No Mess Monday: Neutral Pumps + Ayelsbury Duck Vodka

Get to the Point

It's Monday. You have a case of the blahs, and consequently, no patience for rambling or ambling. At the office, wear a pointed pump that illustrates your mood. At happy hour, order a drink that takes the edge off while maintaining an air of sophistication. 

On your Feet:

The pointed toe of Caliegh pump by Renvy (available exclisively at gilt.com on currently on sale for $95) connotes a desire to streamline efforts and cut to the chase, while the enamel block heel indicates the importance of balance. Its 4 1/2" height keeps you above any pettiness (or it should), and the neutral nude color speaks to an unbiased perspective that helps you handle matters objectively. 

In your Glass

Entertaining clients at happy hour? DO NOT order shots. Instead, opt for a smooth, strong cocktail  that eases a little of the tension in your shoulders but lets you keep your wits (because you'll sip it slowly, we hope). Yesterday was National Vodka Day, but you may have opted for brunch mimosas or game-day brews instead. With that in mind, we suggest ordering a Delancey, featuring the highly rated Aylesbury Duck Vodka from The 86 Company. 

INGREDIENTS:

2 oz Aylesbury Duck Vodka

1 teaspoon rich simple syrup (see note)

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

1 lemon twist, for garnish

METHOD:

Combine in old-fashioned glass. Add 2 ice cubes, cracked, and 2 uncracked, stir. Twist a swatch of thin-cut lemon peel over the top to garnish.

*To make rich simple syrup, stir 2 parts demerara sugar with 1 part water over low heat until sugar dissolves.

**Caveat Potor (let the drinker beware): No matter how high the quality of the spirit you sip, if you don't do it responsibly, you will not keep your wits (nor your balance in your fabulous shoes). We hope you'll refrain from overindulging. 

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Stella McCartney Platforms & Disaronno Indulgence

Nude at a High Altitude

You're the A-type Alpha gal of your office. You know, the one who spends Sunday nights getting a head start on Monday's tasks. Kick your NY Fashion Week into high gear, and head to the "tents" in Stella McCartney's patent platform pump (available at Bergdorf Goodman). The nude patent faux leather and almond toe give them surprising versatility (you're ready at a moment's notice for whatever comes your way). However the thick wooden platform and 5-inch wedge heel, accented with antiqued silvertone plates, say you'll easily step over (or on) anyone who gets in your way. They're perfect with this season's wide leg pants.

Chances are there will be open bars at every event you attend, but who needs sponsored liquor when you have a killer expense account? Let the "little people" drink whatever's on tap for the night, and order an "Indulgence." (Make sure the bar back puts yours in a proper glass. Shots can be so un-chic). It's sweet and thick, but it packs a kick. If your request brings a question mark to his or her face, instruct the wonderful individual to layer De Kuyper's brown Creme de Cacao, Disaronno Amaretto and Amarula cream into a glass and into that exact order. If it's done without blending the layers, leave a great tip.