Before diving into a lengthy description of the shoes I sampled, the shoes I bought and the shoes that gave me nightmares, I thought I should compile a short vocabulary list. That way, when I make reference to a pair of kitten-heeled alligator mules, at least one of us will know what I’m talking about.

Alligator: supposedly refers to shoes made out of alligator skin, although it seems to extend to shoes made out of something made to look like alligator skin.

Ankle strap: a strap that originates at the heel support of the shoe and fastens around the ankle, generally with a buckle or tie closure. These straps may wrap around the ankle more than once.

Ballet flats: very flat slippers, usually in suede or soft leather, which cover the sides of the foot, heel and toes and have a gathered, elasticized top. Inspired by the footwear millions of little girls wear to ballet lessons. I always thought they looked like diapers for you feet, but what do I know?

Boot: apparently a class of footwear that is distinct from shoes, although I’m still trying to sort out exactly how. Generally speaking, a shoe-like object that covers the entire foot and at least part of the ankle.

Calfskin: a type of leather that, by virtue of the youth of its victim, is softer than the usual stuff. See also “Nubuck.” Of course, there’s probably a vital difference between the two that I remain blissfully unaware of. If at all possible, I’d like to keep it that way.
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