Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re familiar with Toms shoes & their ‘sole’ purpose.

But if you happen to need a reminder, Toms is a charitable business where a purchase of shoes donates a pair of shoes to children in need.  It’s a win-win; you get a neat pair of shoes and donate to a wonderful charity at the same time.

If you’re going to argue that BOBS by Sketchers are more cost-effective, please keep in mind that their ‘reason’ for giving was spurred by the success TOMS has generated (monetary success..) and not for the benefit of children as their primary concern.  If that were the case, the style, look, and even colors would show a little creative differentiation.  Unfortunately, they do not.

As you can see from the above picture, I happen to love these shoes for all reasons.  Besides the charitable reason and overall sense of goodness felt when I purchase a pair, the comfort and style of these shoes are so worthwhile.  They have a ‘makeshift’ arch support and after hours of walking, your feet feel fine as compared to a pair of sandals.

Below are some of the cooler pairs in my collection. The 3 classic pairs not shown are solid colors ASH, OLIVE, and BLACK.

Here, I took an ordinary NATURAL CANVAS classic pair and customized them with a feather and dream catcher, using acrylic paints and lots of patience.  If you check out the Toms by Til category, you can check out the multiple pairs I’ve customized for friends & family.  If you’re interested in a customized pair, I’ll be happy to do so! CLICK HERE

For the warmer seasons, nothing looks cuter than a pair with CROCHET LACE.  They keep your feet cool and stylish, as well as look adorable with a pair of denim shorts.  NOTE: they run very large – normally, I’m a 7 1/2 and this pair is 7.  My roommate is size 8 1/2 and she also has a size 7 of this pair.  Definitely try them on, if possible, or prepare to send back for the next size.  They do stretch very well without losing shape.

Another size that runs larger than normal, but totally neat is the BURLAP pair.  I love the inside pattern and how it coordinates well with the texture and look of the burlap material of the shoe.

Now this pair is not a Classic model like the above, but happens to be a pair of BOTAS.  Toms has multiple styles of shoes now, Classics being the most popular, but the Botas follow a close second.  This pair is preferred for cooler temperatures because it keeps the feet super insulated, but they look cool with shorts as well!

ANOTHER NOTE – TOMS is a UNISEX brand, for all you men out there in denial.