Meet Kirsten Borrink of Barking Dog Shoes

Your Name: Kirsten Borrink

How many children do you have?: 2

Your Business Name: BarkingDogShoes.com

Brief Description of Your Business: After being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in my 20’s, I thought I’d never be able to wear cute shoes again. In fact, I thought I’d be banned to orthopedic clod-hoppers forever. As a former middle school teacher, I was on my feet daily and subject to regular fashion critiques by 13 year old girls. The combination of painful feet yet unwillingness wear shoes that would age me 20 years, I started a quest to find footwear that was both stylish and comfortable. BarkingDogShoes.com is an outlet for my discoveries.

Do you get yourself ready everyday or do you find yourself hanging out in jammies for a large portion of the day? I keep my flannel pants, sweatshirt and socks at the foot of my bed so I can dress myself in uniform at the first sound of the baby’s cry. I don’t get myself ready until after I drop my older son off at kindergarten…and he has PM kindergarten!

What is your favorite beauty tip? If I don’t have time to put on my “full face,” I always apply a neutral brown eyeshadow (Stila Puppy), and peachy-pink blush (I’m too embarrassed to say the name of it, but you Nars fans will know what I’m talking about).

What did your mother teach you about beauty and fashion? My mom took me to a Mary-Kay party when I was 13 so I could learn proper skin care and make-up application. She also taught me that quality is better than quantity when it comes to apparel.

What is your favorite outfit in your closet and why? My new Gap baby-doll flannel shirt. It’s cozy, cute and doesn’t cling where you don’t want it to.

What’s your favorite online site to shop for beauty or fashion? I keep regular tabs on the Budget Fashionista blog and now I have a new favorite—A Mom in Red High Heels! I also love Sephora.

What motivates you to look your best? The thought of turning 40 next summer.

As a mom, “Me Time” is limited… what are your time saving beauty tips? Just make sure you moisturize well and have a good eye cream. Then anything you put on your face will look better. I like Origins Youthtopia (thanks to my SIL).

Name one product you can’t live without: Kiehl’s lip balm

Heels or flats? Somewhere in between. I’m a Dansko clog girl.

Lip gloss or Lip Stick? Which brand/color? Both. I splurged and bought a Bobbie Brown lipstick that will probably last me a year as it is so highly pigmented. I like Origins lip balms because they taste minty.

Editor’s Note: The blush Kirsten is referring to is NARS Orgasm blush! It has a cult following. Have you tried it yet, mamas?? Kirsten, thanks for sharing so many great products! Your hair is super cute! Keep finding us more fabulous shoes that are comfortable and stylish! We love those!