ShoeIssue

Making Mondrian Proud

2011-10-02T18:00:00.000-04:00

Piet Mondrian was an important contributor to the art world and is best known for his grid paintings, only using the three primary colors - red, blue and yellow. Very simple and minimalistic, his works have impacted those across all industries, including the shoe world. This is loosely represented in the Giuseppe Zanotti Crystallized Colorblock Platform Pump:

I say loosely because these gorgeous gam accessories are purple (not blue) red and yellow. Buuuuuut, red and blue make purple so it works for me! These colorblock sensations are phenomenal. With tone-on-tone Swarovski crystals, peep-toe and over 4 inches of yellow heel, these heels are sure to make a statement. You can pair them with an equally colorful outfit, or go a little more conservative with a monochromatic outfit and colorful jewelery. Either way, the colorblocking at your toes would make Mondrian and his art-disciples proud. Work it!

Blood Python

2011-09-25T18:25:00.000-04:00

There are those that pride themselves on their pet snakes. The second you walk in their door they are bringing out their scaly friends and forcing them over your shoulders, reassuring you that it's completely safe. Your knees are shaking and you're repeating in your head over and over again, "Please don't bite me, please don't bite meeeeeeeee." They make you watch them eat a mouse, and you sit politely, attempting not to recoil at mother nature staring you in the face. To each his own, right? My own preference is footwear, and my own version of this is snake-skinned heels - more specifically the Casadei Python-Embossed Platform Pump.

In my house, I bring you to my closet and force you to look at all of my 'pets', my shoes. I promise you that they won't hurt when you put them on and wear them for the night and I show you where they live, in uniform clear plastic boxes with pictures on the front. In my dream closet I'd have these hot, biting heels ready for your viewing pleasure. They'd be a favorite with a gorgeous almond toe and 6 inch heel, coming in two colors - sand and flame red. Added bonus? They don't eat mice.

My Favorite Constellation - The Jimmy Choo

2011-09-18T18:00:00.000-04:00

In high school astronomy class, constellations were defined as a pattern of prominent stars viewable from earth. There's the Big Dipper, Little Dipper, Draco, and Orion (MIB anyone? Anyone? Bueller?). That's all well and good, but I've got my eye on a more fashionable constellation - the Jimmy Choo Crystal Beaded Mesh Pump.

The beading on these sheer pumps are expertly placed and appear as beautiful constellations of crystals on your feet. This classic pump style, with 4.5 inch heel, is modernized with a light, pleated mesh and delightfully dainty crystals. Obviously more of an evening shoe, you'll dazzle at a dinner party with these lovelies. The Great Bear ain't got nothin' on you!

Not Your Father's Tassle Shoes

2011-09-11T20:46:00.002-04:00

Like father, like daughter. He lovingly passed on his temper, hair and toes to me (At least the first three toes. The other two, the crooked ones, are my mom's.) - and possibly my shoe issue? I grew up seeing my dad wear these tassled shoes with those terrible socks, you know the argyle with the mismatched colors? The colors that don't even go together? Yeah, those. Well, while perusing the amazingness that is the Neiman Marcus website, I happened upon these beauties - the Christian Louboutin Tasseled Platform Pumps.

How much do I love thee? Let me count the ways. The color is right on trend and will remain timeless as the years come. The exaggerated tassels give an added flair for fashion while remaining on the conservative side. And, last but not least, the heel is hot at a towering 5.5 inches. These reinvented beauties are just what Fall ordered. I can see it now - a crisp white oxford, a warmly colored, high-waisted skirt and these babies on my feet at the office. Suspenders optional.

She's a Maaaaaaniac!

2011-03-17T09:39:00.001-04:00

When I shop and I find something that I just LOVE, I get one in every color - this mostly applies to shirts and lingerie. You know what I mean? You find something that just FITS. When the designer was sketching the piece, it was your face and body on the pad - that kind of fit, perfection. So, what's stopping me from purchasing the Brian Atwood Manic Pump in every color???

Aren't they AMAZING?

Images provided by Saks Fifth Avenue

No clue. Who woudn't want to take this fun heel home with them in fun shades of lime green, orange white? Or, if you're feeling super fun and flirty, you can choose the cotton eyelet white version (square toe). Yup, that's right, cotton eyelet white. Like a spring dress on your feet. That's just heavenly. It's a classic heel with a modern twist. The pointed toe is not too pointy, the high heel is not too high and the bright colors aren't too ostentatious. You just have to pick a color - or get all of them! Starting at $560, it's definitely not an impulse purchase, but it's definitely something to consider!

Better Than a Spring Picnic

2011-02-27T21:30:00.001-05:00

Spring is here - well, at least it is down here in Florida (it feels like Summer actually, but I don't want to brag). I laid out today with a friend in the bright, shiny sun and felt super fortunate to live in such a beautiful area. I was thinking about how lovely it would be to have a picnic soon and enjoy the outdoors with all of our friends. Then, while doing what my generation does best, browsing the internet, I happened upon this pair of Spring-infused heels - the Gressimo Gingham Knot Pump:

Image provided by: www.NeimanMarcus.com

Not that I would give up an incredibly fun afternoon with my phenomenal group of friends (no chance in hell). However, if this magically amazing day were to ever happen and we were to all get together for a delicious Spring picnic and enjoy camaraderie that would inevitably turn into drunken debauchery, I'd want (NEED) to be wearing these shoes. With over a 5" heel and a classic Gingham print, there are just the right amount of good-girl, bad-girl chic. Not too cheesy, and not too full of themselves they are the perfect Spring shoe - fun and flirty. I would just hope not to get apple pie on them.

Snake Bite

2010-09-13T20:44:00.002-04:00

Dangerous, intricate, beautiful, stunning - I can go on and on about this heel. It's gorgeous at every angle, walking towards you and sashaying away. Phenomenal. Now, these aren't your everyday shoe. These are a major statement heel. They will command attention from everyone, but you deserve it. Strike a pose in the new Diego Dolcini Jeweled Stiletto:

Image provided by www.NeimanMarcus.com

Catch your breath, I'll wait. I know, right? Oh my goodness are they amazing. Where do I start? Obviously the heel! It's a fabulous mosaic of classic jewel tones that will catch the light and make your every step glamorous. And at 4.5" the height of the heel only adds to the beauty. The silver trim leads your eye straight to the hero of the heel - the flower detail. It's sexy snakeskin combined with dainty silk to make a fierce combination with a bite. The monochromatic color scheme tones the shoe down a bit if you're timid - but if I were rocking these babies, I'd do it with a bright skirt to really make them pop! Definitely a splurge at $1,330, but hey, a girl can dream.

Cut It Out!

2010-06-15T18:00:00.000-04:00

Showing peekaboos of skin is the fun and flirty look on the red carpet lately. Tasteful (or not, depending on placement) cutouts of the fabric to reveal splashes of celebrity skin. People go nuts for that kind of thing. For those of us who aren't quite daring enough to bare the unlikeliest of areas, like the back of your left thigh or right under your bra line, we can test out the cutout waters with the Pigalle Pump by Christian Louboutin:

Image provided by www.BergdorfGoodman.com

Surprise slivers showcase the fun, contrasting cream and peach colors of this shoe, which also show off a bit of skin. Really though, only a bit, nothing crazy, maybe about a centimeter of skin, but combined with the ultra low dips on the sides you'll feel like you're wearing a summer sandal (kind of). Gorgeous leather and a 4.75 inch heel helps this shoe make the cut. Get it? Cute right? No? Ok.

Almost Perfect

2010-06-08T18:00:00.000-04:00

How can I not write about a shoe that someone said reminds them of me? A while ago, someone I used to work with gave me a page out of their newspaper, pointed to the Jimmy Choo advertisement at the bottom and said that they wanted show me so I could admire what they thought reminded them of myself. I most definitely took it as a compliment, because this heel is ridiculously gorgeous. Simple but beautiful, great evening shoe. The Lance Sandal by Jimmy Choo. Definitely a compliment.

Image provided by www.Nordstrom.com

How sleek and sexy are these?!? Now, you can either go black or bronze with these beauties. I think I would go with bronze to encourage myself to get a nice tan. The lines of this shoe are out of control - in the best way possible. Not too complicated, but not too simple. They are just right. I'm not normally a fan of ankle straps because they tend to cut a woman's legs short, but these straps have the appearance of being less obtrusive, then take into consideration the 4.5 inch heel and that just adds length. Perfection. That must mean I am, too! (Not.)

Tie Me Up

2010-06-01T18:00:00.000-04:00

But don't tie me down! (Heehee, Maryl gets this one!) The lace-up factor is huge right now. Designers are adding yards (Ok not yards, but what was I going to write? Inches? That's not the same effect!) of fabric to their masterpieces to add lacing. It's definitely a sexy spring/summer look, but really, who wants to deal with lacing up their heels and trying to make it look perfect? Then, let's say you're a lacing master and you won the Olympic medal for it, what's to stop the fabric from falling after walking a few... inches? Fabric tape? What a complicated mess. No, completely not worth it. In order to avoid that debacle of awfulness do yourself a favor and try the Satin Platform Sandal by Burberry:

Image provided by www.Nordstrom.com

This pair is the perfect way to lace it up, with ease. It has a zipper closure in the back that keeps those already laced straps in place. And who doesn't love the feel of satin? How yummy! Walking around, strutting your stuff in these neutral, but striking five inch heels all the while feeling satin enveloping your feet! They're a necessary luxury, especially if they get you out of having to deal with fabric tape.

To Lucite or Not to Lucite

2010-05-25T18:00:00.002-04:00

A funny thing happened on the runways recently with footwear - acrylic. Acrylic-adorned shoes were floating down the runways and now they're being spotted in high-end stores. For example, the Fendi Cinderella Sandal:

Image provided by http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/

They're perfectly normal shoes. Leather covered heel, chiffon straps... but then there's that acrylic platform. I have an inner debate going on in my head. I want to accept them. I want to love them, ogle and obsess over them. But the stigma of LUCITE is holding me back. Tacky images of Shauna Sand and Jenna Jameson cloud my mind when I try to picture these shoes on my feet. Sure, haute couture models gliding down runways in New York and Paris can pull these off. But how do these translate to real life? Our life? What would that look like? A regular looking woman wearing clear heels - S.T.R.I.P.P.E.R. Unfortunately. Which is sad, because these heels are actually beautiful. It's just something I can't get past. Can you?

Glamorators

2010-05-18T18:00:00.003-04:00

That's right, you heard me. GLAMORATOR. No, it's not a new superhero or some celebrity nickname. It's a new name for a type of shoe. How did this fantastic name hybrid come about? Here's the back story: My boss knows my love/adoration/affection/obsession for footwear. Well, one day she brought in a Neiman Marcus mail piece and pointed out a fabulous heel and said she thought of me! I know! Sweet, right? Obviously we gushed about the beauty of the shoe and she called it the new Gladiator, then "Glamorator" came to life. A glamorous gladiator. See? Glamorator ©Hollie Gilbert-Arangio. It's what I'm calling the the amazing Studded Cutout Boot by Giuseppe Zanotti:

Image provided by http://www.neimanmarcus.com/

These are ridiculously amazing. The cut outs, the color, the studs, the cuff, the heel - I don't even know where to begin because it's all perfection. The only downside would probably be finding an occasion to wear them. Probably. But then again, I'm the girl that wears knee high black boots in the summer so I would wear these just about anywhere. Even to the office! How could you not show these insanely beautiful Glamorators off? That would be cause for a termination.

Late Bloomer

2010-05-11T18:00:00.002-04:00

That would be me. I'm late. I haven't blogged in forever. Apologies. I was waiting for a shoe to inspire me, and I found one.

We're well into the middle of Spring with countless weddings, birthday parties, baby showers, bachelorette parties, and even sex-toy parties if you're so inclined. Not only are you spending time picking out the appropriate outfit for the occasion and season, but you're searching for the perfect shoe. Well, I am at least, or I WAS until I stumbled upon the Randee Sandal by Badgley Mischka:

Image provided by www.Bloomingdales.com

Gorgeous, no? In peach, gold or black this shoe is heavenly and oh-so versatile. I had the great pleasure of trying this shoe on and it's H.O.T. It may look a bit frilly in the photo, but you have to experience this shoe to get a real feel for it. You can absolutely pair this with a nice downplayed summer dress to attend your best friend's wedding or you can glam it up and add gobs of jewelery for a night out with your new beau. With that pretty flower detail and sky-high five inch heel, you'll be sure to rock the look. I think my favorite is the gold, it's more yellow than gold and it just looks like light! I might have to throw caution to the wind and pay the $215 to own them and call them mine. They might definitely-absolutely-without-a-doubt be worth it.

Gone Fishin'

2010-03-19T14:00:00.001-04:00

Yup, it's a flat. I know, I know what you're thinking, but I can't in good conscience NOT blog about at least ONE of Giuseppi Zanotti's flats. They are absolutely stunning this season, deserve to be seen, written about, photographed, worn... shared. So, I'm sharing. His line is dramatic and bold yet delicate and completely wearable. He creates statement shoes no matter if they are heeled or not - bullets, roses, and fish are few facets of his bejeweled style. My favorite is the Jeweled Fishbone Flat Sandal:

Image provided by www.BergdorfGoodman.com

Fun, fashionable and fearless - these words should definitely be in your vocabulary when you step out in these flats. This pair of spring deliciousness brings a smile to my face. How unexpected would it be to walk into a fiesta with these brilliant babies on your feet? Adding to the magnificence is the versatility, they can go with anything from a cute sundress, to chic leggings or your LBD. So go, have a little fun; go fish.

Spring Showers bring Hot Heels

2010-03-14T22:04:00.005-04:00

Spring is here, and with this lovely season comes fabulous footwear. The new arrivals are making me extremely giddy, new designs, lines, colors and fabrics. Everything from stylish wedges to bejeweled strappy sandals, sky-high platform pumps to intricately designed flats. (Yes, flats. They are EVERYWHERE right now, and even I've thrown some on. Giuseppi Zanotti has some gorgeous styles out right now. Beautiful enough that I might even blog about a pair one day...) All of these gorgeous shoes, especially the suede pairs, need to be protected from this season's rain to prevent those awful watermarks - except for one pair (kind of) Brian Atwood Suede Watermark Pumps:

Image provided by www.NeimanMarcus.com

Intentionally made to look as though they've fashionably weathered a storm, these pumps could replace my rain boots any day. Ordinarily, most women would deign to wear a pair with watermarks, however, these deliberate heels are altogether out of the ordinary. The two-tone effect creates a whimsical look without going over the top and the color keeps the shoe neutral, but still makes a big statement. As always, in my eyes, the height of the heel really makes the shoe, and these don't disappoint at 4.75 inches. Go ahead and splurge on this perfectly imperfect pair, they'll be an excellent addition to your collection.

Walking on Sunshine!

2010-02-20T19:28:00.005-05:00

What makes you happy? For me, it's a multitude of things - family parties, spending time with friends, awesome fortune cookie messages, singing out loud in my car to my iPod, making people laugh, shopping, reading, writing, and as is plainly evident, shoes. All shoes make me happy, well, I'm not talking sneaks or flip flops. My passion is for towering heels that are made to be ornaments for your feet. One pair that brings an instant smile to my face are the Christian Louboutin Rolando Yellow Patent Leather pumps:

Image provided by www.Net-A-Porter.com

These kicks will put a pep in your step each time you slip them on. The attention grabber is obviously the spectacular, in-your-face, bright yellow color. But what really puts this pair over the top is the towering 5 inch covered heel. Not to mention the signature red sole that catches every fashion-conscious eye. You'll be high on life in these bright babies; start walking on sunshine and feel fabulous!

The Greatest Heel on Earth

2010-01-24T23:11:00.009-05:00

Welcome to the big top! Take a seat and enjoy the show. Let yourself be visually impressed with the performances in the center ring. Remember, this is my circus, it would be completely incomplete without tremendous footwear adorning the performers' feet. Over to your left is the lion tamer, cracking her whip to calm the beast while wearing neutral Fendi oxford heels. To your right is the courageous fire breather putting her life at risk in pursuit of her art. She's rocking the Manolo cutout pumps in red. In the far back is the juggler, adding more and more to her show. She's kicking off her pink Dior slides and mixing them in with her bowling pins and plates. Look up! High above the ring is the aerial acrobat, gliding through the air using muscle and silk. She's effortless in her Gucci ballet flats. And finally, the ringmaster, front and center, commanding all of the attention. Exuding power from her head down to her toes. What does the big boss wear? Why, the Ulona Platform Heels by Christian Louboutin... of course!

Image Provided by: www.BrownsFashion.com

These magnificent works of art would make any woman feel like the bold, commanding ringmaster in her own circus of a life. These are show-stealers, for sure. The gold tubing along the entire front of the shoe, show a sexy amount of skin and catch the light to make all eyes dart to the shoe first. The bright, vivid colors along the bottom create an unexpected array of geometric shapes to keep the eye lingering. The trendy exposed zipper up the back shows everyone who has been keeping up with her Bazaar. And the sky-high 5.5" heel takes the cake! Practice walking in these, because they'll do wonders for your legs, making them look endless.

For me, it's the sum of the parts that make this pair boss. These lovelies just work. And they'll work for you over and over again to tame that lion of a boss, to juggle the daily tasks of being a successful woman, to glide through your day without flinching at how high you are, and to potentially breathe fire at that frenemy that's been bugging you- if need be. But you couldn't stoop that low in those towering heels... could you?

Cinderella 2.0

2009-12-13T21:37:00.013-05:00

Let's cut to the chase. Ladies... you love fairy tales, you grew up on them. Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast; but, the classic of all classics is, and always will be, Cinderella. A true underdog story about a girl that you could relate to - a dysfunctional family, sneaking out to a party, falling in love with the unattainable guy, drunkenly losing your shoe... Well, maybe Cinderella wasn't knocking back Patron shots at the ball, so that wasn't the reason she lost her shoe, but fast forward to present day and she'd be partying with the rest of us. More importantly, the present day Cinderella wouldn't be wearing some flimsy, generic glass slipper, she'd be in these hot Christian Louboutin Jeweled Platform Slingbacks:

Image provided by BergdorfGoodman.com

This is the shoe that I'd want Prince Charming to slip back on my foot. It'd be all over - love, true love. Forget the wooing with flowers, candy, horse-drawn carriages. Forget the engagement ring... just get down on one knee and slip my foot into this gorgeously glam heel. Jewels of every color dazzling when you look down - red, green, blue, pink, purple and orange. All of the jewels are set against a beautiful blue base that really makes the colors pop. This true ornament of a shoe is designed as a classic peep-toe slingback that flatters any leg. Especially flattering is the 4.5" heel, which will give Prince Charming some hot, defined calves to ogle while you're dancing the night away at the ball (or holiday party at your boss' house.) In terms of an outfit, go simple and pair this bejeweled heel with a classic LBD. Or be bold and pair these babies with a bright colored outfit. Either way, when you step out, feel like a princess.

Cinderella would be jealous.

Get Naked.

2009-11-04T23:32:00.006-05:00

I'm huge on color. From tops to bottoms, belts to scarves, and purses to shoes (obviously), color is a big deal to me. Reds, yellows, greens, pinks, purples, blues - you name it, I adore it. Mixing and matching different hues to make a stunning outfit is essential and every woman should make it a mission to incorporate color into her wardrobe. However, there is something to be said for a neutral. A classic color that never goes out of style. No, I'm not talking about black. Nope, not white either. Red? Way off base. Ladies, I am ALL about the nude heel, which I also refer to as the naked heel. Prime example of this timeless shoe, the Christian Louboutin Patent Platform Pump in Beige:

Image provided by www.bergdorfgoodman.com

So unexpectedly sexy, it's like a form-fitted dress for your feet. In a patent leather beige that would match most skin-tones, a pointed toe, and a 5" covered heel, this pump is where it's at. The perfect neutral. If this heel were an employee it would get five stars in the "works well with others" category. It goes with absolutely anything. Remember all of those phenomenal colors I mentioned before? See? Full circle. If this isn't your style, then search for a pump that matches your skintone and elongates those gams until men drool at your... feet.

The Perfect Pump

2009-10-07T12:20:00.010-04:00

Hair poofs. Cheese Souffles. Men. We aspire to get these perfect. We tease our hair until it's frizzy. We bake the desserts until they fall or crack. And we date until... well, we date - forever. It's tiring. But, the one thing we can have fun doing is shopping and discovering the perfect pump. The shoe with the perfect heel, toe, fit and beautiful lines that make your legs look HOT (read: serious calves). Ladies, get ready, because I've found them - the Guess by Marciano Carrie Pump.

Image provided by www.OnlineShoes.com

I can't say enough about this heavenly heel. It's flattering on anyone. Truly. It's a classic look that'll take you from New Years to the happiest of holidays. Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall - seriously, trust me on this one. With a 4 inch heel, a highly complimentary inside cutout and an elongating pointed toe, this pump is an absolute necessity in any girl's shoe closet.

What's best about this shoe is the wide range of colors and textures Guess makes them in. They are constantly coming out with new varieties and it makes my heart happy. Zebra. Hot yellow patent leather. Classic black. Paisley. Lace. Floral. Blue snakeskin. Metallics. Suede. Metal heels. Wood heels. Covered heels. They have it all and are still surprising us with more. I personally own the zebra and cheetah prints.

Do yourself a huge favor. Go. Get them. One pair, two pairs... and strut it (while you're poofing your hair and baking the cheese souffle for your "perfect" man).

Make the Candyman jealous.

2009-08-29T22:31:00.003-04:00

Twister was fun. Scrabble was challenging. Sorry was annoying. Candyland, however, was epic. The rules were simple, pick up a card and move to that color. Keep going until you kick the other toddler’s ass. You always wished to hit the Rainbow Trail or the Gumdrop Pass (the two shortcuts that make your opponent cry) and seriously try to avoid those damn Gooey Gumdrops, Lollipop Woods, and Molasses Swamps that make you lose a turn. The basic rules paired with the delightfully cheery and yummy color palette make this game a must-have for all. That’s how I feel about the Betsey Johnson Campbell Heel:

Image provided by www.Shoes.com

Any lady brave enough to step out in this whimsical heel, probably kicked tail in Candyland as a kid – and if she’ll admit it, she probably plays now with her nieces and nephews. With a beautiful white patent leather foundation and peep-toe, the multi-colored accents really pop and catch the eye. I adore the flower detail with the matching pair of leaves subtley place under it. The string of colors that lines the shoe coordinate nicely with the rest of the accents. At a decent height of 4.5”, the heel is covered which carries the white patent leather to the very end.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. What the hell are you going to ever wear this with? Where are you ever going to wear it to? Really ladies? REALLY? Come on. Be adventurous. Be unique! Pair it with whatever GOES, not matches. Go simple with a classic oxford and skinny jean. Or throw on a few colorful camis with your fave denim. Whatever you do, make sure to wear them when you’re reaching “Home Sweet Home” on the board – and tell Queen Frostine and Lord Licorice hi for me.

Your feet are the new Carrie Bradshaw

2009-08-08T13:06:00.001-04:00

One of the things every woman remembers most about the beloved Sex and the City series is the flower. Carrie’s flower. That show has given rise to many fashion statements and trends - fabulous Manolos, sex talk, Sunday brunches, and the renowned flower. The fashion-forward stylista, Carrie, adorned her apparel all of the time with a signature flower. Women around the world shortly followed suit. And now you can Carrie Bradshaw your feet with the Pura Lopez Women's P259 Slingback Sandal:

Image provided by www.Endless.com

Coming in both purple and taupe satin, this gem of a pair will definitely channel your inner Carrie. The beautifully bloomed flower is perfectly positioned at an off-kilter angle to contrast with the conservative lines and satin material. Although the heel height is a bit more demure at 4.25 inches, (I know, it’s pretty high, but for me it’s the higher the better) it creates a nice silhouette that compliments your legs, especially your calves, nicely. So, go out grab yourself a pair and go to brunch with your besties, chat it up about your love lives, and flaunt your awesome new footwear!

Sex? Yes, please.

2009-08-07T16:58:00.000-04:00

Want to scream sex, or at least whisper it? Of course you do. What woman doesn’t? Don’t lie to yourself. Seriously, don’t. I’m not saying to scream sex every day like a prostitute, but there are those choice occasions when a subtle hint of “I’m the hottest thing to walk this planet” is in tremendous order. How do I propose you do this? Well, wearing sexy lingerie under your outfit at work is one way, or wearing sexy lingerie on your feet (yes, your feet) is another way. Intrigued? I’m sure you are… if this tickles your fancy then the Christian Louboutin Ambro Lace Peep Toe Pump is your next best friend:

Image provided by www.NeimanMarcus.com

Subtlety sexy. Empowering. Just plain fabulous, well not plain, but most definitely fabulous. Black leather and lace… how can you go wrong? Impossible. All that paired with a peep toe and an uber high heel makes a good girl go bad. You have to love them. I’m mandating it.

It's a bird! It's a plane!

2009-08-06T15:00:00.001-04:00

It’s a pump! It’s a cutout! It’s the new Christian Louboutin Moira Cutout Patent Pump:

Image provided by www. NeimanMarcus.com

How phenomenal are these shoes? I went to Neiman’s to go try them on and they are absolutely stunning! The teardrop cutouts with nude mesh are unexpectedly flattering to the feet. They are available in two different colors – a rich cranberry or beautiful black calf leather. Personally I’m loving the cranberry color, especially with a fresh French pedicure.

These shoes will pair perfectly with a cute, fitted pencil skirt. They’d be especially adorable poking out from under a great pair of slacks. The heel is almost 5 inches, just how I like them – towering and powerful.

It’s imperative that you go out now and try these on. They are flirty and fun, but still decidedly perfect for the office, too. Make sure to try both colors on to see which fits you best. Or, make the salesman really, really happy and get both!

Arresting Red

2009-08-05T12:54:00.003-04:00

Here’s a pop quiz for you - which car is most likely to get pulled over? The old, dull, gray, four- door sedan or the hot new bright red convertible with the top down? They’re both going 10 over the speed limit, which is more likely to get noticed? Take your time, think of your answer, mull it over… ready? Obviously the hot, red convertible. Not just red, but ARRESTING red. That’s the first thought I had when I saw the new Sergio Rossi Cut Out Zip Pump:

Image provided by www.NeimanMarcus.com

This pair is so dangerously delectable I can barely stand it. What is there not to love about them? I don’t even know where to begin. The fantastically trendy zipper? So wonderful, I love zippers when they are placed unexpectedly. The open toe that shows off an awesome pedicure? So great, especially when you have a fun color on your little piggy’s. The asymmetrical cut out that lends to the beauty of this shoe? Wonderful, just absolutely wonderful. But, I have to admit, the best feature of this pair is the color. The eye-catching, stunning, can’t-believe-they-are-so-gorgeous red. Arresting Red. Careful, when you step out in these exquisite beauties, you just might get pulled over – and the officer may very well ask for your number.

I'm a Toys R Us Kid!

2009-06-28T21:31:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I went shopping with a friend of mine and decided to go to Nordstrom. AH-mazing. Walked right into the shoe section and I need to tell you that this time, Nordstrom did not disappoint. Each display was beautifully adorned with the most fantastic shoes they've had in a while. So, after a long hiatus from shoe-shopping, I decided to treat myself to a fun, fabulous heel. It was pretty much inevitable, after depriving myself of something so wonderful for so long, I needed a fix. And oh my goodess is this fix incredible. Walking through the shoe department my eyes hit a beautiful shoe right in the Michael Kors section. Enjoy the MICHAEL by Michael Kors "Pressley" heel:

Photo provided by: www.Nordstrom.com

Now, we all know that I am very into statment shoes. And I truly believe that this gorgeous piece of foot fashion makes one of the loudest statements in my closet. It's animal print at it's finest - Giraffe. Honestly, not to make myself sound like a complete nerd, but when I saw them I thought of Geoffrey the Giraffe from Toys R Us. And it was then that I knew I had to have them in my shoe collection. Oh, yes, I did the same old song and dance I always do. I try them on, contemplate the price and think much too hard about the decision. But, to be fair, it's a significant amount of money to a girl like me, so I at least have to pretend that it's a hard decision.

The heel, first of all and most importantly, is one of the most unique heels. It has an odd, rounded, rectangular, oblong shape to them. And at 4.75", that heel will make my legs look like they go on for days on end. The print is so eye-catching, and what will hold the attention of shoe-addicts like myself is the touch of gold accents throughout - at the toe, and by the ankle there is the standard MK button.

My second thought after Geoffry? I need a pedicure... yesterday.

Tragedy.

2009-06-02T01:11:00.007-04:00

How could this happen? Why did this have to happen to me? Ladies and gentlemen... gentleman.... well just ladies (I don't think that any men ready this blog) one of my most amazing pairs of shoes BROKE today. I'm not talking about a heel or the cap or even a tear... my shoe broke. In half. As in it looks like it could talk to me and tell me a story about how I'm a terrible person for running full speed in them and causing them to die an awful death.

They were one of my prettiest pairs. Really, they were gorgeous. BCBGirls, white patent leather with a multi-colored and gold detail near the peep-toe. They were pretty, they were comfortable, and most importantly I got them on a major sale a year ago. A year ago. Therefore when I attempted to find them to purchase a new pair... I couldn't find anything. The closest style I could find are the BCBGirls Alena slides. But we all know that I just don't do signature anything... so I can't very well go buy those. I can't even remember the name of my poor shoe. And I can't check the box for the name because I don't keep the boxes. I house my beauties in those plastic shoe boxes that you can buy at Target and they all stack so neatly.

That's besides the point. I'm so sad about my shoe situation right now. This is a real shoe issue. This is terrible. I loved those shoes. I don't even think that a Cobbler could salvage them. I'm quite positive that the Cobbler would laugh in my face. Yes, he would and then he would see how pathetic I am and charge me oodles of money and give me false hope of fixing my poor shoe.

So here we go. I'm going to celebrate my shoe instead of mourning it. But I feel badly because I don't remember it's name.

This is the photo of my shoes that is on the shoebox so I can easily locate it in my atrocity of a closet. Actually my closet is very clean, there is just a lot of stuff. Shoes, purses, scarves, tops, jeans, dresses, luggage, my Stuart Weitzman shoebox that I refuse to throw away. My dearly departed shoes were so beautiful, this picture does them no justice whatsoever.

RIP BCBGirls Name Unknown (August 2008 - June 2009)

Better than folded paper.

2009-05-28T23:57:00.003-04:00

I remember when I was little, I would visit my grandmother in her condo and we would play so many games. Tea party, Chinese Checkers, Battleship, but my favorite thing to do when I visited was to learn the art of origami. Don't get me wrong, I was awful... I tried to make a frog and it came out looking like one of those cootie catchers that third graders make - "Red", "R-E-D... it says you're going to marry a hobo and live in a sewer." Regardless of my talent, or lack thereof, I loved it. The angles, the patterns, the creation of a beautiful object from one single sheet of square paper.

This has to be the reason why I fell head over heels (pun intended) with the Roger Vivier Origami Sandal:

Photo provided by www.LuisaViaroma.com

How gorgeous are these babies?? Seriously. Look at that sharp design coupled with the serene color palette. These are in your face fierce (do I need to pay Tyra Banks royalties for using that word?). These shoes make me want to do calf exercises because I feel like my legs won't do these beauties justice.

If you don't have the $990 to drop on this fantastic showing of shoe art... then here's a site to show you how to fold 335 different origami patterns: http://dev.origami.com/diagram.cfm

Enjoy! (Whichever you choose)

Disco Inferno!

2009-05-07T22:00:00.005-04:00

Burn baby burn! - Disco inferno! Burn baby burn! - Burn that mama down, yoh! Burn baby burn! - Disco inferno! Burn baby burn! - Burn that mama down Burnin'!

Lately people have been sporting that retro '80s style, but I want to take it back further to the '70s! What's not to love about the 1970's? Elton John, The Eagles, major feminism movements, The Godfather, Saturday night fever... The Brady Bunch (yes!).

Switch it up this weekend. Show up those legging-clad ladies with the new Maison Martin Margiela Disco Ball shoes

Photo provided by www.BrownsFashion.com

How fantastic are these??? Uber fantastic, I say! Just looking at these shoes make me want to have a dance off with John Travolta in a dark nightclub with colorful bright lights. The heel is a staggering 5.5 inches, so I don't know quite how much dancing one could possibly do. But if you attempt it, you get an A for effort in my book. This mirrored disco shoe is simply marvelous with a peep-toe and an ankle strap for a super sexy look. The mirrors really pop because they are against a black background and with your summer tan, it will stand out even more.

Boogie!

Home Depot and high fashion eloped...

2009-04-29T22:50:00.013-04:00

Every woman has at least one man in her life that is super into tools, fixing cars, being a man's man, and one who totally doesn't understand fashion, especially shoes. Be it her father, brother, best friend growing up, uncle, grandfather, boyfriend, boss, or chronic you-know-you-shouldn't-but-you-can't-help-it hook up, these men just don't understand shoes. They can't comprehend why we would spend perfectly good money on something that we wear on our feet.

What they don't understand is the joy that we get when we see a fabulous sky-high heel in our size and, cross your fingers, on sale, its the same joy that they get when they see that new drill set they've been ogling for months.

But, what happens when these two polar opposite passions collide? A supremely beautiful piece of footwear, of course! Meet the Proenza Schouler Bracket heel:

Photo provided by Zappos.com

They are both architecturally and aesthetically beautiful. That's real hardware ladies! That combined with the creamy ribbed patent leather, peep toe, and scroll detail makes it a must-have shoe. It's definitely a statement shoe. So you can brag to that clueless male of yours that your shoes have the highest of the high-end bolts, much better than those rinky dink little bolts from the Home Depot on the corner. AND Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor put them together special for you. Ok, maybe Mr. Taylor really didn't put them together for you, but with these types of men, you really have to wow them. Who knows, maybe that 4" hardware heel will catch the attention of your gent and he might even appreciate them as art, rough, manly (super amazingly delectable), gruff - art.

Even better, once you slip these babies on maybe you'll feel like hammering or sawing something... or not.

'80s Dominatrix Barbie

2009-04-25T07:58:00.000-04:00

Imagine a Barbie doll with big teased hair, innocent doe eyes, a whip in one hand and fresh baked cookies in the other, a big unassuming smile, shoulder pads, leggings, and hot shoes. She is fun, flirty, and sexy with a little side of raunchy underneath.

That is the image I get when I see the alluring Fendi Color Block Patent Platform

Photo provided by: www.BergdorfGoodman.com

With this knockout of a shoe, I'd feel uber-sexy without feeling slutty. I adore the hot pink pop of color juxtaposed against the black. The criss-cross of the leather straps gives enough detail to make it interesting, but thankfully not overly complicated. I know the 4.75" heel will make calves everywhere look toned and sultry. But, interestingly enough what really drew me to this shoe is the deviation from the newly popular peep-toe. Instead Fendi decided to take a risk and go with the straight-up open toe. It's perfection.

You know you want to see what this foxy pair looks like with a big wave bang and some black lace fingerless gloves.

Slinky Gone Sexy

2009-04-22T23:25:00.004-04:00

What walks down stairs, alone or in pairs, and makes a slinkity sound? A spring, a spring, a marvelous thing! Everyone knows it's Slinky. It's Slinky, it's Slinky, it's fun, it's a wonderful toy. It's Slinky, it's Slinky, it's fun, it's a wonderful toy. It's fun for a girl or a boy. I can't help but sing the nostalgic Slinky tune when I see the fantastic portrayal of beauty also known as the Alexander McQueen Black Twist Bootie

Photo provided by: www.AlexanderMcQueen.com

These are so much fun to look at that I'm jazzed to see how fun they are to wear! Can you imagine how phenomenal these will make your feet and legs look? The 4.5" heel coupled with the silver and black twisted detail is sure to bring well-deserved attention to your feet, the twists will give the illusion of a sexy arch; so make sure to schedule your TropiCabana Colada pedicure now. What's more is that the stretchy slingback will make these magnificent beauties comfortable to wear all night long while you flirt the night away and gloat about how many stairs your Slinky used to walk down without stopping.

Mine went down the entire Empire State Building's stairwell. Beat that.

Shoe versus Rock

2009-04-22T22:45:00.011-04:00

Anyone who has seen the Sex and the City movie knows the engagement shoe. That beautiful blue Manolo that sparkles under the light, it's unbelievably gorgeous. The scene where Big proposes to Carrie in that AH-mazing closet (I'm crossing my fingers for a closet like that) is like a fantasy to many women, at least many fashionista women. But, that scene begs the question, would you rather a diamond accompany a proposal or a shoe?

Let's take first the Manolo Blahnik Something Blue Satin Pump

Photo provided by: www.NeimanMarcus.com

The striking blue color grabs your attention first, but what keeps your eyes fixated and a bit dazed is the dazzling crystal broach. The 4.25" heel will keep your legs looking long and lean. Paired with a healthy tan, this shoe might even spark a proposal! (Fun Fact: In the movie, Carrie mentions that her pair had cost her around $500... but these really cost just under $1,000. Next time I'm at Neiman Marcus I'm going to ask for the Carrie Bradshaw discount and see what happens!)

Now, think about your dream engagement ring. Go ahead, take your time, I can wait. I could ponder that gorgeous rock for hours if someone let me. Ok, have that image in your head now? See it on your finger? Fun, right?! In SATC, Carrie didn't choose an engagement ring, she technically chose an engagement closet (yum!) and then got that plus an engagement shoe. Would that be a viable option for you?

Would you choose a shoe over a rock?

Tie Yo Shoe

2009-04-22T19:24:00.004-04:00

Menswear + Sheer + Oxford + Heel = Hot Hot Hot!

I present to you the Christian Dior Platform Bootie

Photo provided by: www.BergdorfGoodman.com

It's the perfect shoe for the office! Understated, yet glamorous. An Oxford, yet still a fabulous heel. Covered up, yet still sexy as hell. As if the chocolate-colored leather and the peep toe didn't do it for you, the mesh and the 3.5" heel should! This fun piece of footwear is fun to walk in and it breathes to boot! (Pun very much intended!) Plus, this shoe can go with pretty much any outfit - a down-to-business pair of slacks, a fitted pencil skirt, or even some fun and flirty opaque tights would go together wonderfully!

Birthday Shoes!

2009-04-19T22:48:00.012-04:00

There is no way that I am going to start a shoe blog and not include my birthday shoes. That would be a humongous tragedy; so huge that my lovely heels would be personally offended and walk out of my closet. Then I would be ridiculously sad and grieve by wearing flats for the rest of my life (perish the thought!)

These heels are the pride and joy of my closet. They are the pair that bring the largest smile to my face (and took the largest chunk of change from my wallet.) I wear them as often as possible without looking like I only own one pair of shoes.

Here's the back-story on my babies: In September of last year I was browsing the Nordstrom shoe department online as I normally do trying to discover my next new purchase. I wasn't really finding anything fun or eye-catching and slowly losing hope, until I came across one of the most beautiful pairs of shoes I'd ever laid my eyes on. I don't even know how to describe the feeling I had when I first saw them. It wasn't true unconditional love or cupid's arrow, because that borders on creepy and inappropriate, but it's as though something clicked. I had to have them, no questions.

Well, I don't know about most 22-year old women fresh out of college, but I do know that I'm not really in a financial place to purchase shoes close to $400. Regardless, nothing was stopping me from owning them, nothing. I decided then and there that I would save for one month (cutting back on eating out, shopping, pretty much anything fun... I was pretty cranky that month!) then purchase the pair of unbelievably gorgeous heels for myself for my birthday in October. Yup, that's how I justified it to myself... it was a birthday present - to myself. To Jess, with love from Jess. Bad idea? No. Ridiculous? Maybe. Best decision ever? Absolutely yes!!

Finally after a month of blah-ness, the time finally came for me to go to the store and come home with fabulous new footwear. I remember it like it was yesterday... seriously (don't judge). I walked into Nordstrom with a purpose, there was no lollygagging, no browsing, none of that. I even put my phone on silent. I was on a mission. I walked straight to the mecca that is the shoe department and beelined it to the nearest available salesperson. His name was Earren, he was very nice, handsome and he had no idea what he was getting into with me. I held out my hand, introduced myself and let him know exactly what I was in the market for. Here's how the conversation played out:

Me: Hi, I'm Jessica how are you?

Guy: Hi Jessica, I'm Earren: How may I assist you this evening?

Me: I need the Stuart Weitzman Puente in size 8.5 or 9.

Guy: Oh, I'm sorry to tell you that we are sold out.

This is where I'm immediately the saddest girl in the whole store and immediately trying to think of other stores that may carry the shoe.

Me: That stinks. I can't believe they sold out so quickly!

Guy: That's a joke, I just wanted to see the look on your face.

Me: Haha funny man, I need that shoe.

He goes into the back where I believe shoe elves just make shoes all day and night and comes back out empty handed. I'm again instantly sad and have a confused look on my face.

Guy: Ma'am, I'm sorry but we don't have either size.

Me: I'm so sad right now.

Guy: Just kidding! I have an 8.5 for you to try.

Now, I'm always down for a fun time, a good joke, whatever. But this isn't funny. This is SHOES. This is serious business. While I tried on the shoes we made conversation, admired the beautiful heels and rung me up. PS - I didn't get a special birthday discount, which I'm still bitter about to this day. Even though it doesn't happen, I thought it was going to be like a movie where I got everything free that day or something. Don't ask.

With all of that out of the way, without further ado, I'd like to present to you my birthday shoe, the Stuart Weitzman Puente heel.

Photo provided by http://stuartweitzman.zappos.com

I feel like singing when I pull these out of my closet. They are so amazing to look at and so comfortable to wear, it's unbelievable. What is there not to love about this shoe? Black suede with red patent leather? The hidden platform? The peep-toe? The red rigatoni-shaped detailing? The leather lining? The patent covered 4.75" heel? Everything about this pair of heels is wonderful, delightful, and any other positive adjective that I can't currently think of because it's late on a Sunday night.

These, ladies and gentlemen, are my birthday shoes. Enjoy!

Create unabashed envy.

2009-04-16T22:52:00.016-04:00

Take a moment to sit back and imagine this - Walking through a crowded corridor of fashionable, beautiful people, they part like the Red Sea with awe and amazement on each of their faces as you strut your gorgeous self by. Even the nasty wenches of the world step aside reluctantly, trying to hide their invidious looks with their fake smiles.

Sounds pretty good? Downright delectable to me! That is where my imagination wanders off to when I think about displaying the new Yves Saint Laurent Black Patent Cage Boots on my feet.

Photo provided by SeventhAvenueAustralia.Blogspot.com

This screams "Don't-mess-with-me-I'm-a-badass-bitch-and-will-step-on-you". Now, don't get me wrong, I realize that this is not the prettiest piece of footwear. I'm not saying it is. What I'm saying, is, that women everywhere need to know what it feels like to wear this shoe. To own it - not in the literal sense, but in the figurative sense.

The entire design of the shoe is alluring and deviously appealing. The laser-sculpted 4" heel is unparalleled by any other heel this season. But don't flinch from imaginary pain just yet, only the heel is made of metal. The rest of it is exquisite black patent leather which actually has been found to make the boot quite comfy! Crazy, I know it! I adore how the intricate, woven look keeps consistent throughout the entire shoe.

Even if you don't buy it, go try it. Like I said, every woman deserves to "own" this shoe.

Size 39 please, thank you!

Don't get it twisted!

2009-04-14T22:29:00.002-04:00

Actually, DO get it twisted.

Whilst (haha, Maryl!) perusing this month's Harper's Bazaar I came across an Oscar de la Renta ad that caught my eye with it's pretty spring colors. What held my attention (for an embarassingly long time, mind you - I called some fashionista friends and ripped out the ad to show my mom) were the divine heels displayed on the models feet.

Let's drool over the new Oscar de la Renta Peep Toe Soft Pleat Pumps, shall we?

Photo provided by OscardelaRenta.com

These heels are so gorgeous they make me want to start a slow clap and gradually have numerous people around me join in and applaud it's unfair beauty. Where do I even start? Ah yes, that heel. That unique, twisted 4.25" heel gives it a whimsical quality that's always fun in a shoe. The contrasting colors (red and white) and textures (patent leather and straw) are show-stopping yet modest all at once.

Being able to wear this shoe would be better than relaxing in a luxurious bubble bath, a glass of wine in one hand, your favorite book in the other, all the while a beautiful man making you dinner and waiting on you hand and foot. That's one hell of a shoe.

The Oscar de la Renta Spring 2009 line is stunning as a whole, you should check it out, but this pair definitely stands out above the rest.

I have a major shoe issue...

2009-04-13T08:30:00.003-04:00

I love shoes, the end. Well, not "the end". I heart shoes. More specifically - heels. Beautiful, gorgeous, can't-live-without-them heels. Stilettos, sling-backs, gladiators, booties, peep-toes... name it, I love it. Fabulous footwear has a way of bringing an even bigger smile to my face.

Rather than email my girlfriends my new obsessions every other day, I'll start to post my favorite foot ornaments for the world (or my friends and the three random people that will stumble upon this blog) to drool over them with me.

Today's delicious desire - The Dillian Flower Pump by Christian Louboutin

Image provided by 55SecretStreet.com

My first glimpse of this amazing piece of art was in the Britney Spears video for "If You Seek Amy". The video is blurred so you can barely see what the shoe really looks like, but it was just so unbelievably gorgeous (even in that hazy view) that I fanatically Googled until I found it. Alas, I'm completely unable to afford them but I ogle them constantly, completely tempted to click "Add to Cart".

This pair is gorgeous, you must admit. Who wouldn't love to look down and see that fabulous red flower looking back at you? These make my heart happy, and they aren't even in my closet. That's real shoe beauty.