Stroke of Genius!
The creative energy is flowing abundantly today, and while you still haven't managed to sign up for that ceramics class (as New Year's Resolution #10 suggested), you can still let your artistic side show. An artsy pair of shoes- like these I87039 Madelene booties by Giuseppe Zanotti (available at Endless.com)- will let everyone know the Picasso within you is alive and kicking. The 4 inch high metallic midnight stiletto heel makes them sexy, and the half inch hidden platform keeps them comfy. Yet, it's the multi-colored satin, printed to resemble the strokes of an artist's brush, that shows true genius. 
Continue the creative theme this evening at happy hour by imbibing a drink made with Absinthe, the spirit said to have inspired countless artists and bohemians of yesteryear. An Ol' Lucy Blue Eyes (recipe and image from Lucid Absinthe), will no doubt erase any blue feelings you've accumulated over the past week. It's quite a complicated recipe, but the basics are Stoli Blueberi, Lucid Absinthe, Simple Syrup. Also ask your bartender to add a little lemon juice, Massenez Framboise, gingerbeer and blueberries if possible. Absinthe's flavor is strong and a bit pungent, so be prepared for an unusual taste. The bluberry flavor of the vodka and the berries will help keep it from overpowering everything else, though. Oh, and don't worry, the absinthe that's available these days won't have you halucinating or anything. (For exact measurements and directions, visit Notesonaparty.com.)
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).
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)
Stars and Hype
It's your first day back in the office after the holidays. Normally, you'd be bummed, but that goes against your New Year's Resolution to have a positive outlook. Besides, when you looked in the mirror this morning and told yourself you're a star, you believed it. (Resolution #10: use positive affirmations to get closer to your goals.) You're outshining the competition today, and you "pity the fool" who tries to dim your light. Guillaume Hinfray's Kornephoros pumps are the perfect celebration for your celestial vibe. Named after the brightest star in the constellation of Hercules, these handmade detailed leather pumps (from his Bottier collection) are sure to attract attention. The jaded steel color and diamond detailing give them an edge, but it's the narrow, 4 inch metal heel with the mock body piercing detail that provides their true severity.
Shoes such as these call for a drink with lots of kick. The Absolut Black Basil oughtta do the trick. This potent combination of Absolut 100, lemon juice, limoncello, simple syrup and tonic is a bit tart, and the addition of fresh basil leaves gives it a slightly herbal finish. Before your girlfriends try and copy you, be sure to warn them that this isn't one for the weak.
