
{ a blog all about the love of shoes }
Nautical is back BIG time this season with rope-type embellishments showing up on everything from flip flops to club-worthy pumps!
On the casual side, we love the Bayville by uber-preppy Sperry Topsider, which takes a basic flip-flop base and gives it a nautical twist (literally), with the addition of knotted rope overlays at the slender side straps. Another classic rope-inspired shoe? The Lex by Ralph Lauren, which features an ultra-summery striped upper and lashings and lashings of rope laces at the instep! Want something a little less preppy and a little more earth-mother? Then take a look at the Klone by Steve Madden, which features rope-straps, an embellished t-strap and an eco-chic cork wedge heel.
Think rope won’t work for a party? Then prepare to tie up in the Becky by Harajuku Lovers, which uses ropes to lace up an ultra-sexy vamp with flirty cutouts before running across the instep and being anchored in a sexy ankle strap. Another great option – although technically more rope-inspired than actual rope – is the gorgeous Maria by Zinc, a funky spin on the Mary Jane that features a deep olive, rope-patterned upper and a soaring wooden heel. Read more »
What to put on your feet for the sweet, summer heat…
1. Caged sandals are red hot right now- the hard lines create a super modern shape and show off your foot with dramatic cut-outs, especially when set on a straight, high heel, but they’re also super sexy in completely flat styles.
2. Wrapped ankles give an open sandal style a chic play of coverage for an edgy, sophisticated look in flat or heel form. A structured ankle collar looks great with gleaming hardware, or a soft, slouchy ankle can be nonchalantly tied up. Read more »
Nude shoes. Every woman needs them, but not every woman’s skin tone is the same shade of “nude.” Sure designers are happy to offer up tons of choices of beige with heavy pink undertones, but this doesn’t suit women with darker skin tones. What to do to get that same nude shoe effect? Improvise, of course!
The purpose of wearing nude shoes (whatever your shade of “nude” may be) is to create a long, lean line that mimics long legs. Nude shoes elongate and make it look as if your legs go on for miles, even if you hover at 5’2 in heels. Nudes shoes are great for day and are also a go-to style for night when wearing an outlandish dress that doesn’t need dramatic footwear.
Women with darker skin tones should look for dark bronze and copper shoes. The less sheen the better, but a metallic finish can work, depending on the look you’re going for and the occasion. Read more »
That old rule about not wearing white before Memorial day? Consider it vetoed because with white shoes this cute, there’s no way we’re relegating them to a few hot and humid months!
Get in to the summer spirit with a pair of shoes that boast a multi-hued upper. We love the Parade sandal by Naughty Monkey, which boasts a white leather upper accented by brown leather straps with stud and grommet detailing. Another fun and funky option? The Hedy flat by Chinese Laundry, which features a safari-inspired, black and white fabric upper that will work for work or the weekend. Read more »
Do you crave expensive looking footwear? I have just the trick for getting your shoes to look pricey, and it’s easy to follow these tips whenever you are shopping online for new footwear. Forget wondering if you can swing a price tag that’s slightly out of your range… you won’t need to with my tips!
1. Get leather upper heels with a leather sole.
If you are stumped for style, leather-upper heels and shoes with leather soles are a sure bet. These shoes are the easiest to repair and to polish, and you’ll love how long they last. Leather shoes have a special finish that looks more expensive and classic with anything you choose.
2. Buy shoes with natural embellishments.
If you don’t wear leather shoes, you can pick out a pair of shoes that employ a fabric tassel, straw rope detailing, or a soft grosgrain ribbon to dress them up. These natural additions are very stylish and are often found on some of the most expensive shoes. Aim for fabric uppers with a soft print and palette for the best effect.
3. Hunt down a pair of shoes in black or brown.
Bright colors are easier to spot when they aren’t quite right, and black and brown leather shoes can blend in and look more luxurious with a little extra detail. You know those designer shoes that look gaudy in bright green? They wouldn’t look half as bad in a neutral color. Read more »
Stars like Jessica Alba and Rachel Bilson are huge fans of casual wear with a twist. One way starlets in Hollywood are channeling this style is by pairing girlie flats with every day casual gear like roomy sweaters, long tank tops and skinny jeans. The ensemble always looks fresh, especially when worn with big sunglasses and a messenger-style handbag. You’re the modern woman on-the-go, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take five minutes to put together this easy-to-wear look.
Sequins and glitter are right for day. You may wonder how to make this trend work for daylight hours, and the easiest way is on your feet. Glittering flats are cute with leggings or skinny jeans, and also add pizzaz to a casual T-shirt dress. Star 16G brings you the Funtasma, a glitter-infused flat that shimmers in every color of the rainbow. Available in blue, red, pink, green and purple, these flats will add some dazzle in seconds. The blue and pink are especially versatile. Don’t forget that glittering flats can also work for evening with a smoky eye and your favorite little black dress.
Channel Audrey Hepburn with these classic quilted flats. The Quilted Flat from Barefoot Tess has a satin upper for a sweet look that works for day or night. Available in cream, black and marigold, the flats have an ornate bow at the toe and cap detailing. Oversized decorations at the toe are hot for spring and summer because they add interest to a breezy outfit. Quilted flats look great for the office, and can also work in your downtime. Consider a bright hue like marigold for a whimsical look that will get mileage year round. Read more »