Tag Archives: Shoes

All Posts, Fashion

Sweatshirts for New Stylish Look

Sweatshirts are in for this season. Just like the overalls that made their way back to style with a new straight leg fit, sweatshirts are in with an updated look. The sweatshirt is no longer limited to a relaxed fit that is only suitable for the gym or errand runs. Now, they are available in a classic fit which gives you an instant stylish upgrade.

I like the new version of sweatshirts, because they are not baggy at all; they are fitted enough to provide you a stylish look without giving up all the comfort. Have you updated your wardrobe? Here is what I wore yesterday for a casual Sunday. It was perfect for Sunday brunch with friends and family.

JCrew – Weekend Sweatshirt (originally $60, now on sale at JCrew.com for $39.99)

JCrew Weekend Sweatshirt

True Religion – Skinny Jeans (http://btlk.it/25k3 )

True Religion Skinny Jeans

Saint Laurent – Sac de Jour Small Carryall Bag in Blue

Saint Laurent - Sac de Jour Small Carryall Bag

Vince – “Blaire 5” Slip-on Sneaker in black (originally $195, now on sale now at Nordstrom.com for $146.25)

Vince – “Blaire 5″ Slip-on Sneaker in black

Click here to shop for stylish sweatshirt.

JCrew Cable Sweatshirt
JCrew Cable Sweatshirt
All Posts, Fashion

SJP Shoes and Handbags by Sarah Jessica Parker

SJP Shoes and Handbags by Sarah Jessica Parker

One of the latest news items in the fashion accessory world is the upcoming debut of the new SJP, by Sarah Jessica Parker (the famous “Sex and The City” actress). Her success in starring as the fashionable shoe-loving character Carrie Bradshaw in the show brought many high-end accessories to the spotlight, including Manolo Blahnik.

SJP is the new shoe and handbag line Sarah Jessica Parker designed by partnering up with George Mulkemus, the Manolo Blanik’s president. The line will launch exclusively with Nordstrom on Feb. 28, 2014.

I was not surprised when I heard about this news. Sarah Jessica Parker has been one of the icons in the fashion world over the past fifteen years. I have always admired the bags she used when she was spotted in fashion magazines while she was photographed while running her errands. And I like her effortless fashionable style. I can’t think of anyone else better suited than SJP to launch a new accessory line.

The shoes from SJP look simple and yet elegant. They actually remind me of Manolo Blanik shoes. However, I think the SJP prices, a new line launched by a celebrity instead of an existing famous shoe designer, are a bit high.

For example, a pair of Manolo’s iconic BB cost about $595, whereas a pair of SJPs is around $350. My initial hunch for the price of a pair of SJPs was around $250, since it’s a new “non-designer” line.

I hope the SJP shoes will live up to my expectations as a made-in- Italy celebrity line. Based on the pictures, they look very classic and are available in several unique colors. If that’s the case, when the SJP line launches on February 28, I will definitely give the line a serious look. I am betting on the fact that someone who wears designer shoes, like Sarah Jessica Parker, will make high quality products that resemble some of the uniquene features of the designer lines.

SJP Accessories by Sarah Jessica Parker

All Posts, Holidays

The Ten Best Shoes for New Year’s Eve Parties

I hope you all had a great time with your friends and family for the recent Christmas celebration. This leaves us one last holiday of the year: New Year’s Eve. Are you still searching for the right pair of shoes to go with your fabulous outfit? Here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order. The best thing about these shoes is that they are great, not just for the holidays, they are also great for any special occasion you have in the upcoming year. Can you believe that this year will be over in a few days?

Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine ($1,195)  This classic pump reminds me of the Cinderella pump by Christian Louboutin last year. Although this Body Strass Mesh pair is not as fancy as the Cinderella, it will be more suitable for all evening occasions.
Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black ( $1,295)  This design of this pair of sandals might be simple; typical straps on the ankle. However, the straps are unique with sparkling crystals. It will show off your long and lean legs!

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red ($1,650) I always love red shoes, especially when it they have crystals. This pair of Gucci d’Orsay Crystal Pump will be perfect with any black dresses you wear.

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump ($2,295)  A pair of black heels goes well with anything. But this Gucci is no ordinary pair. It’s covered with crystals and supported by one and a half inches of platform. It will totally help you to stand out in a crowd.

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump ($129.95)  Designer heels are pricy, but there are some affordable options out there for the holiday parties. This Ivanka Trump pair would be good for evenings. This pair reminds me of Jimmy Choo’s Luna open toe pump.

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump ($625)  Most of the nice looking heels are not really comfortable for walking and standing on feet for too long. If you are wearing pants/jeans this pair of glitter wedge-pumps will be great for you. I was a bridesmaid for my dear friend’s party in Hong Kong a few weeks ago and I wore this pump with a long and elegant bridesmaid’s dress. This shoe helped me to get through the day, from the wedding ceremony, reception, to the after-party.

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal ($1,595, on sale for $801)  This pair of Jimmy Choo sandals is classic. It goes well with any outfit, such as pants, long and short dresses. The downside of the design is that it has 4” heels without any platform. I almost got a pair in red, but I changed my mind after I tried them on. It looks pretty, but I know it would start to hurt ten minutes after I stand up in it without any platform.

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver ($1,685)  Manolo Blahnik’s BB pump is famous for its comfortable design. They are usually available in leather, satin, or suede. This pair of Manolo BB pumps is unique; it’s made of silver satin and crystal. It will look stylish with both pants and dresses.

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver ($1,145)  Rene Caovilla’s heels are always elegant. This pair is covered with lace and trimmed with Swarovski crystals. I think it would look great with a satin dress in red, such as Talbot Runhof’s Sleeveless Ruched Cocktail Dress.

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback ($3,545)  Who can say “no” to the famous Valentino’s rockstud heel, especially when it’s covered with crystals? The moment you step into this pair, it will transform your outfit into classic attire.

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback

All Posts, Fashion

Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal

Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal
Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal

While I was visiting San Francisco last month I made a mistake of walking in a brand new pair of Jimmy Choo flat for hours. I have a very sensitive skin and I gets blisters around my ankle easily. Luckily, before the blister situation got too bad, I found an alternative pair of shoes in the Saks Fifth Avenue store across street from my hotel.

I have to admit that this is not my first time dealing with a minor shoe emergency. From my personal experience, there are usually two possible outcomes to situation like this. I could find something comfortable, but I have to settle for a show with a less than perfect look. Or, if I am lucky, I might be able to find something comfortable and that I actually like.

After trying various pairs of flats and sandals, I found my “new favorite” pair – the Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped sandal in Platinum. It’s made of Prada’s Saffiano metallic leather (scratch resistant) and rhinestones. The ankle straps on the sandal fall right above where my blisters were. The design of the shoes is so comfortable. And I like the color; it is neutral and matches with any outfit. I am very glad that I didn’t have to sacrifice good looks for comfort after all.

Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped sandal in Platinum (also available in Black) is perfect for sunny weather. I could wear it with a True Religion skinny jeans for a casual look, or pair it with a summery dresses for a night out. It also goes perfectly with my new Louis Vuitton Prefall Speedy bag in Black!

(Retail Price: $850, now on sale $569 at Neiman Marcus)

All Posts, Fashion, Top Five

5 Things to Try This Month – June 2013

There are many new beauty and fashion items available each month. Here are my top five things I would like to try this month.

Personalized Your Manolo Heels

The Made-to-Order Blahnik BB Boutique

Visit Neiman Marcus’ “The Made-to-Order Blahnik BB Boutique” (available through June 30) to customize your perfect pair. Who can say “no” to 5 heel height and 20 color options?

Switch to Cool Blue Lipstick

Hello Sailor by Lipstick Queen

Hello Sailor by Lipstick Queen ($25) contains vitamin E and “turns into more of a pretty raspberry or plum color when you put it on.” Try this cool hue in place your normal lip color for a change.

Indulge Your Skin With Weekly Treatment June2013_Chanel_ResynchronizingSkincare_Weekend_2

Le Weekend De Chancel is Chanel’s new weekly renewing serum (Nordstrom exclusive). Use it two days in a row on weekend to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin for the upcoming week. I just started to use it and I like how my skin feels.

Cool Cover-up for Bathing Suit

Buy Leopard-Burnout Zip Vest from Adidas by Stella McCartney

This is the season to hit the water. Try this new . It gives you enough coverage while you show off your style.

Crystal-Covered Bag

Buy Valentino Small Crystal-Covered Crossbody Bag from Neiman Marcus

We are in wedding season now. This versatile classic and unique Valentino Small Crystal-Covered Crossbody bag is perfect for any special events.

All Posts

Jimmy Choo Spring 2013 Sale is Now On

It’s the time for Jimmy Choo’s sale for Spring collection. If you missed the pre-sale last week, don’t miss the official sale which started on Saturday, June 1. The sale is available online as well as in-store. Selected Spring products from both women and men shoes, handbags, and accessories are now available at 30% off original prices.

Jimmy Choo is one of my favorite brands for shoes. I am constantly looking for any sales on Jimmy Choo. Both Nordstrom (save up to 40%) and Neiman Marcus (save up to 33%) are having a sale on Jimmy Choo shoes. However, the items on sale are quite limited.

I have to admit that shopping on Jimmy Choo’s web site is a lot of fun. I feel like a little girl going into a big candy store while I am going through the pictures of the sale items. There are three shoes showcased in each row. While I scan through each row I get excited from the anticipation of waiting to see what items will appear next. There are more selections available if you get on the site early enough when the sale begins.

I couldn’t resist the temptation of Jimmy Choo’s famous Lance strappy sandals, especially when I see them on sale in tangerine metallic watersnake. What can be more gorgeous than wearing this pair of Lance with a white or yellow dress during the day and a simple black dress at night in Summer time?

If you like Jimmy Choo’s Lola in floral printed python, featured in the Spring Summer ad campaign and mentioned in my post Print is the Fashion Trend for Spring 2013, you are in luck! It’s on sale for $1,001 (originally $1,495).

If you like Jimmy Choo, make sure you don’t miss the sale on Jimmy Choo’s web site, and Nordstrom. Enjoy your shopping!

Jimmy Choo Lance in Tangerine Watersnake
Jimmy Choo – Lance in Tangerine Watersnake
Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump
Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python
Jimmy Choo - Biel in Orchid Glitter Fabric
Jimmy Choo – Biel in Orchid Glitter Fabric
Jimmy Choo - Belle
Jimmy Choo – Belle
All Posts, Fashion

Gladiator Shoe is in for Spring 2013

One of the essential fashion trends for Spring is the gladiator shoe. This unique trend is being featured in fashion magazines (such as Jennifer Lopez wearing Tom Ford Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot in Harper’s Bazaar, Feb. 2013) and stores, which make it impossible to miss for this season.

Gladiator shoes comes in three major styles: knee boot, high-heel sandal, and flat sandal. Shoes with skinny straps usually give your outfit a classic and sexy appeal. However, the gladiator shoe for this Spring consists of bolder straps (such as Alexander Wang Marta Runway Cutout Knee Boot) and designs with multiple thin straps (such as Valentino Rockstud Ankle-Wrap Sandal). This innovative style takes this Spring’s accessory fashion to a different stylish level – it’s creative and sexier than ever.

In my opinion, the gladiator shoe is refreshing because it’s a great fashion accessory to transition from Winter to Spring. The style consists of an element for Winter, which is knee boot, and an essential component for Spring, which is a sandal with cutouts and a strappy design.

However, I want to point out that gladiator knee boot is not designed for everyone. I think it looks better on women and girls with slimmer calves. A good example would be Jimmy Choo’s Mogul Tall Cage Gladiator Boot in Orchid. The thin straps are designed to showcase the legs. If paired with a light color floral dress, you’d complete a very stylish look. However, a gladiator knee boot wouldn’t look as nice on someone with more muscular calves. It might look a bit bulky and out of proportion.

Luckily, there are gladiator high-heel and flat sandal which are designed for everyone. In my opinion, wearing gladiator high-heel sandal with either jeans or dresses will make any women look sexy instantly. And gladiator sandal is perfect for both day and night.

If you want to make a fashion statement with your Spring outfit, a gladiator shoe is a must-have for your wardrobe. Below are some of my favorite picks for the three major categories of gladiator shoe.

Knee Boots

Brian Atwood – Electra Suede Laser-Cut Open-Toe Boot
Tom Ford – Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot

Brian Atwood – Electra Suede Laser-Cut Open-Toe Boot $1,750

Tom Ford  – Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot $3,690

 

High Heel Sandals

Giuseppe Zanotti – Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandal
GladiatorShoeIsInForSpring2013_TomFord_Triple-BuckleMetallicSandal_mx

Giuseppe Zanotti – Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandal $1,195

Tom Ford – Triple-Buckle Metallic Sandal, Gold $1,450

 

Flat Sandals

Manolo Blahnik – Vestalamod Suede Gladiator Sandal, Luggage
Prada – Studded Strappy Flat Sandal, Gold

Manolo Blahnik – Vestalamod Suede Gladiator Sandal, Luggage $965

Prada – Studded Strappy Flat Sandal, Gold $620

All Posts, Fashion

Print is the Fashion Trend for Spring 2013

One of the essential fashion trends for the Spring is print. Prints can be spotted on handbags, clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Popular prints include animal prints (such as leopard and snakeskin), floral prints, and graphic arts.

Many designers, such as Dolce & Gabanna, Marc Jacobs, Oscar dela Renta, Roberto Cavalli, and Stella McCartney, have launched their unique print items for this season.

When it comes to wearing a print, it’s better to minimize the number of the print items on you. Do not wear the print head-to-toe. For example, if you are wearing a snakeskin print dress, don’t pair it with print shoe or handbag. Instead, pair the dress with a mono-tone accessory, such as black pump or light colored handbag. If you want to wear a print shoe, avoid wearing eye-catching clothes that will divert attention away from your shoe. In another words, the print shoe is the focus and rest of your outfit becomes the accessories.

Below are a few examples of the prints launched for the Spring.

Leopard Print

Marc Jacobs – Belted Leopard-Print Dress
Roberto Cavalli – Mixed-Print Dress & Metallic Belt

The Marc Jacob belted leopard-print dress is a classic. (left) The black belt and sleeves add the balance to the leopard pattern. The dress by Roberto Cavalli is very sexy. (right)  The leopard print in the middle blends well in the mixed print. And the silk material makes the dress stand out.

Marc Jacobs – Belted Leopard-Print Dress $895

Roberto Cavalli – Mixed-Print Dress & Metallic Belt $5,260

 Snakeskin Print

Gucci – Light Green Jacquard Python Motif Tunic Dress
Valentino – Rockstud Medium Snakeskin Tote Bag, Ivory

I really like the Python print dress by Gucci (left). The mixture of green and dark snakeskin makes it a sexy dress for Spring. This Valentino snakeskin bag (left) reminds me of a leopard bag Valentino made for Fall. They are equally nice in an eye-catching way.

Gucci – Light Green Jacquard Python Motif Tunic Dress $2,250

Valentino – Rockstud Medium Snakeskin Tote Bag, Ivory $4,695

Floral Print

Versace – Cutout-Waist Floral Dress
Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump

Floral print is in for every Spring. The dress by Versace (left) is ideal for a night out. The gorgeous floral python platform by Jimmy Choo (right) is perfect for the season. I’d pair it with a simple white dress, such as Herve Legaer’s Cap-Sleeve Bandage Dress to show off the floral print on this shoe.

Versace – Cutout-Waist Floral Dress $2,250

Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump $1,001 (original $1,495)

All Posts, Fashion

Translucent Pump is the New Trend for Spring 2013

Among all the new nice shoes for the Spring, there’s one trend that is hard to miss. It’s the translucent pump made with leather and clear see-through materials (such as vinyl and PVC). Many designers are launching their version of the translucent stiletto; however, the most eye-catching ones are by the fashion trendsetters such as Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Manolo Blahnik, and Valentino.

Silhouette made with see-through materials have been part of the fashion scene that changes as seasons go by. However, pumps with a translucent element will definitely stay in vogue for both Spring and Summer. If you love to follow current trends, it will be nice to invest in a pair of these shoes. Below are some fabulous ones that I like.

Christian Louboutin

Christian Louboutin – Manovra Translucent & Studded Patent Leather Slingback
Christian Louboutin – Paulina in Black

Christian Louboutin – Manovra Studded Patent Leather Slingback $945 (left)

This shoe is the highlight of the Spring fashion trends – black and white hues, studs, and print patent leather.

Christian Louboutin – Paulina in Black $695 (right)

Monalo Blahnik

Manolo Blahnik – CarolyneCrystalHigh-HeelHalterPump, Silver
Monalo Blahnik – Pacha Clear PVC-Patent Pump, Black

Manolo Blahnik – Carolyne Crystal High-Heel Halter Pump $1,045 (left)

The pointed cap toe of this shoe is made of satin and crystals. What can be more elegant than this pair?

Monalo Blahnik – Pacha Clear PVC-Patent Pump, Black $634 (right) also in Silver

This shoe is designed with small patent leather cap, which means most of your toes will be seen under the translucent part of the pump. If you decide to put nail polish on your toes, I’d suggest you to go with clear/light hues.

Valentino

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Snakeskin Pump
Valentino – Rockstud Naked Pump,

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Snakeskin Pump $1,095 (left)

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Pump, Black $895 (right) also in Poudre $895

All Posts, Fashion

CUSP by Neiman Marcus Trend Show

2 Comments

CUSP Trend Show

CUSP (by Neiman Marcus) is a recently-created contemporary store that offers new and well-known designers’ products. I attended a CUSP launch party last week and watched the trend show at Neiman Marcus. The event started with light appetizers and cocktail drinks (such as blueberry mojito and beer in mini mugs). The event was followed by the show with fashion models on the runway in gorgeous outfits.

During the trend show I saw many clothes, shoes, and bags in orange (the new neutral) and blue. Two essential elements for this Spring, prints and laces, were also been spotted throughout the show. Among all the items I saw during the event, I have many favorite picks. Listed below are six examples that especially caught my attention.

Black jacket and pump go well with anything

Rebecca Taylor – Tweed Jacket
Christian Louboutin Fifi Spikes Red Sole Pump in Black

Black is the basic element in every season. You can pull it off with almost anything such as this jacket and pump.

Rebecca Taylor – Tweed Jacket (left)

Christian Louboutin Fifi Spikes Red Sole Pump in Black (right)

Patterns and prints are still in vogue

Diane von Furstenberg – Fleurette Printed Dress
Stella McCartney – Falabella Snake-Print Foldover Clutch Bag, Fuchsia

Diane von Furstenberg – Fleurette Printed Dress (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Snake-Print Foldover Clutch Bag, Fuchsia (right)

Orange is the new neutral color for Sping 2013

Stella McCartney – Falabella Fold-Over Leopard-Canvas Tote Bag
Manolo Blahnik –BB Suede High-Hell Pump, Orange

Manolo Blahnik –BB Suede High-Hell Pump, Orange (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Fold-Over Leopard-Canvas Tote Bag (right)

Alice + Olivia – Cropped Zipper Jacket
B Brian Atwood – Metal Fringe Back-Zip Sandal, Gold

The models wore the orange jacket with the gold finge sandal. This combination brings out the best of each item.

Alice + Olivia – Cropped Zipper Jacket (left)

B Brian Atwood – Metal Fringe Back-Zip Sandal, Gold (right)

Blue makes a great wardrobe transition from Winter to Spring

Rebecca Taylor – Frayed Fit-and-Flare Dress
B Brian Atwood – Cutout Suede Sandal, Purple

The purple suede sandal complements the A-line dress in navy to complete a perfect Spring outfit.

Rebecca Taylor – Frayed Fit-and-Flare Dress in Navy (left)

B Brian Atwood – Cutout Suede Sandal, Purple (right) On sale for $340

Lace is a must-have for Spring 2013

Diane von Furstenberg – Lace Dress with Semi-Sheer-Yoko
Valentino – Floral Lace Cutout Shoulder Bag, Pop Fuchsia

This look showcases why lace is an important element of this season. Who can say “no” to such a fashionable look?

Diane von Furstenberg – Lace Dress with Semi-Sheer-Yoko (left)

Valentino – Floral Lace Cutout Shoulder Bag, Pop Fuchsia (right)