Ask Belinda: Think Pink

The Question

Dear Belinda,

I recently received these hot pink Nike Free Run+ shoes as a birthday gift after wanting them for a year. I fell in love with them instantly. I broke my toe a few years ago, so it’s hard for me to find shoes that work. These fit like a glove and are the first shoes (in years) to have left my feet pain-free. They are lightweight and an absolute dream for walking, working out, and running errands. Plus, I’m obsessed with the color– it’s not every day that you find a pair of practical and comfortable hot pink shoes.

Unfortunately, the shoes also make me a bit self-conscious. I’m 24 years old, and I’m concerned that I’m much too old to be wearing hot pink. Sometimes, I think that I’m better off wearing more neutral shades like taupe or gray. Even though strangers compliment my shoes, I’m skeptical. Do these people actually think that I’m 10 years younger and in high school? Have these people been mistaking me for a junior high student?

Regardless of whether I’m too old for the shoes, I’ll probably still wear them– a decision that leads me to one big question… with what? How do I wear these shoes? Can I wear these sneakers with skinny jeans and a tee, or should I save them for gym-time only? Can you suggest some potential outfits for me?

Thank you, Belinda!

Sincerely,

At a Loss for Pink

Belinda Says…

Dear At a Loss for Pink,

Those are some terrific kicks! Although these shoes were designed with athleticism in mind, the vibrant color on them begs to differ. I love the combination of hot pink and deep fuchsia-almost purple overlay accents â€“ it creates s a nice contrast without letting the hot pink take over entirely. If you like to wear them to the gym and to the grocery store alike donâ€™t be afraid to do so! The most important thing here is that they provide your feet the comfort and support you have be searching for years (sorry about your toe â€“ ouch!).

As for your age concerns, you have nothing to fear! You are still youthful and full of life, so why not let it show in your attire? People complimenting you on your shoes has nothing to do with what age they believe you are. They compliment you because they are genuinely attracted to your awesome sneaks and want to cheers you! Remember, itâ€™s all about how you wear them that will make your look. This brings me to my next point.

How do you wear a pair of hot pink sneakers? Easy! These shoes are showstoppers all on their own so think of them as more than a mere pair of shoes. Think of them as an accessory. Use the hot pink color to punch up a casual outfit; dark wash jeans and solid colored top layers are a great choice. Black garments accented with vibrant colors always look great, so if youâ€™re wearing a solid black top and or coat, add a matching hot pink or deep fuchsia scarf to pull the entire look together. This will also allow you to maintain your 24-year-old look, all while adding some fun to your outfit. The key here is to not revolve your entire outfit around your shoes; otherwise you may end up in hot pink from head-to-toe. Let the shoes be the final touch to your outfit; you will love the way you look and feel in them, and continue to receive wonderful compliments from many. Happy stylin’!