June is Pride Month and 2022 is a year we look back over what for some has been literally their lifetime, seeing an evolution of changing attitudes towards a more tolerant and inclusive society that embraces diversity and individuality. The LGBTQ+ community now forms part of the wider National community of the United Kingdom.
Half a century ago, the first London Pride event in 1972 reflected upon the 1969 San Francisco Stonewall protests to end discrimination and promote acceptance of LGBTQ+ people by wider society. Pride events have grown globally and throughout the United Kingdom locally, with themes that promote the wider diverse society in which we now all live.
The NHS and other major employers, the government and organisations, proudly fly the symbol of equality; the symbol of diversity – the rainbow flag. This includes We Fix Feet during Pride Month, as we believe foot healthcare has an important role to play for everyone!
A light-hearted approach to the world of Queenie-ness (is that really a word?)…
Being a Queen, as we’ve seen these past few years can be a bit of a drag! (at least for, as I’d affectionately refer to her, Big Liz!) Whilst living the life of fabulousness with full-length gowns, diamond tiaras and the odd ankle-biting corgi, at least we know her Maj’s feet have kept her in good stead…well, with so many Footmen around, and a Lady-in-waiting that breaks-in your new shoes, should one expect any less?
But the years of a regal life can take its toll on one… when one’s heirs and spares can’t keep out of the press and the price of Dubonnet & Gin certainly isn’t the few shillings a bottle it was when celebrating one’s Coronation in 1953… but with raised glasses this year for the Platinum Jubilee and similarly next year for the 70th Anniversary of the Coronation… they’ve already started polishing the bling for that event… just remember that important formula.. just as one likes it… 1 part gin to 1 part dubonnet, with a twist of orange peel!
But back to feet… and from one old Queen to another, where in my world the drag is truly fabulous dahhh-lings!
I may don a full-length sequined Gaultier, back-comb the wig and dab a little more foundation than I previously needed to in my youth, but one thing that does take its toll with maturity (note I won’t say age… it’s impolite to ask a queen her age!) but being so fabulous in these six-inch heels does create a few problems for one’s tootsies!
High Heels – High enough to bring about vertigo and make your ears bleed! Six-inch Louboutin’s just about cut it for the cabaret performance or popping into The Ritz for fizz… but my toes pay their price from day-to-day wear! Posh Spice could pull it off, but with those bunions, there’s no wonder she rarely cracked into a smile!
So, here are my recommendations for day-to-day feet that are fit for any queen…
Bunions
Unless you’re genetically cursed with the disposition of bunions from parents… bless you! …avoid them by keeping those heels for special occasions! I’d like to think I can pull off a pair of comfy Doc Martins accompanied by fishnets, mini-skirt and boob tube when touting for trade on the side! I know I look the dog’s do-dahs, and they’re certainly less stressful on my feet if not your eyes!
Although, if you’re not so adventurous and if you have wider feet, DB Shoes or Pavers have a great shape, otherwise, Padders, Reiker, Hotter and Clarks styles also meet the cut for Healthy Footwear. Keep the heels low, to keep the excess stress off your big toe joint. This may help stop bunions from forming.
Hammer, Mallet and Claw Toes
Often caused by trauma and stress to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th toes. These toe deformities occur where the toe joints can become fused or tendons tighten, curling the toes. Although if Rheumatoid Arthritis has already set in, there’s unfortunately little that will ultimately prevent the long-term destruction of the smaller bone joints.
Footwear that’s too short to accommodate toe length can often be the cause, so keep those Lady Ga-Ga fashion specials for the catwalk! Whatever footwear you choose, ensure they fit your feet, rather than forcing your feet to fit the shoes! Like myself, you may have half-inched them from Imelda Marcos’s shoe closet, but it’ll only end in tears… mark my words!
I keep my feet in tip-top condition with regular visits to We Fix Feet clinics in Ilkeston – Derbyshire or Beeston – Nottinghamshire.
Click these links if you’re looking for Pride events in Nottinghamshire, for Derby Pride, it’s here or here for Switchboard LGBTQ+ helpline.
Sincerely yours,
HRH Agneta Tarsal 😉