While I don't have any proof of this, I could swear that Silhouettes footwear has gotten bigger. If you need a roomy pair of shoes and you want to look somewhere new for a wide-calf boot or a wide-width shoe, I think that Silhouettes has ramped things up considerably.
Case in point: my last time trying them in the winter of 2008-09, I wore a size 10, and that's in a variety of different styles-- heels, booties, and knee-high boots as well. This season, I tried on a similar pair of shoes (a pair of low boots and a pair of knee-highs), and I thought that the fit was substantially different. Instead of wearing a size 10, I now wear a size 9 in Silhouettes boots, and I haven't heard of a change in sizing directly from the manufacturers or representatives.
One thing this season that has me particularly fascinated is the fact that Oprah-- yes, that Oprah-- also has a connection with Silhouettes boots. If they were seen on her show, then they probably have changed for the better.
Despite all my musing, I did have a chance to get some answers and Silhouettes seasonal footwear collection:
Q: Is there a certain style of boot that women with wide calves find more comfortable?
A: To start, normally anything with a side zipper, or a stretch boot. These boots have a built-in stretch for comfort; Silhouettes boots have a 17" calf.
Q: What are some of the most popular styles of the season?
A: Anything sporty with buckles, more casual. Heels are still in but not quite as popular as flat boots.
Q: If a woman wants to wear a great pair of boots in good or bad weather, is there any particular style you can recommend?
A: If you want something for everyday, you'll like the Silhouettes' boots with buckles, or their dress boots. Winter cold can be combated with fur trimmed suede boots.
Q: Can you tell me about a few of your best-selling styles, and why they've been doing so well?
A: Some of the most popular styles have been the Double Buckle Boot, the 3-Buckle Riding Boot, the Classic Riding Boot, the Cross Strap Ankle Bot, and the season's fashionable color, amethyst, with a buckle trim. These are also available in black and brown.
As for the sizing quandary, I'm going to be asking Silhouettes whether or not things have changed. Updates to follow.
