Perfect Pairing: Drink Smirnoff Love Wins Cocktails. Wear These Shoes.

Live and Let Love

We're pretty sure you already know, but just in case... June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, which honors the Stonewall riots in NYC and acknowledges the accomplishments and equal rights struggles experienced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a time when many memorialize those who have lost their lives to hate crimes or to HIV/ AIDS. The New York Pride Parade is this weekend, and we know many of you will be joining the festivities. We've got your shoes and sips covered.

On Your Feet

If you'll be clubbing this weekend, you'll need the perfect party heels. Enter Cape Robbin's Maria sandals. They're affordable (less than $50 on Amazon), and fun AF, thanks to sparkling straps (HELLO disco ball!). The lucite block heel is on trend for Summer '17, and the ankle strap provides the steadiness you need for whatever the dance floor demands. Get them (in this or other color combinations) HERE.

In Your Glass

Smirnoff recently released its limited edition "Love Wins" bottle. The vodka inside is the Original 21 Recipe, the same award-winning stuff you always order at the bar. In this case, it's what's on the outside that counts— an iridescent metallic finish and and prints of inspiring LGBTQ+ couples. Also Smirnoff partnered with the Human Rights Campaign, pledging to donate $1 to the organization for every limited edition bottle it produces. That's add up to more than $260,000 going to the biggest organization working toward equality for LGBTQ+ folks in the United States. If you're part of an LGBTQ couple and want a chance to be featured on next year's Love Wins bottle, submit your favorite pic of you and your boo HERE by 9/30/17. Oh, and we're not actually suggesting you walk the streets with an entire bottle of vodka in your hand... however, look out for it at your favorite bars.

Bonus Pair

If you're going to the actual NY Pride Parade, you'll probably prefer sneakers over heels. Converse has a number of options in its 2017 "Yes to All" Pride Collection (our favorite is pictured above). All net proceeds from the collection will go to the It Gets Better Project and the Happy Hippie Foundation, which are both organizations committed to empowering LGBTQ+ youth around the world.

Wherever you celebrate, with whomever you celebrate, be sure to indulge and enjoy responsibly and legally.

*Disclosure- Smirnoff is a spirits partner and occasionally sends us complimentary bottles. Shoes N Booze is an Amazon affiliate.

Shoe Sleuth: What Shoes to Wear on Rainy Summer Days

Hot, Wet & Bothered

Dear Shoe Sleuth,

What do I wear when it's 90 degrees and rainy in New York? Galoshes make my feet and legs HOT, my cute sandals get ruined and flip flops get just plain gross. There's also always the "it might not rain all day, and then I'll be wearing rain boots for nothing" thing. And I'm a mom to two young boys. HELP!

Sincerely,

Slipping in the Rain

Dear S.I.T.R.,

Fret not. I've often felt challenged when selecting shoes for rainy summer days. I learned the hard way to stay away from flip-flops (slipping, sliding and splashing yucky, dirty water up the backs of my legs). As a result, over the years I've developed go-to characteristics that I keep in mind. First, I opt for plastic- usually EVA styles. I also try the make sure that if the shoe is an open style, it's not completely flat to the ground and has some sort of ankle strap or support to keep it on my foot. Lastly, I try to find something that looks fun (gray days can be a drag, so I try to let my shoes lift my spirits a bit). Now that you know my formula, here are a few suggestions at different price points for almost any activity.

Easy Does It

If it's a drizzly day, but you're not expecting a storm or heavy downpour, consider a minimal flat, like this "Thing N" sandal from IPANEMA + PHILLIPE STARCK. The open style makes it easy  for your feet to dry once the rain has stopped, and the heel cap will help keep your foot in place. $40 at Ipanemausa.com or other colors are on clearance for less at Opening Ceremony.

If it's raining heavily, and there are puddles, consider a sandal with a platform (because we've all stepped into a puddle that was deeper than we thought, and none of us enjoyed it). This "Mar" flatform sandal from Melissa is a great option, and it gets bonus points for the feminine rose quartz hue (a key color for 2016 according to Pantone). $112 at shopmelissa.com. 

Office Obligations

If you're in a situation that requires heels, consider something that has a non-slip sole. This "Super" sandal from United Nude is a great choice with its architectural styling, and molded rubber heel. It also has that whole sport-inspired-but-still-sophisticated thing going for it. Sleek ankle-length pants or a midi-length pencil skirt will further refine the look. $199 at UnitedNude.com.

If your office requires lots of time on your feet, consider a menswear-inspired wingtip in a feminine floral print, like this style from Biion. Though it's completely closed-in, there are perforations for ventilation, but don't worry about your feet getting soaked and swampy. Once you put the shoes on, they create almost a vacuum effect that keeps most of the water out but lets air in. (I know from experience because I was once gifted a pair, and I LOVE them. If you can, wear thin mini socks, as they sometimes rub at the heel. $109.99 at Biion.com

Day-to-Day Errands

Sometimes you have to add your own silver lining to the day's clouds. Enter this sparkly EVA "Jericho Bling" slip-on sneaker from Native Shoes. It has classic styling and a go-with-all silhouette. It's also PETA approved. $55 at nativeshoes.com. 

You can't go wrong with a pair of Chucks. Seriously. NEVER. And this opalescent  All Star is actually rubber. Whether you're in denim cut-offs, a cool t-shirt dress or cropped joggers, this Chuck Taylor works- and without looking all-out soccer-mom. $59.99 at amazon.com. 

So, SITR, do any of these options work for you? If not, do you at least have an idea of what to look for now? Let me know in the comments. And remember that I'm always at your shoe-searching service.

Shoes Clues: What to Wear Where on the 4th

Because #Murica

Got plans for the Fourth? Of course you do. Do you know which shoes to wear? Not yet? We've got you covered. Whether you're headed to a street festival, backyard bbq, firework display with your boo or a pool party (where you may meet a new boo), there is a red, white, and/or blue shoe here for you.

Poolside Pretty

Pool party footwear is often tough to figure out. You want a bit of elevation, but a stiletto often feels a bit overdone. Wedges are great, but will they be ok if (when) you get splashed? That's why Melissa is our go-to brand for situations such as these. They're all plastic... so you get the functionality of jellies, and the added bonus of trend-right style. This T-strap sandal will look great with with your bathing suit, and it'll still work when it's time to dance after sunset. $59.99 at Amazon.

Night-Right

Fireworks are great, but you're more a fan of the sparklers on bottle service at the club. We dig it. You can still rock a patriotic theme without going full out flag-clad. This high-impact Basanti Sandal from Jessica Simpson combines this season's key trends- fringe, tassels, a lace-up front and an intricate print. All you need now is a sexy white top and distressed cut-offs. $149 at Amazon.

BYOB BBQ at the Park

Grass, dirt, the possibility of spilled food... what's a girl to do when she's headed to a barbecue in the park and doesn't want to endanger her favorite white kicks? We suggest this sport-inspired Rico X Tech neoprene flatform from United Nude. It's got enough lift to keep the grass from tickling your toes, and the ankle strap will keep you secure should you decide indulge in an ill-advised game of drunken kickball.

If you're wondering about the best way to transport your drinks and snacks without a cooler, Herschel Supply Co just launched a new collection of bags and hats in collaboration with Coca Cola. Rendered in a fabric created from recycled plastic bottles and insulated with a cooler lining, the bags keep your drinks cool won't leak in the off chance of a spill. The Bamfield Tote pictured is $79.

Food Truck Festival Finery

You filled up on your favorite uncle's BBQ sauce (on chicken and fish and basically everything) on Memorial Day, so you've opted to spend Independence Day at a nearby food truck festival. That means LOTS of walking, tasting and day drinking. Woot! This demi-wedge Burma sandal from Jeffrey Campbell ($85) is the perfect shoe for you. In a patriotic color theme and this season's must have gladiator silhouette, it'll go perfectly with that kitschy graphic tee and those frayed-hem jeans.

Beach Vibes

The Fourth of July is as good an excuse as any for fun in the sun and sand. The shoes? Opt for a trippy slide like the Stargazer from Fly Jane. The faceted metallic front strap kinda channels the rockets' red glare, no? Plus they'll still look cool for the rest of the summer even when you're not at the beach. $24 at shopflyjane.com

Family Cook-out Fun

When was the last time you jumped rope with your nieces and cousins? Maybe the day will be the day. Better wear sneakers just in case. Reebok recently teamed up with Kendrick Lamar again to create a limited-edition sneaker that brings the issue of gang violence to the forefront or public consciousness. The new rendition of the The Classic Leather just happens to be red, white and blue. Oh... and they come in sizes for the whole family, so if you and bae are into matching... here ya go. $65 at Ruvilla.com

Because Sparklers

Baby you're a firework, and you show it every chance you get. You might as well be a star in stripes, right? Even if you don't have huge plans, these sequined Chuck Taylors will add a dose of fun to your day. $89.99 at Amazon.

Whatever you do to celebrate please do so safely and responsibly. XOXO.

*All images courtesy images. Shoes N Booze is an amazon affiliate. Purchases made by clicking amazon links will result in commission to Shoes N Booze.

Memorial Monday: Converse All Star Wedges & Tequila Cabeza Cocktails

A Toast to Fallen Soldiers

Barbecues, parties, drinks and the unofficial start of summer. These are the things that come to mind when many people think of Memorial Day. How many stop to consider that the holiday was actually created to honor those died while serving in our armed forces? No matter one's opinions about war and this country's practices therein, I hope you'll take a moment and express gratitude to those who have perished so that you and I may enjoy those freedoms and privileges we do have. Now... what to wear and drink today.

On Your Feet:

It's the last day of the long weekend, and you're probably ready to go pretty low-key. Nonetheless, there are day parties and rooftop celebrations to attend. Flats? No. Wedge sneakers are the move... even better if they look patriotic like this Chuck Taylor All Star Lux sneaker by Converse ($70.00 at Converse.com)

In Your Glass:

It is possible to be grateful for soldiers and their sacrifices while believing that war is something of the devil. So today, when it's time to have a drink, have an El Diablo. 

El Diablo

INGREDIENTS:

13⁄4 oz Tequila Cabeza

3⁄4 oz crème de cassis de Dijon

1⁄2 oz fresh lime juice

1 oz ginger beer

1 lime wheel, for garnish

METHOD:

Build the drink in a collins glass over ice. Pour the tequila, lime juice and ginger beer and finish with crème de cassis. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Booze Clues: Bloody Marys to Beat your NYE Hangover

Hey 2015, Hey!!!

We made it! The ball has dropped & the bubbly has been sipped. The new year is officially here! Now, what? How about New Year's Day brunch, complete with a little "hair of the dog" cure for the slight hangover you're feeling? After all, it is National Bloody Mary Day. Here are a couple of options (along with shoe pairings to help with that heel hangover from dancing the night away) in case you and your friends are meeting at someone's house to exchange resolutions or make vision boards.

Carrot Bloody Maria (by Elise Larson of A Beautiful Mess)

Ingredients

Fresh carrot juice

Bloody Mary mix

Ice

2 ounces Numi Carrot Curry Savory Tea-infused tequila**

Worcestershire sauce

Tabasco sauce

Lime

Fresh veggies, for garnish

Margarita salt, for garnish

Black pepper

                   

Directions: 
Rub the rim of a tall glass or mason jar with a slice of lime. Dip into coarse margarita salt. Fill glass 1/3 of the way with ice. Add tequila, then fill the rest of the glass with half Bloody Mary mix and half carrot juice. Add a few splashes of Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce and the juice of half a lime. Mix with a spoon, then sprinkle a little black pepper on the top and garnish with celery and fresh veggies.

And on your feet... 

Keep it classic and cozy in brick red Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Winter Knit Sneakers (Available at Shopbop.com)
Do it bright in orange Adidas Originals x Pharell Stan Smith Sneakers (available at farfetch.com)
Stay dry and warm in olive green Nike Dunk Sky High Sneakerboots with bright orange laces(Available at nike.com)
Kick it cool in orange cheetah print Carvela Lorenzo Slip-on Sneakers (Available at Kurtgeiger.com)

Ole Smoky Green Bloody Mary

Ole Smoky Green Bloody Mary

Ingredients:

6 tomatillos

2 yellow heirloom tomatoes

1 dill pickle

3 garlic cloves

1 serrano chili (seeds remove)

1 oz. Ole Smoky Original Moonshine

1 ½ tablespoon preserved lemon

Juice of ½ lime

3 dashes Tabasco

½ teaspoon each sugar, salt and pepper

Directions:

In a blender, puree ingredients. Fill glass with ice and strain in blended mixture.

And on your feet... 

Do the fringe trend in tan Koolaburra Mocky Moc Booties (available at revolveclothing.com) 

Channel your inner Audrey in gold G.H. Bass Weejuns Penny Loafers (available at amazon.com) :
Go for an artisanal look in gold textured Very Volatile Kalessi Booties (available at volatile.com) :
Be thoroughly modern in ombre animal print Matisse Nugent Wedge Booties (available at singer22.com)

Here's to an amazing year!!!