The Case for Comfort and the Green Tabi: Pivoting with Style | Vol. 3, Issue 11

Jun 7—2026

Written by

At the age of 55, I’ve had a revelation that I’m calling “The Case for Comfort and the Green Tabi.” I shared a bit of that truth on my social channels some weeks ago.

The premise was simple: “Happiness is wearing comfortable shoes when you have a long workday.” In this case, those shoes happened to be my fabulous, deep green patent leather Tabi (the “split-toe” shoes…if you know, you know).

Now, some might look at “comfortable shoes” and translate it as, I’m in my sweatpants and slippers phase where style has taken a momentary pause.

To that, I say…Absolutely not.

This is a different kind of comfortable. This is being comfortable with growth…with what’s new, yet unknown…being in the pivot.

Here’s how I understand growth, whether it’s personal, professional, or that beautiful, confusing hybrid of both we navigate every day. Growth is almost always uncomfortable. Pivoting into a new role, launching that venture, or simply reclaiming your success narrative at a “certain age”…the over 50 age, which requires intentional navigation through shifts, both anticipated and unexpected.

For so long, society has measured our professional success by how much we can endure. From the navigation-to-surviving toxic work environments, difficult supervisors, “being proximate” in the hopes of promotion—only to be passed over and overlooked. For women over 50, where friction becomes even more exhausting, we face the subtle and overt sting of ageism, masked behind the myth of being “overqualified” or suddenly not qualified enough. We’ve all seen it (or lived it). Enduring a grueling, three-month-long interview process, only to receive an automated email stating, “…We have decided to move forward with candidates whose experience and background were more aligned with the needs of this position.”

When you are already wrestling with those systemic hurdles, what you absolutely do not need are feet that are screaming in protest.

Impact and Style, Without Interruption.

Stepping into entrepreneurship means becoming the sole architect of your days. The heavy workloads don’t disappear, but they transform from exhausting corporate demands into purposeful milestones. When I captured that moment in the video, I was in the middle of an intense day for my brand. It required absolute focus, creativity, and agility.

I realized that to show up fully and make a real impact, I couldn’t be distracted by the literal pinch of traditional expectations. My aim for the day was success and leveraging the tools needed to clear the path ahead without interruption. I needed a foundation that allowed me to move efficiently, pivot cleanly, and execute flawlessly.

Style is an Expression of Our Power.

My definition of success is a mix of chic and practical, stylish and comfortable, experimental and utilitarian. It’s the reclamation of our success narrative and the definition of our own version of chic, guided by my foundational pillars: Style, Empowerment, and Impact. They give me great clarity in direction and planning.

My Green Tabi is my style lever. They are my statement. However, that thick rubber sole is also engineered for comfort and impact. They are a symbol that you can move forward, confidently and powerfully, on your personal journey to your next purpose… all while looking absolutely sensational.

True alignment happens when your inner drive matches your outer preparation. When you refuse to let minor obstructions slow down your major moves. Reclaiming your narrative means choosing the tools that allow you to move freely, think clearly, and step boldly into your own kingdom.

Growth will always demand something of us, but it shouldn’t cost us our footing. So, step into your power, equip yourself for the distance, and remember that you can shake the room without ever bruising your heels.

Be inspired. Be empowered. Be fabulous!

Felicia

Save the Date: 2026 Summer Market Vendor Event

Join me for a vending event at The Book Bar in Mokena, IL. This is a curated experience to discover your best pair of jeans in an environment that celebrates community and craft.

Dates: June 19th & July 10th
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Experience: Shop my collection of pre-owned vintage denim and custom “rescued” designer creations. Let’s find the piece that speaks to your next pivot.

Let Me Know You Are Coming