Flip Flopping: Not Just for Politicians Anymore
(From DCist Contributor Colleen Egan)
With temperatures surging in D.C., it just seems wrong to commute in shoes and socks. But without the proper grooming or sandal choice, you could end up with enough blisters and dirty looks to wish you had never abandoned your Chucks. Let's review the four stages of summer footwear:
- Preparation, or a pedicure;
- Optimism, or high-heeled strappy sandals;
- Defeat, or Band-Aids; and,
- Acceptance, or flip-flops.
Arguably the two most enjoyable stages are one and four, but remember that the pedicure is mandatory, as it's even worse to display feet that haven't been groomed since last summer...or ever. So if you choose to bare your soles (sorry, couldn't resist), support your local nail salon and get a pedicure (we're talking to you, too, gentlemen). Nail salons abound in this area, ranging in price and level of luxe, but this DCist hasn't found a better deal than the $25 manicure and pedicure combo deal on Saturdays at Crystal Beauty in Crystal City. It's a no-frills experience, but at that price, we can forgo the hot towel treatments and espresso.
So, preparation, check. Once you've suffered through the next two stages, or if you've wisely chosen to skip them altogether, you should be ready to embrace the flip flop phase.
Given the plethora of choices on the market, choosing the perfect pair can be daunting. The ideal flip flop should have comfortable straps (preferably not made of plastic or rubber), a thick enough sole to absorb sidewalk shock and just the right amount of "squish." City Sports (1111 19th St. NW) has an impressive selection of flip flops for both men and women, ranging from a suede rendition from The North Face to pink and black polka-dotted satin Reefs to refreshingly old school rubber basics from Puma.
For a more highbrow incarnation of the flip flop, South Moon Under (2700 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington) features a sleek metallic version from Matt Benson. South Moon Under carries a myriad of choices for the flip-flop-phile, including Juicy Couture's line in outrageous shades of fuchsia and green and decidedly more low-key versions from Rainbow and Havaianas.
What about you? Do you have any flip flop favorites or cheap pedicure suggestions?