With temperatures set to reach 21 degrees over the weekend its not going to be the greatest climate in which to run the London Marathon, which takes place on Sunday (although, of course this being England rain is now forecast too).

But, even if you are not running the marathon – and I’m most certainly not – there is one thing you  most definitely will be aiming to do… wear a pair of my pretty small open toe shoes. But, just like the marathon, a lot of preparation is crucial beforehand.

Now, ladies, this is critical before putting on open toed shoes, sandals or flip-flops. Your feet must be manicured – within an inch of their lives! They must be in perfect condition. Not a chip or piece of dry skin in sight. I’m not one of those people who has a weird foot phobia (thank god) but I do understand that there is nothing worse than an yucky foot in a beautiful pretty small shoe.

Its also vital that one’s nail varnish matches one shoe. So, under no circumstances, for example, must yellow nail varnish be worn with a shoe such as Jungle Boogie. Red, or black, yes… but yellow? Nu-uh. Don’t get me wrong, contrasting colours are great – I’m going to love wearing my Sweethearts with bright pink or red nail varnish – but clashing colours are a definite no-go area.

Here’s a few examples of some great sandals and the nail varnish I would suggest best to go with them:

small pretty lace fabric shoes need a plain or scarlet manicure

Love Affair – a plain manicure, or scarlet red.

Roma in black or yellow satin need plum purple or navy blue varnish

Roma in yellow satin – plum purple or navy blue varnish.

With Icon Ivory you can use any of the pastel palette that is currently ‘du jour’!

Icon in Ivory – any of the pastel palette that is currently ‘du jour’!

One last tip from me is… also ensure that whatever your colour your contrast varnish is, it must also be within your outfit! That is the ultimate in co-ordination. You may think that it’s a step too far. I, on the other hand, think its very height of chic, and the men appreciate it too ;D

Have lovely weekends all!! X