Christian Louboutin Navy Satin Bretelle Sandals
…THESE. They make me gleek. They’re super sexy in a 1940’s glam sort of way, and I love that they’re the less obvious, more modern navy.
Fall ‘08 High/Low: Motorcycle Boots August 12, 2008
FINALLY! A trend that I have always considered a classic, although many would opt to argue that point - and have. I have always been a huge fan of motorcycle boots in all their incarnations (except for maybe the harness style - I’m an old school engineer girl myself) and own them in several styles and colors. Although the high end designers have jumped on the bandwagon for fall, there are many ‘lesser’ brands that are well made and MUCH more affordable. The engineer biker boot has changed little over the years, so there are lots of readily available older companies that are still making them. Check out your local Army surplus store - seriously! You’d be surprised what you can find in there…
(Jimmy Choo Biker Leather Flat Boot $1050 at jimmychoo.com, Women’s Classic Motorcycle Engineer Biker Boot $69.95 at leatherup.com)
Ten Trends for Fall 2008 August 6, 2008
It seems that each season there are a gajillion new trends. For fall 2008 I’ve chosen ten of the ones that I like best, so start stocking up! (And remember that although I love them, these are just examples of the trend I’m recommending.)
- The ‘Statement’ necklace; store your dainty chains for another season.
- Chunky knits. Even though I’m in SoCal, I’m usually able to eek out a few days in January for these.
- Tall, flat boots. Motorcycle boots are also hot, so I’ve chosen a style that combines the looks.
- Oversized bags - STILL. I happen to love big bags since I can throw all the kid’s stuff in with mine.
- Stilettos! The higher the better and combined with a platform, they’re a sexy replacement for your summer wedges.
- Plaid. I’m not really a huge fan but hey - all things in moderation.
- Lace and it’s EVERYWHERE; dresses, pants, shoes, bags, tights…lace accessories are an easy and inexpensive way to update your look.
- Bow tie blouses, but choose carefully - you want to avoid looking like a librarian.
- Full, calf length skirts can be cozy and chic with some bold tights, not to mention the perfect venue for your new boots!
- Camel, black and berry tones (Especially berry at night - go for bright!)
(Clockwise form top; Chloe ‘Poppy’ Necklace, Burberry ‘Eura’ Metallic Cardigan, Miu Miu Buckle Biker Boots, Bottega Veneta Full Pleated Skirt, Chloe ‘Pearl’ Leather Shoulder Bag, YSL Tribute T-Strap Sandals, Graeme Black Wool Flannel Dress, Temperly London Crochet Detail Blouse) All items are available at net-a-porter.com except sandals which you can find at barneys.com.
Platform Sandals for Every Season July 31, 2008
I’m crazy about these blue Robert Clergerie platform sandals, AND they’re on sale! I love the classic Clergerie shape, and the texture and color make me drool. The best part is that you can wear them through a few seasons; summer and spring because they’re sandals, and fall since they’re suede. I’ll be lucky enough to wear them for part of the winter as well, since we all know that it never rains in Southern California - well, usually. Robert Clergerie Romina Ankle Wrap Wedge in ‘Ocean Java’ $343.85 (from $529) at Zappos.
High/Low: Ombre Boots for Fall July 14, 2008
As many of you know, I am a huge fan of the classic, side buckle, engineer boot. I own several pairs in different colors and styles, most of which have seen the shoemaker at least once. I came across the Frye version first, and have to say that I think I like them even better than the Prada pair. Good thing, since they’re a quarter of the price! (Frye Veronica Vintage Slouch Buckle Boots $328 at intermixonline.com, Prada Degrade Riding Boots $1250 at neimanmarcus.com)
Twig Kids’ Shoes at Gumshoe.com June 30, 2008
Not only have I been receiving lots of reader inquiries, I’ve recently been combing the net myself looking for a cute pair of boys’ sandals. Everything that I found was either an aesthetic disaster or a hundred bucks. Then I happened upon Gumshoe.com and came across the Twigs. WHEW! I just purchased the ‘Bran’ sandals in brown for Z ($34.95 marked down from $48.95) and I love them! (As does he since he keeps showing me the ‘trees’ on the soles of his shoes) Not only are they adorable, I would have to say that they’re as well made (if not better) as some European brands with bigger price tags. The cherry on the cake is that Twig is a small family owned and operated company. They create ‘functional’ shoes with ‘emotional appeal’ and I would have to agree. Ken Proctor along with his VERY supportive wife and three kids, started Twig a year and a half ago after selling their house and moving to another state in order to do so. Ken’s twelve year old son is creating their website, while his nine year old sister helps in making color choices. Their other sister, 3, is the fit test model. Twigs retail for around fifty dollars at Gumshoe, whose customer service is stellar. (Free shipping both ways!)
Boho Summer Accessories At A Steal! June 9, 2008
Sometimes Forever 21 surprises me, and pleasantly at that! Like with this beautiful lucite cuff bracelet - it reminds me of the old bakelite bangles that you find at flea markets. With its buttery color and simple shape, it makes a perfect addition to a casual summer outfit including these Indian inspired sandals. (Luxe Lucite Cuff in Yellow $6.80, Tribal Floral Thongs $16.80, both available online at forever21.com)
