Shoes Clues: The Best Styles for Stress-free Travel

Stay Fly on the Fly

'Tis the season to be trippin' (literally for many,  mentally for some), and many of us will be hitting the road for the various holidays between now and the end of the year. Whether you're heading home or escaping it, one thing is certain- you do NOT need any extra stress while traveling. And we do NOT need to see ONE MORE PERSON holding up the security line at the airport because they're fumbling with boots or shoelaces. Also, who else is over seeing socks + pool slides worn as fashion? There are a few who can still make it look good, but we'd like everyone else to give it a rest. OK. Rant over. Now for our suggested style solutions. Think comfort, convenience AND cute/cool factor.

Amusing Mules

Just when we thought furry mules were starting to look a little tired, United Nude introduced one in a commanding shade of blue with a contrasting low, architectural heel (buy HERE). Mules get double points because they're not only airport-approved, but also great for those attending gatherings at shoes-off houses. No time (or desire) for a pre-trip pedicure? Here's your chance to experiment with fun socks.

Slip-on Sneakers

Slip-on sneakers are a go-to for us. They're comfortable, versatile and high on our convenience scale. This PVC pair from Melissa has the look of a lace-up flatform with the ease of a slip-on, plus the added bonus of being rain-friendly. Buy HERE.

Smoking Slippers that Shine

There's something about smoking slippers... they exude casual elegance. They say the wearer has class but also a sense of humor- especially if they're bejeweled. Katy Perry Collection's Turner is a dazzling option, especially if you're heading straight from your travels to the dinner table. Buy HERE.

Easy-On-And-Off Oxfords

The original smart shoe, the oxford has long represented sartorial intelligence and utility. This "Walkable" style from Nine West continues that tradition with a pointed cap toe and studs where laces would normally go. Inner elastic inserts mean you can slip them off and back on in a snap. It's available in a number of colors, but this high-shine pewter is our favorite. (Snag a pair HERE. We hear they're on sale.)

Tricked-Out Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots have been around for ages, but they stepped to the forefront of fashion a few years ago and have managed not to fade back to the fringes. The "Hold On" boot from Azalea Wang upgrades the standard style with studs and rhinestones. The elastic gores on the sides make them easy to remove and then put back on with only one hand (though reviews say they have a narrow fit, so consider going a half size above your norm). Snag them at Akira.


All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our team. If you buy something through the links included on our site, SNB may earn a commission.

Shoes Clues: Vday Hearts and Soles we Love

Step in the Name of Love

Is it just us, or does it feel like this winter has been particularly cold–not just in temperature, but also in spirit? Between the current political climate and the amount of vitriol easily accessible on social media and beyond, it feels like we all need a huge hug, right? (We can actually hear Dionne Warwick in our heads right now singing "What the World Needs Now is Love.") It's a good thing Valentine's Day is on it's way with all types of love vibes. While it was once a day embraced by couples and dreaded by singles, V-day has become much more than an excuse for chocolates and cheesy gestures lately (hello, galentines and self love sessions). With that in mind, we've created a guide to shoes for those who would rather wear their hearts on their feet than their sleeves. Some of them even cost less than $100! Whether your February 14th will be a sultry V-day, a supportive we-day or a sweet me-day, we've got you covered.

You know we're loving the new white-shoes-whenever rule in fashion. So how could we not be smitten with these Bethany pumps by Charlotte Olympia with their red heart-accented toes? With a simple half-D'orsay silhouette and slender stiletto heels, these shoes more versatile than you think. Try them with a simple, but slinky black midi dress or add edge with jeans, a tee and a biker jacket. Available for $690 HERE.

Raise your hand if you loved those Saint Laurent pumps with heels sculpted into brand's iconic logo. Aldo's Cupidd pump gives us a similar vibe, but doesn't give us the same level of financial angst. Heading out for a wild girl's night? This fierce red shoe is for you... Seriously, you're literally walking on hearts in this pump. Imagine the witty banter this heel will inspire. Available for $100 at Aldo.

Meeting your crew for an insta-worthy night of dinner and drinks (#sqadgoals)? The these fuschia pumps from ZARA will garner plenty of likes with their pop-up hearts. (We see cute shoe and drink pairing pictures in your near future.) They'll look lovely with a flowy dress and add a sweet kick to a pair of camouflage jeans. Available for $79.90 at ZARA.

If your plans include a romantic dinner at a fancy restaurant with "bae", you may want a shoe that's a little more subdued (but still has a whimsical touch). Enter, Kate Spade's Olidah sandal. Its classic ankle-strap silhouette in supple black suede give it a demure feel. The shimmering heart at the back of the ankle say you have a playful (maybe even a bit mischievous) side. Available for $228 at Kate Spade.

Lucky enough to live in warmer climes (or bold enough to rock the socks and sandals trend)? Katy Perry Collections' Hug-and-kiss-themed "The Rosemarie" sandals are for you. The blush (or millennial pink if you're into that thing) tone is full-on feminine, and the red X and O sculpted heels add a fun edge. Available for $149 at here.

We know not every girl loves heels. However, we don't know how any girl could not love this Bentley II boot from Dr. Martens. A tough take on the white boot trend, with spectator styling, Dr. Martens' iconic yellow topstitching and a sweet heart on top, these are the perfect shoes for barhopping. Wanna glam them up some? Wear them with a slip dress or something frilly. Available at Amazon.com. http://amzn.to/2ErNl2Q

Perhaps you're in a playful mood. Well, this Comme des Garcons Play X Converse low-top All Star is for you. Perfect for a picnic in the park, or simply showing your inner child some love, these sweet sneakers are part of Jcrew's special Valentine's Day shop. Get them here for $125.

Love Rules

Love reigns supreme, right? If you agree, you'll surely get a kick out of these pool slides from Vivienne Westwood Anglomania and Melissa. The heart, the crown, the fact that they actually say "Prince Charming" on the insole (though we know he's not a must, right?)... they're, well, charming. Available at ShopMelissa.com for $120.


Remember, we love you with all our hearts (and soles)!

Shoes Clues: 5 Black Shoe Designers to Shop Now

Sole Sistas

Yesterday we covered wine and spirits companies owned by black people, so today we'd be remiss if we didn't let you know about some amazing black shoe designers. Whether your style is conventional or daring and your shoe budget is conservative or considerable, there's a designer who's in step with your preference. This is by no means a comprehensive list. However, these are a few of our favorites.

Marion Ayonote

Popular among celebrities from Kelly Clarkson (which we covered here) to Gabrielle Union, London-based Marion Ayonote creates shoes and bags with timeless, independent women in mind. Her shoes are available at shops around the globe, and shoe prices tend to range from a little over $100 for flats to about $820 for booties. The above pictured "Conqueror" has been spotted on screens and red carpets quite a bit and can be purchased via the company's website. (Oh, and Issa Rae was recently spotted carrying one of her bags.)

Becki Coackley

We paired Becki Coakley's "Tanaia" sandals with a cocktail featuring her One80 Vodka (mentioned in yesterday's list) last spring, and we've been keeping an eye on her shoes since then. Her designs blend classic styling, high-quality leather and modern accents for a timeless look that exudes feminine confidence and uniqueness. Prices range from $407 to $574 and can be purchased here.

Heather Hightower

Feminine, flamboyant and fun, Heather Hightower Miami's shoes are made for the girl who makes an entrance. The brand's owner and designer, Heather, creates her collections with an eye on the trends and her mind on keeping things affordable for her customers. The above pictured "RiRi" sandal retails for $130, and prices top out under $200. Shop here.

Tiannia Barnes

Oklahoma native, Tiannia Barnes actually started her career in IT/ project management. However, having long loved fashion and sketching, she eventually left that industry in pursuit of a career in shoe design. In 2013 she attended shoemaking school in Cleveland, Ohio, where she studied footwear design and pattern development. Not long after, her namesake brand was born. Tiannia still encourages young girls' interest in math and science through her mentoring of S.T.E.M. programs. Tiannia Barnes prices range from $350 for flats to $595 for the above pictured "Jackie" fringe sandal (available here).

Aminah Abdul-Jillil

Professional dancer and shoe designer, Aminah Abdul-Jillil is a favorite among boldfaced names. She's not only toured the world with Janet Jackson and Britney Spears as a backup dancer, but also seen her footwear on the likes of Rihanna and Miss Universe. Her bow pump rose to street style fame (and unfortunately became fodder for the knock-off set). Abdul-Jillil's shoes range in price from $165 for flats (and $185 for the above "Love" sandal) to $385 for crystal-embellished pumps. Shop here.

So, did we miss your favorite designer? Is there someone we need to add to our list? Please feel free to let us know!

*All images courtesy images unless otherwise noted.

Shoes Clues: 6 Comfy, Flat, City Chic Sandals for less than $100

 

A reader recently emailed: “I need your help. Your mission, should you choose to accept it: comfy flats (I walk a lot) that play well with maxi dresses. Sandal-esque (open-toed at the very least) but not too close to the ground (don't want to get street grime all over my tootsies). I need it to be under $100 and black, tan, brown or some crazy color like hot pink.”

Didn’t sound like an impossible mission to me, and I figured there are others out there in the same quandry, so I did some sole searching. I kept in mind that a cute flat for someone who walks a lot should have a bit of support. Here are my picks:

 

Miz Mooz Panthea Sandal from Endless.com-  $99.00

 

Kelly green has been a pretty hot color this season, and this versatile sandal will work well with maxi dresses, midi dresses and minis. It has a low wedge to absorb a bit of long-walk shock and a lightly cushioned footbed. Also, when trying to avoid street grime, a sandal with an actual back is a good idea.

 

Nine West Briteside T-Strap Sandal from Endless.com- $67.99

 

 

Snake print are a good way to go neutral with a bit of pizazz, and the T-trap is a hit this season. This sandal has a low heel that allows it to be dressed up or down, working as well with ankle length jeans as it does with dresses.

 

Dolce Vita Idalia Sandal from Endless.com-  $99.99

 

Tassels turn up the heat on any look, especially when they’re on a quasi-tribal sandal in a metallic color. These Dolce Vita sandals are  cute with shorts, and they’ll look chic peeking out from under your maxi dress when you walk.

 

Melissa Star Sandal from Amazon.com- $59.13

 

Into eco fashion? Then, these Melissa sandals are for you. Not only are they created using sustainable business practices, but they’re just plain adorable. Bright is the new neutral, so their pearlized hot pink color make them a fun accent to almost any look. They also get bonus points for being rain-friendly (if you don’t mind wet toes).

 

Delflex by Dexter McKenna Sandal from Payless- $27.99

 

 

Comfort shoes have come a long way! With its two layer insole- one of memory foam, the other of latex foam- this jeweled sandal is more than just a pretty face. It’ll add a bit of glamour to jeans and a tee, and it’ll also work with a flirty dress on date night.

Naya Sister Sandal from 6pm.com- $66.99

 

Here’s another eco chic choice. If I go into all the ways Naya tries to reduce their carbon footprint, I won’t have room to discuss the cuteness and comfy features of this shoe. However, note that they’re made from vegetable-tanned leather, and the footbed features natural cork for shock absorption. These are great for city slicking, but they also have a retro cool vibe that makes them music fest-friendly.

 

Technorati Tags: Payless shoes,Flat sandals,Eco Friendly shoes,sustainable fashion,Naya Shoes,Miz Mooz shoes,Nine West Shoes,T-Strap sandals,Snakeskin sandals,Snake print sandals,Dolce Vita Sandals,Sandals,Melissa Shoes,Delflex by Dexter sandals,Cute Comfort shoes,Tassel trend
Blogger Labels: Payless shoes,Flat sandals,Eco Friendly shoes,sustainable fashion,Naya Shoes,Miz Mooz shoes,Nine West Shoes,T-Strap sandals,Snakeskin sandals,Snake print sandals,Dolce Vita Sandals,Sandals,Melissa Shoes,Delflex by Dexter sandals,Cute Comfort shoes,Tassel trend

Shoes Clues: Style Tips from Alexandre Birman

 

A few days ago, I attended Alexandre Birman’s Fashion Week event at Saks. While there, I got a few shoe style tips from Brad Goreski (and shared them HERE). I also got to chat with Mr. Birman (shoe groupie moment!) about which of his shoes a woman should wear to give off a particular impression. He delighted in actually walking through his section of the shoe department and showing me his recommendations. I asked him the same questions as Brad, but his answers were quite different. (No, that gorgeous woman holding the mic isn’t me lol. That’s a reporter from E! Latin America)

S&B: Which shoes should a woman wear on a date to let a man know he should bring his A game?

AB: My patent peep toe platform pump with stingray.

S&B: What about for a job interview?

AB: Well it depends on what kind of job. If it’s a job in fashion…

and if it’s something more formal or conservative, a mid heel pump is better.

S&B: Which of your shoes says a woman is looking for fun?

AB: My black ankle boot is really sexy and fun… especially with a skirt or dress that hits right at mid thigh. It has a narrow opening, so it really hugs the leg.

S&B: Lastly, if she wants to catch the eye of a certain guy, but doesn’t want to seem to fussy?

AB: My black cut out bootie.

Sidenote… I really loved the little gift with purchase set.

 

Technorati Tags: Alexandre Birman,Style Tips,Designer shoes,Celebrity Interviews

Shoes Clues: Style Tips from Brad Goreski

 

I recently had a brief shoe chat with celebrity stylist and reality TV star, Brad Goreski during Alexandre Birman’s Fashion Week event at SAKS FIFTH AVENUE. After he complimented me on my makeup (which I did all by myself. Hey now!), I asked him for recommendations on which shoes a woman should wear in certain situations to get particular results. Mr. “It’s a Brad Brad World” (premiering on BRAVO in 2012) currently dresses Jessica Alba, a frequent best dressed lister, so I’d say he knows a thing or two.

S&B: What should a woman wear to let a date know he’d better bring his A game?

Brad: A seriously high platform with spikes. (I took creative license and pictured the Ruthie Davis Spikette Deluxe here because Alexandre Birman didn’t do a spiked platform this season)

S&B: And if she’s going to a job interview?

Brad: A pump with personality… like something in a patent or snakeskin. Go with a twist on a classic. (Like this burgundy python number by Alexandre Birman- available at SAKS)

S&B: What about a shoe that says she’s looking for fun?

Brad: Color! Neons… I saw a turquoise snakeskin loafer around here… (Here they are… Alexandre Birman python loafers)

(S&B sidebar- I think the loafer’s awesome, but if you’re like me and have a high heel habit, maybe go for something like this Jerome C. Rousseau Isy sandal)

S&B: OK, here’s the last question… what should a woman wear to catch the eye of a special guy- but not seem too fussy?

Brad: A sleek ankle boot. Elongate those legs, honey! (I think he’d approve either of these booties from Alexandre Birman.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wondering what brad had on his feet? Here ya go!

Oh… and my makeup… #youcare (subtle silver eye with a candy pink lip… I need to work on my photography skills because you can barely even see my makeup in this picture.)

Technorati Tags: stylist tips,Brad Goreski,Alexandre Birma,Celebrity stylist,celebrity fashion

Shoes Clues: Where to Design your Own Shoes Online

Customizable Chaussures
I’ve recently noticed a number of sites that allow users to design and buy their own shoes (some sites will even allow others to buy the shoes you design, too). Though I haven’t created my own pair yet (but probably will soon), here are a few sites I’ve come across. 

Jen + Kim: You can either select from shoes they’ve already designed (like the CeCe sandal pictured), or choose the color, material and other details to individualize the look. Then contact the company with your request.(Some time ago, S&B featured their Melrose Pump Remember?). Prices start at $465.

Jeff Silverman: This site’s mantra is “You desire it. We make it.” You can shop their collection (including the Birthday Girl, designed by Gala Darling, one of my fave bloggers), customize styles they’ve already designed or upload images and combine aspects of shoes you like to create your own design. Prices start at $100, and if other people buy a shoe you design, you get paid. 

Milk & Honey: Shop their ready to wear collection (which includes the No Place Like Home Pump pictured) or design your own shoes. Start with a classic silhouette and select the color, material, accents and heel height to make a shoe all your own. It’s a little tough to know exactly what your shoe will look like, though, because the display heel height doesn’t change as you modify your design. Prices start around $200

Nina Shoes: If you want to add your own touch to a fancy pair of satin shoes, this is the site for you. You can choose from a variety of colors, add jewels, select a heel height and add other customizations. (I played around and came up with this version of the Electra.) Prices start at $125.


There are plenty more DYO (design your own) shoe sites out there, I’m sure. Have you tried any of them? How was the outcome? I’ll let you know if I end up creating my own wearable masterpiece on any of these websites. 

Technorati Tags: design your own shoes,shoes,fashion,customizable heels

Shoes Clues: Shoe Auction Site- If The Shoe Doesn't Fit

Sole! To the Highest Bidder

What do you do when you have too many shoes? I know... there really is no such thing. However, those who can't use their oven as extra storage space a' la Carrie Bradshaw and who don't have Mariah Carey cash to get shoe rooms built will eventually need to clear space for new shoes. Yes, you could donate them and hope the karma points add up to a financial windfall, or you could have a yard sale and watch skeevy strangers paw all over your Pradas and offer mere pennies in payment for them. However, there's another option: IfTheShoeDoesntFit.com. It's an online shoe auction website that makes it "easy and affordable to sell, swap and shop for shoes" (their words). I checked it out, and it's pretty cool (plus the game on there is addictive). Their fees are lower than a lot of other auction sites, and I think the swap option is unique.

I'm actually doing a bit of purging (and selling) these days- partially to make room for new goodies, and partially to bring in a few more bucks for holiday travels and shopping. I'll be auctioning off a few pairs of my shoes on IfTheShoeDoesntFit.com. So far I've only managed to take pictures of 3 pairs- none of which have been worn more than three times. (Selecting which shoes to let go and then photographing them is hardest part, right?) Clockwise: Unisa ballet flats, BCBG silver wedges, Joey O purple snake embossed sandals.