DREAM vs REALITY

Hello again,

The most popular items that we like to splurge on are our hand bags and shoes. SHoes are statement peices and we always want to look fashionable and fun. In this economy things are really tough and we now have give in to frugality. For those times tat we cannot afford designer shoes we must find a pair similar for a quarter of the cost.  I recently came upon a website named mock-off.com. This site is amazing at finding the best and most desirable designer items and finding the products that are almost identical for a smaller price tag. SO their specialty is displaying "mock-offs" of designer products, everything from bags, dresses, tops, bottoms, accessories, and shoes.  So with their help i will be displaying some of the nest mock-offs I have seen on this site. I cannot believe how much shoes can look identical for two different price ranges.


These zipper boots are almost identical to me. The only difference is the small peep-toe in the Michael Antonio shoes. They have the same level changes with the 3 zippers. I would personally prefer the Zanotti shoes but for my price range the Antonio's seem right.

The cap toe glitter flats here have the same idea but you ca see the difference clearly. The Zanotti's have the solid unadorned front cap while the J.Crew shoe has glitter everywhere. I would prefer the Zanotti because it is upright and looks more classic.

The heeled combat boots I am seeing everywhere. These boots side by said look like the same shoe. They look so similar in picture but in person Im sure the quality is shown. Although the forever 21 shoes are a they are not of great quality for the price of $36. Though price does not necessarily correlate to quality it does have some sort of better construction in some way.I would choose the Jefferey campbell because they are the right price for a decent pair of boots anyways. 

I am astounded at the similarities between the two shoes. Some of you may have read my last post about the trends of flats, and these espadrilles are a hot item. Everything from the direction of the lines to  the taupe trim, looks like the same shoe. The prices are not that far apart though, the Kate Spades not even being double the amount the Meloni shoes. Since they do look so similar, I would have to go with the Meloni espadrilles.  

The Leopard Print booties may look very similar but this time their prices are way far from each other. The difference is a little more than $1,000, but what do I expect they are Christian Louboutin's. Although I love, love, love the leopard print on the red soled beauties I prefer the shape of the Edelamn's. Not sure if the price was throwing me off, but I imagine if I had the money, would I still pick the Edelman's?

 Everyone has to love glitter right? Here are some gold glittered platforms that i love. The color of the two shoes are different for sure. They both have that metallic platform and about the same shape. I personally prefer the Jimmy Choo's because of their coloring, a glitter shoe is very tricky to have. A glitter shoe can be borderline over the top, but the Choo's are a neutral gold color that looks great with any outfit. The Angiolini shoe is not too bad, it has a sliver glitter top that still looks classy and not over the top.

So thanks to mock-off.com, I was able to show all of you different types of shoes, showing the originals and the almost identical mock-offs. So when you all are considering buying a particular type of shoe, ask yourself should I splurge for my dream shoe or save and settle for the mock-off?

-NG

Flirty Flats

Hello All,

I am not sure about you all but of all the categories of shoes out there, the ballet flats, as I like to call them flats, are my absolute favorite. Flats just have a way with the demands of everyday. They are perfect for just slipping on and getting out the door. Flats are so easy and fun! They definitely adds interest to any outfit. I am sure some of us have pairs upon pairs of flats in our closets! Flats are now staple items in our wardrobe and it's time to get updated with the latest trends for flats. As I've gone shopping here and there, I definitely see a consistency in the trends for flats. So when you are considering buying a new pair of flats for these coming seasons, take the next following trends of flats into consideration.

PLAYFUL PATTERNS
Here we have the patterned flats. The patterns range from geometric shapes to romantic florals. Pattern is and will continue to be huge these next seasons and I am so excited to see all the amazing new patterned flats coming out. Here we have a beautiful leopard print flat which stays girly with a small ruffle on top. Animal prints are back if you like it or not. So lets just love them! Next we have a floral, powder blue shoe that keeps your outfit looking romantic and feminine. Next we have out geometric neon combination which is always great for adding some flare to an outfit.

EARTHY ESPADRILLES
Next in our flat category, we have our espadrille trend. The look we aim for is effortless chic, and relaxed and what better way to look that way then to wear espadrille flats. Espadrilles are great because they  make any outfit look fun and lay back. Espadrille flats with bright color and/or pattern is the perfect way to wear them. Here we have that amazing orange color that  am seeing everywhere. You can also go the more classic look with a great red espadrille flat. A patterned espadrille looks fun and daring, giving an outfit that extra edge.

SASSY STRIPES

Stripes are everywhere! I love stripes because they come bold, skinny, irregular, and colorful. Stripes are a must whine it comes to flats. Everyone need a pair of flats with stripes, so if you do not have a pair, I suggest you get out there and find yourself some. These flats you can add more interest to an outfit by slipping them on maybe with a pair of jeans and a solid color tee or my favorite with solid colored jeans!

CREAMY NEUTRALS

Who can go wrong with neutrals? Neutrals are great because they go with everything and they stay classic. Maybe you have those days where you do not feel too daring to wear some bold color or patterns, then stick to the classic neutrals. Here are just a few examples of what road to take when considering neutral flats. You can take the textured-like  route with a flat that has a swirly pattern, giving interest to the neutral flat. There is also the solid color neutrals that always look classic, and then we have our patent leather look which i love because it adds more shine and attention. Buying neural flats is a must in your wardrobe.

BRIGHT NEONS

The best way to give your outfit and extra kick is having those bright neon flats! You might be intimidated but the shoe would be the statement piece and everything else can be a canvas for it. Having a matching neon top might be extreme, but keep it simple but having one element of the outfit be the neon. We suggest the shoe is the best way to introduce neon into your wardrobe. Do not worry about the longevity of the neon trend, it will definitely be a hot topic for seasons. SO invest in some neon flats and see people turn heads, for the better.

Hopefully you all got an extra boost to get out there and purchase a couple more flats to complete your wardrobe. Flats are essentials and the trends for flats makes buying even more fun. There is no such things has the wrong pair of flats, they all work and add a little something to any outfit. SO what are you waiting for, get out there and get your flirty flats!

-NG

Choosing the RIGHT work out shoes.

Women and men nowadays have been getting into the habit of working out and becoming fit for the new year. With this being such a big fad at the moment it is very important for you to choose the right shoe for what you are doing. Especially, if you do not workout often. Many people make the mistake of choosing any shoe. This is a problem because certain shoes are made for certain types of movement. For example, running shoes are different from basketball shoes. Basketball shoes need to be stabilized because you are constantly going side to side and for running shoes they don’t need that. If you are the type to occasionally run or play tennis etc. then cross-trainers may be the best choice for you.

What to look for when choosing a cross-trainer shoe:

1.     A firm heel.

2.     Good support.

3.     Light weight.

Here are some suggestions for what shoes work best for certain activities:

 1. Best cushioned running shoe:

        New Balance 1063

2. Best All-around use:

Nike airmax trainer one

3. Best Walking Shoes:

New Balance 850

4. Best Tennis Shoes:

Fila Punto II

  

5. Best Trail Running Shoes:

Brooks Cascadia 4

BY: ST

ARE THEY BAD FOR ME?

We all love heels and sometimes we think that the higher the heel the better. Wearing high heels can be fashionable and may make you feel taller, but at what price?

When you go shoe shopping you maybe want to stop and ask yourself “are these stilettos bad for me? High heels can cause foot problems. Each woman is different and the effects of wearing heels will be different.  Some women may suffer from back pain, they can disrupts your posture, your gait and puts extreme pressure on the joints all the way down to the toes and all the way up to the neck. Ultra high rise heels can cause ankle and knee problems, osteoarthritis, and even headaches. As pretty as stilettos can be, they can cause corns, bunions, calluses, hammer toes and ingrown toenails.

 

              

              

Stilettos can cause health problems if you over use them or if the heel is to high, but  instead of giving up your heels that you like, think about coming up with a better way to wear them and then a way to massage your feet so that you do not have any long-term problems. There is really no way to wear them that does not cause this strain on your body if you wear stilettos. Nevertheless, that does not mean that you need to give them up. You need to limit your time when you wear them. The key is to take numerous breaks for your feet. When you're not wearing your heels make the right choice and wear the most comfortable shoes that you can find. Also try to wear comfortable slippers at home if you are able to so you can give your feet the break they need.

You should also make better choices when you're buying heels. Though any heel can cause damage, you can go with a lower heel for additional comfort and fewer feet difficulties. Also get footwear that do not bind your toes and that have a support against your feet rather than something unforgiving and hard.

  

High heels don't have to hurt you to look good. Also remember to find some good looking flats that can cause you to look equally as good as heels can, even if they are not your primary choice. Your feet will reward you with better posture and less pain throughout all of life. For general wear, a dress shoe with a half inch or so heel or wedge height will still look “dressy” while not over taxing your body.

-EM

BREAKING THEM IN

“There’s nothing that women love more than their high heels. High heels are forgiving of every figure and no matter what your size or shape, a high heel will always make you feel good about yourself.”

I am the happiest girl in the world every time I buy a pair of new shoes. But when it comes to walking on them for the first time, it’s a struggle!!! Walking in a pair of heels, especially a brand new pair can be difficult. Many women struggle with stilettos, but they don’t have to be a pain on your feet or uncomfortable to walk in.

All you need is to break into your new pair of heels to look and feel great. Here is how I have broken into my new pair of heels so they’re comfortable for a whole day of prancing. The first thing you should know is to never, ever wear a new pair of heels when you plan on having a girl’s night out or you are going out on a hot date. You know for a fact that your feet will kill you after a few hours. Sometimes you have to, but please girls try to avoid it at all cost. The best thing you can do for you and your feet is buy them a few days in advance and break them in at home. 

The best way to break into those new heels is to put a pair of thin socks and wear your heels around the house for about half an hour each day.Wear them when you are making dinner, taking out the mail or trash. Use your imagination, but keep in mind it will not work if you are sitting down watching TV all day. Your feet will feel a bit tight and uncomfortable at first but I have found it’s the best way to stretch and mold them. Just make sure the socks are not too thick or your heels will stretch more than what they should.

After a few days you’ll notice a big difference in the way they feel on your feet. Now it’s time to wear them without socks and take them for a night out with your girls. If you really struggle with high heels, you should avoid wearing them for excessive periods until they’ve really formed to your foot. Wear them for about an hour at a time, removing them as soon as they begin to hurt your feet. Bring a bring an extra pair of shoes if you think you can’t make it through the night.

 

You can use a shoe stretcher, if you don't have time to break your new heels at home. Keep in mind shoe stretchers generally work better on natural materials as they are more likely to expand.

 

 

GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR NEW HEELS!!!

-EM

Where Shoes and Nails Combine

Hello All,

What do we love about shoes? Maybe its just the perfect fit, the hottest designer name, the perfect match to an outfit, or perhaps it's is the challenge of getting the next best trend. I love shoes because they are ever changing! Every season I think to myself 'What will they come up with next? Surely all ideas have been exhausted' then BOOM, there are suddenly hundreds of new amazing styles, shapes, colors, heights, etc.  I am not sure about you all, but not only do I have a passion for shoes, I have a passion for nail polish as well. Nail polish is ever changing as well and I am always looking forward to the latest nail trends on the runway. No joke, I literally change my nail polish every 2 weeks and its starting to be an obsession. (I do not think my nails have seen the light of day in about a year, not good). I am amazed at the transformation nails can endure to look so amazing and cutting edge. Who  knew our little fingernails are the perfect canvas for greatness and creativity? I hope you all are with me on this one, because I am about to combine my two loves of shoes and nail polish! I will be showing 6 different looks combining the amazing 2012 spring shoe trends and nail trends. Just think how fun it would be to have matching shoes and nails! We have all heard 'Don't match your shoes with your handbag, but no one said 'Don't match your shoes with your nail polish. Let the fun begin.

1. Color Blocking: It is everywhere. For this spring, COLOR is huge! I just love the irregular geometric look to the multi colored nails and the Pierre Hardy shoes are a perfect match. The shoe is amazing in showing the thin lines of color represented in the nails. 

Shoe: Pierre Hardy

2. Lace: You gotta love lace. It's so fun and flirty. Lace these days is becoming more of an element of  fashion apparel and not just strictly used in lingerie. I love this lace bootie/heel because its super cute and the lace nails go together so well with it! I can just imagine someone going to a cocktail party with these amazing shoes and the equally as perfect nails!

Shoe: Dolce & Gabbana

3. Coral: This color is a such a wonderful color and I have heard it is the most universally flattering color on.  I personally would call this color Coral but I have heard other descriptions such as burnt orange, salmon, pinkish-orange, whatever you call it is a keeper! I love this shoe by Chelsea paris because it is unusual  and it has that textile feel to it. A solid coral nail shown here is a a great way to match the shoe.

Shoe: Chelsea Paris

4. Floral Pastel: Yes there are vibrant colors emerging for this spring but it doesn't hurt to have some subtle pastels. Here is a Versus shoe that is lovely with is mesh and amazing shape. The pastel lines really are amazing because they are not  too much pastel. The nail polish designs are so fun and unique, and the does a great job at not literally matching but being a nice complement. This duo will definitely be a conversation starter. 

Shoe: Versus



5. Ombre: Not only have we seen the ombre trend used in the latest hair trends but its also made its way to nail polish scene. Here I have displayed 4 different examples of ombre nail polish which pretty much means, going from dark to light. I like the ombre nail because it adds a little more interest to the nails keeping with the solids but using different tones and hues. This shoe by Tabitha Simmons is so unique and I just love the style and the many colors used. The nail colors displayed are all in  colors of the shoe. Like I said before, color is everywhere, So DON'T be afraid of it, it's your friend. Get a multi-colored shoe and have fun experimenting with ombre nails. 

Shoe: Tabitha Simmons


6. Rosettes: I love the rosette designs that I see in apparel. I've seen amazing blouses, shorts, dresses, bags, etc. using the rosette designs. I love this particular nail design because this one has the black background and I feel it has a great canvas for the pink and white roses. Although the shoe does not have the rosette design on it, it still is a great complement to the rosette nails. I am obsessed with the shape of this shoe and I absolutely love the color combination. Aperlai did an amazing job with this inventive shoe!

Shoe: Aperlai






I hope you all can see the fun in having complementary nails to whatever shoes you may have. You do not have to be literal with your nail polish/shoe pairing but allow your creativity to flow and you can be the hottest new trend setter. Make sure to check out Style.com for the 2012 Spring shoe collections in which I found these amazing shoes! Last thought, just remember when you try this at home, there is no right way and just have fun with it!
~NG