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Friday, May 25, 2012

Fun Friday- Fleet Week: Jessica Simpson Papaya Nautical Sandals

 

Jessica Simpson Papaya Nautical Platform Sandals

If you live in New York (or happened to catch that episode of Sex and the City), you’re familiar with the influx of friendly, gorgeous men in uniform known as Fleet Week, and since it’s a holiday weekend, you’re in the mood for fun (nautical naughtiness anyone?). You don’t have to rock red, white and blue, snag a sailor, though. Instead, step lively in a pair of striped heels in this season’s hottest hue, like the Papaya platform sandal in “sundown yacht stripe” by Jessica Simpson (available for $89 at Endless.com). The 5 inch heel adds just the right amount of “hey there, sailor,” and the 1.25 inch platform means you can dance the night away once you’ve lured your catch. The coy ankle strap also says you’re fun, but you might not be game for getting your timbers shivered.

 

Do Ask Please Tell

In celebration of the 25th annual Fleet Week and the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” the mix masters at La Bottega at The Maritime Hotel concocted the Do Ask, Please Tell cocktail. Available from May 23-30, it’s a sweet, refreshing way to put the happy in your hour.

Recipe:

1 oz Stoli Peach
1 oz Amaretto DiSaranno
2 oz OJ
1 oz fresh lime juice

Preparation:

Shake all ingredients well and pour into a highball glass.  Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

*Remember the idea is to have the memory of your gorgeous face etched in their minds as they head back out to sea, not have your name written on the bathroom wall. That said, drink responsibly so you don’t do anything you’ll regret.

 

(shoe image via endless.com, drink image courtesy of La Bottega)

 

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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Wild Wednesday: B Brian Atwood Fontanne Pumps

 

 

B Brian Atwood Fontanne snakeskin leopard pumps

Someone dropped the ball at the office today, and it fell in your lap (because you’re the pinch hitter of course). Unfortunately, telling the whole truth won’t help the situation, so you might just have to spin the story. Maybe distracting everyone with an amazing pair of snakeskin colorblock pumps like these Fontanne platforms from B Brian Atwood (Available at Saks) will make your explanation seem more believable. If the fabulously fun clash of colors doesn’t confuse them a bit, maybe the hint of leopard print in the platform will. The stunningly cacophonous nature of these shoes say you know how to create art from chaos. The leopard in the platform and on the shank says you always have a little surprise up your sleeve (seriously, no one expected that bit of leopard to peek out there… it might really be like that Men In Black flash thingie) and the 5.5 inch heel alludes to your keen sense of balance.

Camarena Tequila Tall Tale Cocktail

Celebrate the fact that your almost-true story saved the day by sipping a Tall Tale at happy hour. Slightly sweet and quite refreshing, it’ll definitely take the edge off your cliffhanger of a day.

Recipe:

  • 2 oz Camarena Silver Tequila
  • 1 oz Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Agave Nectar
  • 2 Cucumber Wheels
  • 2 Blackberries
  • 2 oz Ginger Beer

Muddle cucumber and blackberries in a mixing glass. Add tequila, lemon juice, agave nectar and ice. Shake and strain into a tall glass with ice. Top with ginger beer and stir. Garnish with cucumber wheel.

*Now that you’re calm and refreshed, quit drinking while you’re ahead. Be responsible. You got a way with a shaky story today, but shaky ankles will never be in style.

 

(Shoe image vial Lyst.com, cocktail image courtesy Camarena Tequila)

 

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Thursday, May 17, 2012

Booze News: Domaine Carneros’ “Bubbly Handbag Style” Twitter Contest

 

This Win is In the Bag…

Shoes N Booze Sparkly shoes n bubbly

I often say I’m living la vida sparkly, and that’s because I have an affinity for shimmer, sparkles and shine. I bet you do too… at least a little bit… C’mon admit it, you have at least one pair of metallic, sequined or glittered shoes. OK, now that we’re on the same page… Domaine Carneros is celebrating those of us who appreciate sparkling- in our lifestyle, on our feet and ESPECIALLY in our glass. The California based sparkling wine brand recently announced a fun Twitter contest, which invites entrants to show their “bubbly handbag style” by tweeting photos to @DomaineCarneros. The best photo gets a Domaine Carneros gift certificate valued at $250. I can’t enter, of course, but I did take a photo of one of my favorite bags (gifted from ShoeDazzle), my sparkly "Trance" sandals by Chinese Laundry that I got on clearance at Nordstrom Rack last year and a glass of bubbly to post on Instagram and Twitter as an example.

Here’s how you enter, though:

    1. Follow @DomaineCarneros on Twitter.

    2. Take a photo of you with your favorite handbag incorporating the bubbly lifestyle, i.e. a glass of sparkling wine, Domaine Carneros bottle or images. Get creative and truly capture your unique style in the photo!

    3. Tweet your photo to @DomaineCarneros via www.Twitter.com/DomaineCarneros and include #bubblyhandbagstyle to complete your entry.

 

*Shoes N Booze/ StyleScrybe is not affiliated with this contest and is in no way responsible for any results/ consequences of your entry.

 

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Monday, May 14, 2012

No Mess Monday: Neil Barrett Grey Hybrid Oxfords


Shades of Grey

Gloomy NY skies got you feeling a bit down? Me too. If you’re not in the New York area, maybe you just have a case of the Mondays. Either way, I figure a few people can use a boost today, and my suggestion is to give your mood (and your “assets”) a boost with a pair of mostly-work-with-a-little-play heels. Oxfords should do the trick, and these leather and suede Hybrid heels by Neil Barrett (available at SSense) are perfect for a day such as this. The 3.7 inch heel is low enough to support you at happy hour but thin enough to still be sexy. The gray reflects your overcast disposition, but the ivory and burgundy accents hint at a bit of playfulness. The cut outs and open toe also bring it into the spring.



There are days when you want a cocktail, and then there are days when you just want a stiff drink… but you want it with a little twist. Guess it’s a good thing Grey Goose recently released their Cherry Noir flavor. Tonight at happy hour sip a little of it on the rocks. Remember that it’s Monday, though, so one glass should do the trick… and notice I didn’t say gulp. I said SIP.

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Sunday, May 13, 2012

Shoes Clues: What You & Mom Should Wear on Mother’s Day

 

Remember the days of mommy/ daughter outfits, where you and your mom dressed almost identically for special occasions? Even if YOU didn’t do it, I bet you know someone who did. Either way, I say go for it this Mother’s Day. Not feeling super cheesy? Do like McDonald’s does on the Filet ‘o Fish and serve up half a slice by keeping the similarity below the ankles. If she happens to be over her high-stepping days, pick a brand that used a particular color or print on a few styles. Alice + Olivia is one example…

For you:

Alice Olivia Delilah Snake Print Sandals 

Alice + Olivia “Delilah” snake print sandal- available at Saks.

 

For Mom (if she’s the flats type):

Alice Olivia Bella Snake Print Sandal

Alice + Olivia “Bella” snake print flat sandal- available at Shopbop.

 

If your mom’s anything like mine

Alice Olivia Juliet Snake Sandal

Alice + OliviaJuliet” snake print platform wedge- available at Neiman Marcus.

 

Here’s an idea- start the day with a little shoe shopping. I suggest a department store because they’ll likely have a larger selection of possibilities for both you and mom. Maybe be the two of you should both wear something simple- jeans and a white top, khaki, or something like that. Once you’ve gotten your shoes, enjoy a “Momosa” soaked brunch and then take a tipsy family photo.

Frangelico Momosa

 

Recipe:

1 oz Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur

1 oz passion fruit juice

3 oz prosecco

1 organic cherry

Combine Frangelico and passion fruit juice with ice and shake well.  Strain into a champagne flute and top with prosecco.  Garnish with an organic cherry.

 

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Friday, May 11, 2012

Heart & Sole: Garcelle Beauvais x ShoeDazzle to Help Erase MS

 

Shoe Dazzle Ms Glam Sandal

Multiple Sclerosis affects close to two million Americans, primarily between the ages of 20 and 40, and at almost three times as many women as men. Nancy Davis, who was diagnosed with MS in 1993, founded the Nancy Davis Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis in an effort to treat and eventually cure the chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. This year, ShoeDazzle is partnering with with the foundation for the second time, and actress Garcelle Beauvais has signed on as a celebrity guest designer. Available exclusively on ShoeDazzle.com on May 14th for $39.95 with 100% of profits going to the Nancy Davis Foundation, the “Ms. Glam” wedge is in Spring 2012’s hottest hue (which also happens to be the official color of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness). As part of the “Orange You Happy to Erase MS” campaign, “Ms. Glam” will be among other orange products by popular designers featured in the Shop to Erase MS Collection. Also, ShoeDazzle will make an additional $5 donation for each new client who joins the site using the special code “MSGLAM” between May 14th and June 14th. I actually have two friends living thriving with MS, so I’m really happy to share this opportunity to not only get in step with one of this season’s biggest trends, but also help fund research to cure this disease.

 

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Thursday, May 10, 2012

Not Shoes or Booze: Anjolee Fine Jewelry- Sponsored Post

 

Anjolee Magnificent Journey Diamond Bridal Set

Wedding season is approaching, and with various friends asking for help in selecting their diamond bridal sets lately, I’ve been checking out quite a few jewelry sites. My left ring finger is living la vida naked, but all this bride talk has me wondering what type of ring I’ll want when the day comes for me to start looking at rings. Recently, Anjolee was brought to my attention. Since they allow you to choose from a pretty large selection of base designs, and then customize based on your budget and taste, I decided to play around.

Anjolee Diamond Tennis Bracelet

Far from the engagement ring mindset in my own life, I decided to check out the tennis bracelets. We all deserve to shine, whether someone’s “put a ring on it,” or not, right? The above pictured bracelet was my favorite style, and in addition to choosing which precious metal you want it set in, you can also select the carat weight that best fits your budget. Plus, you can select from a range of gemstones. The price starts at $1739.30 on it, so I’m wishing on a star for a combination of diamonds and my birthstone (peridot).

Anjolee Quad Strand Diamond Anniversary Ring

 

My dad also recently asked what he should get my stepmom for their upcoming anniversary. I didn’t know about Anjolee at the time, but if I did, I would have suggested he check out a diamond anniversary band or the stunning quad strand anniversary ring you see above. Now I’m thinking maybe I can nudge him to make that tennis bracelet my birthday gift. Wish me luck.

 

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Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Shoe Review: Ssh-oes by Mary Arnett

 

Be Heel Quiet

Ssh-oes box_thumb

Not too long ago, I received a pitch for a “quiet heel,” as in one that doesn’t click-clack loudly when you walk. I was a bit skeptical, but I accepted the request to review a complimentary pair of Ssh-oes by Mary Arnett.

IMAG0375_thumb[1]

I received the Kate sling back, peep toe bootie ($149 at Ssh-oes.com). The style was pretty sleek & simple. Still, black suede seemed a bit heavy for spring. Just as they arrived, though, the temperatures took a dip, so I paired them with some mustard colored BDG jeans and my Funtote bag (with which I am currently enamored) and took them out on the town for a day.

StyleScrybe Ssh-oes Review_thumb[1]

I walked at least eight New York blocks and up and down quite a few flights of stairs.

DSCN4547_thumb[5]

Likes:

  • They’re lined in Lycra, so they feel really soft on the inside- no rubbing on the toes no matter how long I walked, EVEN with a little late day foot swell.
  • The heel strike really is low volume. It’s not silent, but it’s definitely not as loud as a typical heel. (see the video comparison below…
Kate bootie from Ssh-oes by Mary Arnett
Classic black pump on the same floor…
  • They’re surprisingly stabilizing for a 4 inch, slightly-thicker-than-a-stiletto heel. I don’t tend to wobble in my heels, but I often see women who do. Therefore, in the interest of research, I attempted a little left-right wiggle while I walked… They didn’t budge.

Concerns:

  • They’re not colorfast. When I took them off, I noticed that the parts of my foot that had touched the black suede throughout the day were blackened by it. As for my jeans, well… It’s a good thing this is on the inside.

Ssh-oes Review- My jeans after

  • The toe opening is an odd cut. I like that the part under the toe is a little pointy, but it’s like the shape of the opening mirrors that. As a result, it provides a slightly awkward toe view (but that might just be my feet). Also, it resulted in a bit of discomfort in that area.
  • They’re not super cushioned under the foot bet. For the first couple of blocks, it didn’t bother me, but by block 3, I was wishing for gel inserts. This may not affect those who don’t do a lot of walking, though. Plus the elastic sling back pushes pretty tightly on the back of the ankle, which doesn’t feel too great after a while.

Verdict (Scale of 1-5):

Style- 3.75 They’re simple enough for work looks and grabbing drinks with the girls, but I like shoes with a bit more za-za-zoo (in the words of Carrie Bradshaw). Still, if I can figure out how to keep them from turning my feet and my clothes black, I’ll wear them again.

 

Comfort- 4 They don’t require a balancing act to walk, the rubber that makes them so quiet also seems to absorb some of the shock from the heel strike and the neoprene lining feels quite sock-like. However, the lack of cushioning under the ball of the foot, the toe opening and the tight elastic on the sling back keep them from getting a perfect score.

That said, aside from the color bleed concerns, they get my general approval for folks who don’t plan on walking 6 city blocks in them, especially if you work in an office without carpeting.

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Monday, May 7, 2012

Shoe Preview: ZigiNY Black Label Fall 2012

 

Not long ago, I visited the ZiGiny showroom to see what we can all look forward to next season. After a walk through, I was on a heel high (though I must admit that lots of my absolute favorites won’t make it to production and therefore won’t be pictured here. sigh). Here are a few sparkly pairs from their luxed up ZiGiny Black Label line that put a twinkle in my shoe-loving eye, though. (My camera wasn’t my friend that day, so they were kind enough to send me images to share.)

 

ZiGiny Black Label Aries

ZigiBL_Aries

Just when you thought the heel-less shoe trend (a la Lady Gaga) was done, they added jewels and stars to give it new life. This isn’t an everyday bootie, and I’m not sure I’d wear it, but it is definitely an attention grabber. Are visions of “walking amongst the stars” puns dancing through your head too?

 

ZiGiny Black Label Imagine

ZigiBL_Imagine_Pink

A spindly silver heel, combined with stars and fuchsia sequins equals quite the fashion feat. Since they’re my favorite color, I’d add this one to my shoe family (despite the fact that we’ll be seeing less of the super high platform trend  in seasons to come.)

 

ZiGiny Black Label Surprise

ZigiBL_Surprise_Gold

I’m seldom into flats, but this dazzler caught my eye. It’s just ostentatious enough to be chic… almost like a gaudy neutral, if such a thing exists.

ZiGiny Black Label Janis

 

ZigiBL_Janis_All2

How can you not love a glitzy smoking slipper? It’s laid back and glammed up all at once!

 

These styles will be popping up at various retailers (online and brick and mortar) right around August.

 

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Saturday, May 5, 2012

Booze Clues: What to Drink on Cinco de Mayo

 

Raise your hand if you think Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexico’s Independence Day. Put it back down. QUICKLY before anyone sees you. Seriously, though, don’t feel bad because lots of other people are also misinformed. May 5 commemorates the 1862 Battle of the Puebla, in which the Mexican army achieved an unlikely victory over French forces. (Think of the movie 300, but in Mexico with the underdog winning and without the ab-bearing war capes.) This year is the 150th celebration. We Americans like any excuse for a good, boozy party, though. Here are cinco choice concoctions to sip after shouting ‘Salud’ (because maybe you don’t want a regular margarita today).

 

El Jimador Cinco Punch

El Jimador Cinco Punch

If you happen to be hosting a party for Cinco de Mayo instead of participating in a bar crawl or bottomless cocktail brunch, this is the drink for you. It’s got plenty of alcohol (sure to make the piñata dangerously fun), but it also has a fresh, bittersweet flavor.

Recipe:

Garnish: Pommegrante seeds, raspberries lime and pink grapefruit discs for garnish

Glass: Punch bowl + serving Glasses

Preparation:

1. Place Ice carefully into the punch bowl

2. Add all liquid ingredients and stir gently but thoroughly

3. Garnish with raspberries, pommegrante seeds, lime discs,  pink grapefruit discs

*Photo credit: El Jimador

 

Voli Light Low-Cal Latin Lover

Voli Light Low Cal Latin Lover

Watching your weight (while praying to Chalchiuhtlicue, the Aztec goddess of love for a bit of romance) tonight? This 144 calorie cocktail is for you. Ordering it at the bar just might catch the ear of a handsome reveler. It’s sweet and doesn’t have the kick of tequila, so be extra careful not to drink it too quickly or drink too many.

Glass: Rocks

Garnish: Orange Twist (or a little umbrella for a tropical flair!)

Preparation:

  1. In a mixing tin, add ice, Voli Orange Vanilla, Lemonade, Agave Nectar and Pineapple Juice.
  2. Shake and strain into a rocks glass

*Photo credit: Voli Light Vodka

 

VnC Cucumber Margarita

VnC Cucumber Margarita

Have you and your crew decided to make Cinco de Mayo a girls’ night in? (I’m not judging. Sometimes all you need is cocktails and your favorite chicas.) Opting for a ready-to-serve cocktail will keep things super simple. All you have to do is pour VnC Margarita into your glass and garnish with a cucumber slice. (I haven’t had a chance to sample VnC yet, but the concept seems cool.) It’s made with 100% natural fruit juice and no artificial preservatives, additives or colors. It’s also 13.9% premium tequila (about 28 proof) and 150 calories or less per serving.

*Photo Credit: VnC

 

Drambuie Cactus Bite

Drambuie_Cactus_Bite

Whiskey drinkers, fret not. Drambuie’s brand ambassador, Anthony Caporale conceived a cocktail that gives you the bite of tequila with the kick of whiskey.

Recipe:

Glass: Highball

Garnish: Lemon wedge

Preparation:

  1. Fill mixing tin halfway with ice and add all ingredients.
  2. Shake until tin is frosted and then strain into glass over fresh ice.
  3. Garnish with lemon wedge and serve with a straw.

*Photo credit: Drambuie

 

Mexico REVOLUCION

Mexico Revolucion

Here’s one for the hearty drinker. It’s tart and as complex to consume as it is in flavor. I doubt I’ll have to warn you not to have too many of these, but do remember that it’s 100 proof (yes, that’s very strong).

Recipe:

  • 2 oz. of Tequila REVOLUCION 100 PROOF
  • 1 lime
  • 1 lime supreme
  • Lime zest (1/2 lime)
  • Orange zest (1/4 orange)
  • 1 dash of Natural Syrup
  • Grain salt, Worm salt

Preparation:
Stir the lime juice in a glass with a touch of natural syrup. Then, add crushed ice and the lime and orange zest. Last, add the grain salt. The drink serves itself in complement with a shot of tequila REVOLUCION 100 PROOF. Stir the shot into the glass and observe how the elements merge while you pour it.

TIP: If you do not have worm salt, frost the glass with salt, mixed with ground-roasted peppers.

*Photo credit: Tequila REVOLUCION

 

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