Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Have you been saving all summer so you can make an early season splurge? Have you been waiting patiently for that one special item to come along so you can treat yourself? Well I have a treat for you! Feast your eyes on the Manolo Blahnik Contun.  This strappy, sandal can add just the right amount of flare to any ensemble, casual or formal.  They are a serious splurge at $895, one that may have you thinking, "that one pair of shoes is the equivalent of multiple car payments".

Manolo Blahnik

If you aren't ready to take the plunge perhaps I can tempt you with a similarly snazzy splurge that may be more in your price range.  This strappy sandal from Butter is yet again a great way to add that little something extra to your outfit.  This pair is only (yes I'm using the word only to describe a still expensive pair of shoes) $284, but compared to the $895 sticker of the previous pair I think the Butter's are a much more reasonable splurge.

Butter

Summer Whites

There is nothing I like more in the summer time than summer whites! Whether head to toe or one main piece nothing looks more crisp and cool against a summer background.

Keep your summer whites light and airy with fabric and texture, cotton, linen, and crochet are definite must haves.  Also don't be afraid to blend bright whites and off-whites together, because they're in the same color family it still works and creates subtle contrast in your look!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

As we approach the weekend it's only right that I cap off this week's theme, "grown-up girly", with a simple "how to".  This is a look that's easy to pull off and is both casual and chic, not to mention suitable for a number of different occasions.  

The Cure: Refined Recreation

For me, this is a look that is built off of the shoe! Find a pair of your girliest pumps and go from there.  My go to line of girly goodness is Butter and this double bow, open toe pump is perfection.  Since the shoe is a neutral, I'd anchor the look with a pop of color, in this case the shorts, top it with a silk tee that has some kind of simple graphic or a bit of texture and then amp up the playful side of the look with accessories!

Avant Garde Glam

The romantic look of fashion isn't a reflection of the past this season, but of the future with it's more modern approach.  How is this being acheived?  According to InStyle,

"Take classic elements like ruffles, florals, lace, and peplums and apply them to shapes that are lean, geometric, and exaggerated.  It's a gutsy yet glorious idea.  The result is femininity that replaces dainty with drama."

photos courtesy of InStyle

Drama is definite and this is not a look for the faint of heart.  Even for the most daring of divas, one statement piece is all you need.  By combining so many elements into one, there is no need for added accessorizing.   Stick to neutrals with shoes and depending on how wild your wear, the simpler the better.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Even though Fall is speeding towards us, Summer is not ready hand over the keys.  In the hub of the heat you still have bbqs, pool parties, and let's not forget, weddings to attend.  What do you wear to that late summer wedding? Sure you may be thinking about transitioning, but trust me you have time, technically it is still July. Besides now's the time when summer items are on sale to make room for fall.  Seize the sizzling temps with some sizzling color and you will not be burned.  When the main attraction is wearing white, tempt the groomsman you have your eye on with some tantalizing tones.

The Cure: Vamped up Vibrant

Choose a bright color, like tangerine, magenta, or turquoise, and wear it boldly in a monochromatic, and in a cut that flatters your figure. Go neutral with your shoes and clutch, but play up the color with jewelry in the same palette.  If your dress has embellishment, no need to add a necklace, just add a bracelet or pair of earrings.  The idea is to let the color shine so you can stand out.

Disclaimer: While neon colors can be considered vibrant and bold, they are not recommended for this type of event.  You want people to notice you, but not be blinded by you.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

There are definitely days, especially in the summer, when I want nothing more than to be as girly as can be.  Cute summery dress, with an adorable pair of shoes showing off my perfectly pedicured toes.  There is quite a difference between girly and looking like a little girl, there needs to be a certain air of sophistication.  That's where my friend (well I wish he were my friend) Valentino comes in.  The Couture Bow pump oozes with sass but is tamed by the sweet, signature bow on the toe. In red or black patent or all over lace it is the wear-with-all girly shoe.  At $855 my girly tastes might be set a little high.

Valentino, $855

My girly radar has led me to a similar kitten heel peep toe, complete with bow AND hand made in Italy.  The Cass30 from Butter comes complete with all requirements.  In a natural basic hue, the punch of color comes from the bow, giving this girly shoe a little bit of an edge. At $253 it may still be pricey for some, but the quality and style are well worth it for a shoe that is sure to be a staple for years to come.

Butter, $253

Go On...Get Girly!

This summer break out the playful retro girly side to your wardrobe.  Bright greens, reds, navy, and yellow with a splash of polka dots and a smattering of stripes are sweet spots for the season.  Bows, hearts, and rhinestones coupled with pearls and clutches are truly classic, cutesy, and coquettish.  The 50's inspired silhouettes can be "daringly Lolita-esque",  subtle yet sexy and surprisingly swanky.

Hello Heels

Spring Shoe Guide
Look #5: High Heel & Platform Pumps
With warmer temps quickly approaching we women want to shed to those winter layers and show off our fantastic figures!  There is not better way to accentuate a great pair of legs than with a great pair of heels.  Check out some of our spring selection!

Butter "Swagger", $264

Klub Nico "Ariel", $204

Sam Edelman "Novato", $99

Sam Edelman "Novato", $99

Poetic Licence "Feel the Rhythm", $132

Poetic Licence "Feel the Rhythm", $132

Poetic Licence "Picnic Ready", $99

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Social soirees are sure to swamp you calendar for the next couple of weeks and while dressing to the nines for each and every one is so your style, your not quite sure if you can rock the studded stilettos to every shindig.  You want to give your toes some time off with a pair of festive flats.  Do you splurge or save?

Manolo Blahnik has an amazing pair of embellished flats that will wow party goers and keep your style steady.  The jeweled satin skimmer with the square of dark hued crystals accenting a pointed toe is particularly party pleasing, but the $945 price tag is not.

Manolo Blahnik, Hangisi, $945

If you're willing to waive the crystals for something a bit more subtle you can save your holiday budget and  have an affair worthy accessory.  Butter's Smitten suede flat with a contrasting suede bow accent is a splendid solution to the splurge vs. save struggle.  Made in Italy, these fete flats with still be a fabulous feature to your festive wear.  At just $275 you don't have to forgo any of the fun.

Butter, Smitten $275

Build me up Butter cup

Let the salivating commence.  Check out these adorable bowed flats from Butter! Handmade in Italy and just to die for! Great to dress up a pair of jeans or pair them with skirts and opaque tights.

Butter, $275

Butter, 264

I'm also cuckoo for these Coclico beauties! While I know they may fall into a fantasy category, these babies are worth it.  Perfect shade of soft grey suede, and world class craftsmanship. These are a definite "must have" splurge!

Coclico, $469