5 Faves: the Melissa + Jeremy Scott Shoe Sale

All Fun, Half Price

We were all "ooohs and ahhhs" when Jeremy Scott sent neon colored Melissa shoes down the runway with a his Moschino collection. Classic silhouettes with styling and accents inspired by inflatable pool and bath toys, they were playfully sophisticated. They were also high on our wishlist (so we were ridiculously excited when we were gifted the mule one season and the ankle boot the following season. If you haven't already scored a pair or two, here's your chance. They're 50% off (and all less than $125)! Here are our five favorites from the sale:

For a Night Out:

Melissa + Jeremy Scott Inflatable Mule - Now $90

To Wear Home After Said Night Out (They'll Still Match Your Lewk):

Melissa + Jeremy Scott Ultragirl - Now $55

For Summer Travels (Easy Off and On in the TSA Line):

Melissa + Jeremy Scott Tube Sandal - Now $55

The Office (or a Day of Errands):

Melissa + Jeremy Scott Space Love - Now $60

Rainy Days (Oh, Hey, White Shoe Trend!):

Melissa + Jeremy Scott Ankle Boot - Now $105

Which pair is your favorite?

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.

Shoe Sleuth: 5 Flats for Work AND Weekend Barcrawls

Get Low

Dear Shoe Sleuth,

Last weekend, I was part of the Brown Girls Bar Crawl in Jersey City. I loved the drinks and appetizers at Park and Sixth, Roman Nose, LITM and The Draper, by the way. I was talking to a few of the other attendees, and we realized we all had the same problem trying while we were getting ready for the crawl- the shoes. We wanted to be fly, but we also wanted to be comfortable. (I loved your black and white Keds, by the way.) Now that it's nice out, I'm sure I'll be doing more crawls and outdoor activities... But I don't want to buy shoes to wear JUST for that. Got any suggestions for shoes I can wear to work AND during the weekend that won't break the bank? Also, where can I get mismatched Keds like yours? I think they'd be great for vacations.

-P.B.

Dear P.B.,

First, thanks for joining us on the crawl! I had an amazing time with all of you! Second, the Keds in question- I actually mismatched two pairs I received for hosting an event last spring. I'm glad you liked the mismatched look. I may have to wear them again :-).

Now, to your question. It can definitely be tough to find shoes that are both functional and fly, especially on a budget. The good news is that animal prints and metallics are considered neutrals these days, and brands are incorporating them more into flats. If you're going to be on your feet a lot, a simple lack of a heel won't keep you comfy. You need to consider support and cushioning. Here are a few versatile options that are sophisticated enough for the office AND Saturday-approved — plus they're all under $300.

Sleek Slides

Menswear inspirations and the mule trend had a baby. It's Pour la Victoire's Felix flat. In snake-embossed leather with staple detailing that invokes the feeling of clogs, it's a great mix of uptown polish and downtown edge. During the week, it's the perfect support system for slacks and a slick button-down. Come saturday, it adds edgy sophistication to cropped jeans and a tee. ($295 at Pourlavictoire.com)

Wrap Stars 

The ballet flat's more complicated cousin, the ankle-tie flat is the shoe of the season. It's almond toe and simple silhouette have ingenue appeal, while the leg-elongating ankle ties add a coquettish kick. The Deandra from Kelsi Dagger Brooklyn features a playful rope tie that works well with pencil skirts at work and then complements cut-offs on the weekend. If your office is more conservative, consider buying this style in black. ($110 at kelsidagger.com)

Points of Interest

Few things exude polish like a pointed toe, especially when you add shiny patent leather and metallic gold. Add the sophistication of an oxford, plus the simplicity of a slip-on, and and you've got the perfect wherever flat. From skirts to skinnies, dresses to joggers and everywhere in-between this Treasure flat from Nine West will scores intra-office style points AND street cred. ($31.52- $101 at amazon.com)

Rain or Shine

You know those days where it's supposed to sprinkle off and on... but you refuse to let it put a damper on your plans? This snake pattern wingtip shoe from Biion is made entirely of EVA, so it won't get mesed up in the rain. It's also constructed with special comfort features and a nonslip sole that's great whether you're boating, playing golf or kicking a$$ in beer pong. It looks great with skirts and midi dresses, too. I received a pair in white with blue trim, and I get compliments every time I wear them. ($109.99 at shop-usa.biionfootwear.com)

Daring Dimensions

The Wanna Be Rio oxford from Melissa Shoes goes seamlessly from the office (with wide leg pants or a streamlined maxi skirt) to out and about (same wide legs, maxi or virtually anything). This Star of Melissa's collab collection with Wanna Be Carioca features an edgy open toe, and the cut-out flatform sole makes it a prime choice for events that require walking in grass (ahem, music festivals). You do know that all Melissa shoes are rubber, right? When you pour out a little for the homies, don't worry about splashing. ($180 at shopmelissa.com)

P.B., I hope one of these options works for you, and if not, I hope you at least have some new ideas. As always, feel free to reach out for further guidance. 

-The Shoe Sleuth

Can you see yourself in these styles? Do you have a go-to go-everywhere shoe? Let us know in the comments!

*Shoes N Booze is an affiliate of Pour La Victoire, Kelsi Dagger and Amazon.com. If you make a purchase, we earn a little change. Thanks!

4th of July Sale Scoop: Melissa Shoes

Just in time for the Fireworks

Melissa Shoes (one of our favorite brands) starts its summer sale today! That means 50% off most styles (including the collaborations with Jason Wu, Vivienne Westwood, Karl Lagerfeld, etc). It also means if you're in New York, you can visit Galeria Melissa and score a pair to wear while you watch the fireworks (a rare occasion when we suggest flats). If you're not in the NY area, fret not, the sale is online, too, so you can get those gladiators or criss-cross slides you've been eyeing— just not in time for tomorrow's barbecues. The sale ends August 1st. Here are a few styles we're contemplating:

Melissa x Vivienne Westwood Harmonic Gladiator 

This color not available online, but there are some pretty snazzy metallics.

Melissa x Jason Wu Jean Flat

Lana del Rey was spotted recently in the gold version of this skimmer.

Melissa x Salinas Solar Sandal

The tassel is such a great touch on this one. 

(And while you shop, we'll be trying to figure out how to get our hands on some Melissa Roller Joy skates. Sigh.)

Shoes Clues: 5 Snow Boots for Women With a High Heel Habit

If you're over the snow already, raise your hand. The resulting salt and grime are brutal to shoes, making many of us walk around in clunky rubber boots. I guess we still get fashion points for cool beanies and blanket scarves, but this season makes it hard to show off a good shoe game. I refuse to be defeated, so I've made it my personal mission to collect shoes that don't make me feel like a total schlumpadinka.

Many of mine are no longer available (the ones you can still buy are in the Shoes N Booze Amazon Shop), but I went on the hunt to find a few perfectly stylish options for you. And since we're at the end of the season, they're all on sale!!!

Cougar Gander Boot

I've reviewed Cougar boots on here before (see!), and they are definitely warm. This quilted wedge boot has a bit of Napoleon Dynamite appeal, but minus the dork factor. It's available in four colors, and it costs less than $100. Buy your pair here.

United Nude Eros Teddy Boot

If you've been contemplating a foray into the trend that is the fur accent, this is the boot for you. Embossed leather, molded rubber and faux fur converge for a textural take on this season's sporty inspirations. (Available in other colors at UnitedNude.com)

Hunter High Heel Chelsea Boot

The chelsea boot has become synonymous with cosmopolitan cool. Hunter's version features neon rubber tread and waterproof leather. The really great thing about these is that you can wear them whether there's snow on the ground or not. They're almost $100 off right now, so hurry to Hunter's website and snag a pair.

Melissa Soldier Boot

Melissa's glossy rubber boot is playful, yet polished. The lug sole keeps you from slipping on ice-slick streets, and the stretch inserts keep the fit cozy. It's half off  the regular price on the Melissa website.

Ralph Lauren Polo Hester Boot

Inspired by arctic expeditions, this Polo boot features neon quilted panels, a platform and a chunky heel atop a lug sole. It's relaxed enough for the weekend, but it's also a good choice for afterwork drinks. This upgrade to the classic duck boot is currently down to $139 from $450 on the Ralph Lauren website.

How do you stay a step above winter? Do you have a favorite pair of heels that are snow-apropo? Let us know in the comments.

Shoes Clues: 6 Comfy, Flat, City Chic Sandals for less than $100

 

A reader recently emailed: “I need your help. Your mission, should you choose to accept it: comfy flats (I walk a lot) that play well with maxi dresses. Sandal-esque (open-toed at the very least) but not too close to the ground (don't want to get street grime all over my tootsies). I need it to be under $100 and black, tan, brown or some crazy color like hot pink.”

Didn’t sound like an impossible mission to me, and I figured there are others out there in the same quandry, so I did some sole searching. I kept in mind that a cute flat for someone who walks a lot should have a bit of support. Here are my picks:

 

Miz Mooz Panthea Sandal from Endless.com-  $99.00

 

Kelly green has been a pretty hot color this season, and this versatile sandal will work well with maxi dresses, midi dresses and minis. It has a low wedge to absorb a bit of long-walk shock and a lightly cushioned footbed. Also, when trying to avoid street grime, a sandal with an actual back is a good idea.

 

Nine West Briteside T-Strap Sandal from Endless.com- $67.99

 

 

Snake print are a good way to go neutral with a bit of pizazz, and the T-trap is a hit this season. This sandal has a low heel that allows it to be dressed up or down, working as well with ankle length jeans as it does with dresses.

 

Dolce Vita Idalia Sandal from Endless.com-  $99.99

 

Tassels turn up the heat on any look, especially when they’re on a quasi-tribal sandal in a metallic color. These Dolce Vita sandals are  cute with shorts, and they’ll look chic peeking out from under your maxi dress when you walk.

 

Melissa Star Sandal from Amazon.com- $59.13

 

Into eco fashion? Then, these Melissa sandals are for you. Not only are they created using sustainable business practices, but they’re just plain adorable. Bright is the new neutral, so their pearlized hot pink color make them a fun accent to almost any look. They also get bonus points for being rain-friendly (if you don’t mind wet toes).

 

Delflex by Dexter McKenna Sandal from Payless- $27.99

 

 

Comfort shoes have come a long way! With its two layer insole- one of memory foam, the other of latex foam- this jeweled sandal is more than just a pretty face. It’ll add a bit of glamour to jeans and a tee, and it’ll also work with a flirty dress on date night.

Naya Sister Sandal from 6pm.com- $66.99

 

Here’s another eco chic choice. If I go into all the ways Naya tries to reduce their carbon footprint, I won’t have room to discuss the cuteness and comfy features of this shoe. However, note that they’re made from vegetable-tanned leather, and the footbed features natural cork for shock absorption. These are great for city slicking, but they also have a retro cool vibe that makes them music fest-friendly.

 

Technorati Tags: Payless shoes,Flat sandals,Eco Friendly shoes,sustainable fashion,Naya Shoes,Miz Mooz shoes,Nine West Shoes,T-Strap sandals,Snakeskin sandals,Snake print sandals,Dolce Vita Sandals,Sandals,Melissa Shoes,Delflex by Dexter sandals,Cute Comfort shoes,Tassel trend
Blogger Labels: Payless shoes,Flat sandals,Eco Friendly shoes,sustainable fashion,Naya Shoes,Miz Mooz shoes,Nine West Shoes,T-Strap sandals,Snakeskin sandals,Snake print sandals,Dolce Vita Sandals,Sandals,Melissa Shoes,Delflex by Dexter sandals,Cute Comfort shoes,Tassel trend

Shoe News: Melissa Shoes’ SoHo Shop

 

The Brazilians Are Coming!

 

Brazilian shoe brand, Melissa, has become pretty popular in the US with it’s surprisingly chic rubber shoes and designer collaborations (Jason Wu, Vivienne Westwood, Gareth Pugh, to name a few). It only makes sense, then, that it’s digging its proverbial heels in with a brick and mortar location here in the States. Opening on February 8 at 102 Green Street in SoHo, the store will have the same super-artsy gallery feel as the flagship location in Sao Paolo. The opening will feature an installation by Eli Sudbrack (same guy who designed Lady Gaga’s holiday workshop at Barney’s New York). Shoppers, rev your engines. It’s time to buy some rubber! Technorati Tags: Shoe News,Melissa Shoes,Shoes,Shopping,Jason Wu,Vivienne Westwood,Gareth Pugh,Eli Sudbrack,Lady Gaga,designer collaborations,rubber shoes
Blogger Labels: Shoe News,Melissa Shoes,Shoes,Shopping,Jason Wu,Vivienne Westwood,Gareth Pugh,Eli Sudbrack,Lady Gaga,designer collaborations,rubber shoes

*Source- WWD

Fun Friday- Earth Day Edition: Beyond Skin Wedges & Melissa Sandals

 

A Doube Toast to Mother Earth

Our planet’s having a crisis. There’s no denying it. Yes, the Earth undergoes certain geological changes every now and then. However, I believe we humans have abused our home planet to the point of erratic behavior… bi-polar disorder? Schizophrenia? MPD? Maybe just a bit of an identity issue? Either way, we’ve got to do better. We have to not only stop mistreating her, but also find ways to help in her healing. A good first step? Showing a bit of appreciation & celebrating the gifts she gives. We don’t have to skimp on style while we do it, though…

Known for high style and sustainable practices, Melissa Shoes often put the fun in functionality. This pair from their collaboration with Jean Paul Gaultier is no exception. The bright color, strappy design and high heel make them a great party shoe, and since they’re rubber, you don’t have to worry about rain OR spilled drinks.

Beyond Skin’s shoes are cruelty free, but they’re also plenty cute. These Saskia wedges are made from a faux suede material called ‘dinamica’, which is comprised of 100% recycled PET plastics. The festive zig zag on the wedge heel dresses them up and adds a fab touch.

When it’s time to toast this evening, it won’t be hard to keep the cocktails Earth-friendly. Casa Noble Tequila is made from 100% certified organic blue agave. Try a Casa Noble Organic Margarita. Recipe: 2 oz Casa Noble Crystal Tequila, 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice (or the juice of 1 whole lime), ¾ oz La Sierra Agave Nectar. Remember not to drink too many too quickly, though Casa Noble is eco-friendly, tequila without moderation isn’t anyone’s friend.

If you’re not a fan of tequila, fret not. VeeV Acai Spirit is more like a vodka. Made using responsibly harvested acai fruit, it’s considered “a better way to drink” (VeeV’s words). In addition, $1 per bottle sold is donated to the Sustainable Acai Project. Try a Joie de VeeV tonight. Recipe: 1½ ounces VeeV Açaí Spirit, ½ in. ginger piece (diced), 1 ounce fresh lemon Juice, ¾ ounce simple syrup, ¾ ounce orange liqueur. This drink will be refreshing and slightly sweet, but remember it’s still alcohol. Enjoy responsibly.

Technorati Tags: Earth Day cocktails,Eco Friendly Fashion,Eco friendly Shoes,Melissa Shoes,Beyond Skin Shoes,Veev Acai Spirit,Casa Noble Tequila

Almost There Thursday: Melissa Loop High Heeled Loafers

Therein Lies the Rub-ber

It's the end of THE WEEK for New York's fashion set, but most other people have one more day before they can take a breather. Whether you're in the former or the latter group your feet could probably use a break, and if you're in the New York area there's a strong chance of showers in your area tonight. As a result, you'll want to wear shoes that are comfortable, stylish and at least a little practical, but a pop of the unexpected is also a requirement for you. These Loop pumps by Melissa (available for $180 via Karmaloop.com) are everything you need. They're eco-friendly rubber, so they won't be ruined in the rain, and the bright blue color is impossible to look at without smiling. Plus, the chunky round 3.5 inch heel adds extra whimsy and the bow on the front is feminine and fun. It doesn't hurt that their loafer styling is spot on with this season's school-inspired trend. 

The end of Fashion Week is always bittersweet for fashion hags like you. Let your cocktail express your mood, and drink a "Blue Day" this evening. Yes, you'll get free drinks at one open bar or the other tonight, but you HAVE to drink something with you dinner. It's a simple mixture of Absolut Vodka and blue Curacao, so it'll be pretty sweet and plenty strong.

Cutesy Tuesday: Vivienne Westwood for Melissa Slingbacks &

Cielito Lindo Los Corazones...

It's Cinco de Mayo! Ole! It's pretty gloomy out for most of us on the east coast, but you're not disheartened. As a matter of fact, you've decided to keep some sun in your heart even when you can't see it in the sky. C'mon, share it and brighten other peoples' day. Your Vivienne Westwood x Melissa Lady Dragon slingbacks (available at epauletshop.com) are the perfect way. You've had them since their January debut, and you've finally found the right occasion for their inaugural run. What better day to debut them than a rainy one? They're rubber, so they won't get ruined in the rain, and the red heart makes them festive. The 3.5 inch heel isn't as high as you usually wear, but that just means you can dance more tonight.

A pretty Pomegranate Margarita (recipe & image courtesy of Cabo Wabo) tonight would only be right. You can settle for whatever your bartender concocts, or you can ask for Cabo Wabo Reposado Tequila mixed with a little simple syrup, a few pomegranate seeds and some passion fruit juice. It'll be a tasty concoction, but don't overdo it. If you do, you'll wake up feeling like your head was the pinata at the party.