Style File: Flipping or Flopping?

Austin is a town of acceptability. Literally, you can be whoever you want and Austin will welcome you whether you’re high-fashion, low-fashion, organic, punk or still caught in the 80's. That is why we love this town. One common thread among all these types is the footwear you see about town, flip-flops.

Not until I moved to Austin did I start a love affair with flip-flops. My toes were usually covered and in some sort of sensible shoe. But, a little like crack (so I hear), once you start it’s really hard to stop. No longer do you restrict flip-flop wearing to the beach, outside activities or the pool. You start to think, church is alright for flip-flops. I mean God doesn't really care about your feet does he? And, going out to eat is good too. I’m wearing my all-leather pair and not the rubber ones.

I think the rest of the country has started my same addiction. And, although Jimmy Buffet would be so proud, we have probably started down a slippery slope. Will bathing suits become the next flip-flop? All of the sudden the patron next to you at your favorite Italian restaurant is in board shorts or a halter top bikini? Let's hope that this laid back style stays restricted to feet.

From one addict to another, take a second glance at your footwear options before heading out. I'm going to guess you have a better option than the worn out, kitty-gnawed flip-flops that have your own permanent footprint indention on the sole. Lord knows, I need to take my own advice!