Happy Spring to all my fashionistas! Time to throw off the shackles of socks and closed toed shoes and give your feet the freedom and sunlight that they deserve. This requires getting your feet ready. So, this piece is all about pampering your tootsies in preparation for those great sandals that you just can’t wait to wear.

Obviously the easiest thing to do is grab your BFF, and head out to your favourite pedicure spot, and make an afternoon of it. There is nothing better than getting a pedicure and hanging out with your best friend. But, for those of you who like to get your feet ready before you have someone else touch them, here are my step by step instructions for a great DIY pedicure.

1. Prepping – Remove any nail polish you have on your toes. The first step to having soft feet is to get rid of callouses and dry skin. In order to do this, get yourself a file made just for this purpose, and be sure to follow the directions. Gently file the callouses and dry skin, being cautious not to break the skin. Foot repair files can be found at drug, department, or beauty stores.
2. Soaking – This step helps to soften the skin and toenails. I love this part. It is always so relaxing and feels amazing, especially for those feet that have been stuck in high heels all week. Fill your footbath, or a small basin, with warm water. I like to add bath oil to mine, but you can also add bath salts, Epsom salts, or your favourite foot soak. Slip your feet into the warm water, and let them soak for 10 – 15 minutes.
3. Exfoliate – Now it’s time for the exfoliating scrub to remove any rough patches and slough away old skin, in order to stimulate newer softer skin to grow. I like to use a homemade foot scrub:

   1 cup – White Sugar
   2 tbsp. – Olive Oil
   2 tbsp. – Baking Soda
   1 tbsp. – Vitamin E Oil
   1 tbsp. – Honey
   3 drops of any essential oil of your choice (to make it smell pretty)

   Gently exfoliate your feet, by rubbing the scrub in circular motions all over your feet, paying close attention to the rough patches.

4. Trim and File Toenails – After soaking and exfoliating it’s time to trim and file. If your toenails are damp it is much easier to clip them. Be sure to clip your nails straight across, and then file the corners into a rounded edge. Make sure you only file in one direction. Use a nailbrush to clean under your nails, and then gently buff them to get ready for polish.
5. Moisturize – This is really important, especially after a long, skin drying winter. I also like to take this opportunity to massage my feet and calves with moisturizer, just as a little treat to myself. I work hard, so I deserve a treat now and then!

Now it’s time for you to get out that amazing shade of nail polish and make your feet beautiful!

If you follow these steps, your feet will be ready to slip into your favourite sandals, and start enjoying the season!