THREE PAIRS OF SHOES FIT FOR SHOEPERWOMEN

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OK, does someone want to come over and block my access to the ASOS website? Like, you could set up some kind of password I’d never guess? (So, not ILOVEASOSSHOES, for instance, because I’d get that one in a hot second…) Because, the thing is, I’ve described these shoes as being fit for “shoeperwomen”, but what I really mean is that they’re fit for ShoeperWoman – er, that’s me, in case it wasn’t obvious.

And yes, they’re from ASOS. Again. I’m not even going to bother trying to apologise for my ASOS obsession at this point, because let’s face it: what Shoeperhero wouldn’t be just a little bit obsessed with a brand that consistently presents you with affordable footwear, in styles that make you feel like they just reached into your head, worked out exactly what you were looking for, and then put it into shoe form? So, the shoes…

The first pair I love because they’re gingham, and they’re baby blue: and even although I already own a pair of baby blue gimgham shoes, I STILL want these wants, because that’s the kind of power shoes have, isn’t it? The power to make you want them, even although you kinda sorta already have them. The thing is, though, my shoes are pumps, and these are slingbacks; mine have a bow, and these don’t. So they’re TOTALLY different, right? Regardless, these just scream “summer” to me, and would look awesome with a pair of white jeans or a cute sundress: SOLD.

The second pair, meanwhile, I love, because DOTS. And bows. I’m not so keen on the ankle strap, and I’d like them a whole lot better if they were pumps, rather than d’orsay cut, but I still wouldn’t kick them out of the shoe closet, knowwhatimean?

As for the third pair, meanwhile, well, when they appeared on my screen, I thought, “Oh, Ted Baker! So cute – but so totally out of my price range right now.” Then I looked again, and nope, they’re ASOS, and they’re £50. Which all of a sudden makes them a lot more dangerous…

5 FASHION WEEK FAVOURITES: THINK PINK

BABY PINK IS ALL GROWN UP AND SHE'S READY FOR THE BIG CITY

What have we spied this season, but pretty pink walking down the runway! It’s the trend that has released the inner romantic in all of us. But it doesn’t have to be girly. It doesn’t have to be tacky. Baby pink is all grown up and she's ready for the big city.

There’s something so chic about pink - and there’s a way to make it work in your wardrobe.

PINK PEEPTOE PUMPS

A pink peeptoe pump in the park. How poetic. But more importantly, how gorgeous!? This is an entry-level hue for those babes who can't quite come at baby pink. And just a little secret between you and me... this material is actually a faded red leather! It's a delightful mix of earthy and feminine. Comfy and chic. Customise yours below.

 

 

WHEN PINK IS PRACTICAL

Soft and buttery and perfect for an office-and-errands kind of day, these 2½ inch round toe heels will take you from the front door to midweek family dinner. And that peek of pastel pink is just enough for you to know you're right up there with the runway, but not too girly for the office. This shoe will show itself to be a wardrobe is staple. Customise yours below.

 

 

BABY PINK BALLET FLATS

Jeans. A cute t-shirt. A takeaway cup of coffee from the cafe down the street. Your favourite mag tucked under your arm. Delicious snacks from the markets strategically hidden in your tote bag. Hello, weekend. And a special hello to you too, sweet pink ballet flats (made that bit more edgy with a bronze trim). Perfect for moseying through Saturday. Customise yours below.

 

 

STRAPPY + CHIC IN PINK

Perch yourself on your front steps and strap yourself in to these sexy sandals. The pink leather is so buttery-soft, so there's no need to compromise comfort for fashion. All ready for a Friday night, pair with a sweet dress, or your favourite denim. Customise yours below.

 

 

WE'RE HIRING : MARKETING & PRODUCT MANAGEMENT INTERN

Marketing & Product Management Intern (French Speaking)

Shoes of Prey is a global online retail brand that allows women (including Carly Rae Jepsen!) to design their own shoes which we hand-make and deliver to them. We’re changing the way women shop for shoes and we’re on track to become a significant international retailer within the next 5 years. As our business continues to grow we're looking for a passionate Marketing and Product Management Intern to assist Todd, our Senior Product Manager improving our website conversion rate whilst also managing and propelling forward the Shoes of Prey presence in the French market.

Shoes of Prey has created one of the best shoe design experiences on the internet. With such a bright group of engineers, creatives and marketing specialists behind this website, there is much you can learn from an internship with us!

Shoes of Prey internships are full-time and based in Sydney, Australia. Internships typically last between 4 and 6 months. The internship is unpaid however, we do provide lunch daily and partial reimbursement for housing and/or travel expenses, depending on your relevant experience:

Your Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage French market presence, including website content updates, email marketing, social media management, blogger outreach, and public relations efforts. Seeking out prospects for effective business partners within the French market.


2. Assisting the product management team in the coordination of website development and technology initiatives. Including managing design life cycle by conduct brainstorms, prototyping, design reviews, user testing, etc. Writing functional specifications and mock website enhancements. Also, administering our JIRA project management platform.


3. Review marketing and website analytics, manage internal company dashboard reporting.


4. Attend weekly production meetings with Engineering, Creative, and Marketing teams.

What we're looking for:

• Applicants for this position should be fluent in both English and French. Working knowledge of Spanish or German are also appreciated. Candidates should have achieved or be pursuing a degree in business and/or engineering.


• Strong organisational and analytical skills with a persistent attention to detail.


• A great attitude and team player mentality.


• Time-management skills: multi-tasking, prioritising, organising and planning


• Technical aptitude:- you don't need to know how to code (although that would be an asset) but you must be able to convey complex, technical product requirements to engineers, and then translate these complicated details to non-technical colleagues


• Creativity and an enthusiasm for technology or e-commerce in the fashion sector


• An interest in marketing and social media

To apply for this role please email a cover letter and resume tojoinourteam@shoesofprey.com with the subject line "YOUR NAME - MARKETING AND PRODUCT MANAGEMENT INTERN". This is essential to ensure applications are reviewed by the correct department.

Brands To Watch: Kabaccha Shoes — aka The Kickstarter King

Men’s shoes have a reputation of being boring and making every guy look exactly the same. A footwear savior has come and thy name is — Kabaccha Shoes. With a collection ranging for bold color loafers to classic wingtips, the attention to detail, coloration and wear-ability (check out the super light & colorful soles), Kabaccha Shoes is a name you will hear for a while. After pouring his heart and soul into designing this footwear brand, Kabeer Arora, decided to put the power in the hands of the people by creating a crowd funding campaign via Kickstarter.

Fueled by the notion of making fairly priced, eye-catching shoes for today’s man, Kabaccha Shoes is poised to change the footwear market. Initially set out to raise $25k via their Kickstarter campaign, Kabaccha has raised over $250k. With a few days left in their campaign, you can contribute and get a pair of shoes as an early adopter. Becoming an early adopter will put you on the VIP list, which grants your 35% off retail for life. With prices ranging from $150-$180 for Italian-made shoes with some punch is well worth it. Check out the Kabaccha Shoes Kickstarter Campaign Here. Act fast, the campaign end March 14th. The first round of shoes will be shipped out in April for anyone that pledged to the campaign. 

Check out this video to learn more about Kabaccha Shoes

Product Review: The Jay Butler Horsebit Loafer

A few months ago you were introduce to the brand, Jay Butler per a “Brands To Watch” feature. During the early phases, Jay Butler only released small leather goods like card cases, wallets, key ring and valets. Just over a month ago, the brand finally dropped its much awaited footwear collection. Consisting of leather & suede loafers (drivers, horse bit & moccasins), Jay Butler had its eyes on spring. 

I was able to grab a couple of pair of the Millbank Bit Loafer for review. 

Millbank Bit Loafer (Brown & Tan) – Jay Butler | Green & Blue Nautical Stripe Shirt – Gap | Denim Jacket – Asos | White Jeans – Uniqlo | Belt – Uniqlo | Tortoise Shell Sunglasses –Lookmatic 

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When loafers start popping up in every clothing brands advertisement, it’s a true sign of warm weather days to come. Being that loafers are my preferred style of shoe to wear almost all year, I decided to take a stab at the Millbank Bit Loafer from Jay Butler’s debut collection. Here’s a full run down of what I think about the shoes.

Pros

• The calf leather is soft, and yet, the construction is rigid. This rigidity gives the shoe some solid structure
• The arch support is surprisingly substantial
• They’re hand constructed and the sole are Blake Welted (you can have these kicks resoled)
• The horse bit provides enough metallic pop to break up the monotony of leather (or suede)
• They style perfectly with casual pieces like denim or chinos
• At $175, the price isn’t outrageous for the quality of the product (the Millbank Loafer is $175, prices vary for other items)

Cons

• The vamp of the is shorter than expected. The vamp is the top portion of shoe (from the toe box back). It measures 5 inches from the toe to the end of the vamp. With an extra .5 inch added the shoe would be damn near perfect. Not so much of your sock/foot would show, but, they’d still have a fair amount of breathing room.
• The heel stack is a little short. These shoes are advertised as a casual loafer, which is why the short heel stack is in place. With a .25 inch added to the heel, these shoes would hit perfection.

Final Grade

Based on the pros these shoes are deserving of an A grade, however; when you factor in two cons the final grade of the Millbank Bit Loafer by Jay Butler is a B. The two changes would make these already beautiful shoe a bit more aesthetically pleasing. 

Shop & Save

Now Through Friday, March 13th at 11:59pm, Save 10% on your purchase with the discount code “MSP10″ at checkout!

Like what you see or have questions about these shoes? Leave your comments below! Visit www.JayButler.com to check out the full collection.

THE EVOLVING BLOCK HEEL

I’m thrilled to see the block heel trend evolving. Pointy heels have been the “go to” work shoe for many decades. It has also been a stigma that in order to look feminine and sexy, you wear heels. As a working woman myself, comfort, and style are my two favorite words together. The block heel has brought a whole new element to fashion, and women. Brands, are now creating shoe designs with block heels than can be worn for a night out on the town, or a special event. Comfort is now spreading to everyday life, not just 9 to 5.

So far my favorite has been Miu Miu with their feminine block heel shapes, and various heights. As a brand they have always had the block heel shape in their collection. This isn’t anything new for them. Miu Miu offers an array of stylish, feminine patterns with lots of creative details.

Maryam Nassir Zadeh carries beautiful, simple block heel sandals, pumps, and even loafers that have a classic, vintage feel. I really love the Roberta’s as you see in my drawing above. They are also sold out almost everywhere.

Obsessed with this super block heel and pointed toe shape by Acne Studios. The high throat is also a nice touch. Charlotte Olympia also has a nice pointed toe block heel pump. I really love the mix of a heavy block heel with a feminine toe shape.

Can’t stop thinking about these Chloe’s.  Love the heel shape.

And, who said you can’t wear a block heel to a holiday party? These Delpozo are serious show stoppers!

Then there are the architectural block heels. One of my Spring 16 favorites are by Gucci. The scalloped heel is lovely!

Are you a fan of the evolving block heel trend? Do you still prefer this as a comfort or everyday type shoe, or do you like that its venturing into evening, and more fashion?

Illustration by me. Shoes are Maryam Nassir Zadeh and clutch by Clare Vivier.

TRIPLE THREAT: BLUE SUEDE SHOES

They’re the stuff of legend: blue suede shoes have been in the national consciousness since 1955 when Carl Perkins wrote a song about them and Elvis Presley turned it into amassive hit. So what’s the deal and why are they worthy of being serenaded? Well, if they’re derbies we’re talking about, it’s because a pair of blue suede shoes are some of the most versatile, wearable, and classically stylish footwear a man can have in his wardrobe. And the OGEAIRE, with a subtle wooden sole and perforated detail give it an unparalleled cool that take it to the next.

Think about it: blue derbies work in almost any setting you can think of (black tie notwithstanding). The silhouette is totally office-worthy, and while black and brown used to be the only shoe colours to wear, these days navy is perfect in a casual office environment (just don’t go crazy with the rest of your colours – we recommend keeping your outfit neutral, with a pair of dark pants and a crisp button-up shirt). For the weekend, there’s nothing cooler than a casual khaki-coloured suit and the laid-back feel of suede. And when it comes time to party? We love the idea of keeping it sharp with a tonal look, and a little bit of sheen in the suit. All three of these looks are just right with a no-sock sock, some exposed ankle, and a skinny tailored pant. Cuz it’s one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready now go, cat, go!

SHOUT OUT: SPRING 2015 STYLE ROUND UP

They love us (and we love them too)

Our favourite instafamous babes were spotted, showing the world how they’re sporting some of the best shoes and bags from our Spring Summer collection.  From high shaft gladiators to fringe cross bodies and show stopping pumps, here’s our roundup of our favourite looks so far, it’s hot and summer is just getting started!

FINAL TOUCH: THAT ’70S TREND

Over the past few seasons, the ’70s have been giving the fashion industry major feels. And while you’ve probably put away your festival-worthy florals and bell-sleeved rompers by now, it’s no secret the trend is still going strong, as designers continued to draw on classic boho details for Fall/Winter 2015/2016, from suede and fringe to fitted turtlenecks and bell-bottom jeans.

The best way to work the boho look in cooler temps is with throwback cuts in luxe textures and toasty hues. Reach for wide-legged pants and double-breasted coats in rich shades such as navy, pumpkin and burgundy. Look for fancy fabrics like leather, silk and tweed wool while you’re at it for a ’70-inspired look that’s perfectly on point. Pull it all together with an almond-toe ankle boot featuring a tonal platform and chunky curved heel (a key shape this season) and a patchwork crossbody bag. Aside from the comfort factor, a stacked-heel boot in black or bordeaux will look equally chic with culottes as it will with a flared pant or tailored A-line skirt and tights. From back-to-back meetings to warming winter cocktails with the girls, you can flaunt that ’70s flair in your weather-appropriate ensemble all winter long.

FINAL TOUCH: NIGHT MOVES

There are two classes of shoes: the nice-to-haves, and the must-haves. So what distinguishes one from the other? It varies from person to person, but generally, nice-to-have shoes are ones you look at, and think, “Fresh kicks, but not necessarily all that practical.” Then you look at the shoes from every possible angle, hem and haw, and agonize over whether to get them or not. Maybe you do, maybe you don’t.

Then there are black dress loafers. Total must-haves. It doesn’t matter who you are, or what you do. At some point in your life–and, on more than one occasion, most likely–dress loafers are going to come in super handy. Cap your look for a posh night on the town. Earn you a complement you won’t soon forget. Turn a head or two.

Your sartorial tastes might be on the eccentric side of the fashion spectrum. That’s cool. You’re still going to need a pair of black dress loafers. Classics, especially classics as sharp as this, just never fade. And boy, are the wardrobe possibilities ever endless here. A dapper, tailored suit? Check. Fashion-forward formal-wear? Check. When you want to ooze sophisticated confidence from the feet up, this is where you start.

FINAL TOUCH: REAL TROOPERS

It seems that 2015 will be marked as the year we said goodbye to strict (and out-dated) gender codes. From the physical transformations of Caitlyn Jenner and Andreja Pejic to stores like Selfridges and Target saying goodbye to gender-specific merchandising, these days we’re all about blurring the lines of identity, and of course that includes all matters of personal style.  

Put your own unique spin on the runway-favourite utilitarian look that’s been appropriated by everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Marc Jacobs. Comfortable and easy-to-wear, cargo pieces need never look schleppy (unless you want them to) with an on-trend approach to styling. To keep this menswear-inspired style looking fresh, consider mixing up different proportions and colours, like high-rise black skinny jeans with an oversized safari-inspired jacket. Neutral khakis and green provide an old-school army allure that’s balanced out by a ladylike handbag, while a striped crop-top adds a hint of subversive femininity.

And for the finishing touch, the thigh-high Adeasien boots will be your new go-tos every time you feel like making a statement. These leather beauties combine a never-ending lace-up with lug-tread soles, a genius pairing that’s part tough, part feminine and one hundred percent new.  

FINAL TOUCH: ICE BREAKER

Stylish combat boots are a cold weather must-have.

Everyday style. We see these words a lot, but what, when put together, do they signify? What is everyday style? Sure, it’s how you choose to dress on a so-called average day, of course, whatever that is, when no special events, or galas are on the old planner. (If black-tie is commonplace for you, forgive us in advance.) But everyday style is also a state of mind. A vibe you give off, a mood. Your best baseline fashion statement, in other words.

Naturally, this changes from season to season. And now that winter’s around the corner, we’ve got boots on the brain as a go-to exemplar of everyday style. Miltary-style combat boots, to be specific. Here’s a footwear prototype that gets the job done–wool-lined, keeps you warm, covers the ankles, repels the elements–and looks astonishingly cool with jeans, sweaters, leather jackets, flannel shirts, and other paragons of Americana-inspired casual wear.

Leather combat boots can pull double duty when your everyday look veers to the dressier side of the wardrobe, too. Bonus! Chunky vests, heavy fall jackets, winter puffers–you can stomp around in a variety of styles here. Layer up, these boots just love that, and storm the day. You’re well-equipped for it now.

CAMPAIGN CREATION: FALL 2015 INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

A glimpse inside our new Fall/Winter 2015 campaign is all you need to get stoked for the season ahead. The video features a diverse cast of authentic personalities, including street style fave Irene Kim, director Sandra Winther, model/musician Staz Lindes, DJ Will Power, and radiologist/home improvement blogger Chris Nicholas. The cast of the campaign was chosen for their unique personal style and creative expressions representing a range of tastes, experiences and lifestyles. Each portrait and accompanying still life is as distinct as the person they represent; their inspirations on full display both literally and figuratively. We’re paying tribute to those who find inspiration in the everyday, the everywhere, and the everything.

Inspired? See the collection here.

FINAL TOUCH: BLOCK PARTY

Make a colourful statement and flash your brights this fall

There’s something comforting about wearing all black: It’s flattering and ultimately foolproof, but then again, it’s not exactly fun. So while the end of summer might seem like the right time to start falling back on sombre hues, we say turn up the colour for an unexpected take on between-season style.

With colour mash-ups making a splash on Fall 2015 runways including Céline, J.W. Anderson, Rag & Bone and Fausto Puglisi (to name but a few), feel free to take a “more is more” approach this season when it comes to mixing shades.

A two-tone pump is the perfect place to start, especially one that combines punchy fuchsia with a lacquered red block heel. Then it might be tempting to let your statement shoes do the talking, but why keep the rest of your outfit simple when you can speak volumes in other vibrant shades? The best day-to-play outfits are a blend of sophistication and sass, so dare to be bold in your choice of palette while keeping your silhouettes on point. Anchored by a classic white blouse, a cobalt-blue pencil skirt beats any neutral alternative by a long shot. Pull it all together with a structured purse that plays off a colour from your soles, and you’ll be putting a fresh spin on colour-coordinated dressing straight through the fall.

FINAL TOUCH: SLINGBACK TO REALITY

Tiptoe into Fall with a Pair of Red Slingback Sandals

Back to school shopping really is the best kind of shopping, even if you aren’t technically going back to school. While you may not be stocking your pencil case with fresh pens and pencils anymore, fall is the ideal time of year to refresh your work wardrobe. Picking up some chic new duds for the office can really revamp how you feel about that 9 to 5 grind and add some instant newfound polish to your young profesh look.

That said, summer is always way too short, and you’re probably not ready to put away your open toes just yet. A pair of chunky-heeled slingback sandals is a classic yet trendy way to help transition your wardrobe into the fall. Made of red snakeskin print, these low-heeled slingbacks are the kind of shoes you can easily style for work and weekend hangs, combining feminine and put-together vibes while still being chic and cool. Pair them with your new, heavier work basics that you can wear from the tail end of summer well past Thanksgiving, like a corduroy skirt that will look just as great with opaque black tights as it does with bare legs. Plus, these sophisticated sandals are a fun way to incorporate a little colour into a neutral fall look.

AXEL ARIGATO – TRAINER EXTRAORDINAIRE

I have recently started getting back into trainers. Guess I am going through my mid-life crisis at 31. Better sooner than later!! Hahaha, but no really. I just acquired 3 colors of the new Puma Suede and I love them. I think the problem is that when I came to England, I had to pretty much get rid of the +100 trainers that I used to have and have been wearing dress shoes ever since. But on a Sunday when I am feeling lazy and just want to have a walk in comfy clothes (yes I am not that snobbish!), I don’t really want to put on leather soled dress shoes. So I am getting back into trainers, for my Sunday shoes.

I really don’t know a ton about Axel Arigato but I know that they have a crazy following on IG, are a Swedish brand and make some very cool trainers and some interesting wholecut tassel loafers. And not for the ridiculous prices that some other trainer companies are charging. They are a modest €160. Not that that is super cheap but for what looks to be a well made trainer, I would certainly spend that and I find it way more reasonable than those that charge +£250. Check them out if you have time, you just might find something you like!

Some of you might be interested in my latest post on J.FitzPatrick Blog