Shoe Gal Had A Little L.A.M.B.

Well, its fleece was not white as snow, but rather, it was supple black leather.  I had seen these ‘Quincy’ D’Orsay platform pumps by L.A.M.B. on Zappos.com a few weeks ago.  I drooled all over my keyboard but hesitated buying them because I had tried on a pair of L.A.M.B. booties in a Nordstrom’s Rack a couple of years ago.  My ankle pleaded for mercy just while I tried them on in the store.  So, I held off. 

I recently took a “quick” trip to the Nordstrom Rack where I gorged on some amazing finds.  As I made my way through the towering racks, I spied these among the designer section.  And horror of horrors, as I approached, another women picked them up and tried them on.  I stopped in my tracks.  Panicking in my head, I played it cool.  I pretended to be interested in some Franco Sarto’s with my best Academy performance.  I kept her and the shoes in the corner of my eye the entire time.  She tried on the left shoe and my heart nearly stopped.  Her daughter made a face which made a smile sneak up.  I looked down so as to hide my excitement.  I could almost feel them in my hands.  She put them back in the box and went on to the next aisle.  SCORE!  I pounced on them faster than a lion on an unsuspecting deer in the Serengeti. 

I tried on the right shoe and felt instant love shower my foot.  I put the other one on and took a step only to have the right one slip a bit.  D’Orsay pumps are tricky.  They MUST fit perfectly.  They have no straps and not much opportunity for jimmy-rigging.  These particularly cover up very little.  They have these delicious little cut outs everywhere that give it so much femininity.  D’Orsays have the inherent pin-up retro feel but what pushes these into the sexy kitty category is the double layered platform.  And just when you think you’re living in the modern 1950’s, Ms. Stefani smartly put her trademark edginess on the shoe by adding this unique design to the top backside of wooden heel.  I was so in love.  I instantly pictured wearing them with bright solid colored tights for the cooler months!

They are incredibly comfortable.  The outrageous looking 4 ¾” heel looks so intimidating but they have a little over a 1” platform that brings the actual height and feel of the heel down to something more sustainable.  As for my issue with the slippage on the right shoe, I got a pair of inserts that they had on sale there and tried one in the shoe (yes, I bought them too since I opened the package).  It seemed that it really did the trick.  Sometimes the floor/display shoe gets stretched out from people trying them on which is why I always try to get a different pair.  BUT, sometimes, you really have no choice.  And since these were priced at $110, you can see I had no choice when these retail for $245 regular price.  On zappos.com and 6pm.com, they’re going for about $140.  They also come in a chocolate brown and sand.  And, you can always go on the hunt at your local Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack. ;)


(Psst... you can still use my Overstock.com Discount Promo Code and not just to buy shoes! ;) )

Stepping On Domestic Violence

Too many women have been in Whitney’s shoes in having their Bobby moment.  Domestic violence is far too prevalent in many of our relationships.  These incidents range in age from teens to middle-age.  They range in income from the projects to Wall Street.  And they range from professionals with advanced degrees to pop stars like Rihanna.

From October 1^st to 15^th, Marshalls will Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence.  For every pair of shoes you buy, $1 will be donated, up to $150,000, to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.  By channeling your inner budget fashionista, you can help raise funding and awareness for the millions of women living in the horrible cycle of abuse.

This is one of the most difficult issues for women to overcome because of the lingering emotional abuse and embarrassment they feel associated with being a victim.  We’ve seen it all too many times on Oprah and through efforts like these, some women gain empowerment and healing.  Please make a little time to make your way to your local Marshall’s and shop for some new kicks so that you can help step on domestic violence.  Being a do-gooder has never made your shoe closet look so good! ;)

What Would Project Runway Shoe? Episode 11: Poison Ivy, Working Up a Sweat!

We’re in Week 11 of 'What Would Project Runway Shoe?" (#WWPRS) where I suggest a shoe to go with the winning look of this week’s episode.  This little weekly post came out of my addiction to Project Runway and fashion.  Spoiler Alert!!  Stop reading if you want to wait to watch last night's episode first. ;)

Oh the drama!  We got it served up with a side of karma last night.  This week’s challenge was to create a look to be added to Heidi Klum’s new line of active wear, Heidi Klum for New Balance, #HKNB.  In giving the designers an additional two looks to present on the runway, they brought back all of the designers that were sent home this season. 

It became clear quickly that Ivy came back with a big bitter spoon in her mouth.  However, the bitter spoon wasn’t so big that it didn’t keep her from attacking Michael C. in the sewing room where she accused him of cheating with double-sided fashion tape during the Jackie O. challenge. Heidi gave us a little foreshadowing when she came around to critique the designers’ progress on their designs in the workroom.  She was quite impressed with Michael C’s progress and joked, “Who was it that said you couldn’t sew?  Oh, that’s right, they’re not here anymore.” 

Instigating more drama and looking for vindication it seems, Ivy kept talking smack to the other designers about how she called out Michael C. for his cheating.  She says, “I definitely believe in karma” and the gracious editors quickly cut to Ivy screaming, “AAAAGHH!” where she got poked in the eye by something.  Tim Gunn then has the designers gather ‘round and puts a kabash on the issue and tells them it’s a non-issue so work, work, work.

And work it out they did!  They turned out some really very innovative designs with active wear.  I think this was pretty hard considering it’s a rather limited genre of clothing.  There were definitely a few pieces in each of the designers’ collections that proved they have the talent to still be in the competition.  Karma made another appearance to give Andy the win with his chiffon accented asymmetrical pieces.  The looks grew on me as I looked at them more and more, especially as separates.  Sadly, Christopher was sent home.  Check out all the designs here: Project Runway on LifetimeTV.  

When thinking of great shoes to match with the winning looks, I instantly thought of the Puma ballerina flats with the patent and shiny fabrics.  (I had to go with the cat to keep up with all the cattiness! ;) )  I picked three of my favorites that go with all three of Andy’s great looks.  The first is the Espera II in white with violet. 

The swoopy strap design compliments the asymmetry of the chiffon strips nicely.  The pop of violet adds a little color to the white, grey, black color scheme.  These are on sale for $63.

The second is the Sabadella in black patent with mesh fabric and a little suede as well.  The shiny patent finish on this ballerina flat elevates the outfit from looking like you just left the gym.  The airyness that the mesh offers goes with the easiness of active wear and reflects the stylishness that is inherent in Andy’s designs.  These are on sale too for $42.

Lastly, I’m loving the Saba Sequins Ballerina Flats in the aged silver/metallic silver.  Adding the bling with the sequins really steps up the active wear look to ensure that your outfit never enters the frumpy galaxy.  I think that the shiny sequin ballerina flats truly go with this type of activewear.  The fashion forwardness vibe really needs a shoe that can bring that same level of fierceness without being too much.  Currently, these retail for $75.

All three of these are standard Puma comfort with the great padded footbed for cushioned support and rubber outsole for traction and durability.  Not to mention the cute puma logo!  I’ve always found them to run a little small so I go up a size.  But they all are stretchy and have a little velco strap to help make a perfect fit. :)

I’ll meet you at Amazon.com where we can buy all of Andy’s winning looks as part of the Heidi Klum for New Balance collection.  We're nearing the last of the runways and next week determines who shows at Fashion Week.  Let the nail biting begin! 

Don’t forget you can still use my promotion code for 10% off at Overstock.com from Wednesday's post, Saddle Me Up.  Just a little thanks from me to you. ;)

        

Saddle Me Up (With an Overstock.com Discount)

The only word that popped into my head when I saw this shoe was ADORABLE!  The ‘Neveau’ by Diesel is a fantastic update on the retro 1940’s classic t-strap style that’s a win all around. 

Starting with the most sophisticated interpretation of a saddle shoe, you have a perfect ‘go to’ to go with every pencil skirt or circle skirt in your closet.  If you read my Fashion Blog feature on yesterday’s post, you are well aware of my adoration of t-straps.  And Diesel did not disappoint.  The leather straps are so incredibly soft they are like pretty shoelaces. 

Now as for the heel, well, it should just be labeled "the stabilizer”.  It is a chunky, but tapered, heel that has a wide base - so very Pin Up Girl!  This keeps you so well balanced that even subway grates and sidewalk cracks won’t make you slow your street-chic fierceness.  At 3 ½”, the heel gives you a great vertical “boost”.  In terms of comfort, Diesel had the smarts to put cushion in BOTH the ball AND the heel – perfect for those extra long days! *swoon*

Here’s the best part.  They’re only $55.99 on Overstock.com and, wait for it, you can get an extra 10% off with my promotion code: 121728.  Given that these retail for $125, you really can't get a better deal.  This is just a little thank you for being one of my followers.  You can use this discount for these or any of the Overstock.com products with FREE shipping on your first purchase.  So, saddle up ladies! ;)

PS. (some legal stuff) All the ideas and opinions expressed are my own.  No monetary compensation was received for doing this post, however, I was provided with a discount code just for y’all.

The Girl Behind the Shoes

Wondering a little about who this Working Girl is?  Check out this recent feature on Fashion Blog. 

Flipp Me Baby One More Time

This weekend I found myself in the Nordstrom Rack.  Having been working overtime this past week, I didn’t think I had enough energy to elbow my way through the shoe racks, so I figured I would just give a quick once over.  Turns out, massive deals on designer shoes gives me a HUGE adrenaline boost. ;)  

I came across this chestnut/taupe ‘Flipp’ by Joan & David amid the shoes that were strewn about the racks.  I immediately slipped it on for a perfect fit.  I was absolutely in love with the shimmery bronze color.  The platform was so incredibly comfortable, I could actually feel the sponginess of the cushion with each step I took.  The almond toe makes this an instant classic shoe that is an essential for any working girl’s shoe closet.  It’s 4 ¾” inch heel seems crazy to be able to make it through your 10 hour days but the 1” platform lowers it to a 3 ¾” heel.  But if that still doesn’t convince you that they’re comfy enough to make you last through the day, the rave reviews on Piperlime, Zappos, Endless, and Nordstrom.com should. ;) 

The monster bonus was that they were priced at $99.50.  Yes, ladies, 50% off.  They are regularly priced at $200 give or take $5 on various sites.  Also, some of the various colors are on sale for as low as $140.  So you know that when I found them in black on the next rack, I had to say, “Flipp me baby one more time!” ;)  Such a major score!  

If you’re not fortunate enough to be near enough to a Nordstrom Rack or find them at your local Nordstrom Rack, fret not. The $200 price tag is truly worth it as these, especially the black, are a true investment piece.  They are an essential piece that exudes sophistication and classic style.  The fact that they are so incredibly comfortable will have your feet thanking you every evening you aren’t feeling the balls of your feet burning.  This is well worth your weight in shoes! ;)  They also come in various patent finish colors: tan, cherry red, deep red, electric blue and reptile print.  Your feet will thank you for years. :) 

I LIKE:

Flipp by

Joan & David

What Would Project Runway Shoe? Episode 10: Memories, Tears and ‘+’

Welcome to Week 10 of  'What Would Project Runway Shoe?’ (#WWPRS) where I suggest a shoe to go with the winning look of this week’s Project Runway episode.  Over the seasons, my love and adoration for Project Runway has grown and now inspired this weekly post.  Spoiler Alert!!  Stop reading if you want to wait to watch last night's episode first. :)

Wow, what a seriously MAJOR episode.  This episode left few dry eyes due to the designers’ emotional vulnerability, so much so even Tim Gunn was weepy.  Having all the moms (and one partner) come in with so much love brought out the human realness in the remaining designers endearing us to love them that much more.  Guest judge Rachel Roy brought her expert fresh fashion eye to give my most favorite critique this season… ALMOST.  She wrote, “Almost, so almost.”  In all honesty, I really loved Gretchen’s print.  Although it was inspired by earthy things, I found her print to be very Kate Spade and clean.  Michael Kor’s comment about having mixed up the size of the print truly would have taken it to another level.  See all of the designs here: Project Runway on LifetimeTV.

Making it a three-in-a-row streak, Mondo took the win.  And rightfully so, as his design was phenomenal. Taking a very serious situation and reinterpreting his HIV positive status into a fun and funky print was incredible.  His strength in sharing his HIV positive status for the first time publically was the major moment of the episode. 

I agree with Nina that the high waist on the pant was a tad too high.  But that’s truly the only critique I could dare say.  I gasped the second that Mondo’s model hit her fierce pose on the runway, just like everyone else.  This is one of those funky outfits that is refined with polish and a chic, expensive feel.  I’m dying to have this ensemble added to my closet.  (Mondo, feel free to send me over one. ;))  You know I loved him before but now I just want to hug him and play dress up with him forever.

I felt that this over the top outfit needed a shoe that could stand up to this fabulosity without competing with it.  So that’s why I went with the black Fendi 'FF' Platform Pump.  This pant length demands a platform but not just any platform. The height is a major must with the length of this pant.  You need the right amount of peek through the bottom of the seam to confirm your fierceness in this outfit.  So this 5 ¼” heel gives you all that with the almost 1 ½” platform.    You need a shoe with a real heel, meaning one that’s not a needle thin stiletto.  Because of the thickness of the print you need something that is just as visible in your shoe.  The FF has the perfect heel that compliments the lines of the graphic print.  

The round toe with the square sole underneath it is the perfect silhouette you want to play off this kind of graphic print.  Lastly, the smooth leather is the perfect finish for this color scheme.  A patent leather could work but again, because there is so much going on already in the outfit, you want to be subtle in a way that still carries the vibe of the outfit down to the little Fendi gold emblem on the tip of your toe. ;)

Clearly, this is SPLURGE at $730 either at Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Ave.  But the fact that you can wear these with this outfit prove that there’s very few things in your wardrobe that wouldn’t go with these! ;)  They are truly an investment piece.   Next week’s episode promises more drama with accusations about cheating.  I can’t imagine what will happen next. 

If you’re in to fashion enough to follow my blog, the horrible disease of AIDS has likely affected you or someone you know and love in some way.  This WWPRS is dedicated to all of our little angels that have left us due to AIDS. RIP AJ. xoxo.