Wingtip Wednesday: Kabaccha Shoes & Basil Hayden's Cocktails

For the Fellas

Ladies, let the guys in your life know that after numerous requests, Shoes N Booze will now be providing men's content... the plan is for at least once per month. If the fellas prove to be more responsive, we might switch to men's stuff alltogether.

On Your Feet: 

There's something about seeing a man in a good wingtip shoe... it says he's discerning, pays attention to detail and also possesses a spark of daring. Even better if there are unexpected details, like contrasting accents or a colored sole. The yellow sole on this grey brogue by Kabaccha (which recently reached its Kickstarter funding goal) adds a pleasant touch, possibly reflective of a sunny disposition. The kicker, though, is that this Italian-made shoe is way less expensive than it looks. For $180, you're getting a Nappa leather upper, a calf leather lining and handmade craftsmanship. You're also getting a versatile shoe that looks great with jeans and a shirt or a suit... if you've got the guts, it works with chino shorts, as well.

In Your Glass:

If wingtips are on your feet, it only makes sense that whiskey is in your glass. Since it's Wednesday, you might not want to go full tilt and drink yours straight, so try a cocktail that combines a high-quality bourbon with complimenting flavors, like lemon and ginger. This might be a good time to say April Fools! Though I mean everything I've said about the shoes above and the cocktail here, there are no plans to convert this blog to men's content. Nonetheless, here's the recipe for the cocktail (and I hope you ladies will tell the men in your lives about Kabaccha... they've got some really cool color combinations):

Basil Hayden’s® Fool’s Gold

Recipe by Rob Floyd (Los Angeles, CA)

Ingredients:2 parts Basil Hayden’s® Bourbon
3/4 part Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 part Honey
1 slice Fresh Ginger

Preparation:1. Muddle ginger in a mixing glass.
2. Add remaining ingredients with ice and shake.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
4. Garnish with basil leaf.

A Little Something Extra: 

Because we might as well take it all the way, right? This Korbata tie was handmade in Guatemala using traditional techniques that go back hundreds of years. It'll add a natty touch to jeans, a white button up and the wingtips above.

Cutesy Tuesday: D&G Patent Peep Toes & Bulldog Sweet Tails

Sexy Back

Here's the thing about you: you're as confident as you are coy, and you've mastered the art of walking the line between them. The combination is evident in everything about you, especially your fashion sense. That said, today, opt for a pair of shoes that captures the contradiction perfectly. We suggest something like these D&G patent peep toed pumps from the Autumn 09 collection (available at farfetch.com). The peep toe, contrast piping and creamy pink coloring give them classic appeal, while the 4 inch stiletto heel indicates a little risk factor. Then the black lace at the back adds an alluring touch. However, what really sets them off is the almost-playful bow... nice finish!

A woman who wears these shoes may opt for a classic martini, but she may also order something a little more tongue-in-cheek. We're digging the Bulldog Sweet Tail at the moment. Like you and your shoes, it's classy with a kick. Ask your bartender to combine Bulldog Gin with a few mint sprigs, some vanilla beans, a dash of creme de cassis and a little simple syrup. The result will be a cool drink with a little bite, a bit of sweet to cut it, and a smooth finish. Just remember there's nothing smooth or alluring about a drunk, so sip responsibly.

Shoe Score! Top Shelf Style for Well Prices

Treats for my Feet!

The Shoes & Booze team doesn't just sit around lusting over designer shoes. We also shoe shop for sport, and we love a great bargain. We've decided to share our newest goodies with you. (We've kept the brands and locations a secret, but we'll share if you say "pretty please".)

Score #1: $62.98 (OK, these are Betsey Johnson)

Score #2: 10.99
Score #3: $3.00 (Yes, you read that right)

Shoe News/ Wild Wednesday: Omelle's Andre & P.I.N.K. Leprechaun Martinis

After seeing them in ELLE Magazine, Lucky, Footwear News and some of our other go-to glossies, the Shoes & Booze team has been lusting for Omelle shoes for some time. We're happy to share the news that their website's virtual boutique is (finally) active! To celebrate, we're highlighting some of their shoe art for today's Wild Wednesday post.

Gone Fishing

The mercury's been doing a yo-yo move lately, and it's likely been causing you a bit of footwear frustration. Today's a day of fantasy. Pretend it's hot outside, and throw on a pair of super-chic sandals. OK, let's not go that far. Wear some pumps, but fantasize about these Andre sandals by Omelle (available at omelle.com). You may not be one for the outdoors, but this shoe's perch scale upper means you still appreciate its spoils. The 4 inch detailed heel, which we feel imitates both the fish bone structure and hunters' arrows, says you've got some strong instincts of your own. The actual design of the shoe is simultaneously simple and futuristic, so while you've got your eye on the prize, there's still something a bit practical about you. And then there's the neutral color of the shoe... it gives you almost limitles outfit options (except other animal prints).

Today's also St. Patrick's Day, so for we're doing something a little different. Since you probably can't wear the above shoe anyway (unless you're in the warmer parts of the country), we decided to give you a drink you can actually have. Irish drumroll please... It's the P.I.N.K. Leprechaun Martini (recipe & image courtesy of Drinkoftheweek.com)! This sweet, effervescent mixture of P.I.N.K Vodka, Bailey's Irish Cream and green creme de menthe (accented with chocolate syrup) will have Irish eyes smiling (and everyone else's too). Just remember that if you down too many, you'll need the luck o' the Irish to make it home without embarassing yourself in some way. Cheers!

Cutesy Tuesday: Mario Bologna Bulldog Pumps &

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.

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).

Don't Mess With Me Monday/ Shoe News: Duck, Dubya!

Shoes & Boos

We interrupt regularly scheduled images of gorgeous shoes and divine drinks to bring you this video. During President Bush's farewell visit to Iraq, one journalist was clearly displeased with Dubya and decided to show it with his shoes.




Now, here is your normally scheduled program in its entirety.

Nail 'Em!

Got a case of the Mondays? Well, if you were the type, you could do what the guy did in Iraq. You love your shoes too much for that, though, and the heels you wear would get you locked up for wielding a deadly weapon. Still, you can fantasize about flinging your Maison Martin Margiela nail heeled booties (MaisonMartinMargiela.com for details) at your backstabbing boss. The fact that you'd wear 4 inch nail of a heel means there's something a bit rigid and intimdating, but the dark brown color and simple styling of the rest of your shoe says you're also reliable. Translation: people should tread lightly in your presence and give you space to work your magic (because you make miracles happen, right?). Oh, and the December issue of ELLE says you'll be right on trend because nuts and bolts are a hit this season.

Celebbrate your having made it through the day without empaling anyone by getting a little hammered. The best way? A rusty nail (photo courtesy of Quamut.com). Have the bartender combine a little Drambuie (or a lot if you prefer a weaker drink) with Macallan (or other incredibly smooth) Scotch, as per the Quamut.com recipe. This isn't your typical girlie drink, so you'll earn points with the fellas when you drink this one. Just don't let them buy you too many, or you may get nailed in a different way at the end of the night.

Don't Mess with Me Monday: Pura Lopez Pumps & Godiva Cocktails

Loafing Around

You've always been a go-getter. Remember high school? You were the one in class who actually did the extra credit, whether your grade really needed improvement or not. It was hard work, but it was nothing compared to what you do now to stay ahead. Admit it, you'd give anything to trade the office and Mac notebook for the classroom and marble ones. Well, you can't go back, but your feet can (sort of) in these sport green Pura Lopez "N253" Pumps (available at Nordstrom). With their penny loafer styling and 4 inch heel, they've got a sexy schoolgirl vibe that's perfect for this season's tailored prep school-inspired looks. (Check out the October issue of InStyle Magazine to for wardrobe suggestions.)

Take your taste buds back to school, too, with a Pumpernickel Cocktail (Image courtesy of avenuevine.com). Greg Best, star mixologist at Eugnene in Atlanta, combined Brut Champagne (your choice of brand) with Godiva Dark Chocolate Liqueur to make this one. The rich, tickly taste will remind you of the yummy sandwiches you used to eat for lunch. Ah, but it's so much nicer sipping this drink at a nice cafe bar than it was eating your sandwich in a noisy cafeteria, right? Plus, now the cool guys want you.

Wild Wednesdays: Emanuel Ungaro Heels & Corazon Truffle Margarita

Green Peace

It's been one of those weeks so far, huh? It seems like everyone from your boss to your bff has decided to push your buttons, and you've let them all know about it. Now it's time to make amends... extend an olive branch of sorts. It's Fashion Week, though, so let your sartorial choices express your sentiment. Emanuel Ungaro's olive eelskin branch-heeled shoes - with their 5-inch branch shaped heel, peep toe, wide ankle strap and contrasting back zip closure- will show them you're not only sincere but also superbly stylish. Great with bare legs or with this season's opaque tights, they're a foolproof choice for transitioning into fall footwear.

A pair of shoes such as these calls for a cocktail that's just as rustically elegant and indulgent. Sashay into the most luxurious watering hole and see if the bartender can muster up a Truffle Margarita (Image courtesy of Ideas in Food). (He/she probably won't know how, so get your pen and pad ready). From the minds of Ideas in Food's Chefs Aki Kamozawa and H. Alexander Talbot, it combines Corazon Blanco Tequila (or other top shelf substitution) with a splash of maple syrup and truffle oil and is garnished with truffle slices and a lime wedge. This isn't a sweet drink, but simply having it in your hand means you're an intelligent imbiber.

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.

Almost There Thursday: Lovely People Candy and Hendrick's Gin Collins

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".

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.

Fun Friday: Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti Stilettos & Zen Cocktails

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.

Cutesy Tuesday: Georgina Goodman Fortuna & Stolichnaya Vodka

In Mint Condition

After yesterday's storms in NY, today's sunny glow is as refreshing as a one of those new "Thin Mint" Blizzards from Dairy Queen. In the spirit of all things invigorating, embrace your effervescence today, and slip on your most enticing heels. This minty green "Fortuna" sandal by Georgina Goodman (available at ShopBop.com) makes the perfect indulgence. Supple kangaroo leather, wrap-around ankle tie straps, gold accents and a 4 inch mirrored split heel provide a delicate appeal with just a little edge.

Though these shoes are entirely intoxicating on their own, you H-A-V-E to take them out for a twirl and a drink. A mojito or mint julep will easily echo the charm of these heels, but aren't you tired of those already? Try something new, and spring for a Mint Summer Nightini. This one came courtesy of the folks at CocktailTimes and blends (and I quote) Stoli Blackberri, cucumber juice, simple syrup and muddled mint leaves. It's sweet, but crisp and is the ideal drink for an evening such as this.

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.

Fun Friday: Stella McCartney Sandals and Chopin Vodka

Florally Fixated...

It's the last day of the week, and you're feeling quite festive. Treat your feet to a shoe bouquet, like this pair of anklewrap platforms from Stella McCartney (available at Intermix). Floral-printed canvas on a 5 inch pale wood heel says you're a free spirit, but you've got a discriminating eye for style. Great with this summer's maxi dresses, they add a breezy flair to whatever you wear.

In case you didn't know, Stella McCartney designs with the environment in mind. When you wear her shoes, it only makes sense to choose a drink that's equally Earth-friendly. Try the "Heavenly Hibiscus." From the eco-focused folks at American Feast, this drink blends Chopin Vodka (made from naturally grown potatoes), hibiscus syrup, Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, lime juice and hibiscus syrup (made from hibiscus tea). While the syrup adds the purple tint and a floral flavor, it may be hard to find, so if your bartender doesn't have it you can do without.

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.

Wild Wednesday: Donald J Pliner and Van Gogh

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.

Cutesy Tuesday: Missoni Sandals and Hendricks Gin

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.