Sole Expression: The Power of Shoes in Personal Style
Put Your Best Foot Forward—Literally
Fashion isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about what you walk in. From Japanese-inspired grunge in the underground scene to vintage gems found in Center City and South Philly, the right pair of shoes can elevate an outfit from everyday to extraordinary.
Platform boots, chunky soles, and statement sneakers don’t just complement a look—they define it. Whether you’re lacing up stiletto sneakers, stomping through the streets in metal-studded boots, or towering over the crowd in Demonia platforms, your shoes tell a story without you ever saying a word. These fashion trailblazers prove that the right footwear transforms an outfit from stylish to statement-making
Lona, Fashion Industry & Merchandising Student, Pittsburg
Q: What are your favorite brands?
A: Some of my favorite brands are Miu Miu, Mowalola, and Telfar.
Q: Do you have a signature shoe?
A: My signature shoe is my Timbs.
Q: How has your style evolved over time?
A: Over time, I’ve become more comfortable with accessorizing and layering, which has definitely elevated my style.
Q: What and/or who is your style influenced or inspired by?
A: I’m influenced by Sierra Rena & Kollin Carter.
Q: Do you have a favorite local place to shop?
A: I like to shop at 2nd Street in Philly.
Q: What is your craziest footwear and why did you get it?
A: My craziest footwear might be my toe mules. I thought it was different so I was attracted even more.
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
A: My advice to my younger self would be: You make the outfit; the outfit doesn’t make you!
Q: Who’s your current favorite album?
A: My favorite album right now is the new Drake and PND album.
Kaeyu, Management Information Systems Student, Upper Darby
Q: What are your favorite brands and why?
A: My favorite brand is Diesel. I’ve always liked the brand, and over time, I kept finding great second-hand pieces. Eventually, it became the most common brand in my wardrobe.
Q: What and/or who influences or inspires your style?
A: I’m definitely influenced by punk and grunge music artist. As well as Japanese streetwear.
Q: What is your signature shoe?
A: I’m always drawn to black boots with a zipper closure. Right now, my go-to pair is a vintage pair of Harley-Davidsons.
Q: Why and how did they become your favorite?
A: They go with everything in my wardrobe—black with silver details, which fits perfectly with my style.
Q: How has your style evolved over time?
A: I used to dress very minimal and safe, but I gradually stepped out of my comfort zone and experimented with different styles. Over time, I realized I prefer clothes with a more worn-in distressed clothing with more of a punk inspiration.
Joy, Nursing Student, Philly
Q: What are your favorite brands and why?
A: I don’t necessarily have favorite brands. I enjoy picking out certain clothing items that are drawn to me. However, I do like looking through Pinterest for inspiration when it comes to outfits and discovering new pieces!
Q: What is your signature shoe?
A: My signature shoes would have to be the Converse x PLAY Comme des Garcons Chuck 70 low top, more for every day as it is so versatile and comfortable, as well as Dr. Martens 1461 Bee Smooth leather Oxford shoes. To me, they call for different events of the day, and I love that these two staples are so dependable
Q: How has your style evolved over time?
A: I was definitely experimenting with different styles in high school, and I always valued comfiness and clothes that I think are cute over anything else. My style leans more towards streetwear, and I thoroughly enjoy the Y2K aesthetic even though some of the outfits can be very trendy. I like to show some part of my silhouette, more commonly with small top big bottoms. I've always dressed more tomboyish, but have recently been interested in dressing more feminine like skirts and dresses.
Q: What and/or who is your style influenced or inspired by?
A: I like to look at content creators, especially on Instagram, of accounts who have similar features like me (@jessyluxe and @xinyiidng). I think it helps me envision what I would look like with the same outfits, as well as pull inspiration from it. Another source would be TikTok, as we all know, have an abundance of content for anything, but “Get Ready with Me” videos is something I truly enjoy watching.
Q: Philly Connection like favorite place to shop or visit
A: I enjoy browsing urban outfitters, anthropology, and 2nd Street in center city.
Q: What is your craziest footwear and why did you get it?
A: That would probably be my wheat Timberlands. This was an impulse purchase in high school, and for some reason, many girls wore it to class, so I got inspired and purchased a pair. I obviously wasn’t doing anything heavy duty but just going to school, but I guess they made a nice pair of snow boots! I still have them, and they are collecting dust as we speak.
Q: What advice would you give to your younger, current, future self, or others?
A: As corny as this sounds, don’t let other people prevent you from being your true self. People are concerned with themselves and have little time and energy to analyze you and pick you apart.
Q: What is your favorite song or artist? Either current or all-time.
A: Kali Uchis, SZA, Tyla, and 2000s R&B are always in my rotation. Honorable mention: the brat album by Charlie xcx.
Every Step is a Statement
Shoes are more than an accessory—they’re a reflection of who you are and who you want to be. They signal confidence, attitude, and an unapologetic sense of self. Whether you’re strutting in stiletto sneakers, stomping in steel-toed boots, or stepping out in thigh-high platforms, your shoes can speak volumes.
So, what story are your soles telling?