No Mess Monday: Jeffrey Campbell Dulce Pumps and Martinis

Back to Reality (A.K.A. Back to the Money)

Mondays are hard enough, but returning to the office on one after the holiday break is just brutal. Here's the good news though (especially if you're a freelancer like me), you can start to recoup some of the cash you spent or missed during the holidays. In honor of speaking your windfall into existence, walking your talk and the saying that shoes speak louder than words, rock this money-print Dulce Pump by Jeffrey Campbell today. Though it's classically styled, the print may make it a no-go for more conservative offices. However, it's approved for happy hour no matter where you work. The 4-inch heel means you should probably secure a bar stool early.

You know how there are all those memes of Leonardo DiCaprio holding the martini glass (whether from Gatsby or Wolf)? There's a reason for that... something about a martini says "money." It's also one of the few things strong enough to cure the Monday blues. Here's a recipe for a novel take on the classic cocktail:

FORDS 50/50 MARTINI

INGREDIENTS:

1½ oz Fords Gin

1½ oz Dolin Dry Vermouth

1 dash Regan’s Orange Bitters

1 lemon twist, for garnish

METHOD:

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice and stir for 40 revolutions. Strain over rocks into a chilled coup glass. Garnish with lemon twist.

Outfit Idea: 

Thall Shalt Get Her Own Money Tee: available at teesinthetrap.com 

ASOS Wide Leg Crepe Pants: available at asos.com
Tulle Open Front Metallic Cardigan: available at Piperlime.com
Mini City Bag: available at zara.com

Fine Print: all courtesy images

Wild Wednesday: Jen & Kim Melrose Pumps and Samurai Cocktails

Heelin' & Tealin'

Some may call you a control freak. Others call you crazy. You may be a little of both, but you basically want things done your way (the fun way). We understand, and therefore dedicate this Jen & Kim Melrose pump to you. The design is pretty simple- a round toe, 4.5 inch heel and half inch platform. Yet, they're bright, fun and a little funky. Here's the kicker- (wait for it) they're customizable! You can go to the website, pick a design and then choose your material and color. They even let you do the heel and platform in a different color if you'd like. This teal lizard pump just happens to be one of our favorites.

Making (er customizing) your own shoes is hard work. Relieve tension this evening with a Samurai (cool color and name! Recipe and image courtesy of CocktailAtlas.com). Tell the bartender to combine Marie Brizard Charleston Follies (or passion fruit liqueur), Ginjo Shirataka (sake), Blue Curacao, a little lime juice and a dash of mint liqueur. The result will be a sweet concoction that seems harmless but will easily sneak up on you. That means a little restraint will go a long way in avoiding the morning Judo Chop of a headache that comes from over indulging.

Fun Friday: Brian Atwood Jeweld Pumps & Grey Goose Starlight Cocktails

Twinkle, Little Star

It's been said that you're the life of the party, a diva, a character and a gem. Some have even whispered that your over-the-t0p personality borders on being too much. That doesn't bother you, though. You revel in your rock star personality (and tendencies). No matter what the calendar says, everyday is Friday to you. Someone like you must've been on Brian Atwood's mind when he designed these jeweled pumps. The hidden platform, almond toe and 5 inch stiletto heel are all simple enough, but the rainbow of tiny jewels make them impossible to miss (just like you.) They also fall right in line with the disco queen theme that's taken over fashion lately. If this shoe's for you, we don't need to tell you what to wear with it, but we'll suggest a simple party frock anyway.

What's a self-respecting star without her signature cocktail? And it (absolutely) MUST be made from ingredients that are tough to find, right? Well... you can call the Grey Goose Starlight your liquid costar. It's sweet, tangy and severely intoxicating (yes, we're still talking about the drink, not you.) Once you've got the bartender under your spell, tell him or her to mix Grey Goose Vodka, maraschino, POM Wonderful, passionfruit syrup and a little white grapefruit juice. Then, work your magic on the cutie at the other end of the bar... he'll have the bartender put your drinks on his tab. Just don't get greedy and drink too much... You may have a rock star personality, but you don't have the budget for Betty Ford.

Almost There Thursday: A.Testoni Pumps & Claret Cups

If You're Happy, then Bordeaux It

It's been a week since the "ball dropped," and you're still sticking to your resolution of spicing things up. Not one for stilettos or skyscraper heels, you tend to stick to more sensible, office-friendly options. That doesn't mean you can't live a little, though. Pick a classic style with fun embellishments, like these pumps from A.Testoni. The heel height, tassels and Bordeaux color make them conservative, but the bare toe decollete they display and studs give them an unexpected hint of sexiness. They might not work for parties, but their great for a highbrow happy hour.

When you're at said happy hour, you can go the simple route and order a glass of Bordeaux, or you can make it a little more interesting and ask for a Claret Cup (recipe and image courtesy of Esquire). While there are numerous recipes available, our favorite is the one that mixes red Bordeaux with a splash of sherry, a little Grand Marnier and a dash of superfine sugar. It'll have a little more kick that the simple glass of wine, and it may prove to be a conversation starter (to help you stick to the other resolution of being more social).

Cutesy Tuesday: Betsey Johnson Nox Pumps & Crown Royal Cocktails

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)

Cutesy Tuesday: Angeleigh Anastasio Briana Pumps & Mistletoe Martinis

A Vision in Sugarplum

You've been jaunting to and from holiday soirees since Black Friday and have worn season-inspired clothing to each one. By now you must be tired of red, gold and green, so wow your crowd in something a little sweeter. Channel your inner sugar plum fairy in a pair of pink pumps like Angeleigh Anastasio's Brianas (available at angeleighanastasio.com) . Lace-like detailing plus a magenta and silver color combination equals an almost automatic inclusion on Santa's "nice" list. Yet the 4 inch heel and sorta-sensual Swarovski fur accent add just a little bit of "naughty".

What's a Christmas party without a little mistletoe? Even if you don't have someone to smooch, a Mistletoe Martini (recipe and image courtesy of cocktailatlas.com) is like a sweet kiss for your taste buds. Drink enough of it, and this confectionary cocktail made of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Tanqueray Gin will also have you swooning. Besides, maybe it'll give you the courage to approach the handsome stranger standing in the corner for a dance (and perhaps even a little holiday peck)

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.

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.

Cutesy Tuesday: Giuseppe Zanotti Croc Pumps & Chopin Chocolate Cocktail

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.

Almost There Thursday: Sam Edelman Slingbacks and Goldschlager

Gilty as Charged!

The week's almost over, what shall you wear? A shoe with a heel that's barely there, of course. Sam Edelman's "Nova" (available at shop.com) proves your shoes can be at a low altitude but still high on style. While many think a shoe such as this is better saved for evening soirées, we at S&B say you can easily wear them during the day, especially with ankle-length jeans or pants. The peep toe and slingback make them fine for work (in less conservative environments), but the crackled gold finish and 2.75 inch heel say they're also perfect for play.

Whether you're wearing these sandals to happy hour or the hottest nightspot, you have to order a drink with the "Midas touch". Start with a shot of Goldschlager at your favorite dive bar (don't want everyone to see you drink like a coed), if you dare. If you've never had it, it tastes like Red Hots on acid. Then, at the bar du jour, request a Goldfinger. A combination of Goldschlager, Grand Marnier and ginger ale, it's a sweet, spicy way to kick your summer fun into high gear.

Almost There Thursday: Seychelles Shoes and Ketel One

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.

Cutesy Tuesday: Hale Bob High Heels and Bulldog Gin

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.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: No Shots in the Dark with Dsquared and Patron

Lovely, Dark and Deep...

Pop quiz: How do you cope with "don't mess with me" days? If you're reading this, my guess is you wear a pair of "don't mess with me" shoes. With gilded "teeth" accenting the shank, platform and 5 and a half inch heel, these DSQUARED2 peep toed pumps say you're a force to be reckoned with. Be aware, though, that with these on your feet, you must have a seeeerious drink in hand...

Patron doesn't play or pull any punches, and the XO Cafe version seems to scream power. This smooth concoction blends fine coffee with "ultra premium" (according to their website) tequila, creating a muy perfecto potable. Please don't take shots with this one. Instead, savor it as you strut around your favorite night spot or eye the sophisticated stranger across the bar .