Shoe love in Europe

It's already October?!?!

The current date and my feelings about Osnabrück let me know that I am ready to write more about my Fulbright experiences thus far. I love sharing amusing tidbits about the pupils on Facebook, but for some more in-depth observations, check out my blog here!

When I first arrived in Osnabrück, my roommate Kerstin asked me, "Do you think Germans look different than Americans?" Thinking that she meant physical features, I answered a quick no. She responded, "I think they do." Since she spent a year at Trinity College in Chicago, her response is based on experience, not just stereotype. So what did she mean? She meant in terms of dress.

Being from Iowa - and having just graduated from a small college where everything from Renaissance dresses to Snoopy pajamas are fair game - I suppose I don't pay much attention to fashion. For me, one ogles fashion on Project Runway J When Kerstin asked me that question about appearance, I was still feeling overwhelmed by the language and practical routines like grocery shopping, sending mail, etc. I hardly paid attention to clothing. Now that I've settled in, I can heartily agree with her observation.

German women appear to be very fond of scarves, pea coats, stockings, and especially knee-high boots. Never before in my life have I seen so many different kinds of boots! Every color and material you can imagine, and paired with just about every kind of outfit - everything from a denim miniskirt on a 16-year old to a formal black dress for the office. Of course there are also flats and tennis shoes (predominately Converses), but the click-clack of boots are audible all over the cobblestone paths of the pedestrian zone.

For this gal, the boots-filled store windows are both a dream and a nightmare. I love to gaze at the offerings that differ so much from what I buy at Famous Footwear. I usually have to be content with gazing, however, as I am on a scholarship stipend that doesn't cover shopping extravaganzas J

To partake in the local color and give my Payless black heels a rest, I did have to buy a pair of brown leather ankle boots. I love the pointy toes that look a little menacing, but mostly just fashionably feminine.