Almost There Thursday- NYFW Edition: Report Bates Bootie

Starting on the Right Step

It's the first day of New York Fashion Week, and the Big Apple is a ray of sartorial splendor. Whether you're actually visiting Lincoln Center, or checking in online, you're totally caught up in the electricity. Those who are traipsing from show to show (and/or going afterparty-hopping) will definitely want to wear shoes with a comfortable heel height. It's a good thing kitten heels are big for Fall 2010, right? These "Bates" booties by Report (available at zappos.com via myshoes.com), with their cone heel, fold-down shaft and lace-up closure are a good bet for tonight. They speak to this season's military and oxford trends. They also have cone heels, which are extremely popular right now. They'll look great with a variety of looks, too.

Toast the fashion capital with a Brandied Apple this evening. A combination of Apple Brandy and Gravenstein Apple LonjeviTea Kombucha (or other apple tea), it's a great way to knock the edge off a hectic day. The brandy is semi-sweet with a strong kick, and the tea's fresh-from-the-orchard flavor captures the feeling of late Summer. Don't drink too many, though. Brandy is pretty strong stuff, and you'll need your energy- regardless of if it's for reading runway coverage online or for running between soirees.

Sketchual Heeling: Shoe Illustrations by Achraf Amiri

Drawn to Conclusion

These tongue in cheek shoe illustrations by Achraf Amiri speak volumes.

*For the artist's thoughts on popular perfumes and their bottles, check out his blog.

Fun Friday: Kathryn Amberliegh Gladiator Sandals And X-Rated Fusion Cocktails

Bright Heights, Big City

Aren't long weekends the best? This one is bitter sweet, though, because it's the unofficial end of Summer... and the official end of Summer Fridays. Don't let that blow your mood, though. Instead, pay homage to your favorite season in a pair of ultra bright heels like these neon pink patent leather gladiator sandals from Kathryn Amberliegh. The contrast of the dark fabric on the straps reflects the tiny bit of angst you feel at the approach of the cool and cold seasons. Their 4.5 inch heel say you're ready to party, and the lace-up closure at the back says you're not easily undone. 

You're probably getting out of the office early today. That means you can get the party started early. To toast the sunny season, order an X-Rated Summer at the bar this evening. If your bartender doesn't know how to make one, ask him or her to combine X-Rated Fusion Liqueur (premium French vodka and infusions of passion fruit, mango, blood orange and other fruits), watermelon juice, basil leaves, lemon juice and Prosecco. The result will be a sweet, refreshing cocktail perfect for sipping on an outdoor patio while you people watch with your girls. (Yes she DID wear THAT outside). Careful, though... while this drink tastes yummy and innocent (despite its name), keep in mind you're drinking vodka. Too many X-Rated cocktails may lead to an embarrassing R-rated night if you're not careful. 

Shoe News: Brian Atwood's New, Lower-Priced Line B by Brian Atwood

Brian's New Bargain 

His name has become eponymous among celebrities like Rachel Zoe, Beyonce, Victoria Beckham and Cameron Diaz (probably via Rachel Zoe). Those who don't have the cushy budget to buy shoes with commas in the prices (or the hook ups to get sample sale invites) tend to ogle the unique color combinations and details of his designs on our favorite starlets, in the pages of fashion magazines and online via our favorite shoe blogs. However, due to a deal with Jones Apparel Group, the masses will soon be able to buy Brian Atwood shoes. The new line, B by Brian Atwood, set to launch in Fall 2011 (according to WWD), will have more of a downtown vibe and will be priced in the $200-500 range. 

After Carrie Bradshaw sported that studded lavender suede pair in Sex and the City (see the Shoes N Booze post on them), it only makes sense that someone got the bright idea to start a more accessible line. The good news is that this won't be a one-off line (like some other designers have done). Instead, it will have different inspirations and appeal to a different aesthetic, but it will "always have the same core values" as the original brand, said Atwood to WWD. In addition to the sky high heeled for which Atwood is known, the new line will also feature mid heels and flats. I can't wait to see what these shoes will look like!