If These Shoes Could Talk: Black Elastic Sandals by Delicious

One Enchanted Evening...


Black elastic shoes by Delicious. A recent night in the New York area. 

Right Shoe: Hey… Lefty, looks like we’re going out!

Left Shoe: Oh great… hmmm black spandex mini and loose, multicolored tank top… we must be going somewhere cool.

RS: I heard her say something about meeting her friend at someplace called Bunny Chow. Wherever it is, it’s got to be better than hanging around this room with all the other shoes.

LS: Dammit, she’s running late again. Hey! Lady! Ease up… you’re going to wear out my lifts! Whew! It’s hot out here!

RS: Quit complaining!

About an hour later…

RS: See, we’re here! Oooh is that South African music? I wanna dance!

LS: She does know we weren’t made for those high kicks and stuff, right? Wait… I think I just heard her order a drink… a bartender’s special… and Peri Peri wings. And another drink? SMH.

RS: Hush! I think this is going to be a fun night!

LS: She’d better go easy. I don’t stagger.

RS: Neither does she! 

Two hours and five drinks later…

RS: See… we’re leaving, and she’s neither slurring her speech nor staggering. We’ll be home in no time. Although, I wish she’d find something else fun to do. I just KNEW she’d brought her magic out tonight. Guess not.

LS: Wait, why is she getting off at this stop? That means more walking between one train and the other. I’m tired. I’m about to pinch her pinky toe.

RS: Don’t you dare! It feels awesome out here. Besides, what if she stumbles upon something fun or interesting to do??? Wait, did that tall guy just ask her about her hair? I guess that’s not the worst starting line I’ve heard…

LS: Yeah, yeah. I guess that’s better than “Yo, ma, damn you’re sexy! Can I walk with you?” I’m not sold, though. Well… he does sound pretty intelligent. A second B.A.? OK, he’s starting to earn a few points in my book. Chicago native? Her stepmom’s family is from there (awww… step in the name of love). A fellow HBCU alum… I dig that, too. Hmm… maybe it’s not so bad that she took the long way home, after all.

RS: Gasp!!! Did he just say he’ll be 25 in a few days. Dayum! Rock-a-bye, baby! Wait, did she just offer to walk him somewhere a block away? Lefty, I know I’m normally the optimistic one, but when did we start date-shopping at Toys R Us?

LS: Ummm… did you NOT hear him say he’d like to take her to a botanical garden or art gallery on a first date (if she’ll agree to a first date)??? That’s so much better than Mr. “I’d rather the woman choose the location so I don’t screw up” she’s supposed to see this weekend. I’m willing to dump my grump for a bit to see what this one’s deal is.

RS: Their convo is going quite well… OK… he offered her a drink. Wait… this spot’s about to close and neither of them is ready for the night to end. I almost forgot he’s a baby. Hold the phone… he just said his mom never had the man she deserves, and he wants to be that man for whichever woman he ends up with. Swoon. Faint. Bat lashes.

LS: More walking? OK, he might be wearing out his welcome. That guard just said this other place is closed. Maybe we can go home now. Oh no… they decided to wander until they come across something interesting. This could be a long night. Righty, are you sure we’re up for this?

RS: YES! Oooooh they’re going into a hookah lounge! Peppermint tobacco? Intersting. He’s got a good sense of humor. She’s smiling.  Did I just hear a giggle? No… I won’t gag. I won’t!

A hookah and a drink later

LS: Wait… they’re going somewhere ELSE??? This is the longest night we’ve seen in a while. Have these people ever heard of a taxi? I get the whole “walking arm in arm, looking in shop windows, admiring the Union Square area” thing, but sheesh!

RS: Knock it off. I’m loving this! She’s got her mojo working. I feel the tingles radiating from her toes. They’re talking about everything! Seems this kid can hold his own in a grown folks conversation. Uh oh… the place he just tried to take her just closed. Guess she’ll have to try that ginger thingie he mentioned another time… (Maybe that’ll be their second date).

LS: Damnit! That means more walking. Did she just say Coffee Shop? From HOUSTON? That’s it… I’m about to let the padding under the ball of her foot slack a little or something.
RS: You’d better not! Listen… He’s telling her his dreams… They’re almost the same as hers. Oooh, and he knows a little New York trivia. She’s impressed.

At Coffee Shop. Finally.

RS: He just said he doesn’t eat pork. Yay! She just might kiss him one day. Lol, she’s telling him how her grandmother used to tell her not to date guys who eat pork because when she kisses them, she might as well be eating a pork chop or piece of ham. Wait, Lefty, did he really just say he wants to start a foundation to help kids? That’s it… “Come live with me and be my love…”

LS: Yup. He said it. I think this one’s a winner. Darn… Did she say her phone is dead. I bet this is the last stop for her. She’s getting eaten up by these mosquitoes too. Is it me or is the sky getting lighter?

A meal and sunrise later…

RS: I’m sad this mini date has to end… this is better than most of the real dates she’s been on lately.

LS: Relax. It’s not like she’ll never see him again. He’s walking her to the train. Let’s just enjoy these last few minutes. Cool… he has her number. He’ll call.

RS: Aww… the train’s coming. Time to go. How cute. She stopped to kiss him on the cheek… she wanted to give him a peck on the lips, but she didn’t want to seem like THAT girl. Now, let’s hope he calls.

Shoe Score! Top Shelf Style at Well Prices

High Heels, Low Prices

I team don't just sit around lusting over designer shoes. I also shoe shop for sport, and I love a great bargain. I've decided to share my newest goodies with you. (I've kept the brands and locations a secret, but I'll share if you say "pretty please".) 

Score #1: $49.99 (you can actually see part of the designer name.)

Score #2: $29.99 (Again, you can make out the designer name for yourself.)

 
 

The pumps actually have a rubber sole with pretty deep grooves for traction, making them perfect for winter! What do you think? 

Wear or Beware: Proenza Schouler OI9706 Booties

A Bootie Like no Other



When the fashion editors told us what we should be wearing for A/W '09-10 (that's Autumn/ Winter 2009-2010 for those who don't live for the moment their BAZAAR, ELLE and VOGUE Magazines arrive in their mailboxes), their list was pretty lengthy. There were booties, platforms, oxfords, sculpted heels, pops of neon on neutrals, men's inspirations and some others. Somehow, Proenza Schouler managed to hit ALL of those with one shoe (Available at Zappos.com). They're definitely fashion forward and unique. However, are they sexy? Clunky? Haute stuff or a haute mess? What do you think? StyleScrybe will share her thoughts after a few comments...

Cutesy Tuesday: Ruthie Davis Sushi Combos Revisited

Sushi Sashay

A few months ago, we let you know that Ruthie Davis (a footwear fave of celebrities like Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Taraji. P Henson and many others) was releasing a "two-for" line (see here). Now that it's too cold to don flip-flops for your commute to and from work, her Sushi Combos REALLY come in handy. Besides, you're too put-together for flip-flops or non-matching flats anyway. The clouds and/ or rain (depending on where you're located) today may have you feeling a little blue. Navy patent platform peep toed mary janes (and their flat partners) are just what you need. Try the Davis by Ruthie Davis Edamame/ Sashimi Combo (available at Endless.com). The red and purple accents add the pop you need to pump up your mood. Plus, the rubber strap provides a futuristic twist (wouldn't be a Davis pump without some futuristic pop).

What goes better with sushi than sake? This drink might look like a run of the mill martini or cosmo, but it's actually a Leblon and Sake Caipirinha. Made with Leblon Cachaca (Brazilian rum), Ty-Ku Sake, raspberries and lime juice, it's a semi-tart concoction with a kick. (And it brings out the red in your heels. Wink, wink.) It's so tasty that you may want to have a few, but remember, a lady sips and doesn't guzzle. If you can consume slowly, you can avoid the fast track to embarrassing situations.

Wear or Beware? Jean Charles de Castlebajac Court Shoes

Jean Charles de Castlebajac x Free-Lance Character Court Shoes



Unique? Check! Animal print? (A Fall 09 trend) Check! Lots of... character? Double check! A collaboration between Jean Charles de Castlebajac (say it 5x fast) and Free-Lance, these shoes (Available at Colette) have all the makings of a fashion classic, or do they? Teeth? Whiskers? A TAIL? Maybe they're more appropriate for Halloween? One thing's for sure, they're worth talking about. What's your take? Haute Couture or Hot Mess? Would/ COULD you wear them? With What? Is there a celebrity you think could pull them off? If nothing else, this pair brings new meaning to the word "fierce." Here's to style that doesn't take itself seriously (at all).

Almost There Thursday: Bettye Muller Trophy Pumps and Blavod Cocktails

And the Winner Is...

You! Well, actually, today your feet get the prize. Whether your heels are afraid of heights, or you've been sky-stepping all week, you want to wear a heel that's not too high today. However, you don't want to wear flats. Oh, you also need a little sex appeal for after work? Spring for a ruffled pair like these Trophy pumps from Bettye Muller (available at SimplySoles.com). The slightly pointed toe and slender 3 inch heel are very 80's inspired. Yet the ruffled collar and tie detail are totally Fall '09. Paired with bright tights and a cute dress or skirt and top, they'll be show-stealers for sure.

At your after-work watering hole this evening, ask for a Blavod Black Magic, which combines Blavod Black Vodka (yes, it's black- well almost), espresso liqueur and lemon juice. Since you'll likely be in the mood to move your (extra comfy) feet tonight, the espresso will give you the boost you need after a long day, and the vodka will give you the moves (at least in YOUR mind.) Exercise caution, though, because too much Black Magic may make you look more cursed than enchanted.

Wild Wednesday: Jen & Kim Melrose Pumps and Samurai Cocktails

Heelin' & Tealin'

Some may call you a control freak. Others call you crazy. You may be a little of both, but you basically want things done your way (the fun way). We understand, and therefore dedicate this Jen & Kim Melrose pump to you. The design is pretty simple- a round toe, 4.5 inch heel and half inch platform. Yet, they're bright, fun and a little funky. Here's the kicker- (wait for it) they're customizable! You can go to the website, pick a design and then choose your material and color. They even let you do the heel and platform in a different color if you'd like. This teal lizard pump just happens to be one of our favorites.

Making (er customizing) your own shoes is hard work. Relieve tension this evening with a Samurai (cool color and name! Recipe and image courtesy of CocktailAtlas.com). Tell the bartender to combine Marie Brizard Charleston Follies (or passion fruit liqueur), Ginjo Shirataka (sake), Blue Curacao, a little lime juice and a dash of mint liqueur. The result will be a sweet concoction that seems harmless but will easily sneak up on you. That means a little restraint will go a long way in avoiding the morning Judo Chop of a headache that comes from over indulging.

Cutesy Tuesday: Nina Ricci Pumps Blue Ice Vodka Cocktails

Blue it Right

There's a quote that says "We only live once, but if we do it right, once is enough." (by Gary Ryan Blair.) You may not have heard the exact quote before, but those are the words by which you live. There's never a thread or a hair out of place (although you possess a bit of a whimsical aura). These blue suede Nina Ricci pumps should be part of your shoe wardrobe (grab them at NY's Edon Manor- an S&B favorite!). The 5 inch covered heel and slightly pointed-but-rounded toe are pretty simple and proper. However the vibrant hue and vertical bow make them an of-the-moment classic. No? They're versatile, too, since this year, bright is the new black.

Matchy-matchy has never been your thing, but you're definitely one to coordinate. That said, make the "Blondie in Blue" your drink of choice this evening (no matter what your hair color is). As elegant and complex in flavor as you are, it combines Blue Ice Vodka, Marie Brizard Parfait Amour and Lillet Blonde. It's a semi-sweet and super chic flavor infusion of organge, vanilla and bitters. Two caveats, though- mind your tongue, lips and teeth (the Smurfette look only works in cartoons), and monitor your intake. Pretty drinks, like pretty shoes and pretty men, may look harmless, but... (a word, to the wise, is sufficient.)

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Giorgio Armani Booties and Absinthe Awakenings

Fit to be Tied

It's so hard to get up and out when it seems like the rest of the world has the day off, isn't it. Your office doesn't do Columbus day, though, and you're such an over achiever that you'd work from home anyway. To top it all off, you're in a bit of a strange mood (channeling Ms. Hannighan, perhaps?). Maybe it's the changing weather. A patchy pair of lace up booties, like this one from Giorgio Armani (or something similar), are just what you need today. Yes, there's a dark, autumnal feel to them, but the light seafoam green patches add a bit of optimism. A heel that's almost 5 inches high never hurt your disposition either. Now, if you could only shake that pesky feeling of fatigue.

Your morning coffee never did actually kick in, and the one after lunch only kept you from falling asleep during your weekly conference call. However, you can't bring yourself to miss Monday Night Football with the girls. Tonight your drink of choice should be the Awakening. A definite "big girl" drink, it combines Lucid Absinthe, Starbucks Coffee Liqueur and Starbucks Creme Liqueur. While the new incarnation of Absinthe doesn't contain enough wormwood to be hallucinogenic, it still makes a strong drink. The characteristic licorice flavor will be muted some by the coffee, but the general taste of the drink will be an eye opener if nothing else. As always, mind your intake. You might not hallucinate, but too many tonight could lead to your seeing stars in the morning.

Wild Wednesday- H Williams Elise Booties and Absolut Liscious Cocktails

Bootie-licious

You can't throw a rock this season without hitting a woman in platform peep toed booties. Like women, they're coming in all varieties these days. Yet, you always find a way to do things a little differently. You've found the formula for combining what's now with what's next (and a little wild child flair thrown in), and you make it look effortless. H Williams' Elise booties (newly available at Vivre.com) are the shoe for you today. The iridescent metallic purple and bronze python and the latticed strap make them eye-catching, and yet they're somehow simple enough to be pretty versatile enough for work (in creative environments) and play (er, partying).

When you arrive at said party or happy hour this evening, we suggest wetting your whistle with an Absolut Liscious (or four if you can handle it). Tell the barback it's a combination of Absolut Vodka, black currant liqueur, lemon juice, cranberry juice and a splash of lemon-lime soda. It's a little sweet, a little tart and a lotta strong (if your bartender's any good). As always, we must warn you to mind your limits. It's not hard to go from divaliscious to a "don't" story.

Wild Wednesday: Roger Vivier May Peep Toes

Fly Sky High

After today, you can officially start counting down to Friday. Yay! That means you're THAT much closer to letting your flighty side take over (and we know that's really your FAVORITE side). You've been a serious Susie for the last two days, and it's killing you. Take a flight of fancy dedicated to your freer side in some heels like these May peep toes by Roger Vivier (available at MyTheresa.com). (Feathers are VERY in fashion this season, and they're on EVERYTHING!) These plume-printed satin pretties on a 4.5 inch heels say you appreciate the simple things but enjoy exciting twists. Oh, let's not forget how they also work with the black and white trend that's so in this year, too.

Since your mind is in the clouds today, you should let a Vanilla Cloud (recipe and image courtesy of amountainofcrushedice.com) take your taste buds there too. It's a creamy-looking combination of Beefeater gin, fresh lime juice, vanilla bean syrup and a little bitter lemon soda. (Most bars won't have the vanilla syrup for which the recipe calls, but it should still work with a vanilla liqueur.) The flavor is smooth, but it's still strong enough to "lift" you. That said, mind your intake. We wouldn't want you flitting off into some dangerous situation.

Cutesy Tuesday: Escada Bow Pumps and Manhattan Cocktails

Prep School Chic

Did you catch last night's episode of Gossip Girl? No? Neither did we. That doesn't mean you can't channel your inner Blair Waldorf. Ever a lady in public (or at least she should be), she's also shrewd and driven. (Let's just ignore the eating disorder and conniving tendencies, shall we?) You've also got a prim and proper exterior. It's as if Escada made these grosgrain bow pumps just for you (and Blair). The supple camel colored leather, the contrasting piping, 4 inch heel and bow... well, the combination just screams to be accompanied by pearls. Yet, the pointy toe adds something a bit naughty (but that's you too).

No prepster worth her weight in madras will go through life without sipping AT LEAST one Manhattan. The great thing about this drink- it's such a classic you don't have to remember the ingredients when ordering. (But keep in mind that there are many variations.) The tough thing (for some) is the kick. (Even premium bourbon- like Woodford Reserve- can be a tough pill to swallow for the faint of palate). The sweet vermouth, bitters and (maybe) maraschino cherry juice neutralize it a little, but it's a strong drink no matter how you pour it. Still, you might as well prepare for your days as a lady who lunches. Please imbibe with caution. Cute shoes with broken heels are not accepted in high society.

Don't Mess With Me Monday: YSL Sculpted Platfrom Pumps & Three Olives Greek Goddess Cocktails

A Lovely Gray

You devour the sports pages as eagerly as you do WWD. Your Sundays and Monday nights are spent watching football, and you're still as girly and chic as they come. So, today, you're wearing shoes that let your colleagues know you mean business but will also work when you go watch Monday Night Football at your favorite watering hole (which happens to be the swankiest sports bar in town). Some girls wear flats, but like Victoria Beckham, you think better in heels. This sculpted platform pump from YSL (or some other sleek semi-wedge with a platform) is definitely the shoe for you. The combination of sumptuous suede and shiny patent, coupled with the unique silhouette equals a shoe that's just like you. Plus, the 4.5 inch heel and 1 inch platform mean you'll still be able to see the TV screen if none of the guys at the bar are chivalrous enough to give up their seat.

You don't think like most women, and you don't drink like them either. You like a drink with a kick... but you don't mind if it's a little sweet. Besides, tonight, a frilly-looking drink will ruin your street cred. Our recommendation is a Greek Goddess (the name sounds girlie but we promise it packs a punch). It's simply Three Olives Pomegranate Vodka with a splash of lemon/ lime soda. The pomegranate infusion makes sure it goes down smooth, but since it's clear, you won't be chided for drinking like a girl. Do remember, though, that you ARE a lady and that too many of these may lead to some unladylike behavior.

Cutesy Tuesday: D&G Patent Peep Toes & Bulldog Sweet Tails

Sexy Back

Here's the thing about you: you're as confident as you are coy, and you've mastered the art of walking the line between them. The combination is evident in everything about you, especially your fashion sense. That said, today, opt for a pair of shoes that captures the contradiction perfectly. We suggest something like these D&G patent peep toed pumps from the Autumn 09 collection (available at farfetch.com). The peep toe, contrast piping and creamy pink coloring give them classic appeal, while the 4 inch stiletto heel indicates a little risk factor. Then the black lace at the back adds an alluring touch. However, what really sets them off is the almost-playful bow... nice finish!

A woman who wears these shoes may opt for a classic martini, but she may also order something a little more tongue-in-cheek. We're digging the Bulldog Sweet Tail at the moment. Like you and your shoes, it's classy with a kick. Ask your bartender to combine Bulldog Gin with a few mint sprigs, some vanilla beans, a dash of creme de cassis and a little simple syrup. The result will be a cool drink with a little bite, a bit of sweet to cut it, and a smooth finish. Just remember there's nothing smooth or alluring about a drunk, so sip responsibly.

Shoe Score! Top Shelf Style for Well Prices

Treats for my Feet!

The Shoes & Booze team doesn't just sit around lusting over designer shoes. We also shoe shop for sport, and we love a great bargain. We've decided to share our newest goodies with you. (We've kept the brands and locations a secret, but we'll share if you say "pretty please".)

Score #1: $62.98 (OK, these are Betsey Johnson)

Score #2: 10.99
Score #3: $3.00 (Yes, you read that right)

Wear or Beware? Celine's Kiraro Sandal

Kiraro Graffiti Print Sandal By Celine

They're definitely strange looking, but they're also right off the runway. Then again, they touch on the current 80's (graffiti), platform, and interesting heel trends. (According to the website, the shape of their design is inspired by African tribal drawings.) Factor in that the heel height tops 6 inches, and the shank of the shoe isn't there at all. Yet, they're so interesting that it's hard not to stare. Haute Couture or hot mess... What do you think?

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!

Wild Wednesday: Rupert Sanderson Firefly Pumps & Firefly Vodka Cocktails

Light Up the Night

Monday and Tuesday went pretty smoothly, and today was okay, too. It's almost the "unofficial start of summer", and you're feeling like a little post- work debauchery, but you know just what to do. Hit your favorite watering hole for drinks with your crew. Don't forget to wear a pair of heels that'll have all eyes on you. A pair like these Firefly Pumps from Rupert Sanderson will be perfect! If it's not because the of the multi-colored python, then 4 3/4 inch heel and slight platform will make you tall enough to catch an eye or two.

Doesn't the word "firefly" conjure images of sitting on the porch, lemonade in hand, watching the little bugs light up? Well, we've found a drink that sums it all up in one sip: The Firefly Vodka Lowcountry Lemonade (Recipe & image from www.hostessblog.com). The recipe calls for Firefly Lemon Tea Vodka (yes, the vodka is actually infused with lemon sweet tea!), fresh lemonade, and lemon slices. It's got a sweet/ tart taste, but it definitely packs a punch. Just make sure you imbibe responsibly. Wouldn't want to scuff your shoes!

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.

Don't Mess With Me Monday: Alejandro Ingelmo Pistola Booties & 3 Vodka Cocktails

Bullet Points

Don't you just wanna shoot somebody sometimes just because it's Monday? No? Us either. Give peace a chance. You can still look (sorta) tough and bad-ass in a pair of killer heels with edgy accents, like these Pistola peep toed booties by Alejandro Ingelmo. The 4 3/4 inch heel and bullet detail on the slingback say "lookin' for trouble", yet the baby pink hue say there's still something sweet about you. I'm seeing these with cropped or ankle length pants. Anything longer defeats the purpose.


Tonight at happy hour, order a drink that sounds dangerous, but looks pretty. I suggest a Pink Pistol (I changed the name, but image & recipe courtesy of fitness.com). It combines 3 Vodka, lychee fruit, unsweetened pink grapefruit juice and a grapefruit wedge. Apparently, this slightly bittersweet drink is swimsuit-friendly, too. It only has about 130 calories and no fat! It does have about 16g of carbs, though, so if you're on a low carb kick, keep that in mind. Also remember that cutting back on carbs means you have less in your system to soak up alcohol. Overdoing it will almost surely lead to dangerous situations.