{ a blog all about the love of shoes }
June 30, 2011 
Comments (0)
We get it. Not everyone is on board with every trend. And that’s a good thing because not every trend suits every woman. It’s best to gravitate towards trends that truly catch your eye and make you feel confident. Forget about what everyone else is wearing and do what feels right for you. Flatforms are a hot trend right now, so if you’re feeling the shoe love here are our picks.
Flat and Fabulous
Marni was one of the first brands to make flatforms cool. The Italian brand has been doing it for years, well before it became a trend. These Marni Wooden Flatforms have a thick wooden platform that’s surprisingly comfortable, and dark army green leather straps. Army green is being regarded as a new neutral in the world of fashion. There’s nothing wrong with a pair of black or brown sandals, but there’s a good chance you already have those. Instead of reaching for another pair of boring neutral sandals, consider this trendy silhouette in a shade that’s just as versatile but not as basic.
Sky High
Joe’s Jeans brings you the Brenda V. Thanks to its hefty 5-inch platform these shoes toe the line between flatforms and wedges, but they’re so fabulous we just had to tell you about them! These flatforms will have you towering over everyone and make you look stunning in the process. White and light denim will add to the bohemian flavor of these sandals. Also try pieces that flow, such as maxi dresses and skirts. And if you want to get funky, mix prints with these chunky, fabulous flatform sandals.
Creamy Hues
For those with short legs, a nude pair of flatforms is the way to go (the nude color helps elongate the leg). Check out the Canvas Flatforms from Chloe. The shoes are summery and stylish and feature a rounded toe, sling-back, and ankle straps. We love these flatforms because they go from day to night. For day, try them with an airy tank top and shorts, and at night, slip on a black maxi dress and hoop earrings for a look that’s trendy, but comfortable.
Samantha Cabrera
Samantha Cabrera is a freelance writer who covers the best of fashion and beauty.
June 29, 2011 Comments (0)
As the month of June wraps up, so does the end of the high bridal season. So today we decided to take one last look at some of the hottest bridal shoe fashions from one of our favorite designers: Alexander McQueen. But if wedding bells aren’t in your future, don’t fret. We’ve also thrown in some of the most playful fashion-forward creations from the famed designer that are perfect for a night out at the hottest spot in town.
The Resin bridal-esque peep-toe pump in pristine white satin features a row of buttons at the heel, as well as a wedding-appropriate bow. Or, to pick up the lace detailing in your dress, perhaps you could step out in the simply gorgeous Lace Covered Pump. As the name suggests this fabulous pump features a light nude upper with a delicate lace overlay. A more than 4-inch covered stiletto heel completes this wedding-worthy look.
If, however, you’re not in the market for a trip down the aisle, McQueen’s design house still has you covered. McQueen’s range of booties are particularly chic. We love the rock-and-roll inspired Python Ankle Boots, which include enough buckles and studs to keep even the toughest rocker chick feeling chic, as well as the rough-and-rowdy Cutout Biker Jacket, which features a sexy, zipper front, as well as sexy cutout detailing. Another fabulous option is McQueen’s Deranged Bootie, which features that same zipper detailing, but this time includes stitching and stud detailing. And we’re also seriously digging the Engraved Cage, a very Rihanna-esque bootie that features vampy intersecting straps and a soaring stiletto heel that measures clear over 5 inches!
Lianne Woolley
Lianne Woolley writes for the healthcare industry by day, and blogs about fabulous fashion and shoes by night!
June 28, 2011 Comments (0)
I know what you’re thinking. In order for a shoe to be “green” it has to be made out of hemp or some other type of hippie-esque material. But the fact is that after several visits to Planet Shoes and their dedicated eco section, we’ve learned that there are plenty of eco-friendly shoe materials that are not only incredibly chic, but will look fabulous on your feet.
Rubbers: Think your car tires don’t go anywhere important when you drop them off at the recycling depot? Wrong! Much of the rubber that ends up in shoes is actually recycled from tires. It’s simply separated from the metal particulates and made into a simple powder to use in production.
And any extra cushioning you feel in your shoes may be derived from rice rubber. This combination of rice husks and latex rubber creates a cushioned layer that’s great for athletic shoes and any shoe sole that requires extra support. Since rice husks are usually thrown away, this is a very green rubber.
Bamboo: Bamboo is a highly sustainable choice for shoe production, since it can grow an incredible two feet in a single day. Bamboo-pulp shoes are soft and absorbent as well as anti-bacterial, which is great for combatting a sweaty foot problem. And if you live in a hot climate, you’ll also be glad to know that bamboo is UV-resistant.
Silk: Silk is made by silkworms, and it’s natural, renewable, and biodegradable. With sheen and strength, silk is one of the most elegant natural fibers out there.
Vegetable-Tanned Leather: Leather can be tanned in a manner that is environmentally responsible. The leather is tanned using tannins that are derived from bark and other parts of various plants and trees. Leather, of course, isn’t a vegan choice, but if you want the benefits or look of leather shoes, pick a pair that’s tanned with a vegetable process. Since leather is not a synthetic material, when it’s combined with vegetable tanning, it’s a good choice for earth-conscious individuals.
Water-Based Glue: Water-based glue is a perfect example of a small detail that can make a big difference in the world of shoe production. Water-based glue won’t contribute to air and water pollution, like solvent-based glues, and it’s used in the development of several shoe brands that are available at Planet Shoes.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist.
June 27, 2011 Comments (1)
Out of the hundreds of shoes that fill your closet, why not try to pick a pair that complements your personality? By doing so, both you and your shoes will shine a little brighter.
Outgoing and Bubbly
If you have a bubbly personality, try a pair with some embellishments. If full-on studs or sequins are a little too bold for the occasion, go for shoes with slightly more subtle seed bead touches along the vamp or appliqued additions on the upper. (We love the Embellished Leatherette Sandal from Go Jane.) A pair decorated with a row of buttons can also be an excellent choice, or go wild with shoes adorned with crafted leather ribbons, bows, and buckles.
Secretly Shy
If your style is a little more reserved, try a fresh new take on the classic Oxford. The revamped versions of this shoe may have cutouts along the sides, bright laces, or they could simply feature a textured upper that allows for great ventilation and a little bit of extra style, too. Hate flats? A low, wooden heel on your oxfords is also cute, while remaining practical.
Brainy Bookworm
Leather sandals are a great alternative for someone who usually values usefulness over trendiness. These sandals have all the practicality that you adore, but they can still look incredibly luxe if dressed up. Look for ones constructed with rich mahogany-colored leather that can be buffed into a fresh shine with oil or polish if they ever become dull. If you have an eye for fine things that don’t involve the fuss, these shoes are a great compromise.
Adventurous Explorer
For the globe-trotting individual, boat shoes keep your feet comfortable while exuding an air of casual chic. Designed to outfit the nautical set, they are now the perfect option for ladies who want to stay comfortable and classy during travel. Easily washable and available in a wide range of colors and patterns that camouflage any wear and tear from your explorations, they’ll work well all summer long.
Beach Babe
If the ocean is your home away from home, try one of several styles designed to optimize your time in the sand and surf. Choose from flip-flops for the sand, barefoot technology for the water, or mesh shoes with elasticized straps for trail trekking. Try to marry good looks and performance details for the best combination. If you pick a pair of shoes with rubber soles, they will last longer and provide sure footing no matter when you go.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist.
June 26, 2011 Comments (0)
A while back Khloe Kardashian opened up her shoe closet to Elle Magazine and The Coveteur. You may be thinking that you don’t have much in common with a woman sho has such an insane amount of high-end shoes, but there are big lessons to be learned here when it comes to shoe selection, organization, and style.
Shelves of Shoes
Khloe packs all of her designer shoes into a closet with shelves. One shoe faces out, while the other faces in, maximizing her space and giving her a glimpse of the shoe she’s selecting. Instead of organizing shoes by designer or even occasion, Khloe opts to organize her shoes by color. Remember, you usually choose shoes based on color, so this is a smart way to get your shoes in order.
More is More
If you skim Khloe’s shoe closet, you’ll see many different shoe styles, but there’s also a few of the same style of one shoe. For example, Khloe has at least three pairs of black platform pumps. Is this a bad thing? Not at all. One pair is patent, one is flat leather, and the other is satin. These three different fabrics make for very different occasions. When buying basic shoes, like a pair of platform pumps, take into consideration the fabric that works best for the occasion. Don’t be afraid to gradually add on a pair of shoes in the same style, but in a different fabric to give your shoe wardrobe even more versatility.
Always Reach for Bling
The Kardashian sisters aren’t strangers to shiny things, so it’s no surprise that Khloe is a fan of shoes that are embellished with sparkle and bling. Even if your days and nights only take you to the office and the occasional dinner out, a pair of blinged-out heels can work. Of course, you don’t have to wear them with an ultra-short mini like the Kardashian sisters. Try pairing your sparkling heels with a jersey dress for a day look, and for evening, you can wear those same blinged heels with a loose top and distressed jeans.
Samantha Cabrera
Samantha Cabrera is a freelance writer who covers the best of fashion and beauty.
June 25, 2011 Comments (0)
Great footwear for the beach revolves around casual comfort, but don’t forget to pay attention to the details. Simple shoes for surfside strolling can be bought in styles that look good both on and off the boardwalk. Here are some seasonal favorites that are sure to keep your feet happy throughout endless amounts of sand, surf, and sunshine.
New Heights
If you can’t stay away from heels, a pair of graduated platforms is a great option for a beach-friendly shoe that can still give you a boost. A pair of sandals with a low platform and a gripping sole can still be worn on hard-packed sand and pavement. Who says you can’t mix in some glamour when you’re at the beach? Better yet, they can easily transition to a beach-side restaurant for a dinner after a day in the surf.
Casual Comfort
If you’re looking for beachwear that differs from the standard plastic flip-flop, sandals with horizontal cross-foot straps instead of the between-the-toe thong are an excellent alternative. Better yet, ones made from genuine leather actually stay cooler when you’re in the bright summer sun. Once they’re cool and comfortable, your feet will thank you for your beach-friendly footwear choice.
Just Add Water
These shoes are not for someone who likes to watch from the sidelines. Made for the adventurous at heart, neoprene sandals can be worn in all kinds of surf. Their high-performance materials and molded soles make them ideal for exploring the water first hand. If you want something more substantial for hopping into the waves, look for sneaker-type shoes that stay on your feet through a series of zigzagging elastic straps. Jambu, known for its fun color combinations, makes a style with a toggle closure that makes their water-friendly shoes great for wearing straight into the ocean.
Anchors Away
Simple canvas or leather boat shoes are the ideal option for adding some nautical flavor to your outfit. (We love the classic style from Old Navy.) Their prominent stitching, easy-grip soles, and variety of crisp colors make boat shoes a perennial favorite of seafarers everywhere. Choose a solid color, or opt for a funky pattern to veer away from tradition. No matter what style you choose, your boat shoes are sure to make a splash with whatever you wear.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist.
Get our RSS Feed
