Cutesy Tuesday: Floral Ted Baker Pumps & Cherry Blossom Cocktails

Summoning Spring, STAT!

On Your Feet: 

The calendar says it's spring. However, if you're in the Northeast, it feels like Old Man Winter is hanging on for dear life. Nonetheless, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is in full bloom throughout Washington, DC (March 20- April 5). No matter where you're based, Celebrate "the Nation's greatest springtime celebration" in floral pumps like the "Saeber" by Ted Baker (less than $130 at Amazon).  A metallic gold heel and toe accent add a bit of edge to a silky flower-print upper. Maybe if we give spring a sartorial salute, it will actually fight for its rightful place on the thermometer.

In Your Glass: 

Toast the new season and all the flowers (sneeze!) it will bring with a sweet, but strong cocktail, like this Very Cherry Smash. The tequila makes it festive, the orange liqueur adds depth and lime juice provides an element of tartness. Here's how you make it:

Very Cherry Smash

Ingredients:

1 part Sauza Blue Silver 100% Agave Tequila
2 parts JDK & Sons 03 Premium Orange Liqueur
5 cherries (pitted and stemmed)
1 tbsp. agave nectar
1 part fresh lime juice
1 part club soda

Method:

Muddle together cherries, lime juice and agave nectar. Strain into shaker. Add in orange liqueur, tequila, and ice and shake. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with club soda and garnish with cherries.

If You're Not Into Heels

Adidas Floral Wing Sneaker

Shoe Preview: 5 Faves from Carolinna Espinosa Spring '15

#ShoeFact: Carolinna Espinosa uses memory foam cushioning in each shoe. This is apparently a major component in the brand's quest to create "the perfect shoe that is eye-catching, comfortable and sophistacated all at once."  For Spring/ Summer 2015, the creative directors found inspiration in a variety of places, especially fashion's current obsession with flowers and luxe embellishments. The result is a refreshing collection of feminine styles with dynamic accents. I recently visited the showroom for a preview, and these styles made my want list:

The line of pearls down the heel of this "Arabia" pump makes it look professional without looking too practical (because I have an aversion to most practical shoes, but I realize the importance of owning a classic pump).

A cute skimmer is another must— especially if you live, work or play in a city like New York. The jeweled pearl accent on this flat reminds me of a vintage brooch. I'd love these with some camo or leopard print skinnies for a little edge.

I'm a huge fan of snakeskin shoes. And florals. This "Celie" sandal combines the two and adds an architectural bridge detail at the heel. The metallic slilver and monochromatic color palette make it incredibly versatile too.

Another take on monochrome, this "Sandra" pointed flat has a subtle zipper accent. I don't usually like zipper embellishments, but this one manages not to look cheesy.

I said it on IG, and I'll say it again... my allergies prevent me from really enjoying flowers in real life. However, I do appreciate them on a shoe, especially in bright, pretty colors. I'm also big on baubles, so the jewels on this "pepper" sandal drive it right up my alley.

These and the rest of the styles in the collection will be available in February 2015 at price points between $195 and $275. Stay tuned for drink pairings! Do you have a favorite among these? Let us know in the comments!