the shoe gauntlet has been thrown, and I accept the challenge: this lover of shoes must daily wear a new pair from the closet, without repeating, and offer them up to the readers for voting
Sometimes the smallest detail makes the biggest difference. There is nothing terribly exciting about socks, even knee socks. The latter flashed me back to my private school days, donned with the obligatory plaid kilt and blazer. I haven’t had much need for knee socks until the fairly recent resurgence of knee-high boots and even then, viewed them as nothing more than a functional item.
The re-popularization of what is commonly referred to as the ‘prep’ or ‘trad’ style has once again made socks a sartorial detail instead of just a shoe liner. Often seen in argyle, knee socks and anklets for women have become a ready companion for oxfords and mary janes. A softy for equestrian-leaning style, I find the gold horse bit detail on this knee socks from In God We Trust just heavenly. A slight but well-porportioned piece of hardware marrying the right amount of tongue-in-cheek prep and equestrian style. Any larger and the effect would have been clumsy, and the solid color keeps them subdued and easily wearable. They achieve what should be the desired effect of any detail: nothing overtly noticeable, but appreciated as that clever something extra once seen. I buy pieces that amuse me, and these fit the bill. It takes a well designed detail to produce the desire to purchase cognac mary janes or high heeled oxfords just to pair with these. So I say, well done.
I previously posted my relatively new affinity for brogues, the menswear-inspired oxfords seen practically everywhere. I originally had my heart set on a pair from Church’s, gorgeous leather, handmade in England, the whole nine. Then I found out about another British outfitter, Selve, offering custom brogues, with occasional fittings in the states. (You can see the fabulous pair style blogger Liberty London Girl bought here) I mean, really, it doesn’t get much more perfect than a custom shoe, designed by the wearer? Well it does if said custom shoe is actually affordable. Unfortunately, it is not. As my desire for brogues has not, and honestly, will not abate, I’m still moderately stalking a Ralph Lauren pair and continue to scour Yoox, finding a few tempting pairs but nothing that has prompted me to pull the trigger. I am a persistent but thoroughly patient shopper.
J.Crew's latest brogue offering
Then, I received the latest spring J. Crew catalog and a new pair hit the radar: the Camden leather brogues. I will have to inspect them in person, naturally, as the sole, roundness of the toe and the height of the vamp are extremely important when it comes to oxfords. If the toe is too pointed, the vamp too low and the sole too dainty it becomes more of a jazz shoe. I lean more towards the rounded almond toe and construction of a true mens oxford; classic and a bit tomboyish. On the model, deftly styled with shorts and skirts, they become more tempting. Offered with wingtip details in waxed napa and nubuck in black, nutmeg and a neutral called light ginger, they’re begging for a closer look. Count on a report soon.
Thoughts: “A woman carries her clothes, but it’s a shoe that carries a woman.” ~Christian Louboutin
…that I have a serious affinity for shoes, behold my new title: DSW Premier Member.
My welcome packet
Laughable? Maybe. Useful? I’m hoping so. My own fancy looking card, personal phone number to call (for what, I’m not quite sure yet), extra points, extra birthday award and free overnight shipping (though I have never actually ordered from their website) to name a few. Seems kind of like that American Airlines card Mr. Clooney is after in Up In The Air. Well, kind of.
Winter white (really they are, darned flash) flats, with my bags packed.
Some things are debatable: should black and brown be worn together, do stripes work with plaid, can white be worn after Labor Day. Say what you may, but in my world, the answer to the latter is a resounding yes, if the white in question is winter white. Yes, winter white, that love shade residing between true white and cream, hovering slightly warmer than eggshell. Whether on wool trousers, a double breasted coat or in this case, shoes, it’s a shade I love wearing during the dreary and cold winter months. Even better, it can transition through every season without much, if any, effort. This Sigerson Morrison pair of ballet flats in winter white Italian patent leather have adorable buckle details and an impeccable silhouette. The abilitiy to work with everything in my closet from denim to dresses to shorts makes them near perfect. Wondrous even.
prov⋅e⋅nance
[prov-uh-nuhns, -nahns] –noun
place or source of origin: The provenance of the shoes has yet to be determined.
Date of Purchase: Fall 2009
Circumstances: It’s Saturday morning and I pick up a call from one of my most favorite people, Anni. She’s invited me to lunch and oh, just happens to be at Nordstrom Rack deliberating on a pair of boots. Friend, food and shopping? How could I resist? I find her in the aisles of the rack debating the pair of boots, coincidentally a pair I had considered, purchased and returned. We decided against the boots and continued the hunt. The search was looking bleak until Anni found a gorgeous pair of grey suede heels and I caught a glimpse of these flats. I’m always looking for a new pair of ballet flats and these were not only beautiful, but italian leather and at an 80% discount. We both left on a shoe high and headed off to lunch. A flawless day.
Compliment Meter: 4. Very positive responses all around. A simple flat done well. Shoe confidence level: High.
Comfort: Well made Italian leather that is soft and I wear all day without complaint. Lovely. Overall, a 9 out of 10.
Worn with: Grey and cream ruffled striped blouse and plaid scarf from J. Crew, grey cashmere vest from Banana Republic, torn jeans skinny jeans from Gap (that I practically live in).
Thoughts: “Flat shoes are not sexy, but they’re cool, and it’s just as exciting to be cool as it is to be sexy.”~Stuart Weitzman
This post does not condone, support or encourage the wearing of leg warmers. Ballet dancers may be the exception. Maybe.
For consideration, another option regarding what to wear with our shoes, ladies. Most of us are quite content, and have been, with bare legs at all times and tights in the chillier months. This might change if Vicki Kysella at Voet hosiery has her way. Her cute and alright, a bit kitschy, line of lingerie-inspired booties are begging to be displayed with, not hidden in, your heels. Drawing from Madonna’s lace anklets and gloves seen on fingers and toes in the 80s, these pared down silhouettes are more subtle than showy. The hint of lace peeking out from a peep toe or from the vamp of a sleek heel might be just enough sass without turning an outfit into a costume (be advised however: add brightly colored leggings or strappy heels, and you’ve gone full Halloween). I might try them with shorts and a substantial heel or a more feminine heel and skirt for a girlish touch. I’m thinking a plaid with lace trim would be lovely.
Would you dare venture in this ‘lingerie for your toes’ as she puts it, or is it far too flashy or just plain unnecessary?
Thoughts: “The human foot is a work of art and a masterpiece of engineering.”~Leonardo da Vinci
Ankle boots. The term immediately conjures up kitten-heel pointy-toed images from a 90s Prince video (or whatever he was called at the time) but like all things in fashion, everything old is new again. After completing the Pair Diem challenge, I knew it was time to replace my standard black heeled boots for the fall. After just a bit of shopping I changed my tune. I realized what I had previously worn with my black heeled boots, (tights, dresses, denim, leggings) would look just as fabulous, but that much more fresh, with a pair of ankle boots. This pair, by No. 704b (an offshoot of Modern Vintage), are just the right weight, a must for an ankle boot. The substantial and high heel, rounded toe and side buckle balance out every dress, skinny jean and my new favorite, tights and shorts. I like the scalloped seam on the toe that hints at an almost spectator/oxford styling. They’re like wearing the perfect pair of black boots…but abbreviated. Next fall I’ll have my eyes back on a full-size pair but until then, I’ll be kicking around in these.
prov⋅e⋅nance
[prov-uh-nuhns, -nahns] –noun
place or source of origin: The provenance of the shoes has yet to be determined.
Date of Purchase: Fall 2009
Circumstances: Another weekend afternoon shopping excursion to DSW, perusing the clearance racks. I had once again, yes I realize I am a broken record, gone to stalk the infamous RL wedges which were, yes once again, still full price. Stalking them has now become a hobby, actually. Back on topic…on my radar, as always this time of year, are boots. I was rather disappointed with the boot selection at DSW this year, save for a pair or two of Frye, but nothing really of note. When I found this pair in the clearance section I immediately though they were full size boots. I was skeptical at first, as I am of every ankle boot, but gave them a shot. Not too dainty, not too clunky, detailed enough to be interesting, no crazy zippers or studs…they seemed worth a try. Definitely worth taking home with the additional 40% off sticker, once I tried them with my knit dresses and tights, there was no going back.
Compliment Meter: 3. Solid compliments and a few comments on the height of the heel, not for the faint of foot. Shoe confidence level: High.
Comfort: Breaking in definitely necessary. Day one brought on pain by the third hour. After a few wears, can go all day with just some foot fatigue which will lessen as the leather stretches a bit more. Overall, a 7 out of 10.
Worn with: Grey v-neck sweater dress by Moth, cream long sleeve thermal by Rugby, black tights, charcoal hooded scarf from Michael Kors.
Thoughts: “Nothing is too high as long as the girl is rocking the shoes, and the shoes aren’t wearing the girl.”~Shoe designer George Esquivel
I have addictions. Fashion addictions. Each season I have my staple go-to pieces and looks that I continuously rotate and reinvent as needed. For a while it was wide-leg denim, then skinny, then both. Blazers are a given, as is the color navy. When the brisk autumn air rolls in, it’s ballet flats and scarves, scarves and more scarves. When temperature drops I reach for boots nearly every day for not only their sleekness but added warmth as well. My most recent addiction, a carryover from last year, is tights and boots or booties. I can’t get enough of tights in subtle patterns and solids. A bit too, well, mature, for the neon brights on the legs of some young ladies, I’m having a love affair with grey, black, plum and brown, window-pain check and even subtle plaids. They’re an easy accessory to skirts, dresses and yes, shorts.
ankle sock and mid-calf varities
I’m all for added function with fashion, (my current favorite tights being reversible) so I was pleasantly surprised to discover this legwear by Bootights. Ok, ok, no comment on the name…(well, other than it sounds a lot like a very odd Halloween costume) The concept has legs, if you will. The tights are combined with a sock bottom for extra comfort when treading about town in boots. It’s a solid idea, and I’m all for anything that increases the comfort of footwear. I’ll be giving them a go and if a success, you can be sure they will make the not-so-short list of fashion addictions.
“I think shoes are coveted because they are mini-sculptures. You can stare at a shoe on your shelf and feel as much happiness as when you actually have them on your feet.” ~Shoe designer Tiffany Tuttle
Call it boredom, call it curiosity, call it selfishness but I miss y’all, my friends, and so does my blog. I long to see what you’re up to…at the very least what’s new on your feet. Larissa recently reminded me how much I love my guest posts. Bottom line, I want more. Maybe it’s a few new pairs of boots, or a fabulously sparkly pair of shoes you’ll wear to the next holiday fete, or a dying-to-own pair you’re hoping Santa slides under the tree. (Santa obviously reads my blog, so you can let him know what you’re wishing for) You know the drill: I post, people read, vote, comment. Good times and merriment for all. Tis the season to bring everyone together…and let’s face it, shoes can do that.
Anyways, a few guest posts are on my list, and I’ve been good. Relatively.
Send yours to scarpeaux825@yahoo.com.
“God created a special emotion for when women walk into a shoe store.”~Roopal Patel, senior fashion accessories editor for Neiman Marcus
I’ve had quite the luck lately with shoe bargains and the best bargains are often surprises. I recently posted about Fossil’s women shoes launch and a pair of booties I found (unfortunately, all sold out of my size). Well, a serious perk is the in-house bargain discounts we get on merchandise. I came across this pair the day before Thanksgiving break for nearly nothing and decided to give them a whirl. The vintage-y t-strap mary jane silhouette is girlie and dainty. I’m fond of the two-tone rich browns and especially the leather wrapped wood heel detail. The lower heel also lends a 1940s vibe while being extremely comfortable. I’m really loving lower heels with skinny denim and maybe shorts (yes, shorts); higher heels with skirts and dresses. Bring on the 40s and post-war era dressing.
I was in the office frantically trying to get work done, as is always the case just before leaving on vacation. About to grab lunch I heard a small commotion in the large conference room nearby. My coworkers informed me of the clearance sale going on for employees as the company tried to clear out merchandise before the holidays. Since I was out the week prior on a photoshoot, I had heard nothing of it! Decideding it was worth a look, I went to explore. Hoards of people scouring through a ton of merchandise is what met me. I bee-lined for the shoes (but of course) hoping to find the grey booties I’m wanting. No luck. I did spot these and found my size. Not much else tempted me among the rabble, except a $5 striped cashmere scarf, as I headed for check out. All said and done, I walked out with both for an Alexander Hamilton.
Considering I just bought them, I actually didn’t wear them all day, just for a few minutes, but I predict comfortable. And I also predict a cute outfit when I do wear them. Probably this plaid shirt from Rugby, skinny ripped denim from Gap. Maybe a vest, maybe a blazer…decisions, decisions.
Thoughts: “I think shoes are coveted because they are mini-sculptures. You can stare at a shoe on your shelf and feel as much happiness as when you actually have them on your feet.” ~Shoe designer Tiffany Tuttle
Guest post complements of Larissa. You can see another of her serious pairs (and her fashionable husband Myron) from a long-ago special edition post when Pair Diem co-creator Bethany got married. Enjoy!
Shiny, Silky and Strappy
At the last minute my husband, Myron L. Branford, tells me he wants to attend a charity ball thrown by the Dallas Margarita Society (the largest charity ball in the country, by the way). I only had a few hours to shop (always last minute), so I neaded over to one of my favorite shoe stores, Nordstrom Rack. I went there to find a dress for the evening but I always head to the shoe section first. I walked down the aisles and stumbled across a fierce Guess stiletto that I could possibly wear for the evening. It was also the shoe I had tried on a month ago but didn’t want to pay the initial price. I crossed my fingers, said a silent prayer (Lord Bless MY Wallet, Amen) and flipped the shoe over. It went down $20!!! I politely went to the counter, asked for the mate, and proceeded to find my dress for the evening. (No luck at the Rack but Thank you Kenneth Cole Outlet!)
Side note: You know you have purchased some fierce shoes when a stranger approaches you and says, “Love your shoes, Girl!”
Often seen in argyle, knee socks and anklets for women have become a ready companion for oxfords and mary janes. A softy for equestrian-leaning style, I find the gold horse bit detail on this knee socks from In God We Trust just heavenly. A slight but well-porportioned piece of hardware marrying the right amount of tongue-in-cheek prep and equestrian style. Any larger and the effect would have been clumsy, and the solid color keeps them subdued and easily wearable. They achieve what should be the desired effect of any detail: nothing overtly noticeable, but appreciated as that clever something extra once seen. I buy pieces that amuse me, and these fit the bill. It takes a well designed detail to produce the desire to purchase cognac mary janes or high heeled oxfords just to pair with these. So I say, well done.
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