MEET THE CAST: WILL POWER SMITH – IRL

Meet Will Power: a profesh tune mixer whose Insta feed is nowhere near boring with pictures taken literally around the world. We mean a true globetrotter, for real. Little did we know, Power’s mad skills go beyond the turntable, and right into the street style game. Staying true to his sneakerhead status, he made sure our FW15 sneakers earned some well-deserved street cred around London town. Learn more about the sneaker game collection and our campaign model, here.

FINAL TOUCH: RUN THE SHOW

Kickstart the fall season (see what we did there?) with a wear-everywhere outfit for those days when you’ve got a to-do list the length of your elbow and no time to run home and change before you meet the bae. On first glance it’s just a casual, dress down weekend look. But on closer inspection it’s so on point your favorite style blogger could be wearing it. All the elements that go into it are super powerful fall elements: the hemline, above the ankle but way lower than a clam digger cut – is undoubtedly fresh. The fur on the moto jacket brings the timeless perfecto into the present, and of course, it’s a huge trend for Fall 15 (our favorite was Stella McCartney’s version, cuz we love us some cruelty-free fur!) The turtleneck is ultra-versatile, working with so many of your favorite 60s and 70s looks, helping you stretch your summer wear into fall. And then there’s the perfect where-anywhere sneaker to tie it all together. We love the way the silhouette of these shoes balance out the wider leg of the jeans, and the metallic cap at the toe is such a fun flash of shine. Looking amazing wherever you go – that’s your new normal.

FINAL TOUCH: SUEDE ESSENTIALS

Show of hands: who thinks fall is the most versatile season for fashion? Excellent, we think so too. Each season has its advantages, of course, but nobody can dispute the unrivaled assets of autumn. Layers? Sure. Definitely a key factor in the season’s sartorial allure. As the weather transitions from summer, we curse winter’s inevitability but also revel, hopefully, in the chance to dust off, and show off, a few more items from the wardrobe.

And revel you should. Why not? After all, when was the last time you had a chance to wear that sweet, and timeless, denim jacket? Or that navy vest? July and August were way too muggy for neckties but, hey, you have a nice dinner date lined up next week and the forecast looks brisk. Maybe it’s time to spice it up a bit.

Suggestion: don’t be dull. Think in terms of greys, dark blues and complementary fabrics appropriate for the season. That denim jacket. Slim dress pants and dress shirt. Maybe a hit of color with those socks for extra swag. And, lastly, a stylish suede loafer with double monk straps. As far as footwear goes, this is a brash little number that punches above its weight. It’s fall, gentlemen; dare to do more.

FINAL TOUCH: PATCH ME IN

Thinking about how to bring a touch of that sweet seventies glam into your otherwise modern and minimalist look? The solution lies with the ASTIEVEN, a remarkable ankle boot that seems to have all our fave qualities of the era and yet looks uniquely modern, thanks in part to the pointed toe and studded belt detail. Let’s just take a moment to look at the distinctive elements that make our hearts a go-go.

First, we love the way these boots reference patchwork, a nod to the DIY ethos of the seventies. Next, let’s show some love for the earth tones: a key feature of the era (and in opposition to those loud, psychedelic vibes of the sixties). Earth tones like browns, tans, and warm greys go with just about anything. And finally, the piece de resistance. We’re obsessed with the heel on these booties, which playfully allude to that oh-so-seventies shape, the bell bottom.

Throw them on with a pair of ripped denim or pair with a structured skirt and contrastingly slouchy knit turtleneck. Pair with a ladylike structured carry all and a floppy hat à la Annie Hall and you’ve got yourself an outfit that’s as then as it is now, and 100% wow.

FINAL TOUCH: BROGUE ROGUE

One shoe fits fall.

Walk into the average shoe store and the shelves are stocked with statement-makers; shoes that scream, “Look at me!”. Colorful kicks, fashion-forward sneakers, gaudy loafers–you name it. There are a lot of ways to go if you want your taste in footwear to attract notice but it’s hard to top a classic, bold, and fearless brogue.

This isn’t a flashy shoe, by any means, but it’s got just enough eye-catching detail to stand out from the pack. When the occasion calls for dressy lace ups with a little panache, brogues are the answer. The irony, of course, is that originally, this was a mudder’s shoe. A shoe to sluice through the bogs of Ireland, perfectly perforated for maximum drainage. Oh yeah, necessity really was the mother of invention in this case.

We probably don’t need to tell you: you’re not going anywhere near a marsh in these Oxford style, block heeled brogues (they’ve since invented better shoes for that kind of work). No, you’re matching them with thin, light socks; slim, cuffed jeans; and an earth-toned trench over a dress shirt or sweater. All totally work appropriate but equally agile for social assignments. Brogues are just a great way add a little character and some zip to your fall ensembles. Enjoy them before heavy winter boot season hits.

FINAL TOUCH: BOOTS ON THE GROUND

Get original this fall with a sturdy and stylish boot.

A good boot. It’s literally, and figuratively, what your wardrobe needs this fall. Too many men overlook this necessary accessory and are content to stick with last summer’s sneakers when the seasons change. What a shame (what a waste!) when chukkas, Chelseas, paddock, or lace-up work boots beckon. Cover those ankles, gentlemen!

One dependable boot can transform your favorite beat-up jeans. One dependable boot can spruce up your work duds. One dependable boot can complement crisp weather layers and blare from the rafters that you own the season, sartorially.

A round toe Derby is a model boot to consider for fall’s demands. Handsome, durable, and on the right side of rugged, this is versatile footwear with a twist. Here’s a boot that’s comfortable with jeans, a t-shirt, and hooded sweatshirt or jacket. Or, here’s the kicker, dressed up to varying degrees. It wouldn’t be out of place to match this boot with more formal, darker denim pants, a trench, sweater, and dress shirt. That’s a look for the office; that’s also a look for a dinner date. The message here should be clear by now: for a fall boost, get some boots. You’ll wonder what you ever did without them.

SHOUT OUT : ALDO RISE – LANDED

ICYMI: FW15 MISHA NONOO x ALDO RISE accessories are quickly becoming Insta famous – seriously, pinch us. Our jaws literally dropped when street-style goddesses were spotted & snapped rocking their fave items from our recent collab collection. Woman-who-does-it-all @zannarassi, designer extraordinaire @mishanonoo, legit lady boss @jenstith, of-the-moment blogger @aniab & social media sensation@thefashionguitar in FW15 MISHA NONOO x ALDO RISE shoes & handbags. We just can’t handle, can you?

Inspired? Shop the collection here and share yours! #aldorise

FINAL TOUCH: CHELSEA LATELY

When the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, the Queen of England and Rihanna can all agree on a particular boot being awesome, we feel like maybe it is in fact definitively and unequivocally awesome. This is the conclusion at which we’ve arrived with regards to the Chelsea boot. They were cool when Queen Victoria was wearing them in the 1850s, then they got cooler in their next incarnation as the must-have footwear for the swinging sixties set in London. These days you can catch Alexa Chung, Rihanna, and Kanye West rocking them. So, kind of a regal lineage.

What is it about the Chelsea boot that allows them this exalted position? They’re comfortable and sturdy and deeply utilitarian, but the most salient attribute is the elegant, almost minimalist lines. Their silhouette is so versatile you can wear them with just about anything and appear effortlessly put together. Think about it: with skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, leggings, skirts or tights. If you were travelling and could only bring one pair of shoes with you (we know, we know, perish the thought!) a pair of Chelsea boots would certainly be a wise choice. Pair with an upscale jogger for a day of shopping, dress them up for the museum with a short shift dress, and take them out to see local bands with skinny jeans, a plaid button up and a fun hat. When they’re the answer to “What should I wear with these bottoms??” every single time, it’s easy to see why the Queen liked them so much.

FINAL TOUCH : BOOT UP, BOSS

Remember in the midst of summer’s most oppressive heat when you would have to pass over your favorite motorcycle jacket in the closet and you’d touch its sleeve and be all like, “Hello there old friend. You’re too hot to wear right now, but someday soon it’ll me and you all over again.” Well, guess what? That time is on its way! It is officially time to bust out that perfecto and start making detailed arrangements (read: outfit plans) for your cozy sweaters, your dark denim, and of course your boots of choice.

If your version of a perfect fall wardrobe involves looks for a casual night out with buds, looks to go a-strolling in, and maybe even a few looks to go a-mini-golfing in, we recommend you stock up on darker tones and heavier materials (think leather and flannel in colours like navy, forest green, and black). Add in some plaid – or a lot of plaid, your call – and then cap it off with the ideal autumn boot: something ankle skimming and fashionably rugged, with just the right amount of height in a versatile tone like black, camel or khaki. Here’s where the LATTE comes in: it’s all of those things, plus it’s got a sturdy lug sole in rubber. So go ahead, kick a big old pile of leaves the next time the mood strikes. Show autumn who’s boss.

FINAL TOUCH: PATENTLY POLISHED

We’re ga-ga for glassy. 

Ooooh, shiny things. We’re as attracted to them as a kitten is drawn to a ball of yarn, or (sigh!) a child’s mud-covered hand is magnetized towards a brand-new white shirt. Good thing the Fall/Winter runways were all over glassy, glossy patent leathers. From Rachel Comey to Maison Martin Margiela to Dior to rag & bone to everyone’s favorite fashion golden boy, JW Anderson for Loewe. The last time we saw that much gloss was…hmm, in a highschool girl’s bathroom in the 90’s? Or maybe in ‘07, when our lip gloss was popping.

The way we want in on this trend? With a pop of patent on an otherwise laid-back outfit; like a sequined covered clutch worn in the middle of the day, it’s just unexpected enough to turn heads. And since our current obsession is the Chelsea boot, with its history as a rock royalty mainstay (and a royal mainstay, to boot) it’s no surprise that we’re going ga-ga for this super slick ankle boot. We say try it with rolled up high-waisted jeans and a denim shirt for a Canadian tuxedo reboot (get it??), and top the look off with this a shearling-collared perfecto jacket. Is it a patently perfect look? We sure think so.

SIDE BY SIDE: THE POWER BOOT

Complete your fall look with a pair of knee-high boots

No fall footwear wardrobe is complete without a tall pair of knee-high boots. You can call on them anytime you need to inject your look with an instant boost of all-grown-up chic, whether that’s in a warm, rich camel or classic bad-girl black. Incredibly wearable, they elevate any look while still being ultra-versatile.

An all-over, tonal ensemble is perfect for wearing to the office and is best completed withknee-high boots in matching leather. When Burberry sent models down the runway in monographed ponchos last fall, the fashion world jumped on this cozy new silhouette. With a matching mini and a fitted turtleneck, a poncho balances out your look while adding an enviable level of comfort (everyone is going to wish they were as cuddly as you).

For a night out, think along the lines of the iconic Brit It Girls like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Cara Delevingne. These girls invented that cool, undone chic look that we can never get enough of. Pair your boots with a patent mini-skirt and velvet blazer and you are sure to master your textures like a pro. This season, messy, French-girl hair is still reigning as the off-duty style to have so be sure to skip the hair brush.

FINAL TOUCH: BALANCING ACTS

Put these boots to work this fall.

You may not be conscious of it, but, sometime over the last few years or so, you got swept up in the Americana menswear trend. Skeptical? Trust us, you definitely did. Denim, khakis, Chambray shirts, flannels, Ivy League-inspired varsity jackets, chunky cardigans: the sartorial swath cut by Americana runs wide and deep. Beyond fasion, even, to the likes of retro cocktail bars, old-timey barber shops, and the idolatry of old-school burger stands. In short, Americana is everywhere.

Somewhere in your closet, in fact–at this very moment–there’s a nod to Americana. And that’s good. Because at the end of the day, who can deny the inherent virtues of relaxed-fit chinos, rustic sweaters, and sturdy windbreakers? Americana’s entire ethos is predicated on a pretty uncomplicated message: casual, effortless fashion, courtesy durable, well-made duds.

Take these good ol’ Made in the U.S.A. work boots, for example. This is footwear made for fall, that gamely balances between preppy and rugged. Can you don them at work? Yes. On weekends? Yes. Dress them up, dress them down–these loyal boots will do the job, and promise to stay in style long after fashion editors declare the demise of Americana, and move on to the next big trend.

SHOUT OUT: FALL FOR YOU

We never thought we’d say this publicly. But, here it goes. We couldn’t be more thrilled that summer is coming to an end. Yes, autumn crept up on us but we are excited to welcome it, in all of its layering glory. The colder temps have us revisiting our layers-on-layers game & kissing goodbye to bare legs (almost), which is not all that bad if you really think about it – wink wink. Check out our main baes who seriously know how to win at fall boot.

GENTS CLUB: HERITAGE MADE

Time to brace for the chill. Time for boots.

That slight breeze you feel around your ankles is the surest sign that fall (and ultimately winter) are on their way. It’s time to stash your cropped chinos and canvas sneakers, take one last look at all those vacation Instagrams, and focus on the now. We want you to head into fall like a baller (because we know that’s what you are) and that means walking tall in a pair of shoes that are built to last, made to impress, and look fit for a young mogul. So, we took the basic boot—a staple of the fall—and paired it up with a classic brigade lace-up and added superfine Horween leather made from the oldest continuously running tannery in the United States, and the only one located in Chicago.  The result? The GAUVIN is an ankle-high boot that will finish off your suit, your jeans, and even your pajamas when you’ve gotta run out for a quick sec. And if you’d prefer to keep it sock-less for a few more weeks, try their shorter brother, the KEDERIA.

Shop the entire Mr. B’s Collection here.

FINAL TOUCH: COGNAC APPRECIATION

When it comes to fashion, the world’s most refined spirit is equally as posh.

Ah, cognac – the drink and the colour both seem to be imbued with a sense of refinement and quality.  You don’t just wear (or drink) cognac; you take the time to appreciate it. And these days we’ve been seeing so much cognac on the runways that we can’t not have an opinion on it (our opinion: YES OF COURSE). We’re loving it paired with black, white, and grey: it’s a combo that sprinkles a little bit of magic fashion fairy dust over everything it touches, making it just that much better. Seriously – we love the way this colour combo can elevate a very straightforward look. A midi-length striped dress paired with a cognac colored coat (both of which hit at a modern, mid-calf point in the leg) feels smart without being too done up. Add a black fringe bag, which has a taste of that 1970’s atmosphere we’ve been vibing on for a while now, and you straight up start looking like you’re a fashion mover and shaker. But when you bust out your cognac ankle boots with the black triangular panel and the mirrored heels? You’re like an editor caught in a street style snap sesh. Oh this? You says, casually, as the photographer’s assistant asks you where you got each piece of clothing in your outfit and then records it in his notepad for publication later. Nice chatting, you say, but I really must run to the show 

FINAL TOUCH: BLAMMO, BLUCHERS

Broken-in jeans have a new best friend.

An effortless wardrobe that requires little to no forethought. That’s the dream, isn’t it? Grab and go. Alas, not always practical. When you have a serious work thing, a wedding, a hot date, let’s be real––you’re going to be spending a little extra time getting ready, and getting that look just right. But for normal, quote unquote, life, who wants to agonize, or give excessive consideration, to what clothes they’re going to wear?

That’s why we have broken-in jeans, and jean jackets. A few comfortable, favorite tees. A sweater, or hoodie to throw on at a moment’s notice. These wardrobe workhorses look good, make us feel good, and just get it done. We’re willing to bet you’ve got one pair of jeans that you wear a lot more than any other. So, with that, allow us to suggest an appropriate boot.

It’s a rugged little riff on a Derby, or a Blucher, as some prefer to call it. In dark brown, this leather number doesn’t look too shabby with those jeans you can’t bear to part with. It’s wool-lined, for warmth and comfort, and the rubber sole and cemented bottom means they can stomp around with the best of ‘em. There’s no quit in these boots. Just like those jeans you always reach for.

FINAL TOUCH: ON POINT

Can we just take a minute to talk pants lengths? Most of us can agree that until kind of recently we were wearing our pant hems pretty long. And then a few seasons ago we collectively started to see things differently. Palazzo pants, cropped pants, ankle length hems: it’s part of a straight up fashion movement and as shoe lovers – ok, obsessives – we’re all over it! Coverage where you need it and skin where you don’t, plus an excuse to show off our amazing footwear? Don’t mind if we do.

There’s just one tiny thing about a shortened pant leg: it can potentially give the impression of a shorter leg. Of course, there’s an incredibly easy solve for this. First, a monochromatic look can help to balance that out. And second? Why, a heel of course! We love the idea of having a slightly surprising color at the foot – something that still works within your spectrum, but that brings with it a rich, sophisticated feel. For instance, doing an all-over orange look? Try something in camel. Wearing cognac hues? Do a Bordeaux in suede. Paired with a series of neutral tones, a Bordeaux is a warm welcome, like a glass of red wine by a crackling fire in the South of France. Except that while you’re watching the fire, everyone else will be watching you.

FINAL TOUCH: ICE BREAKER

Stylish combat boots are a cold weather must-have.

Everyday style. We see these words a lot, but what, when put together, do they signify? What is everyday style? Sure, it’s how you choose to dress on a so-called average day, of course, whatever that is, when no special events, or galas are on the old planner. (If black-tie is commonplace for you, forgive us in advance.) But everyday style is also a state of mind. A vibe you give off, a mood. Your best baseline fashion statement, in other words.

Naturally, this changes from season to season. And now that winter’s around the corner, we’ve got boots on the brain as a go-to exemplar of everyday style. Miltary-style combat boots, to be specific. Here’s a footwear prototype that gets the job done–wool-lined, keeps you warm, covers the ankles, repels the elements–and looks astonishingly cool with jeans, sweaters, leather jackets, flannel shirts, and other paragons of Americana-inspired casual wear.

Leather combat boots can pull double duty when your everyday look veers to the dressier side of the wardrobe, too. Bonus! Chunky vests, heavy fall jackets, winter puffers–you can stomp around in a variety of styles here. Layer up, these boots just love that, and storm the day. You’re well-equipped for it now.

The Designer Wedding Shoes I DIDN’T Choose… And A Giveaway!

Someone via Twitter suggested that I write this post and I just loved the idea! There are so many beautiful shoes out there that I love and that I may have bought if I didn’t have the option to design my own. Here are some of my favorites…I may be biased (my company designs and manufactures Badgley Mischka shoes) but in my opinion, Badgley Mischka has some of the most beautiful bridal and special occasion shoes. If you look up “Wedding shoes” some of the most popoular ones come from Badgley Mischka. These first two shoes are great examples of beautiful bridal shoes. The rhinestone one is perfectly detailed- not too much glitz, but just enough. The second is more delicate and understated, but still makes a statement. Its a classic.

These two shoes are stunning! The Valentinos are basically my dream shoe, but they are no longer in production and I haven’t been able to find them anywhere. In my opinion they should just keep making them season after season since it doesn’t really get much better than that. ;)

The second bow shoe is by Giuseppe Zanotti and is a little less traditional- but that’s what I love about it! It’s flirty and sparkly and oh-so-pretty. Also no longer available, but lovely none the less.I love the simplicity of the Jimmy Choo. It’s similar to the Badgley shoe I love, but a little more understated. The Miu Miu crystal heel is so dreamy! And paired with a glittery upper… its girly perfection!

I bought these Loubs a while ago, knowing that they weren’t right for my wedding day (I want to wear an open toe style) but that I’d make them work for my bridal shower. They’re SO beautiful I can hardly handle it. I’ve been dying to wear them ever since I brought them home with me!

And then I remembered these shoes… These super limited, super sparkly, semi-famous shoes.

I designed these shoes with Adrienne Maloof as a special limited edition gift for magazine editors and some of her celebrity friends. Of course I grabbed myself a pair, but unfortunately they ran a bit large and they are too big for me. Unfortunate for me- lucky for you! If you’re a size 9 or 9 1/2 bride looking for her dream shoes that is.

They’re doing no good sitting here in my closet, shining and glimmering and begging to be worn, so I’d like to do a giveaway!! Just leave a comment with your name, wedding date, and why you want to win and I’ll pick a winner on Friday, March 20th! Please let your bride friends know too- I’d love these to go to a happy home :)

For an extra chance to win, check my latest Instagram post!  #theshoegirlgiveaway

Good luck!!!

Stepping Into Spring

Spring has officially sprung! Don’t believe me, ask my allergies. I’m sneezing up a storm over here! But with the small negatives come tons of positives- warm weather, longer days, shorter skirts… and fun floral shoes!! Between sneezes I rounded up some of my all time favorite shoes that remind me of my favorite time of year. Hope you like them!

These Sophia Webster shoes are the newest of my perfectly Spring-y shoes. The butterfly detailing on the back is so amazingly dreamy. I also love the oil slick patient leather on the toe piece. Perfect perfect perfect! I love the floral print on these Givenchy sandals. Feminine and edgy in perfect harmony. The gold shark tooth closure is a real bas-ass touch.Ah Vivienne Westwood! Always timeless and flawless. I’m obsessed with these lace up floral booties! Great for a night out in Spring time.I miss my Cece L’amour line and being to design cute fun shoes like these floral wedges. Of course I’m biased but I absolutely adore these, even years later. These Etro sandals are pretty awsome. I found them in Florence a few years ago and just loved all the detail going on. The bold striped heel is a perfect contrast to the delicate floral printed upper. And who doesn’t love a good pom pom??Again, I’m biased- but these Betsey Johnson shoes I designed in my last collection for her are one of my all time faves. I love the classic Betsey floral print and the sky high heel. Sexy in the girliest of ways!

My Custom Made Wedding Shoes!

My beautiful and gifted friend, Lucia Roman offered to design me some wedding shoes and I’m not an idiot so of course I said yes! Lucia is our L.A.M.B. designer and is responsible for the designs of some of my favorite shoes in our companies history! She’s crazy talented so I knew I was in good hands…She sketched up several options and we picked the four that we liked best. Those four were made into prototypes and then the winner was made for me to wear on my wedding day! This beautiful pearl encrusted bootie was perfect in every way.Thank you so much Lucia!!! I love them and am happy that they will forever be a part of the memory of the best day of my life!!!