Cutesy Tuesday: Angeleigh Anastasio Briana Pumps & Mistletoe Martinis

A Vision in Sugarplum

You've been jaunting to and from holiday soirees since Black Friday and have worn season-inspired clothing to each one. By now you must be tired of red, gold and green, so wow your crowd in something a little sweeter. Channel your inner sugar plum fairy in a pair of pink pumps like Angeleigh Anastasio's Brianas (available at angeleighanastasio.com) . Lace-like detailing plus a magenta and silver color combination equals an almost automatic inclusion on Santa's "nice" list. Yet the 4 inch heel and sorta-sensual Swarovski fur accent add just a little bit of "naughty".

What's a Christmas party without a little mistletoe? Even if you don't have someone to smooch, a Mistletoe Martini (recipe and image courtesy of cocktailatlas.com) is like a sweet kiss for your taste buds. Drink enough of it, and this confectionary cocktail made of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Tanqueray Gin will also have you swooning. Besides, maybe it'll give you the courage to approach the handsome stranger standing in the corner for a dance (and perhaps even a little holiday peck)

Shoe News: Barbie's Louboutins

Red Bottoms for Barbie!

When you think of Barbie shoes, which designer comes to mind? The S&B team automatically thought of Giuseppe Zanotti because of his fun and imaginative style, but it seems Mattel, Inc had a different opinion. It will actually be Christian Louboutin who designs the Barbie Pantone 219 Pink shoes worn in the special runway show Mattel is staging during NY Fashion Week next February. In celebration of Barbie turning 50, they've commissioned fifty undisclosed designers to create Barbie-inspired looks, and each will be worn with Louboutin's specially designed pink shoes. We can't wait to see those shoes (or the outfits they accompany)! We also hope Betsey Johnson is one of the designers in the show.

Don't Mess With Me Monday/ Shoe News: Duck, Dubya!

Shoes & Boos

We interrupt regularly scheduled images of gorgeous shoes and divine drinks to bring you this video. During President Bush's farewell visit to Iraq, one journalist was clearly displeased with Dubya and decided to show it with his shoes.




Now, here is your normally scheduled program in its entirety.

Nail 'Em!

Got a case of the Mondays? Well, if you were the type, you could do what the guy did in Iraq. You love your shoes too much for that, though, and the heels you wear would get you locked up for wielding a deadly weapon. Still, you can fantasize about flinging your Maison Martin Margiela nail heeled booties (MaisonMartinMargiela.com for details) at your backstabbing boss. The fact that you'd wear 4 inch nail of a heel means there's something a bit rigid and intimdating, but the dark brown color and simple styling of the rest of your shoe says you're also reliable. Translation: people should tread lightly in your presence and give you space to work your magic (because you make miracles happen, right?). Oh, and the December issue of ELLE says you'll be right on trend because nuts and bolts are a hit this season.

Celebbrate your having made it through the day without empaling anyone by getting a little hammered. The best way? A rusty nail (photo courtesy of Quamut.com). Have the bartender combine a little Drambuie (or a lot if you prefer a weaker drink) with Macallan (or other incredibly smooth) Scotch, as per the Quamut.com recipe. This isn't your typical girlie drink, so you'll earn points with the fellas when you drink this one. Just don't let them buy you too many, or you may get nailed in a different way at the end of the night.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Strutt Couture Jolene Booties & Godiva Yuletinis

Stay Gold

You had a pretty slow weekend, but you're still in quite the mood today. Could it be that someone in your personal life annoyed you last night? Well, don't take it out on your underlings. Let Ponyboy be your inspiration, and prove Robert Frost's poem wrong. Remain unchanged by external factors, and embrace your resilient "youness" in a pair of gilded heels like these Jolene Booties by Strutt Couture (available at endless.com). The 4.25 inch heel allows you to rise above all pettiness, and the armadillo-like styling says you've got a tough exterior. However the green symbolizes the freshness of your spirit and the gold nods to your unchanging essence. Yeah, forget what happened yesterday, and work on embracing the new challenges the week will bring. Besides, it's the holiday season, so that let all the tinsel and glad tidings bring you joy.

If you can't do it on your own, ask your bartender for a little help from a Yuletini (Conceived by James Hall from Circo in the UK and courtesy of The Liverpool Daily Post). This bit of holiday cheer without hangover fear blends Godiva dark cacao liquer with Goldschlager. It tastes like a chocolate cookie with cinnamon on top, and the gold flakes add just the right amount of festivity. This is a great Monday drink, too, because it'll take some of the edge off yet leave you with your wits for Tuesday morning.

Booze News: Happy Repeal Day!!!

We at S&B would like to propose a toast. Please raise your glasses to the wonderful folks who decided 75 years ago to repeal the 18th Ammendment, also known as the National Prohibition Act. We can't imagine what those 11 years of prohibition were like, but we're glad we didn't have to live through them. Plus, if liquor had stayed illegal, this blog wouldn't exist. So, as we sip our hot apple cider spiked with Captain Morgan's Spiced Rum, we hope you're out enjoying cocktails in celebration. If you'd like to learn more about Prohibition and Repeal Day, check out the NY Times Blog, The Moment. You can also check out RepealDay.org

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Bruno Frisoni Booties and Prairie Tomato-basiltinis

Red-y for the world

You say "toh-may-to", and they say "to-" eh, doesn't really matter. What you say goes anyway, right? You just wish the after-effects of this weekend's drink fest would obey and go away. You must press on and make it through the day, though, because when the boss is away, underlings slack all day. Besides, it's Monday, so you can get away with being a little groggy- as long as you have on shoes that distract people from that beleaguered look on your face. Walk tall in a pair of high and mighty heels like these Fem-bot-looking platforms from Bruno Frisoni. With a 4.7 inch heel and patent leather accented by elasticized gores, these booties say you don't play (and yet, you're somehow still a riot).

It's been said that a Bloody Mary is a pretty reliable hangover remedy, but that's more a brunch drink than something you'd order at happy hour. Opt instead for a Tomato-Basiltini (image courtesy Intoxicated Zodiac). From the folks at Intoxicated Zodiac (check Scorpio), it says you're the kind of gal who likes flavor but isn't all about the sweet stuff. Have your bartender muddle tomato water, a little sea salt and 3 fresh basil leaves. Then add Prairie Vodka (or other organic vodka with rustic notes) and shake over ice. Tomato water is hard to come by, but be flexible and tip well if your bartender is able to figure something out.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Be & D Chaimberlain & Seraphin Cocktails

Witty in Pink

You're the one who says anything she wants... and gets away with it because it's always said with a smile. That's how you made your way to the top, right? You've got what's called a scalpel tongue, but can charm a Wall St. big wig out of his golden parachute. Be & D's Chaimberlain (available at BeandD.com) oxfords are your true solemates. The delicate BCA month-appropriate pink and thin ankle strap are offset by the no-nonsense cap toe, lace-up front and spectator styling. Add the sex appeal of a high heel, and you're ready to sartorially slay all who get in your way.

Take the frilly femme fatale theme a step further tonight by ordering a "Hot Pink Handgun" (credit: esquire.com) when you go out for drinks. Have the bartender blend Seraphin Cognac, orgeat syrup and a little lemon juice with a few raspberries and a teaspoon of super fine sugar. The recipe also calls for an egg white, but you can try that at your own risk. Egg or not, this sweet drink will have you swooning, but remember cognac can leave you reeling if you overdo it.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Pura Lopez Pumps & Godiva Cocktails

Loafing Around

You've always been a go-getter. Remember high school? You were the one in class who actually did the extra credit, whether your grade really needed improvement or not. It was hard work, but it was nothing compared to what you do now to stay ahead. Admit it, you'd give anything to trade the office and Mac notebook for the classroom and marble ones. Well, you can't go back, but your feet can (sort of) in these sport green Pura Lopez "N253" Pumps (available at Nordstrom). With their penny loafer styling and 4 inch heel, they've got a sexy schoolgirl vibe that's perfect for this season's tailored prep school-inspired looks. (Check out the October issue of InStyle Magazine to for wardrobe suggestions.)

Take your taste buds back to school, too, with a Pumpernickel Cocktail (Image courtesy of avenuevine.com). Greg Best, star mixologist at Eugnene in Atlanta, combined Brut Champagne (your choice of brand) with Godiva Dark Chocolate Liqueur to make this one. The rich, tickly taste will remind you of the yummy sandwiches you used to eat for lunch. Ah, but it's so much nicer sipping this drink at a nice cafe bar than it was eating your sandwich in a noisy cafeteria, right? Plus, now the cool guys want you.

Wild Wednesday: Charlotte Olympia Ophelia Pumps and

Hot Spot

You're the exotic one who makes hearts "sang" and "everythang... groovy". Whether at work or at play, your vibrant, unique style stands out. You find the funkiest stuff wear it like no other. These Charlotte Olympia"Ophelia" pumps (Available at Net-a-Porter) are sure to elicit plenty of admiring glances and cat calls. If they hyena spotted pony hair doesn't get 'em, the hot pink silk covered 5 inch heel and trim just might. Put it all together with a red ankle tie and one inch covered platform, and it makes for a shoe that says you like to keep things exciting. Here's a challenge: wear them with an outfit that's not all black, tan or hot pink.

Another challenge will be to walk straight after your shoes have mesmerized men into buying you a few "Swazi Freezes." From the "Absolut Bartender", this fall-friendly (pun on the word fall) drink combines peach brandy with Capertif (you can subsitute bitters) and Rye Whiskey. It has a smooth, sweet/sour taste, but be prepared for that warm feeling in your chest when you sip this one.

Shoe News: ShoeHunting- the New Shoe Shopping Widget & Social Networking Community

ShoeHunting.com is Seventh Heaven for Shoelovers

S&B thanks Anna at ShoeSmitten for the heads up on this new e-spot. Basically, you go to the site, download the widget and join the community. Then, as you cruise the information superhighway in search of the perfect shoe, you bookmark candidates along the way. Like other sites, ShoeHunting allows members to keep track of and comment on each other's finds. Seriously, this place is like a support group for shoehounds (supporting the habit, not efforts to quit). StyleScrybe signed up right away and has started adding the shoes you see on this blog. I suggest you do too. That way, we can connect and share!

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Jonathan Kelsey Cleo Pumps & Remy Martin Cognac

Get it Bronzed

So... it's the first day of a new work week and of a new season. Doesn't it seem like the Summer's serenity gave way to Autumn's structure a little too quickly? Don't go getting all S.A.D., though. The best cure for an approaching case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (at least for us footwear fiends) is a new pair of high heels. Don't lament the transition. Celebrate instead with this pair of architecturally inspired bronze "Cleo" pumps by Jonathan Kelsey. Their pointy toe and approx. 4 inch heel, along with the diagonal strap will give you a Judy Jetson meets Jessica Rabbit kind of sex appeal. It's rare that a shoe's winks to the future blend seamlessly with subtle nods to the past, creating a very of-the-moment, no nonsense look.

One good thing about Fall is that it opens up your drink choices quite a bit (enter, dark liquor). During the summer we at S&B stick to white and light liquors because the dark ones make us feel a little too warm. Anyway, tonight, drink like the boys and order a "Dream". A combination of Remy Martin Cognac, Grand Marnier and a little Lucid Absinthe, this drink is sure to help you shake of a case of the "Mondays". Beware, though, if you're a lightweight you'll want to sip this and limit yourself to one, or else you may find yourself in a drunken nightmare.

Wild Wednesdays: Emanuel Ungaro Heels & Corazon Truffle Margarita

Green Peace

It's been one of those weeks so far, huh? It seems like everyone from your boss to your bff has decided to push your buttons, and you've let them all know about it. Now it's time to make amends... extend an olive branch of sorts. It's Fashion Week, though, so let your sartorial choices express your sentiment. Emanuel Ungaro's olive eelskin branch-heeled shoes - with their 5-inch branch shaped heel, peep toe, wide ankle strap and contrasting back zip closure- will show them you're not only sincere but also superbly stylish. Great with bare legs or with this season's opaque tights, they're a foolproof choice for transitioning into fall footwear.

A pair of shoes such as these calls for a cocktail that's just as rustically elegant and indulgent. Sashay into the most luxurious watering hole and see if the bartender can muster up a Truffle Margarita (Image courtesy of Ideas in Food). (He/she probably won't know how, so get your pen and pad ready). From the minds of Ideas in Food's Chefs Aki Kamozawa and H. Alexander Talbot, it combines Corazon Blanco Tequila (or other top shelf substitution) with a splash of maple syrup and truffle oil and is garnished with truffle slices and a lime wedge. This isn't a sweet drink, but simply having it in your hand means you're an intelligent imbiber.

Cutesy Tuesday: Le Silla Studded Pumps & Imperia Martini

Going Gray

Miss "Lady", what are you made of? Sugar and spice... a little naughty and maybe a few spikes? At first sight, you're straight-laced, classy and a bit conservative. We all know there's more to you than that. You've got a little edge and it shows, especially in these ankle strap patent peep toe pumps from Le Silla. The gray hue, peep toe and ankle strap hint at highbrow style, but the double row of pyramid studs on the heel say there's a little nonconformist in you yet.

As I'm sure you know, it's Fashion Week in New York. Whether you're in the Big Apple or not, toast the occasion with a "Lady of the Evening" (image courtesy of Imperia). It's served at the Bryant Park Hotel's Cellar Bar for $25, but you may be able to score one at your area's swankiest spot. Just let the bartender know it's a standard martini made with Imperia Vodka and a cucumber and caviar float.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Stella McCartney Platforms & Disaronno Indulgence

Nude at a High Altitude

You're the A-type Alpha gal of your office. You know, the one who spends Sunday nights getting a head start on Monday's tasks. Kick your NY Fashion Week into high gear, and head to the "tents" in Stella McCartney's patent platform pump (available at Bergdorf Goodman). The nude patent faux leather and almond toe give them surprising versatility (you're ready at a moment's notice for whatever comes your way). However the thick wooden platform and 5-inch wedge heel, accented with antiqued silvertone plates, say you'll easily step over (or on) anyone who gets in your way. They're perfect with this season's wide leg pants.

Chances are there will be open bars at every event you attend, but who needs sponsored liquor when you have a killer expense account? Let the "little people" drink whatever's on tap for the night, and order an "Indulgence." (Make sure the bar back puts yours in a proper glass. Shots can be so un-chic). It's sweet and thick, but it packs a kick. If your request brings a question mark to his or her face, instruct the wonderful individual to layer De Kuyper's brown Creme de Cacao, Disaronno Amaretto and Amarula cream into a glass and into that exact order. If it's done without blending the layers, leave a great tip.

Shoe News: Update- Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers Collection Unveiled

Ain't Nothin' Like the Real Thing

A few weeks ago we informed you of the Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers Collection, but we only had designers' sketches of the shoes to show you. As the official launch to NY Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, The collection was unveiled yesterday at Saks Fifth Avenue, and we thought you'd enjoy images of the real shoes. Here are our favorites. (Courtesy of Trendmill)

Almost There Thursday: Lovely People Candy and Hendrick's Gin Collins

Purple Reign

Do you know the best thing about Thursdays? They allow you to see the light at the end of the tunnel most people call their work week. These "Candy" pumps by Shoes for Lovely People (available at amazon.com), with their hint of brightness amid a dark backdrop, mirrors your mood today. The sexy black and purple pallette is tre' on-trend for fall footwear and says you're mysterious but playful. However, the 3 inch stacked wooden heel keeps them office appropriate. Before you leave work, swap your slacks for a short (but not too short) skirt, sex up your makeup, and head to the hottest after-work set you can find. Make sure the music's hot because they're so comfy you'll want to party like it's 1999!

Tonight you'll want a drink that has enough kick to make you kick it to the cutie over by the DJ booth. The Blackberry Collins is just for you. This drink combines DeKuyper Blackberry, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water with Hendrick's Gin (the subtle notes of cucumber, rose petal and other botanicals make it the perfect mate for berry-flavored mixers). Dark, strong and sweet... it's the way to go for a late summer's night drink... or date (smile).


P.S.- the S&B team wishes Sherri (HairSugar.blogspot.com) a very happy birthday! With her long legs and 3-inch heel limit, she's the inspiration behind "Almost There Thursdays".

Wild Wednesday: Betsey Johnson Sandals & Sagatiba Cachaca

You've Been Spotted!

Have the past two days made you want to roar? When you step out tonight, there's no better way to free your inner predator than a pair of leopard print sandals. Betsey Johnson's Mackenzie d'Orsay stiletto pumps (available at Nordstrom) say there's no taming you. While the bold print puts your wild side on display, the metallic pink ruffle detail means you're equal parts girl and grrrrrr. Worn with a black wrap dress, ankle pants or another simple-but-sexy outfit of your choosing, this fierce pair of footwear will have suitors falling at your feet.

When the drink offers start pouring in, tell them you want an "Aman Snow Leopard". Conceived by star mixologist, John Gakuru, it combines Sagatiba Cachaca with amaretto. It's topped off with heavy cream and a little rose water to subdue some of the sweetness and garnished with a drizzle of espresso to add some kick. One of these will soothe the savage beast within, but don't have too many, though. It's easy go to from sex kitten to she-creature once all the inhibitions are gone, and nobody wants that.

Cutesy Tuesday: Giuseppe Zanotti Croc Pumps & Chopin Chocolate Cocktail

The Brown of Music

Strand of pearls? Check! Nails painted a polite, neutral shade? Check! No one can tell you that you're not a lady. When you hit the bar tonight, you'll no doubt have on a pretty prim pair of pumps. Not sure which ones to wear? These bejeweled peep toed pretties from Giuseppe Zanotti (available at Neiman Marcus) scream refined femininity. Luxe crocodile-embossed leather will cradle your foot in buttery softness, and a cluster of jewels accenting the toe adds a little extra allure. They don't scream for attention, but ladies know it's better to be noticed than to attract stares, right?

Just be sure that while you sit atop your barstool with your ankles properly crossed (right over left, of course), you sip on something that's as sweet and sedate as you are. A cultured lady always goes for something classical, so opt for a "Mozart". Made simply by combining vodka (I suggest Chopin if you want to keep the theme going) with chocolate liqueur (Godiva, no doubt). I'm sure you'll remember to sip slowly so as not to overdo it. A heavy buzz is never becoming.

Fun Friday: Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti Stilettos & Zen Cocktails

Green Chi

Though you may be excited that the weekend's arrived, there's something very calming about leaving the office on a Friday evening. It's as if you can feel the tension leave your shoulders as you shut down your computer, and the oxygen seems to flow more freely through your lungs once you step into two days of freedom. Now that you've re-centered, do a little foot feng shui. Paint the town red in a pair of green shoes. Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti's patent strappy stiletto sandals (available at eLuxury.com) are an eye catching way to say you've found your chi. If the symmetrical pattern of multiple straps with enamel buckles doesn't express your inner equilibrium, walking steadily on the 5 inch stiletto heel will prove you've got a strong sense of balance. They'll look great with fitted denim bermuda shorts or a sexy shirtdress.

Keep the good vibes flowing, and order a Zen Buddha at your bar of choice (get extra karma points for tipping generously). One of Zen Liqueur's signature cocktails, it's a combination of SKYY Citrus Vodka, orange juice, Blue Curacao and Zen Green Tea Liqueur. The first sip of this stuff is sweet salvation, and by the end of your drink you'll be one with all that is good in the world. Don't overdo it, though because too much off a good thing can easily turn into bad news when you're dealing with liquor.

Cutesy Tuesday: Georgina Goodman Fortuna & Stolichnaya Vodka

In Mint Condition

After yesterday's storms in NY, today's sunny glow is as refreshing as a one of those new "Thin Mint" Blizzards from Dairy Queen. In the spirit of all things invigorating, embrace your effervescence today, and slip on your most enticing heels. This minty green "Fortuna" sandal by Georgina Goodman (available at ShopBop.com) makes the perfect indulgence. Supple kangaroo leather, wrap-around ankle tie straps, gold accents and a 4 inch mirrored split heel provide a delicate appeal with just a little edge.

Though these shoes are entirely intoxicating on their own, you H-A-V-E to take them out for a twirl and a drink. A mojito or mint julep will easily echo the charm of these heels, but aren't you tired of those already? Try something new, and spring for a Mint Summer Nightini. This one came courtesy of the folks at CocktailTimes and blends (and I quote) Stoli Blackberri, cucumber juice, simple syrup and muddled mint leaves. It's sweet, but crisp and is the ideal drink for an evening such as this.

Almost There Thursday: Sam Edelman Slingbacks and Goldschlager

Gilty as Charged!

The week's almost over, what shall you wear? A shoe with a heel that's barely there, of course. Sam Edelman's "Nova" (available at shop.com) proves your shoes can be at a low altitude but still high on style. While many think a shoe such as this is better saved for evening soirées, we at S&B say you can easily wear them during the day, especially with ankle-length jeans or pants. The peep toe and slingback make them fine for work (in less conservative environments), but the crackled gold finish and 2.75 inch heel say they're also perfect for play.

Whether you're wearing these sandals to happy hour or the hottest nightspot, you have to order a drink with the "Midas touch". Start with a shot of Goldschlager at your favorite dive bar (don't want everyone to see you drink like a coed), if you dare. If you've never had it, it tastes like Red Hots on acid. Then, at the bar du jour, request a Goldfinger. A combination of Goldschlager, Grand Marnier and ginger ale, it's a sweet, spicy way to kick your summer fun into high gear.

Fun Friday: Stella McCartney Sandals and Chopin Vodka

Florally Fixated...

It's the last day of the week, and you're feeling quite festive. Treat your feet to a shoe bouquet, like this pair of anklewrap platforms from Stella McCartney (available at Intermix). Floral-printed canvas on a 5 inch pale wood heel says you're a free spirit, but you've got a discriminating eye for style. Great with this summer's maxi dresses, they add a breezy flair to whatever you wear.

In case you didn't know, Stella McCartney designs with the environment in mind. When you wear her shoes, it only makes sense to choose a drink that's equally Earth-friendly. Try the "Heavenly Hibiscus." From the eco-focused folks at American Feast, this drink blends Chopin Vodka (made from naturally grown potatoes), hibiscus syrup, Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, lime juice and hibiscus syrup (made from hibiscus tea). While the syrup adds the purple tint and a floral flavor, it may be hard to find, so if your bartender doesn't have it you can do without.

Almost There Thursday: Seychelles Shoes and Ketel One

Orange You Glad?

One more day left in the work week- Woo Hoo! Feet a little tired from sporting stilettos? Give your toes a break from their woes, and throw on a pair of low heels. This can be a tough shoe group to pull off, but that's what "Almost There Thursday" is all about. This week, try some playful peep toed pumps, like "Compliments of the Chef" from Seychelles (available on Zappos.com). The 2.5 inch heel on this orange suede pump will keep you comfy, and the peek-a-boo straps on the side add a little zest.

Lower heels mean higher voltage drinks. Run or skip to the bar (because your feet are so happy), and ask for a blood orange cosmopolitan. Make sure you ask the bartender to mix a little extra Ketel One Vodka with the Triple Sec, lime juice and blood orange juice. If they don't have blood orange juice, regular should suffice... it just won't match your shoes as well.

Wild Wednesday: Donald J Pliner and Van Gogh

Croc and Roll (Reader Request)

In perfect timing for a "Wild Wednesday" post (which is always about animal print or exotic skin shoes), Shoe Smitten sent in a picture of her Donald J Pliner "Gisa" Sandals (pictured right and available at Amazon.com) with a request for a drink pairing. These chestnut colored croc-look cuties have a utilitarian hippie feel. Yet, the four inch heel, rubber sole and pairing of suede with embossed leather make them at once sultry and sturdy. A woman who wears these is versatile and maybe a little unpredictable at times... and now that the first half of the work week is over, let the surprises ensue.

Get the party started with a "halfcast Russian". A creamy mixture of Van Gogh Vodka (or any other you prefer), coffee liqueur and cappuccino, it'll definitely give you the boost you need to get through the rest of the week. Go easy on this sauce, though because no one likes a bar busy body.

Cutesy Tuesday: Missoni Sandals and Hendricks Gin

Take a Bow

You're the fun, flirty one in your group, preferring floaty dresses to pencil skirts and pops of color over neutral tones. No shade flaunts your femininity and flair the way fuchsia does, so before you head to happy hour slip on this pair of Missoni platform peep toed pumps (available at DJ Premium). Made from the softest suede and sporting a 4- inch heel with a huge Missoni signature knit bow, these slingbacks are as precious as they are sexy.

Sugary pieces of foot candy such as these call for a drink that's just as sweet. I suggest nibbling the corner of your bottom lip and then asking your bartender for a "pink perfection." Recommended by my personal mixologist, Lyani Powers, it calls for Hendricks Gin (or any high quality brand) mixed with apricot brandy, lemon juice, grenadine and sugar syrup. Remember to sip responsibly, though, because overdoing it can lead to spills on your impossible-to-clean shoes.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Corso Como Shoes and Casa Noble Cocktails

Mellow? Hell No!

It's another manic Monday, and you barely felt like leaving your bed this morning. A hot pair of yellow(ish) shoes adds a little sun to even the grumpiest disposition, and Corso Como's mustard Violet oxfords (available at Piperlime.com) do it with a professional edge. The "shootie" is here to stay, it seems, so let these gel-padded 3 inchers take you from the boardroom to the bar in chic comfort. Not sure what one wears with mustard colored shoes? Try linen pants.

When you arrive at your favorite watering hole, square your shoulders, look the barback straight in the eye and assertively ask for an "Executive Sunrise" (minus the cherry or orange garnish). A combination of Casa Noble (or your favorite) tequila, orange juice and creme de cassis, it'll have you walking on sunshine in no time. Don't overdo it, though, because we all know too much sunshine will leave you all sore and scorched.