Sweet Sunday: Lanvin Red pumps

 

The Sweetest Thing

If you're anything like me, you're single and sassy this Valentine's Day. That doesn't mean you have to sit in the house lamenting, though ("Baby's got blue skies up ahead"). Instead, put on your sexiest pair of red pumps, and take yourself to brunch... or wherever you like. In fact, if you don't already have a pair, treat yourself to some, like these red Lanvin Patent and Suede Pumps (available at LuisaViaRoma.com). The color means love, and who loves you more then, well, YOU? The approximately 4.5 inch heel says you're a force to be reckoned with, and the slightly raised back of the shoe creates a sexy profile (should a potential suitor notice you strutting to brunch... or if you're in New York, to the Fashion Week tents). Then there's the neutrally hued half inch platform, which not only adds comfort, but also softens the severity of the red a bit. The combination of suede and patent somehow speaks to the fact that you're a classic lady, but you've got an edge.

No matter what you do today, treat yourself to brunch. Instead of your usual mimosa or bellini, opt for something a bit more romantic. A "Sweet Red Kiss" should do the trick (recipe & image via Cosmopolitan Magazine's "16 Flirty V-Day Drinks"). Other than the fact that it looks absolutely indulgent, the combination of Dubonnet Rouge, Chambord, Absolut Kurant and splashes of cranberry, orange and pineapple juices will also make you feel a bit warm and fuzzy inside. This isn't the strongest of drinks, but still mind your intake. You don't want to go from sexy solo to sexting the ex. Friends don't let friends dial drunk, and because I love you... consider yourself forewarned.

Don't Mess With me Monday: Shree Moni Mona Lisa Sandals & Absolut Citrus Refreshers

Mona Lisa Smile

It's Memorial Day. That means no office, no meetings and a day spent hopping from one chic rooftop barbecue to to another. Let's not forget that the day isn't just about burgers and deviled eggs. It's for remembering those who risk life and limb for others, and we've still got plenty whose families pray for a safe return. You're one whose shoes do the talking for her, so instead of a yellow ribbon, don a sunny-hued pair of shoes. We suggest Shree Moni's gladiator-inspired Mona Lisa sandals in fimma yellow. The 4-inch heel and 1 inch platform mean they'll look good with your post-pigout-pooch-hiding maxi dress, and the gladiator styling- with metal brace at the shank- reminds you of soldiers near and far.

Jaunting from place to place can leave a girl a little parched. Citrus Refreshers (Recipe & image from theworldwidegourmet.com) will whet your palette (and look great with your shoes). You'll likely be fixing your own drinks today, so stop at a store and pick up enough candied ginger to last you a while. The recipe calls for Absolut Citron, Sparkling water, lime juice and candied ginger. It'll have a slightly spicy-tart flavor that's cooling but not so sweet that you'll gulp it down. Enjoy resposibly!

Cutesy Tuesday: Georgina Goodman Hilda Peep Toes & Absolut Sage Lady Cocktails

Winged Wisdom

You're the one who always does the right thing. Wise beyond your years, you always know what's best. Some might even call you an angel. Well, if the goodie-two-shoes fit, it's about time you wear them. Isn't it only right that they come with wings? A pair like Georgina Goodman's Hilda Pumps will suit you perfectly. The winged detail at the back and pearly hue are nothing less than celestial, and the peep toe and slender 4 1/4 inch heel make them darling and demure.

Always the one who sets an example, show your friends something new at happy hour when you order a Sage Lady. One of Marie Claire Magazine's Chic Summer Cocktails, it blends Absolut Mango, Cointreau, simple syrup, fresh sage leaves, cucumber slices, fresh lime and a dash of Peach Bitters. It's sweet, yet refreshing and light (kinda like you), so it's perfect for a balmy night. Don't let the crisp taste fool you, though, this is still an alcoholic beverage. Drinking too many will definitely lead to actions that may tarnish that stellar reputation of yours.

Wild Wednesday: Lanvin Cap toe Slingbacks & Absolut Electric Lemonades

Cap it Off

Mother Nature's been pretty trippy lately, giving us summer weather and snow in the same week. It seems her mood has rubbed off on you today, and you're feeling a little outlandish. You can't exactly twirl your glow stick around the office, but you can bring out your inner club kid with electric-hued shoes like these cap toed sling backs from Lanvin (available at Barneys.com). The turquoise and black leopard print with hints of red shows your wild side, yet the black patent cap toe gives them a professional air, and the sturdy wooden platform and 4.9 inch heel add an almost-bohemian flair.

When you leave the office this evening, head to the nearest "underground" spot and ask the bartender for an Electric Lemonade (recipe & image courtesy of outofthefryingpan.com). With it's sweet-but-tart flavor and bright color, this drink says you're in the mood to party. You should be able to drink a few without hangover worries too. If you see a question mark on the bartender's face when you place your order, tell him or her to mix Absolut Citron Vodka, Blue Curacao, sweet & sour mix and lemon/lime soda.

Don't Mess With Me Monday: Guillaume Hinfray Korneohoros Pumps & Absolut Black Basil Cocktails

Stars and Hype

It's your first day back in the office after the holidays. Normally, you'd be bummed, but that goes against your New Year's Resolution to have a positive outlook. Besides, when you looked in the mirror this morning and told yourself you're a star, you believed it. (Resolution #10: use positive affirmations to get closer to your goals.) You're outshining the competition today, and you "pity the fool" who tries to dim your light. Guillaume Hinfray's Kornephoros pumps are the perfect celebration for your celestial vibe. Named after the brightest star in the constellation of Hercules, these handmade detailed leather pumps (from his Bottier collection) are sure to attract attention. The jaded steel color and diamond detailing give them an edge, but it's the narrow, 4 inch metal heel with the mock body piercing detail that provides their true severity.

Shoes such as these call for a drink with lots of kick. The Absolut Black Basil oughtta do the trick. This potent combination of Absolut 100, lemon juice, limoncello, simple syrup and tonic is a bit tart, and the addition of fresh basil leaves gives it a slightly herbal finish. Before your girlfriends try and copy you, be sure to warn them that this isn't one for the weak.