Shoe News: Brian Atwood's New, Lower-Priced Line B by Brian Atwood

Brian's New Bargain 

His name has become eponymous among celebrities like Rachel Zoe, Beyonce, Victoria Beckham and Cameron Diaz (probably via Rachel Zoe). Those who don't have the cushy budget to buy shoes with commas in the prices (or the hook ups to get sample sale invites) tend to ogle the unique color combinations and details of his designs on our favorite starlets, in the pages of fashion magazines and online via our favorite shoe blogs. However, due to a deal with Jones Apparel Group, the masses will soon be able to buy Brian Atwood shoes. The new line, B by Brian Atwood, set to launch in Fall 2011 (according to WWD), will have more of a downtown vibe and will be priced in the $200-500 range. 

After Carrie Bradshaw sported that studded lavender suede pair in Sex and the City (see the Shoes N Booze post on them), it only makes sense that someone got the bright idea to start a more accessible line. The good news is that this won't be a one-off line (like some other designers have done). Instead, it will have different inspirations and appeal to a different aesthetic, but it will "always have the same core values" as the original brand, said Atwood to WWD. In addition to the sky high heeled for which Atwood is known, the new line will also feature mid heels and flats. I can't wait to see what these shoes will look like!

Shoe News: Aldo's Deal with JC Penney

J.C. Penney & Aldo, A Perfect Pair?

J.C. Penney recently inked a deal to become the exclusive U.S. department store retailer for Canadian-based Aldo's brand, Call it Spring.  Starting in Fall 2010, with the J.C. Penney flagship store in New York's Manhattan Mall, shoppers will be able to score Call it Spring shoes in a store-within-a-store setting. The brand, which is target at consumers between 15 and 30 years old, will also be sold in Aldo stores and via the company's website. We at S&B are already familiar with Spring shoes. We just wonder if the Call it Spring line in J.C. Penney will be any different. 

*Source: Bloomberg Businessweek

Shoes Clues: Monticello Spring 2010

Like any shoemonger worth her weight in stilettos, I'm obsessed with Giuseppe Zanotti, Ruthie Davis, Casadei and the like. However, I also love finding out about new shoe brands (or not so new ones that I simply didn't know about before). That said, imagine my delight when someone from Monticello Shoes asked me to select a pair from their new Spring 2010 collection to receive (gratis) and then review. It was a tough choice. 

There was the mint green "Sanaa" ($157.95). I loved the fun color and the flower accent. Plus, I'm a fan of ankle straps on shoes. However, the 3.75 inch heel simply wasn't high enough for me. (They'd be great party shoes, though.)




I got caught up in the fanciness of the silver and plum "Kacey" ($115.95). The 4 inch heel is definitely high enough, and the girlie girl in my loves the bows. However, I had to remind myself that I don't need another pair of silver party shoes (yet).

Then there was "Dora" ($149.95). With a festive, painted 4.25 inch heel, bow accent at the back and lavender platform, it was a sandal after my own heart. However, I found myself wishing the actual upper of the shoe had been a different color (a light tan, maybe). 



Finally, I decided on "Mya" ($139.95). The 4.5 inch heel was the perfect height, and the tone on tone tan color made them super neutral. They have a slightly pointed toe, which adds a little sass, and a sexy ankle strap. Once I actually tried them on, though, I was more in love with the feel than the look. They're lined in soft suede, and the "MS Signature comfort padding" felt heavenly on the balls of my feet. Granted, I haven't taken them out on the town yet (because it's still not sandal season). After spending about an hour on my feet in them for the purposes of this review, though, I'm confident they're comfy enough for an afternoon of shopping or a night of dancing. I'd say they're definitely worth the $139.95 price tag. Bring on the Spring! (Oh, if they release Dora in another color, I'm on it!)

*PS A friend of mine is a doctor and asked to keep an eye out for shoes she'll be able to wear to work. Dr. Tye, I suggest giving Monticello a try.