How to Buy Fabulous Shoes for Large Feet
Gerri Miller ON Oct 4, 2005 at 1:27AM
Like Tuscan villas and Hugh Jackman, beautiful shoes were things I'd salivated over in magazines and admired from afar but could never have. Finding cute pumps to match an outfit? Forget it. With size 11AA feet, I had to make do with a severely limited selection of boring, if not downright ugly, shoes in black or brown -- when I could find anything at all. But I'm happy to report that those days of footwear deprivation are over. With a great variety of manufacturers, stores and Websites catering to extended sizes worn by increasing numbers of bigger, taller women, today's size 10+ shoe fanatic can be fashionable from head to toe.
Eleven and 12 are not oddball sizes anymore," says Bob Lewis, whose Prevata line of Italian-made leather shoes is sold in those sizes at Nordstrom's and independent retailers. "I think it's a huge market, and in my own retail stores we take advantage of that tremendously," concurs Donald J. Pliner, who offers sizes 11 and 12 in his four eponymous outlets.
Stuart Weitzman, whose exquisite shoes adorn the soles of Hollywood's red carpet regulars, has earned the love and loyalty of women with hard-to-fit feet by offering a wide range of sizes in his 15 U.S. stores. "We do 3 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W, says Weitzman, who'll add outposts in San Francisco, Atlantic City and San Antonio this fall. Weitzman does a booming extended-size business via his Website and twice-yearly trunk shows in May and November, when customers can pre-order any style in their size. "It's custom made, and we don't charge any extra for it," notes Weitzman. Actress Kate Winslet, who wears a size 11M, wore Weitzman's T-strap Nighty to the Academy Awards.
Élevé by Forgotten Soles, the new custom line from DesignerShoes.com, goes a step further. "We have a virtual trunk show where women have the chance to see styles before they're actually made. We work with customers who have shopped with us before, so we can show them shoes and they can tell us what style and color they like," says company president Barbara Thornton, whose Boston store and Website cater exclusively to hard-to-find sizes. "We start at 10 1/2 medium and 9 on the narrow side and 8 on the wide side and go up to 15. We don't even carry a shoe unless it goes to size 12," notes Thornton, who can fit both the tall teenager who wants flats and the confident career woman who likes heels. "It's all about choice."
Nordstrom, with its 95 department stores nationwide and thousands of shoe styles available on its Website, maintains a commitment to extended sizes that reflects its beginnings 100 years ago as a Seattle shoe store catering to large-footed Swedes. "We try to carry sizes four to fourteen, and widths AAA to WW," says spokesperson Pamela Perret. You can get on the mailing list to be notified of special oversize shoe events and benefit from the huge national inventory. If your store is out of your size, chances are it can be ordered and shipped to you.
For fall, Perret promises a continuation of the bohemian and embellished trends, now in boots, "and what we're calling Baroque -- very decorated, rich fabrics like velvet and brocades. Skirts are huge for fall and whatever style skirt you have, we'll have lots of options."
So much choice can be overwhelming, but it's a dilemma that's way overdue. So clear some closet space and start shopping!
Stuart Weitzman
Where to buy: Stuart Weitzman stores, Nordstrom, Stanley Korshak, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, StuartWeitzman.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W
What's hot now: Scrunched-down boots, booties, metallic leathers in shades of brass, pewter and anthracite, cowboy-influenced styles, moccasins in both low and high heels. "The platform and wedge are very strong for fall," says Weitzman.
Donald J. Pliner
Where to buy: Pliner stores in Beverly Hills, Miami, Las Vegas and San Jose and at Nordstrom stores, or DonaldPliner.com
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M, some N
What's hot now: Mid-heels and flats in cassis and olive green, hair calf, camel and white mocha print and "a newspaper print with a fuchsia underlay."
Prevata
Where to buy: Harry's Shoes, Nordstrom
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M
What's hot now: Wedges and bootie-type shoes in stretch materials combined with leather in black, camel and gray and metallics like pewter, bronze and old gold.
Stores that stock plus-size shoes
Nordstrom
Where to buy: 95 stores nationwide, Nordstrom.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 14, AAA to WW
Brands: Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, VanEli, Linea Paolo, J. Renee, Charles David, Franco Sarto, Donald J. Pliner, Kate Spade, A. Marinelli, J. Renee, Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, BCBG and exclusive house brands Classiques Entier and Brass Plum
Marmi
Where to buy: 30 stores nationwide (see Website for locations), MarmiShoes.com or Catalog available at 1-800-966-2764
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AAAA to W
Brands: VanEli, Rangoni, Sesto Meucci, Eric Javits
Elleven Up
Where to buy: 12 West 57th Street, NYC, 212-757-2154 EllevenUp.com or 866-ELLEVEN (toll free)
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13 N to W
Brands: Anne Klein, Donald J. Pliner, VanEli, Claudia Ciuti Join mailing list for sale and new style info.
Friedman's Shoes
Where to buy: 209 Mitchell Street, Atlanta, Georgia, LargeFeet.com, catalog available 800-540-6513
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: VanEli, J. Renee, Cianni, Paul Melian
DesignerShoes.com
Where to buy: DesignerShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 15, AAAA to WW
Brands: Via Spiga, Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, Pancaldi, Claudia Ciuti, Donald J. Pliner, Steve Madden, custom Élevé line (also see ForgottenSoles.com for list of stores carrying them)
Statuesque
Where to buy: Catalog available, 800-367-7167
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: Franco Sarto, Jazz, VanEli, Pelle Moda, Moda Spana, Rangoni
Unique Feet
Where to buy: UniqueFeet.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12 AAAA; 10 1/2 to 13 AAA and AA, 10 1/2 to 14 M, W and selected WW
Brands: Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman, VanEli, Prevata, Sesto Meucci, David Tate
Up and Under
Where to buy: UpandUnderShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12 M
Brands: Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman, Via Spiga
Beautiful Shoes
Where to buy: Beautiful-Shoes.com
Custom shoes, made to order from your photo or suggested styles similar to Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Prada and Manolo Blahnik. Pricey, but worth it for a great copy or replacing a beloved old or discontinued pair.
Shoedini
Where to buy: Shoedini.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12, AA to W
Brands: Via Spiga, Donald J. Pliner, Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman
Shoes.com
Where to buy: Shoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to WWW
Brands: Cole Haan, Donald J. Pliner, ViaSpiga
MY THOUGHTS
don't you just envy them? i don't remember being asked for the width of my shoes.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Repair and Maintenance of Beautiful Designer Shoes
Repair and Maintenence of Your Designer Shoes
Think twice before tossing those Jimmy Choos
Let's face it, you love your shoes. But maybe you haven't treated them right. You've worn them down and haven't given them the attention they deserve. Inevitably, a cuter, newer pair has come along, and you feel like tossing the old ones away. Well, the abuse has to stop! The shoes you purchase are an investment, and they need to be treated that way. Expensive footwear, if properly cared for, will last a lot longer than you realize. So fall in love all over again with the shoes you already have and get them repaired. And when your next love comes along, treat 'em right.
Stain and waterproof your shoes.
Applying a protective spray is the best way to shield your shoes from spills, rain, snow and mud. This can be done at a shoe repair shop, but it can also be done at home for a minimal cost. Leather and suede sprays and lotions should be applied before the first time shoes are worn and then on a regular basis afterward -- approximately every six to eight weeks. Meltonian Water and Suede Protector is one brand that comes highly recommended by shoe repair experts. The advantages of using a spray over a cream are that the spray takes less time to apply, and excessive use of a cream will result in a dull finish on the shoe surface. Another good option for weatherproofing your shoes is Kiwi Premier Shine. This is a water-resistant wax formula with a controlled-flow applicator. A telltale sign that you need to reapply your repellant is when water stops beading up on your shoe's surface. For these and other maintenance products, check out ShoeShineExpress.com.
Prevent wear and tear.
There's nothing more exciting than wearing a fabulous pair of new shoes for the first time. But there's one good reason to control yourself, and we assure you it's worth the wait: having rubber tips and heels applied. Yes, you may feel some separation anxiety leaving your brand-new shoes at a repair shop, but it's in your best interest to add the rubber soles before any wear and tear takes place. This will extend by months the time you have with your shoes before you need to bring them in again.
Repair shoes at a shop.
If you currently have damaged or worn-in shoes that you've written off as dead, think twice, because it might not be time to pull the plug. You can bring those babies back to life by having tips and rubber soles applied even after the shoes have been worn. Pamper your footwear the way you would pamper yourself. Bring them in for a quick polish or cleaning on a regular basis, and keep shoe trees in them when you're not wearing them, to help maintain their shape. Cedar shoe trees also absorb moisture, acid and salt, thereby reducing cracking and the deterioration of leather. Suede shoes should be brushed (on a clean and dry surface) up the nap using a rubber or stiff-bristled suede brush.
Broke your heel off while fighting for a taxi in the rain? No problem. Any reputable shoe repair shop can fix this in addition to many other woes. One of our biggest problems is that we often tear the leather on our heels when climbing stairs. The repair shop can fix that in no time, and your shoes will often look like new when you get them back. Repair experts can also buff out scratches and shine dull leather. In New York City, we love Shoe Service Plus (212-262-4823), which has never met a shoe it couldn't fix. Every fashionista in town goes there to get her designer shoes fixed. Ask at high-end shoe stores for good repair people in your city, or you can ship your shoes to Shoe Service Plus and they'll send them back once they're fixed. Think of it like sending your shoes on a spa vacation!
At-home repair tips.
If you're looking to save some money or you simply don't have the time to make a trip to the repair shop, here are some great home-maintenance tips:
Rinse off white salt marks with a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water (make sure you apply this to dry shoes and boots only).
White shoe polish won't smear if you spray the shoe with hairspray after it's dry.
To keep canvas shoes clean longer, apply spray starch on the surface of a dry, clean shoe.
Use baby wipes to clean and shine patent leather shoes
Clean white leather shoes with non-gel toothpaste, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.
MY THOUGHTS
i know vinegar may help. but i didn't know nail polish remover can be used on leather. i've tried alcohol and i intend to try the toothpaste.
Think twice before tossing those Jimmy Choos
Let's face it, you love your shoes. But maybe you haven't treated them right. You've worn them down and haven't given them the attention they deserve. Inevitably, a cuter, newer pair has come along, and you feel like tossing the old ones away. Well, the abuse has to stop! The shoes you purchase are an investment, and they need to be treated that way. Expensive footwear, if properly cared for, will last a lot longer than you realize. So fall in love all over again with the shoes you already have and get them repaired. And when your next love comes along, treat 'em right.
Stain and waterproof your shoes.
Applying a protective spray is the best way to shield your shoes from spills, rain, snow and mud. This can be done at a shoe repair shop, but it can also be done at home for a minimal cost. Leather and suede sprays and lotions should be applied before the first time shoes are worn and then on a regular basis afterward -- approximately every six to eight weeks. Meltonian Water and Suede Protector is one brand that comes highly recommended by shoe repair experts. The advantages of using a spray over a cream are that the spray takes less time to apply, and excessive use of a cream will result in a dull finish on the shoe surface. Another good option for weatherproofing your shoes is Kiwi Premier Shine. This is a water-resistant wax formula with a controlled-flow applicator. A telltale sign that you need to reapply your repellant is when water stops beading up on your shoe's surface. For these and other maintenance products, check out ShoeShineExpress.com.
Prevent wear and tear.
There's nothing more exciting than wearing a fabulous pair of new shoes for the first time. But there's one good reason to control yourself, and we assure you it's worth the wait: having rubber tips and heels applied. Yes, you may feel some separation anxiety leaving your brand-new shoes at a repair shop, but it's in your best interest to add the rubber soles before any wear and tear takes place. This will extend by months the time you have with your shoes before you need to bring them in again.
Repair shoes at a shop.
If you currently have damaged or worn-in shoes that you've written off as dead, think twice, because it might not be time to pull the plug. You can bring those babies back to life by having tips and rubber soles applied even after the shoes have been worn. Pamper your footwear the way you would pamper yourself. Bring them in for a quick polish or cleaning on a regular basis, and keep shoe trees in them when you're not wearing them, to help maintain their shape. Cedar shoe trees also absorb moisture, acid and salt, thereby reducing cracking and the deterioration of leather. Suede shoes should be brushed (on a clean and dry surface) up the nap using a rubber or stiff-bristled suede brush.
Broke your heel off while fighting for a taxi in the rain? No problem. Any reputable shoe repair shop can fix this in addition to many other woes. One of our biggest problems is that we often tear the leather on our heels when climbing stairs. The repair shop can fix that in no time, and your shoes will often look like new when you get them back. Repair experts can also buff out scratches and shine dull leather. In New York City, we love Shoe Service Plus (212-262-4823), which has never met a shoe it couldn't fix. Every fashionista in town goes there to get her designer shoes fixed. Ask at high-end shoe stores for good repair people in your city, or you can ship your shoes to Shoe Service Plus and they'll send them back once they're fixed. Think of it like sending your shoes on a spa vacation!
At-home repair tips.
If you're looking to save some money or you simply don't have the time to make a trip to the repair shop, here are some great home-maintenance tips:
Rinse off white salt marks with a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water (make sure you apply this to dry shoes and boots only).
White shoe polish won't smear if you spray the shoe with hairspray after it's dry.
To keep canvas shoes clean longer, apply spray starch on the surface of a dry, clean shoe.
Use baby wipes to clean and shine patent leather shoes
Clean white leather shoes with non-gel toothpaste, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.
MY THOUGHTS
i know vinegar may help. but i didn't know nail polish remover can be used on leather. i've tried alcohol and i intend to try the toothpaste.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
How Opposite Sexes Decide on Beautiful Shoes
To Buy or Not to Buy: How Opposite Sexes Make Shoe Decisions
How opposite sexes make decisions regarding shoes
Alina Dizik ON May 18, 2010
When Anna Vaysman needed shoes for her Chicago wedding -- she ordered eight pairs. Taking advantage of Zappos.com's lenient return policy, she tried them all on but only kept two of the eight pairs for her big day. She admits browsing through hundreds of shoes -- both online and off -- before making her choice. On the other hand, her husband picked "The" shoe after carefully examining only six pairs. "I'm not a shopohalic, but I like shoes a lot," Vaysman admits.
She's not the only one. With sales of shoes at $1.5 billion in October, this is an objet d'art for American women and one we're still eager to purchase. The right pair of heels is the ultimate accessory to the perfect outfit, and the search for a comfortable sole is endless. "Women make more impulse driven purchases while men buy more for necessity," says Eileen Lewis, director of fashion strategy at the shoe retailer, which sells thousands of shoes each year.
For men, this process is more straightforward, and here the differences begin...
Men: If the shoe fits -- they will buy it
While it may not seem like it, men also have a shopping approach, it boils down to two words: be efficient! "My strategy is to buy a shoe that is going to last -- not only in durability, but in style," says Nathan Geddie from New York. "I want a simple shoe, one that can be dressed up or down."
As women, this is tough to understand. We're surprised that there are rarely emotional strings attached. At the store, men walk in and can walkout with a shoe that's simply good enough minutes later. There's never a yearning for the famous Christian Louboutin red sole -- instead it's more utilitarian, explains Stephen Hoch a marketing professor at the University of Pennslylvania Wharton School who co-authored a study "Men Buy, Women Shop." For example, in the study men ranked the difficulty of finding parking close to the entrance (29 percent of men surveyed) as the number one problem in their shopping experience, while the women were concerned with "lack of help when needed" (29 percent of women surveyed) as their top deal breaker.
The simplicity of buying online is another matter. Currently, men spend 70 percent more on shopping online than women, according to Forrester Research. Unlike women, they're also not swayed by easy returns and would rather order the product than keep searching.
Women: Always waiting for the "right" moment
We agree when other women compare finding yet another pair of perfect shoes to walking on air or even falling in love.
But it's not only the shoe that has to impress -- it's the entire package. Customer service is a must explains Delia Passi, CEO of WomenCertified, a marketing firm in Hollywood, Florida. "They not only want to be pointed in the right direction, but to be escorted and empowered to make the right decision," says Passi and adds that women, unlike men, regularly turn to sales employees for help. "If she is not treated the way she wants to be treated she will talk with her feet and walk."
And unlike men, those of us without the Y chromosome consider walking into some shoe stores a pleasure in itself. Our favorite? The Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store Shoe Salon which boasts it's own zip code. The eighth floor space also has its own express elevator, a VIP room and a repair service. "Value must exceed cost to win her over, and that means being treated well," adds Passi.
Being at a sale is another story. Once we find the perfect fit, we're willing to scoop it right up -- no questions asked.
So what does this all mean during the busiest shopping month of the year? Research suggests it's best to go your separate ways and meet back at home. With such different styles of shopping, a male-female holiday trip to the mall is bound to turn into a battle.
And now that we've deciphered how exactly it is that you shop, it's time to tackle that pressing question of storage space. We, for one, will ask Santa for a walk-in shoe closet.
MY THOUGHTS
"men buy. women shop" that's why shopping together is not a good idea. i'm not a shopaholic myself. well,not anymore. but i love shoes. and i don't follow the principle of "if the shoe fits." shoe manufaturers seem to understand the buying habits of the opposite sexes. men won;t shop because there's no reason to. they don't have much to choose from in terms of style.
How opposite sexes make decisions regarding shoes
Alina Dizik ON May 18, 2010
When Anna Vaysman needed shoes for her Chicago wedding -- she ordered eight pairs. Taking advantage of Zappos.com's lenient return policy, she tried them all on but only kept two of the eight pairs for her big day. She admits browsing through hundreds of shoes -- both online and off -- before making her choice. On the other hand, her husband picked "The" shoe after carefully examining only six pairs. "I'm not a shopohalic, but I like shoes a lot," Vaysman admits.
She's not the only one. With sales of shoes at $1.5 billion in October, this is an objet d'art for American women and one we're still eager to purchase. The right pair of heels is the ultimate accessory to the perfect outfit, and the search for a comfortable sole is endless. "Women make more impulse driven purchases while men buy more for necessity," says Eileen Lewis, director of fashion strategy at the shoe retailer, which sells thousands of shoes each year.
For men, this process is more straightforward, and here the differences begin...
Men: If the shoe fits -- they will buy it
While it may not seem like it, men also have a shopping approach, it boils down to two words: be efficient! "My strategy is to buy a shoe that is going to last -- not only in durability, but in style," says Nathan Geddie from New York. "I want a simple shoe, one that can be dressed up or down."
As women, this is tough to understand. We're surprised that there are rarely emotional strings attached. At the store, men walk in and can walkout with a shoe that's simply good enough minutes later. There's never a yearning for the famous Christian Louboutin red sole -- instead it's more utilitarian, explains Stephen Hoch a marketing professor at the University of Pennslylvania Wharton School who co-authored a study "Men Buy, Women Shop." For example, in the study men ranked the difficulty of finding parking close to the entrance (29 percent of men surveyed) as the number one problem in their shopping experience, while the women were concerned with "lack of help when needed" (29 percent of women surveyed) as their top deal breaker.
The simplicity of buying online is another matter. Currently, men spend 70 percent more on shopping online than women, according to Forrester Research. Unlike women, they're also not swayed by easy returns and would rather order the product than keep searching.
Women: Always waiting for the "right" moment
We agree when other women compare finding yet another pair of perfect shoes to walking on air or even falling in love.
But it's not only the shoe that has to impress -- it's the entire package. Customer service is a must explains Delia Passi, CEO of WomenCertified, a marketing firm in Hollywood, Florida. "They not only want to be pointed in the right direction, but to be escorted and empowered to make the right decision," says Passi and adds that women, unlike men, regularly turn to sales employees for help. "If she is not treated the way she wants to be treated she will talk with her feet and walk."
And unlike men, those of us without the Y chromosome consider walking into some shoe stores a pleasure in itself. Our favorite? The Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store Shoe Salon which boasts it's own zip code. The eighth floor space also has its own express elevator, a VIP room and a repair service. "Value must exceed cost to win her over, and that means being treated well," adds Passi.
Being at a sale is another story. Once we find the perfect fit, we're willing to scoop it right up -- no questions asked.
So what does this all mean during the busiest shopping month of the year? Research suggests it's best to go your separate ways and meet back at home. With such different styles of shopping, a male-female holiday trip to the mall is bound to turn into a battle.
And now that we've deciphered how exactly it is that you shop, it's time to tackle that pressing question of storage space. We, for one, will ask Santa for a walk-in shoe closet.
MY THOUGHTS
"men buy. women shop" that's why shopping together is not a good idea. i'm not a shopaholic myself. well,not anymore. but i love shoes. and i don't follow the principle of "if the shoe fits." shoe manufaturers seem to understand the buying habits of the opposite sexes. men won;t shop because there's no reason to. they don't have much to choose from in terms of style.
fashionably comfortable beautiful shoes
Fashionably Comfortable: You'll Flip for These Funky Flats
From steals to splurges, these shoes were made for walking! (43 Photos)
Kristen Green ON Oct 12, 2010 at 3:55PM
Not-Blue Suede Shoes
Seasonal suede to the N'th degree! We love the twee bow styling of these ($55 at Topshop), which come accompanied by modernized grommets for the sweet girl on the go.
Mad About Shoe
Almost the perfect melding of L.A.M.B. and Louis Vuitton, the Luiza Barcelos Women's Av042 Ballet Flats ($184 at Endless) will dress up or down (and with Mad Men appeal, to boot).
Pretty Patents
If you love feminine flats, then Miu Miu's Powder Tooled Patent Leather Bow Flats ($396 at Bluefly) have got your number. We're digging the tooled details on the toe and heel, which shows off the nifty contrast between the dual-shade kicks.
Bronze Metal
Been looking for that ideal oxford shoe? Then Belle by Sigerson Morrison's 6198 Oxfords ($122.30 at Zappos) are here to quench your thirst. Personally, we'd showcase the cutouts on these by accessorizing with a pair of dark tights for contrast.
Strap to It
If you need an all-purpose shoe, then we're vetting Kooba's Faye Flats ($229 at Zappos). We dig how the studded ankle strap gives our legs definition and offsets the design simplicity of the classic black flat.
D'Amour Couture
Hey there, weather girl! We've got the perfect seasonal flat for you with Juicy Couture's Chyna Flat ($54.40 at Zappos), which comes lined with soft faux-fur lining and sequined snowflakes to twinkle your toes through the cooler months.
Suede Brigade
Throw on your lady garb and take these delights for a spin -- Marc by Marc Jacobs 694145 Flats ($99 at Footnotes) are the perfect mix of old style and new materials, and his reimagining of a classic is just another reason to hop on the Marc train.
Queen of Hearts
Do you love fashion? Then wear your heart on your feet with these Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Zen Girl Flats ($134 at Zappos). We can't wait to wear ours in the rain in lieu of our leather flats!
Don't Boohoo this Boho
We instantly fell in love with these boho chic Reed Evins 500 Ballet Flats ($175 at Jildor Shoes), which will pair with whatever your little heart contents.
Think Pink
Hey, life is fun, so why not treat yourself to some of it! If you start with shoes, try these sassy F-Troupe Bathing Shoes ($40 at Gargyle) to spice up things up.
Gold Metal Winners
We remember our favorite shoes in college were a gorgeous pair of gold flats that literally matched everything that we owned. They served us well, much in the way that Sigerson Morrison's 9517 Flats ($231 at Zappos) will no doubt serve you.
Chain of Cools
Sometimes, instead of a movie, we'll go to a store and visit the Lanvin collection. It's like visiting a high-fashion museum, where all the clothes are lit ethereally and are breathtakingly beautiful. We especially love these Lanvin Silver Lambskin Chain Ankle Flats in Silver ($580 at Bluefly).
The Look for Less
If Miu Miu's prices seem a little mucho-mucho, then check out Misbehave Milly Flats ($25.30 at Endless) -- they've got the charm of added trinkets without the added dollars.
Like Gifts!
Kate Spade has never shied away from bright colors and adorable accessories, so if her Fiona Flats ($77 at Zappos) were anything but, frankly, we'd be disappointed. (Luckily, we're not!)
The Cat's Out of the Bag
Really, have we ever met a leopard-print accessory that we didn't love? Add some studs and you've got Be & D's Tres Joe Flats ($350 at Shop the Shoe Box). Plus, what a great day-to-night transition shoe!
MY THOUGHTS
love'em all. too many shoes to dream about...
From steals to splurges, these shoes were made for walking! (43 Photos)
Kristen Green ON Oct 12, 2010 at 3:55PM
Not-Blue Suede Shoes
Seasonal suede to the N'th degree! We love the twee bow styling of these ($55 at Topshop), which come accompanied by modernized grommets for the sweet girl on the go.
Mad About Shoe
Almost the perfect melding of L.A.M.B. and Louis Vuitton, the Luiza Barcelos Women's Av042 Ballet Flats ($184 at Endless) will dress up or down (and with Mad Men appeal, to boot).
Pretty Patents
If you love feminine flats, then Miu Miu's Powder Tooled Patent Leather Bow Flats ($396 at Bluefly) have got your number. We're digging the tooled details on the toe and heel, which shows off the nifty contrast between the dual-shade kicks.
Bronze Metal
Been looking for that ideal oxford shoe? Then Belle by Sigerson Morrison's 6198 Oxfords ($122.30 at Zappos) are here to quench your thirst. Personally, we'd showcase the cutouts on these by accessorizing with a pair of dark tights for contrast.
Strap to It
If you need an all-purpose shoe, then we're vetting Kooba's Faye Flats ($229 at Zappos). We dig how the studded ankle strap gives our legs definition and offsets the design simplicity of the classic black flat.
D'Amour Couture
Hey there, weather girl! We've got the perfect seasonal flat for you with Juicy Couture's Chyna Flat ($54.40 at Zappos), which comes lined with soft faux-fur lining and sequined snowflakes to twinkle your toes through the cooler months.
Suede Brigade
Throw on your lady garb and take these delights for a spin -- Marc by Marc Jacobs 694145 Flats ($99 at Footnotes) are the perfect mix of old style and new materials, and his reimagining of a classic is just another reason to hop on the Marc train.
Queen of Hearts
Do you love fashion? Then wear your heart on your feet with these Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Zen Girl Flats ($134 at Zappos). We can't wait to wear ours in the rain in lieu of our leather flats!
Don't Boohoo this Boho
We instantly fell in love with these boho chic Reed Evins 500 Ballet Flats ($175 at Jildor Shoes), which will pair with whatever your little heart contents.
Think Pink
Hey, life is fun, so why not treat yourself to some of it! If you start with shoes, try these sassy F-Troupe Bathing Shoes ($40 at Gargyle) to spice up things up.
Gold Metal Winners
We remember our favorite shoes in college were a gorgeous pair of gold flats that literally matched everything that we owned. They served us well, much in the way that Sigerson Morrison's 9517 Flats ($231 at Zappos) will no doubt serve you.
Chain of Cools
Sometimes, instead of a movie, we'll go to a store and visit the Lanvin collection. It's like visiting a high-fashion museum, where all the clothes are lit ethereally and are breathtakingly beautiful. We especially love these Lanvin Silver Lambskin Chain Ankle Flats in Silver ($580 at Bluefly).
The Look for Less
If Miu Miu's prices seem a little mucho-mucho, then check out Misbehave Milly Flats ($25.30 at Endless) -- they've got the charm of added trinkets without the added dollars.
Like Gifts!
Kate Spade has never shied away from bright colors and adorable accessories, so if her Fiona Flats ($77 at Zappos) were anything but, frankly, we'd be disappointed. (Luckily, we're not!)
The Cat's Out of the Bag
Really, have we ever met a leopard-print accessory that we didn't love? Add some studs and you've got Be & D's Tres Joe Flats ($350 at Shop the Shoe Box). Plus, what a great day-to-night transition shoe!
MY THOUGHTS
love'em all. too many shoes to dream about...
Saturday, October 30, 2010
The World's Oldest Beautiful Shoe
Talk About Retro: The World's Oldest Shoe
Imagine what future generations will think of our kicks
Ysolt Usigan ON Jun 10, 2010 at 2:27PM
Before sky-high Louboutins and Manolos, people (cave men and women, to be specific) wore lace-up flats. And to think, I assumed our prehistoric ancestors walked around barefoot. Silly me -- of course, they wore shoes!
And now, there's proof. Archaeologists discovered the world's oldest known leather shoe while excavating a cave in Armenia. The 5,500-year-old shoes, which are made out of cowhide and tanned with oil from a plant or vegetable, were preserved under layers of sheep dung. Who knew the very thing you're trying to avoid stepping on is what could save your footwear?!
"While the shoe more closely resembles an L.L.Bean-type soft-soled walking shoe than anything by Jimmy Choo, 'these were probably quite expensive shoes, made of leather, very high quality,'" lead scientist Gregory Areshian of the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at the University of California, Los Angeles, told the New York Times.
I wonder who actually wore this particular pair?! Scientists have yet to uncover more details -- after all, these were created before we had user reviews -- all they know is, they were likely worn by a woman with size-7 feet, just a tad shy of the current average of 8.5.
Centuries from now, wouldn't it be cool if excavators discovered our beloved shoes? I wonder what the people of the future would think of our ballet flats, peep-toes and booties?
MY THOUGHTS
amazing that the oldest shoe was probably worn by a woman. with big feet. and with style. leather 5500 years ago.
Imagine what future generations will think of our kicks
Ysolt Usigan ON Jun 10, 2010 at 2:27PM
Before sky-high Louboutins and Manolos, people (cave men and women, to be specific) wore lace-up flats. And to think, I assumed our prehistoric ancestors walked around barefoot. Silly me -- of course, they wore shoes!
And now, there's proof. Archaeologists discovered the world's oldest known leather shoe while excavating a cave in Armenia. The 5,500-year-old shoes, which are made out of cowhide and tanned with oil from a plant or vegetable, were preserved under layers of sheep dung. Who knew the very thing you're trying to avoid stepping on is what could save your footwear?!
"While the shoe more closely resembles an L.L.Bean-type soft-soled walking shoe than anything by Jimmy Choo, 'these were probably quite expensive shoes, made of leather, very high quality,'" lead scientist Gregory Areshian of the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at the University of California, Los Angeles, told the New York Times.
I wonder who actually wore this particular pair?! Scientists have yet to uncover more details -- after all, these were created before we had user reviews -- all they know is, they were likely worn by a woman with size-7 feet, just a tad shy of the current average of 8.5.
Centuries from now, wouldn't it be cool if excavators discovered our beloved shoes? I wonder what the people of the future would think of our ballet flats, peep-toes and booties?
MY THOUGHTS
amazing that the oldest shoe was probably worn by a woman. with big feet. and with style. leather 5500 years ago.
Mariah Carey's own line of shoes and jewelry
Mariah Carey is expecting -- to launch her own line of shoes, jewelry and more on HSN
By Lindsay Goldwert
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
Friday, October 29th 2010, 11:46 AM
Singer Mariah Carey is thrilled to announce her latest offspring -- a line of lifestyle products and jewelry for the Home Shopping Network.
The pop star diva, who has also announced that she is expecting her first child with husband Nick Cannon, will be taking to the small screen to hawk her designs starting on Nov. 29, according to Women's Wear Daily. Carey said that she is always looking for new ways to express herself creatively and jumped at the chance to develop her own collection of shoes and jewelry and more.
Once she, HSN CEO Mindy Grossman and designer Joan Boyce put their heads together – part of which was a meeting in Carey's own shoe closet – the ideas for a more complete lifestyle brand started flowing.
Much like the woman who starred in the 2001 film "Glitter", the collection is going to include a lot of sparkle. Expect pave-set 'initial' pendants and limited edition sets of Carey's fragrances set in Swarovski crystal. The jewelry will also feature the butterfly, one of the singer's favorite motifs and the name of her mega platinum-selling 1997 album.
The shoes will be tall but with a nod toward comfort. "A platform shoe grounds you a little more. I try to make my designs more practical as well as pretty. One of the things I thought about was how I could do affordable, really nice, comfortable shoes that are still flattering to the leg," she told WWD.
The shoes will be priced from about $69.90 to $199.90, while the jewelry will be available from $39.99 to $199.95.
MY THOUGHTS
sounds interesting. better check out home shopping. not necessarily to buy anything.just curious...
By Lindsay Goldwert
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
Friday, October 29th 2010, 11:46 AM
Singer Mariah Carey is thrilled to announce her latest offspring -- a line of lifestyle products and jewelry for the Home Shopping Network.
The pop star diva, who has also announced that she is expecting her first child with husband Nick Cannon, will be taking to the small screen to hawk her designs starting on Nov. 29, according to Women's Wear Daily. Carey said that she is always looking for new ways to express herself creatively and jumped at the chance to develop her own collection of shoes and jewelry and more.
Once she, HSN CEO Mindy Grossman and designer Joan Boyce put their heads together – part of which was a meeting in Carey's own shoe closet – the ideas for a more complete lifestyle brand started flowing.
Much like the woman who starred in the 2001 film "Glitter", the collection is going to include a lot of sparkle. Expect pave-set 'initial' pendants and limited edition sets of Carey's fragrances set in Swarovski crystal. The jewelry will also feature the butterfly, one of the singer's favorite motifs and the name of her mega platinum-selling 1997 album.
The shoes will be tall but with a nod toward comfort. "A platform shoe grounds you a little more. I try to make my designs more practical as well as pretty. One of the things I thought about was how I could do affordable, really nice, comfortable shoes that are still flattering to the leg," she told WWD.
The shoes will be priced from about $69.90 to $199.90, while the jewelry will be available from $39.99 to $199.95.
MY THOUGHTS
sounds interesting. better check out home shopping. not necessarily to buy anything.just curious...
Affordable Alternatives to Carrie's Studded Pumps
Affordable Alternatives to Carrie's Studded Pumps
We love her Brian Atwood heels, but not the price tag
Ysolt Usigan ON May 28, 2010 at 11:05AM
We love this Carrie Bradshaw ensemble from Sex and the City 2. We've been wearing plaid all year, and the light-colored denim and lavender heels update the trend to another level.
By the way, did you know the cropped jeans were from Sarah Jessica Parker's own closet? "I wore them to set that day. Pat [Field] saw them, tossed previously set costume, ran and got a shirt from her store, and ten minutes later, we were shooting," she said in Sex and the City: The Stories. The Fashion. The Adventure., a book on the sequel's style.
The plaid top is $48 (not bad!), but the nearly 6-inch Brian Atwood Loca Studded Pumps will set you back $800 at Net-A-Porter.com. I suppose spending nearly four digits on a pair of shoes is a little loca, so I went on a hunt for cheaper versions that do the trend justice.
Consider these:
• Tristano Pumps by Steve Madden ($99.95 at SteveMadden.com)
• Studded Velvet Pump ($25.80 at Forever21.com)
• Guess Carlile Pump with Studs ($54.42 at Endless.com)
MY THOUGHTS
studded or not i'm way past wearing these pumps
We love her Brian Atwood heels, but not the price tag
Ysolt Usigan ON May 28, 2010 at 11:05AM
We love this Carrie Bradshaw ensemble from Sex and the City 2. We've been wearing plaid all year, and the light-colored denim and lavender heels update the trend to another level.
By the way, did you know the cropped jeans were from Sarah Jessica Parker's own closet? "I wore them to set that day. Pat [Field] saw them, tossed previously set costume, ran and got a shirt from her store, and ten minutes later, we were shooting," she said in Sex and the City: The Stories. The Fashion. The Adventure., a book on the sequel's style.
The plaid top is $48 (not bad!), but the nearly 6-inch Brian Atwood Loca Studded Pumps will set you back $800 at Net-A-Porter.com. I suppose spending nearly four digits on a pair of shoes is a little loca, so I went on a hunt for cheaper versions that do the trend justice.
Consider these:
• Tristano Pumps by Steve Madden ($99.95 at SteveMadden.com)
• Studded Velvet Pump ($25.80 at Forever21.com)
• Guess Carlile Pump with Studs ($54.42 at Endless.com)
MY THOUGHTS
studded or not i'm way past wearing these pumps
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