MY FAVOURITE SHOES ARE BACK IN STOCK!

OK, they’re not my ALL-TIME favourite shoes: that honour would have to go to Christian Louboutin’s ‘Pigalle’ pumps, which are maybe a little less “fun”, but which I would wear with absolutely everything if I possibly could.

These little polka dot peep toes, however, were definitely one of my favourite purchases of 2015, and any time I feature them on my blog or Instagram I get questions about where to buy them, so I figured some of my fellow ShoeperWomen might be pleased to know that ASOS have now re-released them! Just like last year, the shoes are available in both the polka dot print shown above, and a gold satin which I think would make wonderful wedding shoes for the bride on a budget (these are just £45), or, indeed, for anyone else – because we all know how versatile gold peep toes can be, don’t we?

Unfortunately for me, although I’ve had these shoes for over a year now, the weather last summer was so bad that I had very opportunities to wear them. The good news, however, is that thanks to all that rain, they’re still almost as good as new, so I’m crossing my fingers and toes for a warm spring, so I can take them out for a spin or three. If that dry weather actually arrives, it would also give me an excuse to buythese guys:

I’m a big fan of mint green, which I always associate with summer, but which I also hardly ever get to wear during it, because pale shoes and Scottish summer aren’t a particularly good mix. These, however, are just £34, so you wouldn’t have to be too precious with them, and the colour would be perfect with a pair of white trousers or a dress. I own both of those, so now I just need the weather: fingers crossed…

MINI CAPSULE | CAPSULE WARDROBE CLASSICS FROM TOPSHOP

As I mentioned back at the start of the month, I’m aiming to create a new capsule wardrobe for every month. (“Aiming to” being the operative words here…)

Every so often, though, a retailer will release what I think of as a “mini capsule” – i.e. a small collection of clothes that all work so perfectly together that I just can’t resist throwing them all together and calling it a capsule wardrobe: or a “mini capsule”, really. I’ll be honest – most of these will probably be like this one: collections of classic items that never go out of style. I know that’s not to everyone’s taste, but it’s the style I’m most drawn to right now, and I also think it’s the style that best encapsulates the capsule wardrobe philosophy which, for many people, represents a shift in their shopping habits, and a move towards investing in timeless classics that never go out of style.

Anyway, this week Topshop was the retailer that somehow managed to peek inside my mind and create a small selection of clothing that I think would make for a perfect mini capsule wardrobe. And here it is:

INSIDE THE CAPSULE WARDROBE:

blue jeans; black jeans; trench; biker jacket; scarf

red skirt; black skirt; turtleneck; Breton

ankle boots; flats

These “mini capsules”, of course, aren’t comprehensive or varied enough to provide you with a huge amount of options, as you’d get from a “regular” capsule wardrobe. They are, however, handy for travel, or any other time when your closet space is very limited, and they can also be a useful starting point for people who’d like to create a capsule wardrobe of their own. I, for instance, will never switch to a TRUE capsule wardrobe, but I do like to create one from my clothes every season or so, and I then keep that “capsule” separate from everything else, so I know I always have “the basics” available, and I always have something to wear. That way I still get to wear and enjoy all of my other clothes, while still reaping the benefits that a capsule wardrobe can bring: works for me!

Ubiq x Converse #MadeByYou In Philly

An American classic brand Converse and their iconic Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers has teamed up with Philly sportswear hotspot Ubiq on the #MadeByYou campaign. This Friday, May 22nd from 6-10pm, join me along with Philly artists Martha Rich, Thom Lessner, Hawk Krall & Andrew who will be creating works of art out of your Converse kicks. It’s a celebration of art, footwear, music and Philly!

Come and let out your inner artist and give your Chucks some new life (or cop a new pair). Enjoy music by DJ Sammy Slice, food & drink. Below you’ll find the address to Ubiq:

Ubiq

1509 Walnut Street

Philadelphia, Pa, 19102

– Hope to see you all there

SHOE DESIGN SKETCHBOOK BY FASHIONARY

A sketchbook is not a just a book of blank pages. It’s a personal diary of your creative journey. A book of expressions, frustrations, and passions. It’s here where ideas get explored, developed, and possibly become actual products in the market place.

I love the feeling of filling up my sketchbook.  It does not happen often because publishers don’t really know the needs of a shoe designer.  Recently, I discovered Fashionarysketchbooks for shoe designers, and I’ve been in heaven. It’s been very easy to fill this book up with shoe doodles.

Fashionary has created a sketchbook which comes in thumbnail format. A template is already laid out for you in several heel heights, and all you have to do is connect the dots to a basic shoe form.  This feature allows you to focus on the design. With deadlines, and various projects, its great to be able to draw something quickly, and have it look proportional.

Other reasons why I like this sketchbook:

1. The paper is smooth to draw on.
2. Pencil erases easily.
3. Easy to take notes, and keep track of drawing dates.
4. A great way to draw mini collections.  I enjoy seeing my process, and ideas worked out.

5. Contains a shoe library of different constructions, a shoe glossary of footwear terminology, an international shoe size chart, and a spec sheet template.

Overall, I really like the Fashionary sketch book for shoe designers. It’s not only great for working designers, but also nice for those aspiring to get into  footwear design. They even have a shoe design book that has more expansive templates, and additional shoe design and trade information. You can find it here. I’m definitely going to buy this book, and look forward to using its more expansive templates.

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.

8 BEST LEAF INSPIRED SHOE DESIGNS

Undoubtfully, floral & leaf inspired shoes have been catching our attention for several seasons and it continues to surprise us how the shoe designers integrating this nature inspired trend into their shoe collections. Here are 8 best shoe designs we favor in this trend.

Alexander Mcqueen sculptured leaf wedge, perfect ultimate indulgence for shoe lovers. We absolutely admire the details on the resin sculptured leaf wedges, and just could image how much work the shoe technicians have been putting into it to make them these perfect. It is a piece of art by itself. But don’t click your heels in these as the delicate leafs underneath might chip off.

Charlotte Olympia Eve Leaf bootie is a dynamic creation with laser cut leaf details, fun and quirky. But the lining under the upper seems unnecessary to us as laser cut could handle a perfect see through look.

Alexandre Birman cutout python sandal, a design combined everything which is hot for the season: leaf detailing cutouts, lace up ties and python print leather, plus a trendy feature from previous summer sandals – a front strap. This “Miss Perfect” is available atsaksfifthavenue.com at the price of US$795.

Jimmy Choo Kaci crystal suede leaf sandal, elegant leaf cutout details with rhinestone encrusted on top. Available at Neiman Marcus at the price of US$1595.

BEST SHOE PHOTOS OF SPRING 2016

Here are some best shoe photos we love for spring 2014. They are impressive illusions, created through inventive set design and careful composition.
They effectively caught your attention within seconds, and completed the mission of advertising successfully by making you want to look at them twice or even hang them on the wall.

Rupert Sanderson

Salvatore Ferragamo

Nicole Kidman for Jimmy Choo

SNEAKERS THAT LIGHTEN UP YOUR WAY LITERALLY

Sneakers have been gaining attention like never before. While the heels are coming down from the platform height and hit the ground, the sneakers have made their way to Chanel Haute Couture. Karl Lagerfeld gave every brides-to-be a seal of approval if they want to wear sneakers on their weddings. Many have taken the inspiration and sporting around in their offices, at the parties and in the gym.
As if the lace, embroidery, sequin and rhinestone decorated sneakers are not enough, technology has taken it to the next level by lighting up the shoes with LED lights placed inside the rubber sole.

These Christmasy sneakers are designed with tennis shoe upper in white leather and pig hide lined inside. Semi-clear thick molded rubber sole at the bottom is the place where LED lights are hidden.
An USB battery charger is built inside the upper and covered by the tongue of the sneakers when it is not in use. A small switch is placed next to the charger to switch on and off the lights.
The producers claim that the lights can be on for about 9 to 12 hours per battery charge, and the sole is shockproof as well as waterproof.

For a night jogger like me, it’s not only a fashion statement, but also functional. These glowing in the dark lights work like a charm to help the joggers stand out against the background and get noticed by the drivers for their own safety.

So how it’s made? Intrigued by the idea and with the ambition of light up some high heels some day, we had a chance to take a look at how it’s built inside the sole, where you can find the key components of LED lights.
We also studied the quality differences of the cheap and expensive versions of these light up sneakers while we are at it.
Both cheap and expensive versions are built out of the same principle: place the LED lights and battery inside the sole and wire them to the switch and USB charger.
The outersole is about 3 cm thick, which got enough space for both LED lights and battery. Since the sole is semi-transparent, the lights are shining through the sole once they are switched on.

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: THE UNSUNG SUMMER HERO

Espadrilles. They’ve been worn by soldiers, priests, miners, royalty, runway models, presidents, and artists. JFK and Salvador Dalí? Big fans. They’ve been worn, in fact, by sensible footwear aficionados for millennia. True story. Archaeologists once unearthed a primitive pair of espadrilles off a skeleton in a bat cave in Spain. The shoes were later estimated at 4,000 years old. Just think about that for a second. When people were referring to the wonders of the ancient world as “those crazy new buildings over there,” people were wearing espadrilles.

For a shoe style to not only endure – but thrive – for that long, it has to be doing something right. As it turns out, espadrilles do a whole lot of things right. Their original function – provide a well-made, comfortable shoe that contours to the feet – is still intact. Plus they look sharp, which never hurts. Slip-on espadrilles (worn sockless, natch) get it done in everything from sportier threads to informal work wear. They’re breezy and ultra-light, yet durable enough to withstand a little pavement pounding. Rock them at the office, at the beach, at that weekend deck party, or wherever your summer takes you. Sandals and flip-flops are over gentlemen. It’s espadrille season.

FINAL TOUCH: NEW HEIGHTS

In the world of toe-showing soles, footbeds determinedly stand out from a crowd of summer sandals. No one is ever left with a feeling of indifference at the sight of the vertically elevated stepper. In short, you either love them or loathe them. In order to fully grasp the platform silhouette that shaped any 90s’ kid fashion education, a little background info is needed. Growing up with style mentors such as the Spice Girls, anything with a footbed quickly went from boring to groundbreaking. Unfortunately, even with all the girl power of the ultimate all-female band of the 90s’, the innovative stunner couldn’t stand the test of time – until 20 years later.

With the arrival of the 2010s, the “ugly” shoe by excellence was back & more controversial than ever. As a matter of fact, the hipster era gave intellectual birth to the notion that “ugly” is the new rad. And, by all means, we couldn’t agree more. Case in point: we plan on wearing the jacked up thong sandal with a simple yet print-astic dress for a BBQ sesh with the fam. We are giving ourselves a little height without missing out on all the fun. Even though we can already anticipate our feet getting weird looks, we’respicing up our lives with funky footbeds.

DETAILS DETAILS: OFF THE SCALE

With everyone from Azzedine Alaïa to Alexander Wang shining the spotlight on snakeskin for Spring/Summer 2015, there’s no question a come-slither motif is a major must-have this season.

Adding instant glam to any outfit, python prints are the perfect accessory for your sultry-weather style. Get jaw-dropping gams on your next date night with a strappy-heeled sandal that looks killer with a flirty little dress in black or white while creating that legs-for-days effect we all long for. On the hunt for new, no-fuss neutral? A chunky heel mule goes from punching the clock to patios in chic, breezy charm and works with everything from a pencil skirt to boyfriend jeans. Speaking of taking serpent prints out for a casual spin, you can always use mixed-fabrics to add bite to any off-duty denim ensemble.

Here’s another plus for python: infusing your attire with an exotic flair is just as easy with a snakeskin-print pump with neon front vamp or coloured heel. Lend some swish to the season’s seventies-inspired styles with a snakeskin tote, or tuck a slick serpentine clutchunder your arm to make summer’s sophisticated separates and head-to-toe whites look extra hot. Consider us charmed!

CULTURE HACK: WAY-BACK PLAYBACK

Wearing your jelly sandals is just one way to revive the best activities from the ’90s.

From baby backpacks to crop tops and the Netflix Saved by the Bell reunion, our current obsession with the ’90s knows no bounds. You can even download a Tamagotchi for your Apple Watch. Clearly, there’s only one way to have fun this summer, and that’s by reliving the glory days, pre-Y2K style.

All ’90s fun starts at the mall, where you can play your favourite arcade games (Pac-Man! Mortal Kombat! Pin Ball!) and meet up with your friends in the food court for some Orbitz before catching the latest Freddie Prinz Jr. movie. If you want to chill in your ’hood, grab your Pogs, your boom box and your latest (or oldest) CDs (Backstreet’s back, alright?) and meet your posse outside for some serious hangs. Even a quarter of Girl’s Tyme, also known as Destiny’s Child, so basically Beyonce is in on this revival action. You can even see her taking a trip to a retro roller rink in the “Blow” video.

Being a ’90s child means straight up looking the part, so make sure you have the essentials on lock. A pair of denim overalls are legit the coolest (bonus points if they’re Tommy Hilfiger) along with a vintage T-shirt—think big, dead-stock logos like Hypercolor, Vuarnet or even No Fear. And when it comes to ’90s summer footwear, only two words matter: jelly sandals.