Topsiders
The world of fashion does not stand still, daily delighting consumers with more and more new and unusual models of clothing and footwear. A rich choice, definitely, can not but rejoice, but it often happens that the shoe variety is confusing.
Often people adhere to already well-established combinations in clothes, choosing the usual, "canon" pairs of products and combinations, because they are afraid in search of new products to "roll in the wrong place" and ultimately look ridiculous.
Among the fashionable stylish novelties are such shoe models as espadrilles and slip-ons, already accustomed moccasins and soft T-shirts are incredibly popular, and more recently Western trends have brought universal topsiders to the domestic fashion world.
Many people ask themselves a question without understanding what it is, the answer is simple, topsiders are a type of footwear designed for both women and men. Topsiders are soft leather or textile slippers with elastic rubberized soles for maximum comfort when walking.
This type of footwear has lacing, which is not used as a functional element, but acts as such a kind of decor.
This shoe model is so unusual and interesting that it deserves a detailed consideration of the history of origin, varieties and characteristics of wear and care.
History of creation
The existence of topsiders began in 1935, and the creator of this amazing shoe, which looks like moccasins, was Paul Sperry, the owner of the corporation of the same name.
Initially, topsiders were conceived for use as sailors' shoes, since the special structure of the sole, equipped with a refractory protector, reduces the sliding force on wet and slightly frozen surfaces.
The surface of the shoe is equipped with a special layer of an impregnating agent that protects against moisture penetration, so the feet will always remain dry and warm, which is especially important for those who like to “go out to sea”.
A little later, the creative designers of the Sebago brand brought something to the appearance of topsiders, which served to further their distribution throughout the world, as well as to penetrate into the women's wardrobe, where they settled for a long time and began to enjoy unprecedented popularity.
Initially, topsiders were conceived as light, summer shoes, which is not surprising, since at other times of the year on a sea vessel you will need a completely different one - warmer and denser. But several decades later, designers developed insulated topside models that are still popular with fashionable customers to this day.
Peculiarities
Like any other type of clothing or footwear, topsiders have certain characteristics that are characteristic only of this product.
First of all, it is worth noting the fact that this shoe model belongs to the unisex category, that is, it is suitable for both women and men, without any distinctive features in the style. The differences are only in the color and size of the shoes.
A distinctive feature is the fact that the soles of topsiders, as a rule, are several shades lighter than the product itself, due to which the product has such an interesting, unusual look.
The laces of topsiders, in the classic version, are matched to the color of the sole.
The features include the material from which the sole is made, since it is quite hard and dense, but at the same time quite comfortable and comfortable for long walking.
Models
The only and inimitable model of topsiders is soft semi-sports slippers with a rounded toe and a decorative arc seam located on its upper part, as well as lacing and a rather dense ribbed sole.
As such, there are no significant differences in the model range of topsiders, mainly the difference concerns only the colors. But a very significant detail that somehow affects the appearance of the shoe is the material from which it is made.
One of the most common and popular models - suede topsiderswhich, thanks to their velvety surface, look very stylish and expensive. The product has a soft surface, but it is not always practical, since although suede is equipped with moisture-resistant impregnation, its wear resistance is still not so great.
Much more practical leather boat shoes, the surface of which does not get wet even without special impregnation. Leather, being a natural material familiar to everyone, is well suited to any outfit, giving any image the classic features that are familiar to us.
In order to save money, many manufacturers put on sale leatherette models, the appearance of which is similar to a product made of natural material. But it is worth knowing that topsiders from artificial leather, obtained synthetically, are less practical, long-lasting and functional, since the artificial material does not "breathe" at all.
Summer models topsiders are made of a lighter material - dense, but sufficiently breathable fabric. A striking representative of such materials is dense cotton, called canvas, shoes from which look not only neat and beautiful, but also extremely comfortable.
Models of topsiders made of denim material are common, which looks no less attractive.
Models look interesting and unusual topsiders made of material similar to ordinary oilcloth, but much denser, as well as having very unusual properties - such topsiders shimmer and give off different glare when exposed to sunlight at a certain angle.
Choosing models for the season
A rather practical feature is that this type of shoe, although it is a kind of soft slippers, is still divided into several varieties, suitable for different seasonal and weather conditions.
Topsiders for summer are made of natural breathable material, and leather and suede products that do not have additional lining are quite suitable for light coolness or use as replacement shoes in any room.
For colder weather, topside fans may want models with warm lining, which is most often made from lightweight padding polyester or soft fleece - these materials are best known for their thermal functions.
Winter topsiders have a thick fur lining, which makes the product look a couple of sizes larger, so you should be careful when choosing a size.
The lining is usually made of natural fur, so as not to cause excessive sweating or allergic reactions to synthetic fibers. Sheepskin is always used as fur, due to its practicality, wear resistance and resistance to severe frosts.
Colors
It is reasonable to assume that the colors of topsiders are as immense as any other clothing or footwear. This is understandable, because in the age of nanotechnology and other innovations developing at the speed of light, the abundance of colored clothes and shoes is not at all surprising.
Choosing a shoe color should be based on the color scheme of the entire image, since it is this part of the outfit that is the final "chord", completing and complementing it. Therefore, you should familiarize yourself with some basic rules for choosing colored shoes and their competent combination with the rest of the image elements.
- Black color - unchanging classic, perfect for any outfit. Therefore, by purchasing black topsiders, you can safely use them to create a variety of looks. Stylish party or business meeting? They are perfect for an event of one nature or another.
- Relatively white topsiders we can say the same, but with one note - they are combined with light outfits much more successfully than with dark ones, helping to create a light, visually not overloaded image.
- Look stylish light topsiders in delicate, flesh-colored shades... Pale pink, cream, baked milk, ivory and crème brulee - these are the shades that will help create an incredible, delicate look, even if it contains elements of a sporty and casual style.
- Color shades, also, they look very interesting and beautiful, as they will become indispensable in creating a bright, creative outfit. Boat shoes in red, vibrant pink and orange are a great choice for passionate, self-confident girls. Models of lilac, lemon, light blue and beige shades are perfect for calmer girls.
- Enjoyed success and topsiders, the material of which combines several colors... Such models look very harmoniously with a combination of clothes of the same shades, creating such a kind of costume - a set.
- Some models are completely regular print, for example, leopard print or small polka dots. And some are made of a special material that shimmers in different shades, depending on contact with light rays.
How to tie correctly?
Since lacing on topsiders is a peculiar feature of the product, as well as a feature that distinguishes this type of footwear from ordinary moccasins, it is necessary to study a couple or three unusual ways of tying laces in order to somehow diversify the appearance of shoes.
Before revealing the secrets of interesting lacing methods, it is worth mentioning that the laces are located directly along the entire edging of the product.
The first and classic way is the usual, well-known bow, which even a child can handle. Vryatli someone may have a problem with tying their shoelaces with a bow, so if you don't want to try and find something new, feel free to choose this method!
Lacing, which is considered permanent, also looks pretty good. Consistency arises as the ends of the laces are tucked in, locked and trimmed, making the shoe look very neat and stylish.
Watch a video on the topic.
Another method, which can be classified as permanent, differs from the previous one in that the ends of the laces stick out on the surface, and their edges are wrapped in pretty lumps.
See below for more details.
Lacing, called "fishtail" requires much more effort than those described above, since it is necessary to stretch the lace not only horizontally, but also vertically, along the side location of the loops. Further, the lace is intertwined many times, catching on the created vertical stripes.
See the next video for more details.
How to choose?
Choosing topsiders is not such a difficult task, since the appearance of the product is quite the same, which greatly facilitates the process.
The key to a comfortable pair of shoes, in addition to high-quality materials and comfortable lasts, is the correct size. It is worth leaving a little space in the toes and making sure that the heel does not press down, as this can lead to pain and calluses.
It is also necessary to walk a little in shoes in order to understand whether the last is comfortable and whether further use will lead to pain in the feet and other unpleasant sensations.
The shade and type of product should be chosen in accordance with the season, as well as the material from which it is made.
What to wear with?
Topsiders, being, in fact, shoes with flat soles, may not be suitable for every outfit, since in appearance they can be attributed more to a sporty style. To create different, dissimilar images, the same topsiders may be suitable or, on the contrary, radically different models.
For example, dark-colored topsiders made of matte material will perfectly fit into a business style, combined with tapered trousers. Such shoes will help not only to create a harmonious image, but also to diversify the usual office style with unusual shoes.
The most common combination of everyday things and this shoe model is obtained by choosing not too short shorts with cuffs. It can be either jeans or shorts made of lighter fabrics (such as linen, cotton, chiffon) or denser ones (tweed, felted wool, drape, velor).
Mini skirts with tight and slightly loose styles will also look great with topsiders in different shades. Since the shoes are still not classic and do not have a heel, you should avoid long skirts and knee-length models, since for the most part closed topsiders with flat soles will visually shorten the legs and add fullness to them.
A variety of sporty jersey dresses, skinny jeans and trousers, and super skinny leggings will also work.
How to care?
Topsiders, like any other footwear, require careful handling in order to ensure a longer service life. But there are no special tips, only those that relate exclusively to the quality of the material from which they are made.
- For example, leather products require surface treatment with a special shoe polish;
- For suede, there are special impregnations - sprays that provide maximum surface protection;
- The fabric model should be cleaned with a coarse brush, water and soap (in some cases).
Images
- A sporty look that flaunts a slim figure. Short denim shorts with cuffs and a decorative belt will help to accentuate slim, long legs and firm buttocks.
A dark green oversized cropped sweater will be a worthy addition, while stylish and incredibly comfortable lime color topsiders with white laces and a sole will complete the look.
- A summer outfit suitable for lovers of an active lifestyle will definitely amaze those around you! What could be more stylish than a combination of light denim breeches, a vest and an elongated sleeveless cardigan made of jacket fabric.
A small white shoulder bag, stylish glasses and stunning topsiders made of oilcloth, iridescent fabric - the main dark color of the shoe shimmers, sometimes blue, sometimes green.
- Another stylish sporty look, in the best American traditions. Turn-up denim shorts look great with a navy T-shirt with an unobtrusive print. This combination is complemented by a bright green oversized bomber jacket with white edging and cuffs.
Completing the look are a bright blue woolen bag with brown handles, as well as stunning topsides in a delicate pale pink shade.
- An image that fits well into the business style and any office dress code. Skinny black 7/8 pants will look great with a blue cotton shirt decorated with a white pea print. The sleeves of the shirt can be tucked up, and the bottom edge can be tucked into the inside of the trousers.
A large rectangular bag and stylish black boat shoes that look like elegant flat shoes are a worthy addition.
- A light summer outfit suitable for both outdoor activities and sea trips. A short sundress with a free cut, equipped with a draw-down element at the waist, looks beautiful and at the same time is very practical.
A stylish light brown oversized bag will perfectly complement the outfit, and bronze topsiders perfectly emphasize the owner's sense of style.
- An image suitable for rainy summer weather, diluting the gray with bright colors. You will need blue, slightly loose shorts with cuffs and a white straight-cut jacket with thin blue stripes - a combination in the best traditions of nautical style.
A yellow loose raincoat made of dense material will go well with white and yellow topsiders, creating such a peculiar set.
- A stunning, absolutely incredible look that is suitable even for an incendiary party! High-waisted wide leather shorts look great with a chiffon white top tucked in. A striking detail of the image is a stylish bomber jacket with sleeves embroidered with sequins and an unusual print in white and blue tones.
The boat shoes that fit perfectly into this outfit are made of materials in the same color scheme - blue, white, black.
- A functional, casual look will amaze others with a combination of unusual stylish details. A white polo shirt with blue breaks and a decorative pink collar looks great with cappuccino shorts.
A large denim bag will serve as a very useful functional element, a black cardigan will help in case of a cold snap, and stunning light pink boat shoes will look great with short red socks.
- Great walking or hiking outfit! For an active pastime, you need the most comfortable things, which is why you should make a choice in favor of functional black jeans of a skinny model with rather wide cuffs, as well as a white loose T-shirt, which is perfect for hot weather.
Boat shoes should be chosen in a flesh color so that they do not stand out against the background of the restraint of the whole image, but are a stylish addition to it.
- An outfit filled with tranquility and incredible restraint. Although ripped skinny jeans are chosen as the bottom, the look never ceases to be less elegant. A stylish blouse and an elongated trench coat in the color of coffee with milk did their job, adding a touch of sophistication to the outfit, as well as unobtrusive accessories.
White boat shoes with brown laces will fit this outfit better than any other shoe.
- A good outfit for a light autumn coolness, adding a drop of color to a gray rainy day. Light jeans - boyfriends look great with a white shirt with a small floral print. This outfit is complemented by a turquoise quilted jacket, which, by the way, is double-sided and has an orange color on the inside.
Stylish black topsiders with white soles and laces will perfectly fit into an outfit.