Lately, we’ve been on the hunt for a practical pair of walking boots for our suddently-sensitive with a tender sprained tendon. “Tie shoes are best”, said the physical therapist, “for support”. Ugh.

Combat boots seem a stylish possibility but so many seem kind of tough looking. Until we stumbled on a lovely solve: grosgrain ribbon laces totally temper the rugged look in a surprising way. A 50-yard spool of 5/8-Inch grosgrain ribbon costs less than $8, and comes in a variety of colors (and widths), so can be changed easily.

Another simple fashion hack we’ll keep in mind.