Thứ Sáu, 25 tháng 3, 2016

SPOTS AND STRIPES FROM LOLA RAMONA

polka dot and stripe shoes
If you like polka dots, stripes, bows – or, indeed, any combination of the three, then I’m sure Lola Ramona requires no introduction from me.
Polka dots, you see, are their THING. As are bows. As are stripes. As are all of the things you’d normally come to associate with words like “cute”, “quirky” and “whimsical”, because this collection is all of those things and more – and given that what I’ve shown in the image above is only a small selection of the shoes on offer (albeit a pretty representative one), you’ll probably gather that for people who are into this kind of look, Lola Ramona is basically shoe heaven.
As for me, well, I AM into “this kind of thing”, if, by that, you mean simply the polka dot and stripe patterns, plus the classic “bow on the toe” look. Those are, in fact, some of my very favourite things when it comes to shoes/clothes/life in general, and I find it almost impossible to see an item of clothing or footwear which fits the descriptions given above, and NOT want to buy it. That IS the case here, though, as surprising as it might be to those who know me well, because as much as I like the use of colours and prints on these shoes…well, it’s a very specific kind of look, isn’t it? It’s fun, sure, but there’s also a bit of a “sensible” feel to quite a few of these shoes, and that comes courtesy of the low heels, thick platforms and chunky shapes. They’re sweet, but they’re probably not what you’d call sophisticated: that’s not a criticism, I hasten to add, because it’s absolutely not the kind of look this particular brand are going for, but although I always stop to admire these shoes from afar, they’re just a little bit too “cutesy” for my own personal taste.
What do you think of Lola Ramona?

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN COSMOLIP CREPE SATIN PEEP TOES

Christian Louboutin Cosmolip Crepe Satin peep toes
I saw the white satin version of Christian Louboutin’s ‘Cosmolip’ first, and thought, “Pretty, but obviously waaaay too bridal to be of much use to the likes of me.” Then I saw the lip-print version (which presumably gave them their name), and my thoughts were more along the lines of “Now THAT’S more like it: Mediterranean holiday, silk dress, bit of a tan… OK, maybe not that last bit, because skin as pale as mine was not designed to tan, but still: perfect summer holiday shoe!”
That basically sums these up for me, and if you’re not convinced, or you just think the print’s a little too busy (I did too at first), just go and look at that bow again, and I defy you not to love them!
Speaking of Louboutins I love, here’s our old friend Hot Chick, this time in a bright pink patent:
Christian Louboutin Hot Chick pink patent
I’d buy these in black rather than pink (assuming I was going to buy them at all, that is): I absolutely love the shape, but I think this particular colour is straying just a little too close to ‘Barbie’ territory for me. It’s still an beautiful shoe, though, and one of my very favourite Christian Louboutin designs. I saw someone trying these on in one of the Louboutin boutiques in Las Vegas last September, and they were even more amazing in real life than they look in photos, which is really saying something, considering how show-stopping they are in every picture I’ve seen of them. If you love the colour but are worried about the heel height, however, you can also buy the classic ‘So Kate’ in the same hot pink colour: no, they’re not exactly low either, but they’ll definitely be easier to walk in than Hot Chick, and you never know – they might just surprise you.

OFFICE AH HA BUNNY POM POM HEELS

Office Ah Ha Bunny Pom Pom Heels
Shoes designed to look like bunnies: this is exactly the kind of thing I was talking about a few weeks ago, when I said I used to associate Office with the kind of quirky, unusual shoes you can’t really imagine finding in many other places on the high street. Can you imagine finding bunny heels at Boden, for instance? Or Dorothy Perkins? Probably not: and I mean absolutely no offence to those brands when I say that, because I love them both, but these shoes did put a smile on my face when I first spotted them. Well, how can you NOT smile at those little ears?
The nice thing about these shoes, however, is the fact that, although they fall firmly into the “novelty” category, they’re not so OTT that they’d make you feel like you were in fancy dress. I’m not usually a big fan of novelty shoes (I absolutely hate most of Irregular Choice’s designs for instance: and again, no offence to either the brand or the people who love it – it’s just not my kind of style), but these won’t actually LOOK like bunny shoes until you turn around – and even then, passers-by would have to be paying much closer attention than people generally pay to footwear – so they’ll be almost like your own personal little joke.
The colour of these shoes is also very versatile, although if you’d rather they stood out more, they also come in black – and at a price of just £55, if you can’t make your mind up, it’s not too much of a stretch to imagine buying them both. Or not for me, anyway, although I’m probably not the best example here, as I do have a bit of a habit of buying the shoes  I love in more than one colour: or sometimes even buying more than one pair of the SAME colour. Yeah, on second thoughts, don’t be like me, folks: I’m sure you’ll be able to choose your favourite!

Thứ Sáu, 11 tháng 3, 2016

The Perfect Wedding Shoes…

It’s hard enough to find the perfect shoes for your wedding. You know… the biggest day of your life? But could you imagine trying to design them!? It sounds (and is!) amazing and fun, but it’s also super intimidating. You know me as The Shoe Girl, my friends and family know me as a shoe obsessed girl, so the first thing people ask me isn’t “what does your dress look like?” it’s “OMG what SHOES are you going to wear!?” Sure, I could just buy a super fabulous pair but that would be too easy. Plus I feel like since I have the ability to make pretty much anything I want, I kind of have to right?
No pressure.
Jon and I are a mere eighty seven days away from our big day and, well… I’ve been doing what I do best. Procrastinating. So I decided to to approach this formidable and daunting task the way I do my job. I started with an idea, some mood boards and a few quick sketches. Here’s what I have so far…
Pearl_wedding _shoes_theshoegirl.001theshoegirl_wedding_shoes.002theshoegirl_wedding_shoes.003I’m really into pearls right now and I think I kinda need to wear them on my feet. Do I go all out and use real pears or do I fake it with some costume ones? I’m also really into single soles, but I know that a platform would be way more comfortable and easier to dance in.
Decisions, decisions! Do you see my dilemma?
So I’ll keep at it but I think I may be getting close. I can’t wait to show you guys my FAN-EFFING-TASTIC dress. I love it SO much. And the shoes of course ;) Who knows how many pairs I’ll end up wearing on my big day.

Paging Dr. Hakakha!

This past Sunday, March 8th, was National Women’s Day and the perfect day to honor an amazing woman with some of her patients and closest friends, celebrating the third edition of her popular book, Expecting 411.
My future cousin-in-law, OB/GYN Dr. Michele Hakakha, MD, is a totally awesome rockstar doctor who just happens to have delivered the babies of some pretty famous (and beautiful!) moms. I got to meet some of them and we all bonded through our love of Michele. She is truly an incredible soul. And a total babe!
theshoegirl_famous_moms_party.001 It was a great party and I got to hear some really great stories about motherhood and giving birth and especially about what an amazing doctor and friend Michele is. We all laughed so much! It was truly a celebration of being a woman.

theshoegirl_expecting_411_book
Michele gave me a signed copy of the book- NO, I’m not expecting (yet)- and I went to flip through it and found myself not being able to put it down! It’s really great and easy to read… as if you’re chatting with your very well informed BFF about what’s going on with your body before and during pregnancy. I’m looking forward to the day I get to read it for real :)

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…theshoegirl_designer_wedding_shoesI 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.
theshoegirl_designer wedding shoes.002
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.theshoegirl_designer wedding shoes.003I 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!
theshoegirl_designer wedding shoes.004
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!! theshoegirl_designer wedding shoes.005Just 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!!!

Thứ Sáu, 26 tháng 2, 2016

Geometric Print Coats | A/W 20145 Trend

As we say here at The Trend Spotter, early preparation is the key to pulling off a great look. Winter is almost upon us, and we are in touch with all the latest fashion trends for the cold months. What’s the best thing to have for Winter you ask? Coats. And lots of them!

This time, the coat trend has been revamped, with fashion designers like Alexander McQueen andValentino changing things up by adding a subtle pop of vibrant colour through the art of geometric prints. From the looks of it, plain is out and colour is in – something that we believe was long overdue for this classic trend.

What we love about this creative update is the immense variety geometric shapes can provide. Squares, triangles, rectangles – all these kind of shapes have the ability to add a unique quirkiness to winter coats without making it look shabby or weird. Not to mention, it’s the perfect finishing touch to any outfit since they not only provide you with a polished, sophisticated style but also keep you warm, healthy and happy.

geometric coats men
Burberry Prorsum, Alexander McQueen, Valentino, Kenzo Fall 2014. Images courtesy of Style.com
geometric coats men
Vivienne Westwood, Versace, Salvatore Ferragamo, Valentino Fall 2014. Images courtesy of Style.com
geometric coats men
Fendi, Raf Simons, Valentino, Burberry Prorsum Fall 2014. Images courtesy of Style.com

Coloured Stripes | Menswear 2016 Trend

We spotted stripes everywhere at the Resort collections, and it doesn’t look like they are going anywhere any time soon. The fun is no longer just for the girls, with this huge trend also popping up in the menswear collections.

Appearing in a variety of guises from French riviera blue and red stripes at Topman and Marc Jacobs, to the more kooky neon styles at Opening Ceremony and Moschino, stripes have proven they are suitable for almost every occasion.

Play by day in multi-coloured and clashing striped hooded tracksuits and bomber jackets then dress up for night with a striped gradient jacket as seen at Jonathan Saunders.

There is no limit to the number of stripes either, with some designers opting for one individual piece paired with basics, while others went all out and layered strips on stripes, particularly with the shirt and scarf combination. Contrary to the fashion rules that were drilled into us as children, the trick here is to clash with thick and thin stripes and contrasting colours.

Khaki, mustards, lemon, acid green and classic powder reds and blues ruled the runways, adding a masculine and earthy spin on the season’s stripes. From cool to chic casual, the menswear collections have given us plenty of reasons to stripe up this season.

Colourful Stripes  Menswear 2015 Trend 2


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Strip Shorts 1
Strip Shorts 4
NAVY BRETON STRIPE MID LENGTH SWIM SHORTS
Stripe Scalf
BLUE AND GREY STRIPE SCARF
Stripe Scalf 2
NAVY STARS AND STRIPES SCARF
Stripe Shirt 2
Stripe Shirt 5
Stripe Tshirts 2
Stripe Tshirts9

4 Best Menswear Trends‏ From MSFW 2016


MSFW 2014 Menswear Trends‏
Mr Runway took over the MSFW Hub, with excellent style both on and off the catwalk. The styles ranged from casual to super smart, proving that fine fit and tailoring have a place no matter what the occasion.

1. Colour Contrast Trend

Colour was a big hit of the collections, with the suits in scarlet red, midnight blue, marble grey, mustard and khaki. The important message here was contrast, with the most striking look coming from Aquila’s pairing of navy and red, which made the ensemble interesting and bold.

MSFW 2014 Menswear Trends‏ Colour
Aquila, Aquila, MJ Bale

2. Single Colour Trend

Perhaps taking even more risk than colour contrast is wearing one colour from head to toe. While it may have been drummed into us as a big fashion no-no, when done correctly it can be even more striking than a brightly coloured look. So don’t be afraid to wear a single-colour look – just choose pieces in different tones (like lighter coloured pants and a darker jacket) and mix print with plain

MSFW 2014 Menswear Trends‏ One Colour - Copy
Jack London, Autonomy, Ben Sherman

3. Statement Digital Prints Trend

Another dominant trend from the runway was the statement digital prints. We’ve seen it a lot in the women’s collections, but it was a welcome addition for the men. Instead of spending hours working out which tie goes with which shirt, add quirk to your style with a clashing shirt and tie. Follow a similar rule to colour here, by choosing contrasting colours for an eye-catching effect or matching tonally. MJ Bale did it very well here, creating a look that was stylish and fresh.

MSFW 2014 Menswear Trends‏ Digital Prints
Article, MJ bake, Article

4. Floral Trend

Florals for men? It may be a little more groundbreaking than Meryl let on. Floral prints were everywhere on the Mr Runway, particularly at Autonomy with a graphic flowery print shirt the perfect addition to a block colour suit. If you’re not feeling quite so brave, try the barely visible dark black and inky blue floral print of Aquila, to ease you in slowly.

MSFW 2014 Menswear Trends‏ Floral
Dangerfield, Autonomy, Godwin Charli

The Mr Runway also demonstrated the sartorial power of thoughtful details. Brogues with no socks add a summery touch, pocket squares are non-negotiable and a fun way to express personality while matching your shirt to your backpack is also encouraged.
And just for fun – Hawaiian shirts are certainly making their way back from Dad territory, with Autonomy and Dangerfield proving the outlandish prints can be done with taste and style.

5 Stylish Men’s Hair Trends From Spring 2016 Runways


RELATED: 4 Popular Men’s Hairstyle Trends To Try Now

Fifties Slick

Fifties Slick
Lanvin, Brioni, Louis Vuitton, Canali, Versace

A distinctive fifties hair reference point was the order of business for design houses like Brioni, Louis Vuitton and Lanvin. What is required to achieve the fifties slick hair trend? A good quality hair gel or a mousse will add shine and sleekness for a worthy tribute to this decade. Keep things simple with a shiny slicked back look or add dimension with fifties partings that will register edgy and voluminous. Comb through hair lightly to add a bit of texture.

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Slick Hair 1
Slick Hair 2
Slick Hair 3
Slick Hair 4

Modernised Side Parts

Modernised Side Parts
Polo Ralph Lauren, Kenzo, Oliver Spencer, Ermenegildo Zegna, Burberry Prorsum

There is no doubt a classic side part will remain timeless, but the newer interpretations of this trend boasts reinvented takes of this traditionalist look. This hair trend can be harnessed for men with all hair types. Ensure you are blow-drying your locks after a good quality matte mousse has been worked in.  Experiment with different hair partings for reinvented version of this hair trend that will keep things more interesting and tailored to your own personal style.

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GHD brush
hairspray 2
Murrays Dressing Pomade
Parlux

Revived Pompadours

Revived Pompadours
J.Crew, Bottega Veneta, Tommy Hilfiger, Gosha Rubchinskiy, Lemaire

Whilst the pompadour is enjoying a revival, newer interpretations of this hair trend take the more textured form. Keep the sides of your hair intensely short and don’t be afraid to keep longer more voluminous dimensions on the top for an edgier look. For men with curlier hair, add dimension with a strategic haircut that will give a better proportion to your length. Men with straighter hair can harness their natural hair type in a side swept pompadour for a different approach to this beloved hair look.


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Pompadour Hair Product 3
Pompadour Hair Product 4
Pompadour Hair Product 5
Pompadour Haircut 1

Redefined Fringes

Redefined Fringes
Margaret Howell, Dior Homme, Berluti, Hermes, Coach

Fringes featured heavily in many spring collections. Dior Homme sustained a refined, sleek blow-dried fringe alluding a nineties aesthetic whilst designers like Berluti and Coach focused on texture and dimension. Fringe hairstyles work more favourably for straighter hair types as well as those with longer locks. A versatile hair mousse or pomade will work wonders for a bit more control when adapting this hair trend.

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GHD brush
hairspray 2
Murrays Dressing Pomade
Parlux

Textured Curls

Textured Curls
Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Valentino, Kolor, Salvatore Ferragamo

Perfect for those with existing curly or wavy hair, design houses professed a love for textured curls in their spring hair looks. Take inspiration from the volumised versions of this hair trend a la Valentino or wear this look with a baseball cap referencing Salvatore Ferragamo. However you wish to interpret this trend, a great starting point is distinguishing what kind of curls you naturally possess. If your hair is wavy, add a matte hair mousse for extra bounce. For curly hair, utilise a pomade to add more distinction.

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Pompadour Hair Product 4
Textured Hair Product 1
Textured Hair Product 2
Textured Hair Product 23jpg