Onesole

About Onesole

Just a glance at the company's Web site reveals a rather charming idea: One sole, many tops, plenty of style possibilities. That's the not-so-secret secret behind founder Dominique McClain Barteet's visionary idea for a shoe that presents women with variety.

It all started when Barteet, a longtime pharmacist, grew frustrated with suffering from sore feet day in and day out. On her feet for as much as 12 hours at a time, she eventually decided she wanted something that was comfortable and stylish. Recognizing that many of the shoes designed for "comfort" on the market weren't exactly the height of fashion, she set out to create her own line of footwear.

Barteet's idea is a unique concept, indeed. It revolves around comfortable soles that feature interchangeable tops. With just one pair of soles in a closet and a handful of tops, a woman can easily snap in a new top in exchange for another and step out with a whole new pair of shoes.

Not only is it innovative, it also promises to make packing for travel a whole lot easier. Barteet, who travels frequently, finds that packing one pair of soles and a handful of tops is certainly much easier than packing a bag full of heels! Naturally, the company, which was founded in 2002, offers this as one of many reasons to indulge in a pair of these clever shoes.

The Soles

Tempted? Get started by clicking over to the "Shoe Soles" section on the company's Web site. There's something for everyone in this versatile collection of soles, from sporty, chunky heels to sexy, ladylike kitten heels. Choose from among the following:

• Elegance: As its name suggests, the two and a quarter inch heel and shiny finish lends this sole a glamorous edge. Great to wear during the warmer months with a cute mini-dress or a trendier maxi-dress, these soles are available in beige and black.

• Elegance Soft-Step: Not only is it glamorous, it cushions your foot to provide you the utmost comfort possible. Ideal for women who experience sore feet regularly or spend much of the day walking, these shoes will instantly bring some style to your day. They're available in black, white and brown.

• Leisure: If you prefer to wear low heels, this one and a half inch sole is perfect for you. Available in black and brown, it features a slight wedge and is great to pair with everything from skirts to jeans.

• Casual: A cork-like sole gives this an especially trendy look. It's sure to be a favorite as the weather heats up thanks to its fresh, summery look. The two and a half inch heel adds some height, but it’s the versatility it offers that will keep people interested.

• Traveler/Clog: Hit the road in style! With a three inch heel and a stylish clog sole, this option is great for petite gals looking to add some extra inches.

• Collegiate: Sports fans will jump for joy upon laying eyes on the Collegiate! It's not the sole that's cute, exactly, but the colorful tops decorated with a variety of college sports teams' logos. If your favorite school isn't on the existing list, just contact the company and they'll add it for you.

• Kitten: Meow! A dainty kitten heel is always a great choice for a date. These soles boast a two and a half inch heel. Dress it up with a variety of colorful tops and you'll have a new shoe for every night of the week!

• Sport: A chunky, square-toed sole gives Sport the most eye-catching look of all. With a playful look about it, it's great for pairing with everything from shorts and T-shirts to light summer dresses.

The Tops

Sure, the soles are nice, but it's the tops that are really interesting. With hundreds to choose from, the possibilities seem practically endless! Each sole is sold with three tops: one standard and two of your own choice. You might think this would pose a problem since there are just so many to choose from, but don't worry. You can purchase additional tops separately.

Tops are categorized into different groups by their style. This is just a taste of what's available:

• Silk screened with Swarovski crystals
• Jeweled
• Monogrammed
• Signature series (featuring artwork by various artists)

Where to Purchase

Onesoles are available at Onesole.com, the company's official Web site. They're also sold in select retail stores across the country. Visit the store locator for details.