These little ballet flats are fabulous, for no other reason than they magically make my Fred Flintstone boats look slender and dainty. Maybe I'm exaggerating a little, but, seriously, my feet veer toward wider than I'd like. They also camouflage my slightly chubby toe cleavage. (What foot issues?) And they're comfortable for long periods of time despite the appearance. The band has not hurt my feet yet. The puffy flower ball embellishment is not overly large or detracting. The only thing I'd change is the area at the ball of the foot, because sole at the front of the shoe doesn't have a lot of traction. So, you've been informed. Buy these shoes but no running on hardwood floors, mkay?