Lizards and Leopards and Snakes... Oh My!Fashionably speaking, this season is a bit of a free for all. Wanna mix patterns? Go ahead! Clashing colors? Just might work if you're chic enough to pull it off. And then you have mixed-medium footwear, like these Viperfur convertible over the knee boots from Massimo Dogana (available at Gregory's). They have the season-required platform, round toe and (er) embellished heel. And animal print is timeless, right. Plus, haven't our fave fashion mags been advising us to get some snake print in our wardrobes? The red platform and heel DO provide the unexpected shot of color that's so "in" these days. Lastly, over the knee boots are a necessity this year. So what do you say, pimptastic or pulchritudinous?
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?
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!
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.
Red-y for the world
You say "toh-may-to", and they say "to-" eh, doesn't really matter. What you say goes anyway, right? You just wish the after-effects of this weekend's drink fest would obey and go away. You must press on and make it through the day, though, because when the boss is away, underlings slack all day. Besides, it's Monday, so you can get away with being a little groggy- as long as you have on shoes that distract people from that beleaguered look on your face. Walk tall in a pair of high and mighty heels like these Fem-bot-looking platforms from Bruno Frisoni. With a 4.7 inch heel and patent leather accented by elasticized gores, these booties say you don't play (and yet, you're somehow still a riot).
It's been said that a Bloody Mary is a pretty reliable hangover remedy, but that's more a brunch drink than something you'd order at happy hour. Opt instead for a Tomato-Basiltini (image courtesy Intoxicated Zodiac). From the folks at Intoxicated Zodiac (check Scorpio), it says you're the kind of gal who likes flavor but isn't all about the sweet stuff. Have your bartender muddle tomato water, a little sea salt and 3 fresh basil leaves. Then add Prairie Vodka (or other organic vodka with rustic notes) and shake over ice. Tomato water is hard to come by, but be flexible and tip well if your bartender is able to figure something out.
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.