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:

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.

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.

GET THE LOOK

NAVY BRETON STRIPE MID LENGTH SWIM SHORTS

BLUE AND GREY STRIPE SCARF

NAVY STARS AND STRIPES SCARF

ALLAN BAUDOIN MAKES A MEAN CHEALSEA BOOT!

I am normally not a fan of the chelsea boot but the older and more lazy I get (and the more that I see them) the more that I am starting to like them. I have seen Allan Baudoin’s version a few times on Instagram and every time I do, I think that I like them more and more. That being, I thought that for those of you who are big fans of this particular boot model, I would share with you what I have come to appreciate which you just might love! Enjoy!

Sorry that I am not writing more but I am up to my eyeballs in sales shoes and getting them sent out. Will try and follow with more posts and the great things to come, as show at Pitti Uomo!

HOW RUBY ROSE STYLE ALL LEATHER OUTFIT WITH BIKER BOOTS

Ruby Rose was spotted shopping at Beverly Hills California on November 4 in a total cool outfit with leather jacket, leather pants and a pair of awesome black leather biker boots.
Just as you might think leather pants are best saved for a night out on the town, Ruby Rose showed us how to get it work else where with some thoughtful styling and versatile biker boots.
The same leather biker boots can be found at Chiko Shoes Online Store at the price of US$115. They look fantastic with skinny jeans, leggings, tights & cutoffs, skirts, dresses, coats, jackets. If a laid back model off duty style is what you’re going for, they seem to be the best option.

SIDE BY SIDE: ROMAN EMPIRE

Gladiators have invaded the office, the red carpet, cocktail hour and Instagram with blogger babes like @kristengracelam rocking nude high shaft styles on the daily

It’s hard to believe Russell Crowe is partly responsible for the fashion world’s love affair with all things gladiator-inspired, but his Oscar-winning role as a mortal combat fighter at the height of the Roman empire rekindled designers’ love of the ventilated lace-up. If the ‘60s had been the gladiator’s last epic fashion moment due to its popularity with both mods and hippies, Crowe’s 60s-inspired blockbuster brought the Coliseum back into the minds of couture makers. By 2013 Crowe’s Les Miserables costar, the notoriously sophisticated Anne Hathaway, was the one wearing the gladiator boots, this time on the red carpet and with a dominatrix-inspired Tom Ford twist, paired with a black gown.

Look 1 Work-to-Play: No longer for just the boho enthusiast, gladiators have made their way into the tailored wardrobes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Diane Kruger, and Kate Bosworth. Laced all the way to the knee on spring/summer 2015 runways for Chloe, Alexander McQueen, and Ginvenchy, the neutral toned gladiator isn’t as explicitly sexy as black knee-highs, but it’s muted aesthetic creates a sultry peek-a-boo effect that’s – bonus points — also suitable for the office. With a two-inch heel, it’s knee-high length is less intimidating for the more vertically challenged who appreciate the length a heel adds. It’s easy to go from the boardroom to the bar wearing a simple floral dress, which doesn’t get overshadowed by the sandal thanks to the hue.

Look 2 Model Off Duty: If Pretty Woman ruined the idea of wearing knee-high boots with short shirts and dresses for you for most of the 90s, it’s time to enter the 21st century where statement boots aren’t code for what your LinkedIn page can’t say. In fact, you can even opt for knee-highs in the summer on a lazy afternoon on the boardwalk. The Madonna of footwear — quintessential yet cutting edge, retro but risque, timeless yet always transforming—the gladiator is more versatile than it gets credit for. Kendall Jenner just made fashion headlines rocking a sexy black above-the-knee pair courtside at a Lakers game, and Rihanna notoriously wore her nude Tom Fords out on the town in true street style form. Take the same relaxed yet daring approach by pairing neutral glads with patterned short-shorts and a long-sleeve top in a contrasting print.

GENTS CLUB: WHY ESPADRILLES RULE

What mystical alchemy causes a shoe to make the leap from sensible workhorse to fashion icon? Someone needs to write a thinkpiece on this, pronto. When they do, the espadrille could very well be the prototype. From humble origins to wardrobe must, the comfortable slip-on makes a sharp summer statement. Crafted with rich Italian leather and handmade rope bottoms, this espadrille model merges style, form, and function and can handle just about any sartorial assignment. Casual Friday at the office? No problem. Espadrilles can take on relaxed dress pants, stylish denims, chinos, you name it. Add a cuff, lose the socks, throw on a short sleeve linen dress shirt, a fashionably fitted sweater, and you’re golden.

Espadrilles can work a little overtime outside of informal workplace demands too. Consider these shoes for all of your weekend patio needs. Al fresco brunch? Definitely espadrille time. Backyard afternoon cookout? You know what to do. Keep your versatile color options in mind. With jeans, navy espadrilles, worn without socks of course, are naturals. Black keeps it classic, cool, and neutral. Dark brown espadrilles are distingué and look smart with beige, gray, or navy pants. Any way you cut it, these shoes are the ultimate summer complement.

DETAILS DETAILS: IN STITCHES

Fashion trends are always a-changin’, but what tends to remain ever-present is the love of all-things seventies. From fringe to animal skins and playful patchwork prints, the retro game is strong and nowhere is this more apparent than in the profusion of amazing handbags that hit the decade’s mark while being slightly reinterpreted to fit our modern times. Take the slouchy and oversized navy leather carryall. A perfect accessory for our everyday by virtue it will fit everything, but besides its functionality, it remains high on style with its mix of emerald, black and sage patchwork prints. We think it the perfect match for a denim-on-denim look with oversized gold hoops and tangled, wind-blown hair. For Saturday nights out and about, we’ll swap it for a smaller box clutch in a tonal play of mahogany and taupe which works as a nice nod to the fall season’s autumnal shades and our thigh-high boots and knit dresses. Come Sunday, brunch hits next-level status when snakeskin is involved, especially when its embossed on a caramel suede envelope clutch with fringe detail and gold hardware. Ladies, can you dig it? Yes we can!

 

FINAL TOUCH: LUG SHOT

Blaze a new trail in a tough-meets-ladylike boot

Along with chocker necklaces, slip dresses and berry-coloured lips, another signature ’90s trend making a comeback this season is the rugged lace-up boot. Although the utilitarian staple has always been a smart winter pick, the trail-blazing city boot is back in a big way, and it couldn’t be a better match the military-inspired must-haves marching their way straight into your wardrobe.

For a fresh take on the trend, try a block-heeled version that’s as cool as it is capable of going the extra mile. Aside from the steady support of a chunky heel and the warmth of a plush lining, a slip-proof lug sole means icy sidewalks are no barrier to your boundary-breaking winter style.

Pair yours with khaki culottes and a cozy sweater before the deep freeze sets in, or distressed denim and a camo-print parka come snow season. Whether your shipping out to work in a double-breasted jacket and tailored trousers, or to your favourite watering hole wearing a mix of autumnal shades with army green, a boot that’s part grunge and part girlie is the perfect choice when it comes to grounding your cadet-chic looks.

CARRY ON: PACK MENTALITY JUL

Is there anything more precious than a day off in the summertime? Just thinking of all the ways you can spend those 24 hours of freedom before getting back to the weekday grind is enough to make you pull the duvet over your head and stay put. But before you start binge-watching Orange is the New Black, consider how productive this day could be when you can get all your errands done all while carry everything you need in a spacious statement tote.

Armed with a bright print-clash carry all bag that pairs like a dream with your downtime looks, you can start the day stretched out into downward dog and then stash your yoga mat through the handles at the top. Putting on your arm-party essentials, you glance at your watch and realize it’s way past coffee o’clock. You touch up your makeup and praise yourself for packing a headband* so you don’t have to face that cute barista with a bumpy messy bun. A text from the girls says it’s time for patio brunch, so you throw on your shades and head over to enjoy some eggs benny under the sun. A little afternoon shopping to seize the rest of the day? Sounds like a plan, especially when there’s still room in your bag for a few fab finds!

FINAL TOUCH: CARTE BLANCHE

Classic, sexy, and flattering for all, white keeps us cool under the hot sun and has an easy feel that just reads as effortless.  Talk about a total no-brainer.  But whereas we used to bust out a pair of white jeans and call it a day, this summer we’re jumping on the head-to-toe bandwagon. It’s been on our minds since we saw it on the runways at Isabel Marant, Akris, and Prabal Gurung. And because we’re not the types to just sit around with our jaws agape, loving something from a distance, we’re trying it out ourselves.

So how to do it? As with any monochrome look, texture is key!  Denim paired with a cotton eyelet has just enough contrast to be interesting (other combos that would work well include denim and silk or suede and cotton – the idea is to have a little bit of variation). Let the look shine by keeping accessories to a minimum, though you’ll definitely want to add a fun bag to the mix: we like a mid-sized wristlet adorned with a tribal motif. Finish the look with a pair of cross-strap slides in white, and voila! As fresh and clean as any runway look (now just try to keep it that way!)

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: 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.

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.

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.

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!!!

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!!!

Kourtney Kardashian Goes to the Studio in Stuart Weitzman Boots

Kourtney Kardashian was recently spotted leaving a production studio in LA in a pair of black leather, open-toed booties from one of her favorite brands. These Stuart Weitzman Koko Stretch Booties are just a little taller than they appear in these photos–they’ve been tucked under Kourtney’s jeans. You can find Kourtney’s exact booties for $630 at farfetch.com.

Non-LA residents know that there are only so many months in the year when open-toed booties seem like an appropriate seasonal shoe choice and not an obvious frostbite hazard, so if you love these, we recommend you order a pair promptly. Or you can take a gander at some of Stuart Weitzman’s other fall boot options in 7 Boots for Under $700 to Satisfy Your Stuart Weitzman Craving.