are super cute, and don't make my feet look like I'm Bigfoot's cousin. I got them in the gray ombre, so they pair wonderfully with most of my wardrobe. So not only are they accommodating for my feet, but they look great on! I can't tell you how many compliments I've gotten when I wear them.

Under Armour Ignite Slides

I wear these slides instead of regular slippers. I love the Under Armour brand in general, and have a lot of their clothes. Their quality and durability are unmatched. And these slides live up to the hype, too. I initially bought them to wear on the plane when I needed to fly to see a specialist, so that my already swollen feet could be accommodated on the plane, where we all know more swelling takes place. They felt like I was wearing clouds from the moment I slipped them on, and still do to this day. That is thanks in large part to the memory foam footbed, which has held up through many years of daily wear. The slides also offer an adjustable strap, which is perfect for sensitive feet - you can adjust them to be as tight or as loose as you need them to be. The perfct example of fashion meeting function.

Sperry Duck Boots

Winter can be really difficult if you're struggling with sensitive feet. My ankles aren't as mobile as they used to be, so getting in boots sufficient to trudge through snowy terrain can be quite tricky. It wasn't until last year that I stumbled (pun intended) onto a solution. I had to go to a doctor's appointment, and there was way too much snow on the ground to even think about going out in my sneakers. But I didn't have any boots that fit me - it was the one elusive shoe that I had not been able to MacGuyver myself into. So I thought outside the box. I asked my neighbor, who was a half shoe size bigger than me, if I could try a few of her boots on. Don't you know, her Sperry Duck Boots slid right on! And thanks to her unbelievable generosity, I was able to wear them to my appointment in perfect comfort. I came home and immediately ordered a pair a half size up. When they came in, their newness made it a little more difficult to get on, so I may give them to my neighbor to break in once the temps get cooler. They look super cute with leggings and an oversized flannel - channeling that cozy winter chic vibe.

That's the thing about chronic illness and fashion - and life. There's more obstabcles to overcome. But there's always a solution...sometimes you just have to get a little creative. And sometimes it isn't clear right away. But that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. It just means that you have to keep working the problem until you find it. Just like Cinderella and her prince. He didn't stop looking until he found his perfect fit. We have to do the same thing. And it makes it all the more rewarding when we find it.

Again, Friendly Reminder: I'm sharing what helps my own body manage chronic illness, but I am not a doctor! Please consult your specialist for personalized medical shoe recommendations.