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Thursday, September 15, 2011

Almost There Thursday: Charlotte Olympia Verity Kitten Heel Pumps

 

Smooches!

 

Charlotte Olympia Verity Pump ShoesNBooze

New York Fashion Week ends today, and whether you attended the shows physically or vicariously, you’re sure to be in a bit of a head spin… so much so, that you need a break from sky high stilettos. Good thing ladylike kitten heels are one of this Fall’s biggest trends. Say goodbye to the New York shows and hello to the London ones with a big, red-lipped kiss. Rather, let your toes do the smooching in these Verity Pumps by Charlotte Olympia (available at Kirna Zabete for $829). It’s flirty 3.3 inch heel makes it comfy enough for party hopping, and the pointed toe gives it a bit of formality. However, the crystal accented lip clip, felt material and emerald color make it unconventionally fun.

Voli-BlushingBerry Shoes N Booze

Now that you’ve spent the last 7 days watching waif-ish women walk the runway and size 2 celebrities on the red carpet, if you’re anything like me you’re counting calories. Don’t let that stop you from enjoying a good drink, though. Opt for a skinny cocktail, like Blushing Berry featuring Voli Light Vodka (this vodka has 25%- 40% less calories than many other popular vodkas).

Recipe

· 2 oz Voli Raspberry Cocoa

· ½ oz raspberry liqueur

· Regular or diet cranberry juice

Method: Build ingredients over ice and stir.

Just because it’s low in calories doesn’t mean it’s low in alcohol. Don’t overdo it with this cocoaliscious berry concoction, or else your real lips might pucker up to the wrong person.

 

Shoes Clues: Style Tips from Alexandre Birman

 

Alexandre Birman E Latin AmericaA 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.

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S&B: What about for a job interview?

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

Alexandre Birman Shoe w mini ShoesNBooze

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

Alexandre Birman w Black pump ShoesNBooze

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.

Alexandre Birman w Ankle Boot ShoesNBooze

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.

Alexandre Birman w Cutout Bootie ShoesNBooze

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

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Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Shoe Review: Nine West Abalene

 

Creative Loafing

Not long ago, a box arrived at my door containing a complimentary box of Nine West Abalene high heeled loafers. I’d been asked to style them into a look and then review them on twitter. Granted, I thought I’d be receiving an olive green oxford, so a gray loafer was a challenge (especially since I rarely wear shoes in sensible hues). Still I gave it a go…

Jacket: Thrift store find given to me by Enovia of Accessory Remix, Skirt: Kimichi Blue, Necklace from Sociallite Accessories.

The Verdict: Thanks to serious foot bed cushioning, they were incredibly comfortable. If you’re a teacher or work a job that requires a lot of standing or walking, I strongly suggest them. High heeled loafers are a huge trend this fall, and they’re not just for the office anymore. This pair is not only chic, but also versatile… they work as well with skinny jeans and a blazer as they do with slacks or a pencil skirt.  My only qualms… and they’re really small and very personal: I’m not a fan of the color (they do have a navy blue that I like, though), and I wish the heel was a half inch higher (Abalene has a 4 1/2 inch heel and 1 inch platform). All in all, they’re well worth the $89 price tag. Oh, here it is in Navy:

Nine West Abalene ShoesNBooze

The Well Heeled Society also reviewed the Abalene. Check out the writer’s opinions HERE.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Shoe View: NYFW Spring 2012- Alice + Olivia, Betsey Johnson

 

Alice + Olivia

Alice-Olivia Spring 2012 Shoes ShoesNBooze

Alice-Olivia Spring 2012 Gold Shoes ShoesNBooze

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alice-Olivia Spring 2012 Platforms ShoesNBooze

Alice-Olivia Spring 2012 Cork Platforms ShoesNBooze

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alice + Olivia is known for its ability to inject playful sophistication into easy-to-wear apparel. The brand launched its shoe collection this year, but Spring 2012 represents its first complete line. The shoes presented, like the clothes, were fun and varied in style, but managed not to go too far over the top. There were pumps and sandals with wedge and stiletto heels in various vivid hues. My favorites? The candy colored wedge sandals.

*Images via WWD.com and Elle.com 

 

Betsey Johnson

Betsey Johnson Spring 2012 boot ShoesNBooze

 

Betsey Johnson Spring 2012 Sandal ShoesNBooze

Betsey Johnson Spring 2012 Bootie ShoesNBooze

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Betsey Johnson  has a tendency to toy with tutus, tulle and prom queen themes. For Spring 2012, though, she pushed the buck a bit further with her whimsical T&A themed collection. Body-hugging  bra top dresses, sparkly jumpsuits and cigarette pants were paired with baby-doll shoes and lace up booties- all on pole-worthy platforms. Notwithstanding their “working” girl inspirations, the shoes were still more party than prostitute. I’m especially excited about the work boots with glittery platforms.

*Images via WWD.com