Celebrity Shoe Spotting: Reese Witherspoon in J. Crew

Wild Style. (Get it?)

Photo Credit: T Maldana/AKM-GSI

Photo Credit: T Maldana/AKM-GSI

Reese Witherspoon was recently spotted (ha!) in L.A. wearing a tweed blazer, cropped jeans and an adorable pair of J. Crew Collection animal print d'orsay pumps. Since animal print is the new neutral, and their heels are a walkable 3 1/8 inches, these calf hair Collette Pumps are incredibly versatile.  Feel like snagging a pair for yourself (or giving Santa a hint)? Click the image below. They're currently $378 at Jcrew.com, and you get 30% off with code GETGIFTS.

J. Crew Collection Collette Pumps - $370.00 at Jcrew.com

If you're into the look but would like to spend less, check out these options:

Sam Edelman Opal Pump - $127.02 at Amazon.com

Rebecca Minkoff Brie Pump - $94.16 at Amazon.com

*Shoes N Booze is an Amazon affiliate. That means we earn commission if you click an Amazon.com link and make a purchase. Thanks!

Shoes Clues: 5 Comfort Sandals We Actually Wanna Wear

Walk This Way

Dear Reader,

I've never been a fan of sensible shoes as a category, however I've always loved certain styles that fall under that umbrella (Sebago boat shoes, Bass Weejuns and Bucs and Dr. Scholls Original Sandals). When normcore became an actual fashion term, and Birkenstocks became de riguer, I feared it was a bad omen. To my surprise, the movement has lead to some pretty cool takes on what I like to call "the granny sandal." Now that the weather has gotten walk-around friendly, here are a few choices that look AND feel great on casual days:

Dr. Scholls Original Sandals- Metallic

As stated above, I've loved classic Dr. Scholls sandals since childhood. What you may or may not know is that I am also a magpie. So this shiny silver flat definitely put a twinkle in my eye. Bonus points for the "anatomical footbed." ($88.00 at Lord & Taylor)

Vionic Tatian Sandal- Leopard

Vionic shoes feature podiatrist-designed "Orthaheel Technology" that helps realign the feet to the proper position after wearing heels and shoes with no arch support. Luckily, for us, this jeweled leopard print calf-hair sandal manages not to look like an orthotic sandal. ($119.95 at Vionicshoes.com)

Worishofer 251 Sandal- Iridescent

Previously only seen on members of the geritol generation, Worishofer sandals earned their cool cred a year or two ago when celebs like Maggie Gylenhal and Kiersten Dunst were spotted wearing them. They didn't make their way onto my want list, though, until they appeared in metallic purple (which is now in my closet) and iridescent pink (which is on this summer's to-buy list). ($59.99 at Amazon.com)

Crowne Comforteur Brilliant Sandal- Snake

Gladiator-inspired with chunky straps, this sandal by Crowne Comforteur lives up to its name. It's casual, versatile and it has a specially-made footbed that cradles the arch and cups the heel. This might be the perfect city-walking shoe. ($119.95 at lorisshoes.com)

Matt Bernson Love Sandal- Gold

A simple silhouette. A memory foam insole. This metallic thong sandal from Matt Bernson is way more refined than a regular flip-flop. Yet, it would still work with jeans or cutoffs. Grab & pack it for vacation. Wear it all summer. ($139.00 at MattBernson.com)


Which pair could you see yourself wearing, and where will your comfy-cool sandals take you this weekend?

Yours Shoely,

Nafeesa (StyleScrybe)

*Courtesy images. Shoes N Booze is an Amazon affiliate and earns commission on purchases made via links on this blog.

Shoe Sleuth: Gold Pumps for Girls Night Out

New York resident, Devon, recently contacted us with a fairly urgent request for help finding gold shoes to wear with a fitted black sheath dress and gold statement necklace for an upcoming night out with the girls. The catch: she needed something within two days and wanted to spend around $60. Also, since Jack Frost hasn't decided to leave the East Coast for the season yet, she preferred closed toes. The Shoes N Booze Shoe Sleuth scoured the sale sections of some of her favorite sites (paying special attention to those that also have brick-and-mortar locations), and here are the resulting suggestions:

Enzo Angiolini Persist Pump

This dazzling sequined Persist pump by Enzo Angiolini (59.95 via DSW.com) has a great ombre effect. After girls' night out, they'll be a go-to for wedding season.

Nina Edrica Pump

Encrusted in tiny rhinestones, this Edrica pump by Nina ($54.99 via 6pm.com) adds quite a bit of sparkle to your step. Bonus: the hidded platform means you can dance all night.

Report Signature Murphy Pump

The block heel and single sole on this metallic Murphy pump by Report Signature ($48.30 via LastCall.com) make it totally trend right. Plus, this is one you can wear to the office with a pencil skirt or out to brunch with a pair of distressed jeans.

The high collar on this Domina pump by London Trash ($69.99 via Bakersshoes.com) adds an extra dose of fierce to its look, and the pebbled metallic suede makes it glamorous. This one has a 5" heel and no platform, though, so a pair of cushioned inserts is highly recommended. They're a little over the requested price, but I'd say they're worth it.

Joan & David Amandie Pump

Even if it wasn't for girls' night out, this animal print Joan & David Amandie pump ($59.97 via C21stores.com) would be a must-have. Leopard print is the new neutral, so it goes anywhere with almost anything. Further, the glold dots add a subtle metallic sheen that seriously ups its style ante.

Devon, hopefully one of these pairs will carry you through an amazing night out with your friends. Feel free to let us know which, if any, you picked. Ladies, if you need to put the Shoe Sleuth on a case, please feel free to send a note here or via the Shoes N Booze Facebook page.

Wild Wednesday- BCA Month: Senso Wilma Booties

Animal Instincts

You have an untamed heart, and it shows in all you do. Your approach to life- and fashion- is passionate, uninhibited and unique. That's why Senso's Willa booties (available at SoleStruck.com) are the shoes for you today. The fierce, fuchsia hue and cheetah print indicate your fun femininity and devil-may-care demeanor. Meanwhile, the 5 inch block heel and 1.5 inch platform connote a pretty high sense of self. These boots are so haute, they may have your prey chasing you tonight.

When it's time to toast this evening, make sure Samantha Jones' Community Service is in your glass. Inspired by and named after one of my favorite fictional Breast Cancer survivors, this cocktail combines X Rated Fusion Liqueur, Malibu Coconut Rum, pineapple juice, cherry juice and tonic. It's extremely sweet, and the taste of the alcohol will be virtually undetectable, but don't overindulge. Otherwise you'll seem more like Snooki than like a Sex and the City siren.

Wild Wednesday: Kathryn Amberleigh Zebra Print Pumps

Striped for the Picking

It's been said that you can always tell a zebra by its stripes. If that's true, most people will take one glance at you and see a wild streak. Just in case they don't notice, though, let a pair of animal print peep toed pumps set them straight. Kathryn Amberleigh's Zebra print pumps are the perfect accessory for navigating the concrete jungle. The cream and brown base has a calm air, but the sea foam leather accents add a bit of complexity. The best thing about this particular pair is their versatility. They'll easily go from work to play and can be worn with almost anything.

Get your "wild thing" on this evening while sipping a Green Eyes cocktail. It's a creamy, semi-sweet, tropical-tasting concoction of Midori Liqueur, Admiral Nelson Rum, coconut cream, lime juice and pineapple juice. I'm gonna suggest foregoing the pineapple garnish if you value your street cred, though. This drink is only 32 proof, so I'd say you can have a few. Just keep track of your straws or something so you don't get too wild.


Yours Shoely,

Me

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).

Wild Wednesday: Casadei 1902 Boots & Remy Martin Sazeracs

Feline High

It's the middle of the week, and the last two days have been a bit of a drag. You're on the prowl today... for opportunities, challenges and- most importantly- fun! With your keen hunting instincts and voracious appetite (for fab footwear, fashion, and whatever else you want), you manage to get what you want (without being catty). A pair of leopard print boots- like the 1902 from Casadei's "Into the Wild" collection for F/W 08-09 (shopping details at Casadei.com) - will make the world your prey. The 5 inch heel and 1 inch platform mean you're not afraid of a challenge, and the satin leopard print shaft indicates an un-caged spirit. Yet, the brown leather toe and throat say you know how not to overdo it.

You'll need a little extra discretion this evening too, when the effects of your Sazerac start to take hold. This classic cocktail blends Remy Martin Cognac, Jade Liqueurs Absinthe, Peychaud Bitters and sugar syrup and has quite a bite. You're not intimidated by a boys' drink, though, so enjoy. As long as you don't let this drink become your master, you'll be fine. *Note- Having originated in New Orleans during the 1800s, the Sazerac is known as America's first cocktail.

Wild Wednesday: Charlotte Olympia Ophelia Pumps and

Hot Spot

You're the exotic one who makes hearts "sang" and "everythang... groovy". Whether at work or at play, your vibrant, unique style stands out. You find the funkiest stuff wear it like no other. These Charlotte Olympia"Ophelia" pumps (Available at Net-a-Porter) are sure to elicit plenty of admiring glances and cat calls. If they hyena spotted pony hair doesn't get 'em, the hot pink silk covered 5 inch heel and trim just might. Put it all together with a red ankle tie and one inch covered platform, and it makes for a shoe that says you like to keep things exciting. Here's a challenge: wear them with an outfit that's not all black, tan or hot pink.

Another challenge will be to walk straight after your shoes have mesmerized men into buying you a few "Swazi Freezes." From the "Absolut Bartender", this fall-friendly (pun on the word fall) drink combines peach brandy with Capertif (you can subsitute bitters) and Rye Whiskey. It has a smooth, sweet/sour taste, but be prepared for that warm feeling in your chest when you sip this one.

Almost There Thursday: Lovely People Candy and Hendrick's Gin Collins

Purple Reign

Do you know the best thing about Thursdays? They allow you to see the light at the end of the tunnel most people call their work week. These "Candy" pumps by Shoes for Lovely People (available at amazon.com), with their hint of brightness amid a dark backdrop, mirrors your mood today. The sexy black and purple pallette is tre' on-trend for fall footwear and says you're mysterious but playful. However, the 3 inch stacked wooden heel keeps them office appropriate. Before you leave work, swap your slacks for a short (but not too short) skirt, sex up your makeup, and head to the hottest after-work set you can find. Make sure the music's hot because they're so comfy you'll want to party like it's 1999!

Tonight you'll want a drink that has enough kick to make you kick it to the cutie over by the DJ booth. The Blackberry Collins is just for you. This drink combines DeKuyper Blackberry, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water with Hendrick's Gin (the subtle notes of cucumber, rose petal and other botanicals make it the perfect mate for berry-flavored mixers). Dark, strong and sweet... it's the way to go for a late summer's night drink... or date (smile).


P.S.- the S&B team wishes Sherri (HairSugar.blogspot.com) a very happy birthday! With her long legs and 3-inch heel limit, she's the inspiration behind "Almost There Thursdays".

Wild Wednesday: Betsey Johnson Sandals & Sagatiba Cachaca

You've Been Spotted!

Have the past two days made you want to roar? When you step out tonight, there's no better way to free your inner predator than a pair of leopard print sandals. Betsey Johnson's Mackenzie d'Orsay stiletto pumps (available at Nordstrom) say there's no taming you. While the bold print puts your wild side on display, the metallic pink ruffle detail means you're equal parts girl and grrrrrr. Worn with a black wrap dress, ankle pants or another simple-but-sexy outfit of your choosing, this fierce pair of footwear will have suitors falling at your feet.

When the drink offers start pouring in, tell them you want an "Aman Snow Leopard". Conceived by star mixologist, John Gakuru, it combines Sagatiba Cachaca with amaretto. It's topped off with heavy cream and a little rose water to subdue some of the sweetness and garnished with a drizzle of espresso to add some kick. One of these will soothe the savage beast within, but don't have too many, though. It's easy go to from sex kitten to she-creature once all the inhibitions are gone, and nobody wants that.