Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Everyone should love a suede platform bootie, it's such a hot little basic, and Miu Miu does it right! This striking platform with back zip is the ultimate in sexy sophistication.  It's pairs well with just about anything and kicks your look up a notch.  Being an "ultimate" anything those has it's cost and this one is $750.

Miu Miu, $750

Lucky for us Sam Edelman's "Ria" fits the bill.  This suede platform bootie substitutes a side zip instead of a back zip, but brings all the sass and class with it's 4 1/2" heel and 1" hidden platform.  Best of all at just $124 you can have the ultimate look without the ultimate price.

Sam Edelman, $124

Pop Sportif

Lucky Magazine has highlighted four great upcoming looks for the Fall season.  The first is "Pop Sportif", characterized by bright colors, balanced with dark slimming pants, and accented with subtle athletic details. Feel free to play around with proportion by "layering a stark tunic over sharp pants."

  
Key pieces to consider, skinny black pants, a form fitting scuba skirt, a bright turtleneck and a mod mini dress.  Accessorize these pieces with colorful shades, geometric and chunky wedge booties, and other contrasting bright colors.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Ok so I'm not going to lie, I'm kind of excited that high-waisted denim with an exaggerated flare is still holding on strong to be a staple this season.  I'm mean really how can you not go boho chic or give a subtle nod to the seventies without this style?!? Speaking of the seventies, the decade's influence is not lost on trends for this fall, but you want to make sure you're not dressed for the disco. The trick to this look is keeping it modern!

The Cure: State of the art Seventies-esque

It's important to remember that certain trends do not require you to actually purchase pieces from the decade, the style is influenced not copied.  A high-waisted, exaggerated flare pair of dark denim resembles the cut made popular in the 70's, but still incorporates a modern fit.  Pair it with a print blouse, maybe one with a semi-boho look (check out the flutter sleeves) but nothing too over the top.  Then to really make the look current, go with a bold pump, like this patent burgundy number with a slightly geometric pointy toe, definitely not a 70's staple, but will surely set this look apart!

Fall Shoe Report

New styles are pouring in daily, be sure to check out all the latest and greatest, including new trends for Fall.  Keep your eyes peeled for platform loafers, ankle wedges, pointy ankle boots, flat ankle boots (are you seeing a pattern!) stacked heel boots, flat knee-high boots, pointy flats, and sling-back bow pumps.  Girly with a twist seems to be the trendsetter this season.  Keep checking back for new styles, here are just a few.

Wowza! Black suede and tan wood make a striking pair. $139

Tall heels aren't grabbing all the attention this season. These little pumps give quite a punch with their metallic sparkle and sophisticated cut. The elastic lining ensure that they'll fit like a glove, too. $144

Not only is this wooden heeled, lace-up bootie good-looking, but it's also made eco-conscious materials and premium sheep suede. $128

Must be worn with bright red lipstick. $46

A new color and toe adornment on the ever popular pump. This shoe looks fantastic with dresses, narrow cut pants, jeans... $107

A classic and comfortable black leather wedge. $99

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Oh those red soles have caught my eye again, and this time it's not the basic Louboutin stiletto that I'm coveting.  This time, a thicker stacked heel and exposed platform have me over the moon.  It's a basic but with beauty and brawn. Alas, $795 is too hefty for my budget.

Christian Louboutin "Bibi", $795

However, Pour la Victoire has a similar thick-heeled pump that should lighten the load on my wallet.  With the Irina II, PLV has taken it's popular pump to new heights.  With a 4.5" heel and 1.25" platform, this classic pump has gotten an upgrade with it's thicker more comfortable contour.  At just $242, my budget can easily bear this bill without it being a burden.

Pour la Victoire "Irina II", $242

Fall Shoe Trends

Stacked heels make a statement! Check out some of our choice selections for Fall!

Great leather pump for work or play, $124

A rockin'ankle boot in olive suede with an almond-shaped toe, $149

 A charcoal brown lace-up court shoe with a gently rounded toe, $145

A classic shoe given a three inch lift, $119

These soft leather boots call Europe to mind, $199

Sturdy tread botton, refined leather and suede top, $186

Sturdy tread botton, refined leather and suede top, $186

For the woman who wants something different in her tall, heeled boot, $253

Argyle Addiction

Believe it or not argyle is making it's way to a closet near you.  Designers like Sonia Rykiel and Prada are bringing back the graphic argyle patters and simplistic mod shapes.  The diamond shaped pattern can be worn as an accent or head to to accessories that are simple and ladylike.

Darker colors create a more moody argyle, go for deeper purples, blues, and forest greens to make this quirky pattern slightly more serious.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Do you have those back to school blues yet? Trying to figure out how to make a good impression your first day back? Looking smart and sassy this fall is definitely the way to go.  

The Cure: Blaze it up!

Start of with a basic trouser jean and pair it with a printed, flowy tie front blouse.  Cover up with a solid blazer.  Accessorize with a gold belt and a chunky bracelet.  Top it off with one of the season's hottest trends, the heeled loafer.  Smart, sexy, and ready to sail through the semester.

Disclaimer...while this look says "I've got it all together" it does not guarantee passing grades...studying required.

Bootylicious!!!

Suede, open toe ankle booties with a partially hidden platform for extra lift. These heels demand to be taken out! $278

A softly pointed toe and stiletto heel distinguishes these suede booties. Also available in black. $124

A softly pointed toe and stiletto heel distinguishes these suede booties. Also available in putty. $124

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Well Prada never ceases to let me down.  I would proudly don this classic leopard loafer that recognizes the retro with its tonal penny keeper across the vamp.  It's the perfect pop of animal print for the ankle skinnys and silk blouse I picked up to jump start my fall wardrobe.  Alas at $790 my budget would more than likely explode.

Prada, $790

Good thing Libby Edelman has a comparable version.  Swap the penny keeper for a pair of tassels and the $790 price tag for a much more reasonable $75 one and my outfit plans are still on track for making a statement!

Libby Edelman, $75

Fall Must Haves!

Starting your quest towards the perfect fall fundamentals?  There are 8 key pieces that you shouldn't think about living without this season.  Imagine a fusion of time-honored styles with trendsetting spirit and you've got a fabulous fall!

Your eight essentials for fall: Capes, bright pants, loafer heels, printed maxis, smart pantsuits, boxy bags, colorblock tops, and leather skirts.  Prep yourself for a season full of stylish head-turning and brow-raising looks by adding any of the above to your closet.

Fall Frye!

Make sure you stock up on these fall favorites!

Frye pull-on Western boot with a bit-over-an-inch stacked heel.  

Frye! 14" tall boot-cut with 2" heel. An American classic in black. $298 

Frye! 14" tall boot-cut with 2" heel. An American classic in black. $298

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Looking to take a walk on the wild side this fall?  You might be adventurous enough to accent your feet with fur with a bootie like these from Herve Leger. Step out in style in these black dyed calf hair and leather stunners, sure to show off your fabulous physique.  So what is calf hair going for these days? Just roughly over one grand, more than enough to put your wallet out to pasture.

Herve Leger, $1,095

So maybe you're not willing to part with so much cash, but still want to consider the calf hair.  Sam Edelman's Wythe bootie has just the shock value that you need.  Polish off your sleek look when you step out these posh wedge booties. Complete with peep-toe, ankle cut-out, and calf hair covered wedge, heads will certainly turn and at just $244 you'll be sitting pretty!

Sam Edelman "Wythe",  $244

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Ok so you may have heard me talk about color blocking a time or two, but it is seriously still hot and heavy on the runways. So at this point you may be wondering how in the "h" "e" double hockey sticks can I pull this one off. For this answer I to go an expert...

The Cure: According to Rachel...

According to Rachel Zoe,

"I am a big fan of color blocking, and the only rule for the trend is that there really are no rules! Color blocking throws the idea of “mismatching” out the window, giving you the freedom to pair a shocking pink top with eye-catching teal shorts, hot purple pants or a bright chartreuse skirt. Way fun! Taking inspiration from the Gucci and Jill Sander runways, I pulled a variety of bold pieces for today for you to consider when tackling your own color blocked ensemble. You’ll notice they are mostly clean, unfussy silhouettes which will come together smoothly to create a pristine, fresh look. Mix and match my picks to your liking, and whatever you do, don’t be afraid to color block outside of the lines! xoRZ"

--The Zoe Report

Modern Boho

I absolutely love the laid back yet still put together look of Modern Boho style. Nicole Richie pulls it off effortlessly by incorporating dressy fabrics with distinctive prints and cuts that are both loose and fitted. She tops it off with unique accessories that make the look all her own.

You too can steal this style by following a few simple rules. Balance fuller tops with formfitting pants or leggings. Embrace prints, try sticking to a palette of earth-tones and neutrals with a few punches of color thrown in here or there. There are no rules when it comes to shoes, be it boots and 3 inch heels, just make sure everything flows together.

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.

Hot Summer Sale

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

With this excessive heat the country has been facing I feel it has become a necessity to have a/c built into my attire, that being said, please do not think I am walking around in 1980's mesh fashion, however the perforated look is very fashion forward when it comes to footwear.  Case in point, Miu Miu's Patent Perforated Peep-toe pump, try saying that 5x fast.  The highly stylized perforated woven leather will keep your feet perfectly pleasant during those hot summer nights, but at $650 the price is anything but perfect or pleasant.

Miu Miu, $650

Naughty Monkey has a similarly punctured style with its take on perforated woven leather.  The laser cut panels with side-cut outs and buckle adorned peep-toe, will keep your feet refreshed and refined.  At just, $97 you won't have to put your credit cards on ice.

Naughty Monkey, $97

Sweet Cherry Pie

Brace yourselves ladies, this is one hot hue that's been hitting the runways!  Cherry red, "telegraphs passion, excitement, and a bit of micshief."
According to this month's InStyle:

Wearing cherry red broadcasts confidence. 'There really is no sexier shade,' says designer Prabal Gurung, who incorporates red in all his collections."

Be bold and braze and garner yourself more attention! According to a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, men are more attracted to women wearing red than to women dressed in any other color.  Dare to wear it all over in a dress with accents of black of add a large splash of it with a trench or bright bag.  If only incorporating small bits pair it with navy, gold, brown, or even purple, it's blue undertones play well with hues that contain blue notes.

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Beautiful Brogues

Menswear inspired looks are sticking around.  Feast your eyes on these lace-ups complete with wing-tip details and quirky patterns for both modern and retro looks.

This blue-grey wedge takes the traditional oxford for a feminine spin.
 All Black, $132

A charcoal brown lace-up court shoe with a gently rounded toe.
J. Shoes, $145

A canvas, cut-out wedge that hints at the early 80s. Pictures can't do this pair justice. You gotta try them on.

 Jeffrey Campbell, $104

A modern leather pump with retro wing-tip accents.

Indigo by Clarks $109

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

We're having a heat wave! Just because the temps are on the rise doesn't mean you should let down your style guard.  I know what you're thinking, how is it possible to be comfortable in anything with this kind of weather, but it is possible to be cute, cool, and comfortable.

The Cure: Operation Cool Down!

Stick with shorts and short sleeves but dial it up a notch, go for flowy silk fabrics that gently graze the skin and not hug it.  One of my favorite color combos, yellow and gray, keep the look chic, while keeping your body cool.  Air-condition those feet with a cut-out oxford, add a few soft metallics and you're good to go.  Mission possible!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

I love ballet flats! I mean how can you not love a shoe that's both cute and stylish while also giving your feet a break from what can occasionally be painful platforms?!? One of the best things is their versatility, dress them up or down, wear them with pants, skirts, whatever. My particular style of choice, animal print or skin, they always seem to add that extra pinch of poshness. Which is why I just adore these Lanvin snakeskin flats. With it's dyed elaphe carinata snakeskin the simplistic round toe and scrunched shape shoe is toted as the "ballerina that bites back". The only other thing that bites is the price, $790. OUCH!

Lanvin, $790

Thank the shoe gods for Corso Como's Ballasox in python! These round-toe, scrunched shape, flats are like stylish slippers for your soles. As an added bonus, they easily fold into a convenient pouch that fits in your handbag. Even better, at just $59 you can take a big bite out of the animal fashion trend without taking a bite out of your budget!

Corso Como, $59

"Urban Jungle"

Animals are taking over animal print!  This upcoming season, expect to see more than just zebra and cheetah pelts, be on the lookout for their cute but ominous faces too.  Fashion designers are brining the "wilderness to the sidewalks".  Sink your teeth into this trend with a head to toe look or just scratch the surface by adding a small accessory or too.  This coming fall you're sure to know where the wild things are.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

One of the toughest things to deal with in creating a summer wardrobe is finding pieces that can be both work and play appropriate.  We want to bear the skin that has been hiding so long under sweaters and pants, but showing skin in the office is a big no no.  Is it possible to utilize a summer trend in an work environment?  You bet, thanks to the maxi skirt!

The Cure: Office Appropriate Attire

A great summer ensemble that is both on-trend and appropriate starts with a maxi skirt, which gives you the flowy light-weight feel of summer, but with a "take me seriously" length.  Pair the skirt with a ruffled print top, and top it off with a cropped blazer before you head into that meeting.  Pointy toed kitten wedges and a bag with some hardware are apropos accessories for this office outfit.