Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what your day-to-day life looks like?
My name is Nicole and I am a 35 year old mom, wife, and teacher. My day to day life is pretty busy! I wake up late most days and help my husband get the kids out the door (Goldie is 2 and Ret is 6). I head to work at a local public school, as a 7th grade teacher, and my husband is an EMT at Amazon! I teach 7th grade English to 148 pre-teenagers that are both frustrating and hilarious. After school I run mom-errands, tidy the house, make dinners, and watch tik-toks with my dog, Arrow. The evenings consist of dinner, baths, story time, and reading. I also am a creative and love to host- so I overbook myself on party planning, etc. and sometimes that takes up a good chunk of my time.
How would you describe your personal style, and how do you express it through your footwear choices?
I have been overweight most of my life and if you are a plus size person you know it is hard to find clothes that reflect you as a person and not the "only thing I can find at a plus size store that fits me." So, I would say my style has evolved throughout the years. At some point I was wearing Etnies and shopping at Hot Topic (what's up early 2000s)! But as a professional and a mom who wants to show her daughter, at any size, I can represent myself through clothing/shoes- I have gone much more eclectic, colorful, but also trying to layer the classics in my wardrobe. I want to wear clothes that make me feel good about myself and not the trends. That would include footwear! I came from a long line of "that will not fit my foot, but the ones at the basic plus size stores, that are made of plastic, will fit so I will wear that..." Now, especially with the options we have at Wydr, I am able to create an outfit and wear the shoes that are comfortable (for all day teacher/mom wear) AND look good/last.
What does a typical day in your life look like, and how does your footwear play a role in it?
I am out the door by 7:30 AM and sometimes don't get home until 7:00 PM. I want to look good wherever I go because that gives me confidence, especially in a body I have not and sometimes still do not even love. So, when I wear something I feel good in, I make it through my day pretty easily. I have to walk on concrete floors all day at school and the bathroom is FOREVER away from my classroom..(sligh running might be involved so I can get back before the bell). I walk the aisles of my students working, etc. I am on my feet teaching novels, writing techniques, and grammar. So, I need a shoe that covers all those bases, but again makes me feel good.
What were some of the biggest challenges you've faced with finding footwear that fits in the past?
Nothing fit the width of my foot, nothing fit the giant calves I have! Everything was made of plastic, so as someone who is on their feet a lot, those shoes never lasted! Most of the time they didn't reflect my personality either!
Do you have any memorable stories or experiences tied to the footwear you've worn over the years?
Well, in my first year of teaching I fell down the stairs at school and my foot kept swelling. I had to wear ONLY Birkenstocks for at least 6 months- as nothing would fit my swollen foot. (This was before I knew of Wydr). My first time wearing my silver boots for Wydr out and about was at a concert- I felt good, I looked good, and those boots were SHINY. I got at least 3 compliments just standing in the crowd.
What are the top three things you look for when choosing a pair of shoes?
Does this style work with my clothing and personality, does this style lend itself to multiple outfits in my closet, can I wear these shoes at school all day?
How did you first come across Wydr Studios, and what made you decide to give it a try?
I think I looked at an Instagram Ad! I saw these silver boots (Jolene Embroidered Western Leather Ankle Boots) and I thought- eclectic, rare, gotta have them. They were sold out. I think I emailed, commented, and messaged the Wydr team after stalking the website for a restock, maybe 10 times.. when I tell you I JUMPED when they restocked.
What stood out to you about our footwear compared to other brands you've tried?
These shoes WILL LAST. You're not buying something flimsy. They fit, they stand out. Other brands are going to fall apart and wear out quickly.
How has wearing our shoes impacted your daily life or activities?
Confidence is hard to come by sometimes when you have grown up hating your body. I can't tell you how many tears I have shed because this outfit wont fit and they don't make it in my size. Then some spark ignites and there is an outfit that feels so YOU- but what shoes go with this that fit? I can't wear Birkenstocks and Converse with everything. So when you find a shoe that helps show off your strengths and matches the outfit you feel good in- it changes your life. You walk taller, you feel better, you become you in a matter of small moments.
What are some of your favorite activities, and how does your choice of footwear support these?
I like to dress up, I like hosting parties. (I host a party every two months I would say, bridal shower, birthday party, etc. I'm even in charge of prom at the highschool!) So, I like the option of a classic shoe style for a wedding I am attending or helping with; but I also like a unique style for my nights on the town. I am also a mom so something comfy that will stay on my foot (and allow room for swelling if that happens) when I am running around chasing these crazy kids of mine.
What role does comfort and functionality play in your footwear decisions?
It has to fit and be comfortable for me to wear any shoe, now that I know that I can find a comfortable and well fitting shoe. Functionality is important because I want to be able to wear that shoe at school teaching, running errands around town or hosting a party- The shoe has to match those criteria.
What advice would you give to someone who struggles with finding the right pair of shoes?
That perfect shoe for your fit is out there.. but it is not a $10 shoe- as an adult I have realized that the "you get what you pay for" mantra is TRUE. I would rather spend $100-150 on a shoe that will fit, provide confidence, and last, than something that is just a trend and falls apart. Research, measure, and spend the money on something you love!
How does the footwear you choose reflect your values, such as sustainability, quality, or fashion?
Sustainability-I need this shoe to last. I need the quality of the shoe to hold me up all day. Fashion is important, but so are your feet and back!!
In what ways do you see footwear as more than just an accessory—perhaps as a reflection of identity or a means to tell your story?
With age, I have become bolder with footwear. I don't want people to see me as a larger girl that only wears what she can find in her size. I need the clothes and shoes loud to tell a story. She loves polka dots and red flats. She loves florals and shiny boots. That's me, a littleer, a lot happier. Now as for being a teacher, it is kind of a little boost when a trendy teenager says "Mrs. Davis those shoes are sigma" which for us older people translates to "those shoes are fly."
What would you say to someone considering trying Wydr Studios for the first time?
This is an investment you are making in you. You don't have to cave and wear something that crunches your toes, or doesn't fit your ankles. That time has come and gone! Try Wydr to see what being yourself in a shoe that you love feels like.
