True Blue
Fall officially began a couple of days ago, and while the thermometer doesn't exactly reflect the change of seasons, your fashion sense does. You may go back to peep toes next week, but at the moment you're all about autumn. Honey, you'll be hot (as in gasping for air and sweating) in tall boots, but haute (as in inspirational) in a pair of open-faced booties, like the these blue Piper ankle skimmers from Lovely People. You're not really into the high-heel hype, so their three inch heel height is definitely your forte. The ruffles are so "this season," as is the color. Plus, the open face means you can do the sans-socks/ stockings look now and then opt for opaque tights once the temperature starts to drop. (We suggest black, gray or an eye popping hue like neon green.) Oh, and lower heels tend to mean the possibility for higher cocktail intake (slimmer chances of taking an ugly tumble).
These shoes have an 80's pop appeal that may transport some of us back to the cartoon-laden days of our childhoods. Smurfs anyone? (Seriously... they definitely have a little Smurfette flair.) That said, order a Smurf (recipe and image courtesy of BlueBuddies.com) at happy hour tonight. It's a fruity-flavored concoction that combines Strawberry Vodka (Stolichnaya Strasberi should do the trick), Blue Curacao, a little lime juice and a bit of lemon/lime soda. If you're one who's into strong drinks, have the bartender use less soda and more vodka. However... be sure to check for blue teeth and tongue frequently. The cute guy who just walked in may dig blue shoes, but a blue you might be a bit much.
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.
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.
Cap it Off
Mother Nature's been pretty trippy lately, giving us summer weather and snow in the same week. It seems her mood has rubbed off on you today, and you're feeling a little outlandish. You can't exactly twirl your glow stick around the office, but you can bring out your inner club kid with electric-hued shoes like these cap toed sling backs from Lanvin (available at Barneys.com). The turquoise and black leopard print with hints of red shows your wild side, yet the black patent cap toe gives them a professional air, and the sturdy wooden platform and 4.9 inch heel add an almost-bohemian flair.
When you leave the office this evening, head to the nearest "underground" spot and ask the bartender for an Electric Lemonade (recipe & image courtesy of outofthefryingpan.com). With it's sweet-but-tart flavor and bright color, this drink says you're in the mood to party. You should be able to drink a few without hangover worries too. If you see a question mark on the bartender's face when you place your order, tell him or her to mix Absolut Citron Vodka, Blue Curacao, sweet & sour mix and lemon/lime soda.
Pretty Puppies!
Many say the the dog of choice for the ultra-femme is a Pomeranian or perhaps a chihuahua. We at S&B recently stumbled across a reason to differ with that opinion. Enter, Mario Bologna's Bulldog pumps (available at Forzieri). The plum color of the patent pumps, combined with the proper plaid trim and the plastic bulldog (with rhinestone collar) accents, makes them playfully prim. The two-tone 4 inch metal stiletto heel adds an unexpected level of funk to the shoe, though. This shoe is a true reflection of your style and mood today. While you're always the perfect lady, you're also full of surprises, aren't you?
Giver your friends a little shocker when they hear you order a Cherry Bitch (excuse your language) tonight at happy hour (image & recipe courtesy of barnonedrinks.com). It's made with currant tea-infused Bulldog Gin, a few cherries, apple juice, a little simple syrup and dash of lime juice, so it doesn't have much bite. Still, enough of them will give you more than a proper buzz, so enjoy it responsibly.
'Snow Stopping You Now!
Mother Nature isn't your friend today if you live in the northeastern or mid-wetstern regions of the US. It's ubearably cold, and there are forecasts of snow. You can't miss work because of a little inclement weather, though. Wave "buh-bye" to the bad weather blahs and slip your feet into a warm, comfy pair of rubber boots. Just make sure they're brightly colored and super stylish, like the 36402 mid-heeled rubber boots from Celine (available and on sale at Zappos.com). The orange accents and classic Celine logo will contrast the snowy, slushy backdrop, and the 3.25 inch heel is low enough to keep your balance, but high enough to let everyone know that cold and snow can't cramp your style.
You'll want something toasty to drink tonight, so whether you brave the weather to visit your favorite bar or hang indoors, let Mike Moore's Vanilla B & B warm you up. This drink was concocted by Vancouver's Mike Moore, and the recipe and images are courtesy of City Food Magazine. (Photo by Heather Goldsworthy) The combination of heated Navan Vanilla Cognac and Benedictine will not only knock of today's chills, but it'll also help quiet that slight cough you seem to have developed.
Here's to The Fucshia!
When the clock showed 12:00 midnight on January 1st, you promised yourself that you'd femme it up a little more in the new year. Yes, you wear heels, lip gloss and a little mascara, but it's time to get girlier! These Nox suede pumps by Betsey Johnson (available at heels.com) are a great start. The fucshia color and flower appliques may scream softy, but the 1/2 inch platform and 4.5 inch stiletto heel say you've also got a little bad ass in ya. 
Tonight at happy hour choose a drink that looks sweet but packs a punch. If made correctly, a Crown of Roses- which blends Crown Royal Whisky and Amoretto with pineapple juice, cranberry juice and a few splashes of Angostura bitters- will do just that. The juices definitely de-fang a little of the whisky's bite, but leave enough of it there to keep you from feeling like a total wuss. (Recipe and image courtesy of CocktailTimes.com)
Stars and Hype
It's your first day back in the office after the holidays. Normally, you'd be bummed, but that goes against your New Year's Resolution to have a positive outlook. Besides, when you looked in the mirror this morning and told yourself you're a star, you believed it. (Resolution #10: use positive affirmations to get closer to your goals.) You're outshining the competition today, and you "pity the fool" who tries to dim your light. Guillaume Hinfray's Kornephoros pumps are the perfect celebration for your celestial vibe. Named after the brightest star in the constellation of Hercules, these handmade detailed leather pumps (from his Bottier collection) are sure to attract attention. The jaded steel color and diamond detailing give them an edge, but it's the narrow, 4 inch metal heel with the mock body piercing detail that provides their true severity.
Shoes such as these call for a drink with lots of kick. The Absolut Black Basil oughtta do the trick. This potent combination of Absolut 100, lemon juice, limoncello, simple syrup and tonic is a bit tart, and the addition of fresh basil leaves gives it a slightly herbal finish. Before your girlfriends try and copy you, be sure to warn them that this isn't one for the weak.
Going Gray
Miss "Lady", what are you made of? Sugar and spice... a little naughty and maybe a few spikes? At first sight, you're straight-laced, classy and a bit conservative. We all know there's more to you than that. You've got a little edge and it shows, especially in these ankle strap patent peep toe pumps from Le Silla. The gray hue, peep toe and ankle strap hint at highbrow style, but the double row of pyramid studs on the heel say there's a little nonconformist in you yet.
As I'm sure you know, it's Fashion Week in New York. Whether you're in the Big Apple or not, toast the occasion with a "Lady of the Evening" (image courtesy of Imperia). It's served at the Bryant Park Hotel's Cellar Bar for $25, but you may be able to score one at your area's swankiest spot. Just let the bartender know it's a standard martini made with Imperia Vodka and a cucumber and caviar float.
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".
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.
The Brown of Music
Strand of pearls? Check! Nails painted a polite, neutral shade? Check! No one can tell you that you're not a lady. When you hit the bar tonight, you'll no doubt have on a pretty prim pair of pumps. Not sure which ones to wear? These bejeweled peep toed pretties from Giuseppe Zanotti (available at Neiman Marcus) scream refined femininity. Luxe crocodile-embossed leather will cradle your foot in buttery softness, and a cluster of jewels accenting the toe adds a little extra allure. They don't scream for attention, but ladies know it's better to be noticed than to attract stares, right?
Just be sure that while you sit atop your barstool with your ankles properly crossed (right over left, of course), you sip on something that's as sweet and sedate as you are. A cultured lady always goes for something classical, so opt for a "Mozart". Made simply by combining vodka (I suggest Chopin if you want to keep the theme going) with chocolate liqueur (Godiva, no doubt). I'm sure you'll remember to sip slowly so as not to overdo it. A heavy buzz is never becoming.
Green Chi
Though you may be excited that the weekend's arrived, there's something very calming about leaving the office on a Friday evening. It's as if you can feel the tension leave your shoulders as you shut down your computer, and the oxygen seems to flow more freely through your lungs once you step into two days of freedom. Now that you've re-centered, do a little foot feng shui. Paint the town red in a pair of green shoes. Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti's patent strappy stiletto sandals (available at eLuxury.com) are an eye catching way to say you've found your chi. If the symmetrical pattern of multiple straps with enamel buckles doesn't express your inner equilibrium, walking steadily on the 5 inch stiletto heel will prove you've got a strong sense of balance. They'll look great with fitted denim bermuda shorts or a sexy shirtdress.
Keep the good vibes flowing, and order a Zen Buddha at your bar of choice (get extra karma points for tipping generously). One of Zen Liqueur's signature cocktails, it's a combination of SKYY Citrus Vodka, orange juice, Blue Curacao and Zen Green Tea Liqueur. The first sip of this stuff is sweet salvation, and by the end of your drink you'll be one with all that is good in the world. Don't overdo it, though because too much off a good thing can easily turn into bad news when you're dealing with liquor.
Orange You Glad?
One more day left in the work week- Woo Hoo! Feet a little tired from sporting stilettos? Give your toes a break from their woes, and throw on a pair of low heels. This can be a tough shoe group to pull off, but that's what "Almost There Thursday" is all about. This week, try some playful peep toed pumps, like "Compliments of the Chef" from Seychelles (available on Zappos.com). The 2.5 inch heel on this orange suede pump will keep you comfy, and the peek-a-boo straps on the side add a little zest.
Lower heels mean higher voltage drinks. Run or skip to the bar (because your feet are so happy), and ask for a blood orange cosmopolitan. Make sure you ask the bartender to mix a little extra Ketel One Vodka with the Triple Sec, lime juice and blood orange juice. If they don't have blood orange juice, regular should suffice... it just won't match your shoes as well.
Croc and Roll (Reader Request)
In perfect timing for a "Wild Wednesday" post (which is always about animal print or exotic skin shoes), Shoe Smitten sent in a picture of her Donald J Pliner "Gisa" Sandals (pictured right and available at Amazon.com) with a request for a drink pairing. These chestnut colored croc-look cuties have a utilitarian hippie feel. Yet, the four inch heel, rubber sole and pairing of suede with embossed leather make them at once sultry and sturdy. A woman who wears these is versatile and maybe a little unpredictable at times... and now that the first half of the work week is over, let the surprises ensue.
Get the party started with a "halfcast Russian". A creamy mixture of Van Gogh Vodka (or any other you prefer), coffee liqueur and cappuccino, it'll definitely give you the boost you need to get through the rest of the week. Go easy on this sauce, though because no one likes a bar busy body.
Take a Bow 
You're the fun, flirty one in your group, preferring floaty dresses to pencil skirts and pops of color over neutral tones. No shade flaunts your femininity and flair the way fuchsia does, so before you head to happy hour slip on this pair of Missoni platform peep toed pumps (available at DJ Premium). Made from the softest suede and sporting a 4- inch heel with a huge Missoni signature knit bow, these slingbacks are as precious as they are sexy. 
Sugary pieces of foot candy such as these call for a drink that's just as sweet. I suggest nibbling the corner of your bottom lip and then asking your bartender for a "pink perfection." Recommended by my personal mixologist, Lyani Powers, it calls for Hendricks Gin (or any high quality brand) mixed with apricot brandy, lemon juice, grenadine and sugar syrup. Remember to sip responsibly, though, because overdoing it can lead to spills on your impossible-to-clean shoes.
Let's go Crazy
You've made it halfway through the week without losing it, so you've earned the right to let your hair down and let it all hang out for a night. Strut your stuff and show off your wild side with a pair of delectable Dolce & Gabbana strappy snakeskin high heeled sandals (available at eLuxury.com). With a 4.5" stacked wooden heel and thin straps in colors galore, they're a sexy way to put your toes on show. These showstoppers are surprisingly versatile, though, so they'll go with everything from your most demure khaki pencil skirt to your hottest wear-if-you-dare mini. 
Know this: you can't don fierce footwear and sip a corny cocktail. Opt instead for something with a little bite. The Purple Hooter- which mixes vodka with De Kuyper raspberry liquor and a little lime juice- will not only get a giggle when you order it, but will also put you in party mode. It doesn't hurt that it kinda matches your shoes too.
Made You Blush
Nothing says pretty like a pair of pink pumps. Remember, though, cute doesn't have to be "kiddie". The 4 inch heel, iridescent metallic finish, thin instep strap and rhinestone button detail give Hale Bob's "Billie" mary jane peep toed pumps (from Shoes.com) the proper mix of sugar and spice. Perfect with your favorite jeans and tank or slinky summer dress, they say "I'm a lady in the streets, but I keep my shoes on in the boudoir." When you saunter up to the bar in these sweet stilettos, though, make sure you smile, bat your lashes and say please as you order the most scrumptious cocktail your mind can muster.
Sipping a sweet "Maiden's Blush" will give your look the cocktail complement it needs and your tongue the polite greeting it deserves. According to the mix-meisters at TopCocktailRecipes.com, this dulcet drink calls for gin (I recommend Bulldog brand), grenadine, Triple Sec and a dash of lemon juice. A word to the wise... gin can sneak up on you, especially when you can't really taste it. Know your limit, because no matter how prim your shoes, there's nothing ladylike about slurred speech and stumbling.
Red, White & New
It's officially Summertime, and since a holiday weekend is approaching, I'd say for most of us the living is easy. Whether you're headed to a Fourth of July backyard bbq or out for a night on the town to celebrate Independence Day, these adorably girlish Betsey Johnson "Molly" peep (avail. at endless.com)toes are a fashionable, yet relatively comfortable way to enjoy the festivities. The thick wooden 4.5 inch high heel and sturdy 1.5 inch platform will keep you balanced, and the pretty polka dot bow adds just a touch of innocence. When you wear shoes as summery and feminine as these, be sure to ask the bartender for a drink that's just as fun.
My suggestion is the Rangpur Strawberry Crush. From the minds of the mixologists at bar.com, this cocktail combines the smooth bite of Tanqueray Rangpur Gin with the succulent sweetness of fresh strawberries and fizzy tickle of lemon/lime soda. Pop an American Flag stirrer in there, and you're as patriotic as apple pie. (I do find it a bit tongue in cheek to drink a british liquor to celebrate the day this country gained independence, but it's all in good fun)
