Shoe du jour

Now there are pointy shoes and then there are ridiculously pointy shoes. And although I’d have to say these fall into the category of ridiculously pointy, they are really wickedly smart. From Spring/Summer 2013, an elegant, pointed toe ankle boot by Marc Jacobs simply called the “Pony Chelsea boot”.  And it’s just that, a low-top black pony Chelsea boot. Well disguised, there are wide black elastic gussets at the sides along with a pull tab in back, so they are a cinch to put on or take off. But what makes this boot special is 2.25″ cylindrical heel. The roundness of the heel compliments the severely pointed toe. The pony hair puts it over the top.

Marc Jacobs chelsea boot Marc J chelsea Marc Jacobs Chelsea boot snapshot

Shoe du jour

You know that moment when you see a shoe you just have to have? Your heart races and you gasp when you discover it’s on SALE!
How can something so simple be so AMAZING?? Part of my shoe collection since 2010, the “FRAME” by United Nude raises the bar in conventional shoe design. Aptly named, the bare bone frame is highly stylized, featuring black leather strap cut outs with velcro side closure and a triangular structural heel. Incredibly lightweight, yet extremely durable. The base and heel are constructed from carbon fiber, the same materials high-end exotic sport cars are made with. Stare worthy, it’s like a Ferrari for your feet. Architecturally inspired, this turbo-charged geometric masterpiece is a true work of art. A study in contrasts and something to be admired. Best of all….it shouldn’t be comfortable, but it is! It shouldn’t look AMAZING on, yet it does!
UN frame side UN frame pair UN frame side shot UN frame snapshot

Shoe du jour

One look at this black peep toe pump and you can see how extraordinary this shoe is and how it quickly found a spot in my shoe closet. The “QA013” pump by Luiza Barcelos was purchased at City Soles, a local boutique. The blackish-gray hued leather is frayed, adding an exotic snake skin effect that’s rich, unique and incomparable. The skinny stiletto heel is 5″, but with a 1.5″ platform balancing out the height, it’s quite comfortable to walk in. These open toe pumps not only dress to impress but also allow you to stand out in a crowd. Walk proud!

Luiza Barcelos_pair Luiza Barcelos_side Luiza snapshot

Shoe du jour

I love heels! I typically do not do flats but I saw these and just couldn’t resist a test driveIf the high heeled version was available, I might have purchased those instead but these flats actually seem to offer more versatile wardrobe optionsThey can be paired with shorts, jeans, maxi dresses, capris and skirts – a “go to” sandal and a great way to show off that pedi.
See by Chloe – is it a sandal or is it a bootie? It’s certainly an interesting hybrid. This fashion forward sandal has a brown suede ankle shaft cuff with matching tonal drawstring so you can cinch it to created a ruched effect.  The tan leather strap is a nice contrast to the dark suede. The nonexistent heel blends nicely into the cuff. Cute and unconventional, its a nice addition to the ever expanding shoe closet collection.

See by Chloe side See by chloe front

See by Chloe

Shoe du jour

Rugged and stiff combat boot style meets vintage charm with ZIGIgirl’s “Funnel” boot – from Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale. The oiled-leather work boot has a rich black color and a chunky 1″ heel, accented with a red line. The laces are hidden behind a buckled cuff and there’s a side zipper for easy access. Can be worn with slouchy socks for a bohemian look. Boots are stiff upon first wearing, but these are going to relax once broken in. A kick-ass boot and a welcome addition to my shoe closet.

ZIGIgirl funnel boot ZIGIgirl funnel boot back ZIGIgirl funnel_side ZIGIgirl funnel boot_snapshot

Shoe du jour

True to its name, “Corkswoon”, is a heel to swoon over…. Stuart Weitzman‘s slick patent leather, cork wedge heel from 2012. It’s the contrast in textures – glossy black patent leather upper and 5.25″ light weight, cork wedge with 1″ cork platform, that takes the wedge to new heights. The front has a rounded closed toe and the not to be neglected back has a cute emblem logo –  so you look good in any direction. Chic, comfortable and classy, it can be dressed up or down. These are perfect for summer. Get giddy with it.

Stuart Weitzman Corkswoon angleStuart Weitzman Corkswoon backStuart Weitzman Corkswoon side Stuart Weitzman Corkswoon snapshot

Shoe du jour

Trendsetting and attention getting, this sleek pump will take you to new heights. Crafted in soft, solid black leather, this peep toe’s standout feature is the side cut outs and the large decorative pewter buckles. A 4″ stacked wooden stiletto heel with 1″ platform adds a bit of edginess and height – so you can standout from the rest of the crowd. It’s become my “go to” shoe for a head-to-toe polished look.

Coach Alexia Coach Alexia pair Coach Alexia side Coach Alexia snapshot

Shoe du jour

Back in 2010, the trend in women’s shoes was all about the platform. That trend has become a fashion mainstay since platforms are a woman’s bff, enabling effortless comfort. I think one of the most comfortable platforms from 2010 is the “Daquelo” from Chie Mihara. It’s a simple styled design – a Mary Jane heel with an open toe and sling-back strap, yet it’s beautifully crafted. Rich mushroom colored suede leather graces the upper, while the strap, platform and heel are wrapped in solid leather, giving a subtle tone-on-tone mix.  The 1.5″ platform makes the 4.5″ heel a humble 3″ high, so they are easy to walk in, you’ll swear you’re wearing flats! Extremely versatile in hue and style – they go with everything from jeans, to maxi-dresses or formal attire. If you’ve ever owned a pair of Chie Mihara’s, you’d agree, these are a steadfast addition to the shoe closet.

Chie Mihara DaqueloChie Daquelo snapshotChie Daquelo side

Shoe du jour

Summer heats up with a classic from 2009 – a distinct woven wedge. Multicolored black, white and cream leather is braided in a plaid effect around a chunky 4.5″ wedge with 1.5″ platform. The skinny crisscross patent straps juxtapose the heel to balance out the look.  The “Air Genevieve wedge” sandal from Cole Haan is constructed with concealed Nike Air® cushioning technology, resulting in a sandal that is as comfortable as it is fashionable. This sandal is a conversation starter, I’m always being asked “where did you get those shoes?” No regrets with this pair, well, except that I didn’t buy it in orange too! This style stands the test of time.

Genevieve sideCH sideCH Genevieve snapshot

Shoe du jour

Strikingly beautiful and innovative.  The AllSaints “Rosalina” sandal from 2011 is a basic T-bar sandal with contrasting smooth and tumbled brown leather. The 5″ heel seems high, but the 1.5″ platform makes this seem like a 3″ heel. But its the heel! The sharp, edgy, abstract fusion of wooden inlay and intentional pop of white contrasting against the wood, giving the impression it’s more suitable as sculpture than wearable fashion. But its quite wearable and comfortable, with an extra-cushioned insole. This object of desire is fashionable, directional and cool – with a British chic, rock and roll feel – exactly what you expect from AllSaints.

AS Rosalina sideRosalina backAS rosalina side snapAS rosalina snapshot