Tuesday Shoesday: Slip-ons

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Did anyone else have a pair of Vans in middle school? Mine were polka dotted (I didn't think I could pull of the checkered ones) and I loved how they could be thrown on with basically anything. So, when slip-ons came back in style the past year or so, I was reminded of those I had from middle school but hesitant to get back into them again. After holding off for a while, I finally found the pair I had been searching for (#1) a pair of suede Vince ones at Nordstrom Rack for under $60 on clearance and instantly was hooked again. They are incredibly comfortable, have a sort of ease about them (no laces!), and just like the sneakers from yesterday's post, make nearly any outfit so much cooler. 

Do you have a pair of slip-ons? I think next I'll try a pair in the ankle style.

Tuesday Shoesday

In this seemingly never-ending hunt for the perfect ankle boot to replace my beloved pair from Target, I have realized a few qualities that I had in the back of my mind when determining whether or not a pair would make the cut. The first importance was that I realized that my foot looks best with an elongated and pointed toe instead of a short and round one. I love the look of a long toe and I had noticed that all of my favorite boots (ex: the leopard chelsea ones) have this feature. Aside from the length of the actual shoe, I appreciate a shoe that has a good quality to it when it comes to ankle boots and not one that is delicate. I like one that looks a little rugged and sort of worker-boot like. Enter, Gap's Chelsea booties. I had gone to the store a few weeks ago and there was the black pair. Someone had returned them and as soon as I tried them on I thought that my endless hunt for these perfect ankle boots had ended. While I didn't end up leaving the store with them in hand (or on my feet...), I know now that in addition to Gap being perfect for all of my go-to items, that their boots are on point, as well.

Also, even though I had been looking for black, I am really loving the grey and brown options, too! What are your favorites? 

Tuesday Shoesday : Golden Goose

I know I've mentioned Golden Goose Deluxe Brand before, but only recently have I began justifying the fact that outfits look cool with the reason being that these sneakers are in them. Golden Goose founded by designers Francesca and Alessandro Gallo's love of art and fashion. The Inverno 14/15 collection explains that these are styles for the confident woman who is running around the skatepark. While that explanation isn't so clearly me at first (you probably would never find me on a skatepark, let's be honest), I do however take a lot of inspiration from the styles worn in that type of environment sometimes. I love how these sneakers remind me of your rocker friends perfectly worn-in kicks and I like to say that if these were in my closet, I'd be instantly cooler. Don't you think? I love the star logo and and subtle gold type. Unfortunately, they're a bit pricey...so for now I'll keep dreaming. Gold star, Golden Goose!

Tuesday Shoesday : J. Crew Flats

Assorted J . Crew flats : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 

I am not a big investor in shoes. While I love, appreciate, and 'dream pin' them, when it comes to actually purchasing shoes, I find them to be such an investment and a big deal. As a result of being on my feet a lot, I go through them quickly and as a result, purchasing good quality shoes always leaves me worrying how quickly they will be in need of repair. As a frequent shopper of Target and Old Navy when in need of a simple shoe for the season, my feet are often left in terrible shape and by the end of the summer, the shoes usually end up being thrown away instead of just a quick repair to keep them looking good for the next season. 

As the weather has already started shifting here in Syracuse with the start of September, I found myself thinking that it may be time to retire my summer gladiator sandals and look for a new fall staple that will actually work all year round--the classic ballerina flat. J. Crew's shoes are always extremely well-made and they are quality shoes that I can feel when I wear them--not to mention come in every pattern and color under the sun. With a gift card that has been in my wallet for a record amount of time, I can't think of a better investment to put them towards than this chic and classic style. I'm leaning toward the perfect milky nude. 

What are your favorite pair of ballerina flats?

Tuesday Shoesday

Nike Roshe Run with Python Skin

Although I have recently been loving tennis shoes outside of the gym (where lets face it, I never step foot in), I think that the start of a new school year has me thinking about and searching for unique styles more than I had before. In elementary school, a new pair of tennis shoes was always such the signifier of a new year of classes, and seeing so many sported around campus already reminded me to look for one of my favorite pairs at the moment.

My faux snakeskin H&M tennis shoes opened up my eyes to options aside from the neon, warn-out Nike's that I associated with tennis shoes of all kinds, and seeing these customized Nike Roshe Runs with python had me searching for retailers all over the Internet. With a 4-digit price tag, they are way out of budget, but with a buttery creme body, perfectly solid black swoosh and sleek shape, they are worth taking note of and keeping on file. 

Check out a few of my other favorite options below! Most are pretty average priced, but if you're looking for something a little luxe (but not quite the python Roshe's) Golden Goose (#6) makes some amazing options that have an original take on a classic. 

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Tuesday Shoesday

Photos via Zara

Do you ever get surprised at pieces that you find yourself drawn to sometimes? For me, when I first  viewed the Chanel Autumn/Winter 2014 collection this past February, I was more interested in the supermarket set-up than I was the actual collection. However, as the months have gone by and the trends are beginning to creep in, I have definitely been affected and been drawn to the trainers with multiple fabric and texture combinations in the Chanel show that Zara has clearly been inspired from in these images. Using pink not so saccharinely has been seen for a while on the runways now, but I really love how these trainers are combined with such a dark black and almost tweed-like fabric so reminiscent of Chanel. And, with my new found love of sneakers, it looks like these may be finding themselves in my closet come fall.

Are you all still loving a fun tennis shoe or sticking to classic styles?

Tuesday Shoesday : Kitty & Co.

All kitty flats from Charlotte Olympia

Charlotte Olympia has been a favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. The whimsical designs of her shoes and accessories always have the perfect combination of fantasy and luxurious sophistication. On my rather long lust-worthy shoes, Charlotte's 'kitty' flats are a favorite contestant. In visiting their site recently for a bit of inspiration, I came across their Kitty & Co. collection. Kitty & Co. is limited edition collection of theirs that bring their classic kitties to an animated style. From pouts to parties to love and hippies, there is a kitty for every attitude and girl who wears them. As cute as they are, though, I admit I still have my eye on the classic black velvet version.

Which is your favorite?

Tuesday Shoesday : Currently Coveting

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I know that we are supposed to be living in the present, but with all of the fall fashions starting to creep into stores, it's hard not to think about dressing for fall--especially in the footwear department. The last time that I sported slip-ons was middle school with spotted Vans (black and white, of course). However, these slip-ons featuring luxe fabrics and materials such as leathers and faux fur, and with detailed stitch work, prove to be the much more stylish relative. Now, which to choose?

Tuesday Shoesday

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If you've been following 85 Dresses for a while, you know that I am every bit a color and pattern type of gal. So, when it came to shoes, I noticed that most of my footwear is the same in that I have nearly every color and pattern present, but with great styles in neutrals, there weren't very many go-to options. For me, if it's going to be neutral, the shape has to be interesting and fun to wear--not to mention, look good in my closet, too! These four options above fit those requirements...even if one of them has a bit of a snakeskin pattern on it ;) (#4)

How are the neutrals in your closet? Stacked up or lacking?

*Sorry for the poor photoshop in the white heel!*

Tuesday Shoesday

I've had a slight obsession with the Miu Miu crystal heel pieces ever since I first saw them. However, with their prices nearing the thousand dollar range, they are out of the question for now. While there have been plenty of 'inspired-by' pieces since the Miu Miu version first emerged, I haven't found a pair that have done the original justice--until now. I stopped into Urban Outfitters last week and like a typical magpie, was immediately attracted to the jeweled heel version by one of Urban's brands, Cooperative. Comfortable, dainty--but sturdy enough, sleek, and obviously pretty, this pair had a much more budget-friendly price ($58) and would allow me to have a bit of that Miu Miu style, without the designer price. Bonus reason? This pair has a whole additional row of crystals. Sparkle much? I may need to venture to Urban and actually pick them up-they're definitely a great shoe for the upcoming holiday season!

What do you think about the Cooperative Jeweled Heel? Would you still save up for the original?

Tuesday Shoesday

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This week's Tuesday Shoesday feature is clearly themed for the Halloweek. Instead of plain orange or black footwear, with Halloween being all about whimsy and costume, I immedietly went to the queen of whimsical footwear in my opinion--Charlotte Dellal and her shoes for Charlotte Olympia. Everyone has their list of designers that they would purchase from if money was no option, and for me, Charlotte Olympia's shoes definitely find their way onto that list. Her shoes are works of art, expertly constructed, and have that amazing sense of whimsy that sometimes fashion forgets about. Her Halloween themed pieces above are perfect and are just as blatantly seasonal (#3) or as subdued (#4) as you would like. She even updated the classic 'kitty' flat to fit the holiday by adding fangs and reddish eyes to replace the typically sweet style of the original. Incredible pieces do come at a cost, however, and for wearability factor alone, I may shift more towards the boots (incredible!) or the spiderweb flats. Both are incredible versatile and perfect for fall and winter to add a bit of edge with the subtle web detailing that is the Charlotte Olympia signature. 

Which is your favorite? Would you update your footwear for Halloween?

Tuesday Shoesday

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Sadly, my beloved ankle boots from Target are soon going to need to be replaced. With a few holes, flattened heel, and faded suede, as much as I love them, it's time to step it up a notch with a pair that will last longer than a year. I am very particular when it comes to my black heeled ankle boots. They have to be tall enough to give a boost to any regular look, but comfortable enough to wear daily--as I often do with my current pair. Right now, I am really loving a chunky heel, as you can tell from the pieces I pulled above. 

Which are your favorite?

Tuesday Shoesday

photo via Payless 

Let me tell you, kitten heels are so not my thing. I find them awkward, meant for older women, and while the name is cute, the style never really is. However, putting my feelings towards kitten heels aside, I absolutely fell in love with these Christian Siriano Galina Smoking Loafers. Leopard anything is one of my obsessions, and while I have a pair of leopard boots, I needed a style of footwear that was able to go with more dresses. These smoking loafers are perfect in so many ways. The leopard material is fabric, not printed, so the faux leopard hair creates a luxe appearance, the overall shape is delicate, and the velvet kitten heel gives you the feeling of heels, without all of the aching that comes with wearing them during the duration of a day. I've already paired these with everything from a head to toe denim look to pattern mixing with a bit of plaid. They have the ideal qualities to work with anything. While I may still be a little skeptical about completely devoting myself to kitten heels, these are certainly my new love for fall.

What are your thoughts on kitten heels? How would you style the Galina Smoking Loafers? 

Tuesday Shoesday

Do you ever see advertisements that always make you happy, but never really think of the company or brand? For me, that brand is Clarks Originals. While I always thought of Clarks as 'sensible footwear',  the Clarks girl that I saw in the images was a girl that seemed fun, stylish, friendly, and smart. Out of all of their pieces, the Clarks Original desert boots are my favorite. "Inspired by the crepe-soled boots worn by British Officers in World War II", this style was first introduced to me by my mom who has been a fan since her high school days, and when I was scrolling through Asos I came across the two featured above. Clearly, this is a style that has stuck around, and intends to. In two perfect colors (oxblood and wine) and fabrics (patent leather and velvet) for fall and winter, these can serve as a different and equally stylish variation from your everyday ankle boots, and just as stylish as durable, will last forever. 

Which is your favorite from the two featured above? I think I'm leaning towards the velvet wine pair. These are also pretty fun.

Tuesday Shoesday

/ 1. Zara Heels / 2. GoJane Heels / 3. River Island Boots / 4. Boohoo Boots / 5. Alexander Wang Flats

Although my toes are still painted a crisp white, this Labor Day weekend slowly ended yet another summer, and the same question of wearing white shoes after labor day presents itself. While there are certainly winter whites that can be a fresh alternative to dark colors in the upcoming months, there isn't much like a true bright white. When it comes to these bright whites, my personal rule is that sporting them until it is chill enough that you need to grab your coat is acceptable. Today, I chose five pairs of fabulous white footwear ranging in shades, brightness, texture, and style to fill your footwear fancy. Lately I have been really obsessed with the style on the Zara pair (1) where the front cap comes up a little higher than usual on the foot. They are a bit awkward, and I find that intriguing and unique.

Will you wear white shoes after labor day? I hope everyone had a great long weekend! 

Which is your favorite pair from the assortment above?

Tuesday Shoesday

So, remember how I have been ranting about how my beloved Steve Madden shoes don't fit anymore? What used to be my go-to pair of fancy casual shoes seems to have lately been replaced by my Zara metallic t-straps. Well, today I found a perfect alternative to ensure that I'll get back on that kind of footwear in no time. These 3.1 Phillip Lim 'Vincent Ankle Strap Mules' fit that description of 'fancy casual' in so many ways. With a heel height that is ideal for boyfriend jeans and flirty minis, open toe to show off your polished pedicure, and shiny golden straps and heels for an interesting add-on, my closet would surely be honored by the addition of these lust-worthy shoes.

Do you have a pair of shoes in your closet that need replacing? I'm also still on the hunt for an amazing pair of loafers. Any suggestions?

Tuesday Shoesday-Pointed Pumps

/ 1. Zara / 2. Asos / 3. NastyGal / 4. Valentino /

I used to avoid pointed shoes of any sort. Regardless of if they were flats, heels, sandals, or boots, they always seemed either too severe or mature for my taste. Over the past season or so, I have realized that I couldn't have been more wrong. Sure, there are always the styles that stay true to the look I had been avoiding, but lately, pointed toe shoes are the style that has been growing in my wardrobe. After all, I purchased three (!) pairs this summer. The Valentino 'Rockstud' is on my ultimate dream wish-list, and the luxe green pair above (4.) is unique and anything but severe and mature. Otherwise, the collage above is a compilation of four fairly affordable pointed pumps from around the web that I found inspiring for various qualities. Oddly, they all have a sort of fall and autumn feel to them. I guess my subconscious is craving fall just as much as I am.

What are your thoughts on pointed pumps? What about pointed shoes in general?

Tuesday Shoesday

If you for some reason haven't been up-to-date on fashion happenings, I am here to let you know that Club Monaco has finally created a shoe collection. Just like their incredible ability to "mix fashion must-haves with timeless classics" when it comes to their clothes, their shoes have a similar feel and style to them. If you're looking for statement-making shoes, though, these are not them. These pieces are designed to be those perfect staples in your wardrobe that you will go for time and time again. With my new-found love for ankle strapped shoes of any kind, it was these Casey Leopard Calf Hair Sandals  that are my favorite from the new collection. Sometimes, just a peek of leopard from the back or the ankles is enough to make all of the difference in a simple look.

What do you think of Club Monaco's new shoe collection? You can view each style and pair here

Tuesday Shoesday

I have long praised my love of a fabulous pair of blue shoes. When I came across the pair for this week's Tuesday Shoesday feature from Shop Sosie, I knew they were a winner. They are every bit summery like a classic checkered picnic blanket or table, and I love how geometric they are and all of the straps near the front. Oddly enough, they immediately reminded me of the Kate Spade Saturday dress on the left. With it's painterly abstract plaid and fun strappy back, this pairing is whimsically similar. I'd love to see what they would look like paired together. Too crazy or pattern perfection?

What do you think?

Tuesday Shoesday

Loeffler Randall has been a brand that I always keep a watch on. I have always been particularly fond of their ankle boots and flats, but never really took notice of their heel selections until recently. The company defines its style as a "mix of refined sophistication and downtown cool" and if you're familiar with their products, I would say that their definition is pretty spot-on. I used to have a strong love of scalloped detailing. I thought that my love of the feminine curved edges had left but upon seeing these Loeffler Randall Reina Kitten Heel Sandals, I remember why I loved them. Mainly I appreciate how they seem to be a more sophisticated version of scalloped edges that I have worn in the past. With their slightly abstracted scallops (more wavy and spread out), perfect not- too-short kitten heels, and dainty ankle straps, these heel sandals can be great for a day when you want to get a bit more dressed than usual, but without killing your soles.