fashionweektampabay

Posts Tagged ‘shoes’

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Summer of Lace

In Fashion, Trends on July 23, 2012 at 3:26 pm

Feminine, beautiful and classic.  Lace has been a fashion staple since the 16th century.  Now, in the 21st century it has become as abundant in a variety of unique colors and flattering silhouettes.

The peplum top is a wonderfully popular variation this summer, bringing a bit of extra flair to a basic top.  I have recently purchased one in deep violet with a sweetheart neckline and wide straps.  I could describe it as nothing less than divine!

Lace Peplum Top in Aqua from Forever 21

Alexander McQueen Lace Peplum Top

Stella McCartney Lace Peplum Top

Delicate Pink Peplum Top from Oasap

In the hot summer months, we rarely feel like adding a jacket to our daily ensemble.  Various life factors, however may sometimes make it necessary.  Perhaps your professional life requires it on a daily basis.  Aside from dress codes, I can tell you that I freeze every time I step foot inside a restaurant, even if the thermometer outside does read 90 degrees.  For any of these instances, a stunning lace jacket will always be stylish, practical and fun.

Lace Military Jacket in Nude

Black Lace Bolero Jacket

Zip Lace Jacket from Papaya

Perhaps a full lace dress is a bit too Victorian for you, but you prefer just a peek.  There is a wide variety of wonderful accessories to bring just a touch of lace to your life.

Bright Pump with Lace Detail

Wide Lace Headband

Prada Black Lace Satchel

With so many amazing choices, there is no excuse for hiding your feminine side this summer.  Time to get shopping, Tampa.  I want to see some lace!

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Treat Your Tootsies

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on June 28, 2011 at 2:31 pm
 After several days of nonstop roaming New York City, what was the one item a lady couldn’t live without? Flats! The vast majority of women I spotted in the streets were donning various styles: peep toe, round toe, Oxfords, studded, strappy and more.  In addition to a plethora on every block, I browsed flats on display at department stores and boutiques. Diverse styles in suede, metallic, leather and linen make them versatile for both work and play. Flats are a terrific option when you’re a woman on the go – and who isn’t these days? The perfect pair will also get you through those last rough days before your next pedicure. Flats are absolutely fitting for weekends or your commute to work in any city. They are super stylish and comfortable, which makes them wearable for the entire day. Your feet will thank you and you won’t have to carry a giant purse to tote heels. For those of us obsessed with heels, alternating to flats can be hard. Try choosing a sandal with an ever so slight wedge, one inch or less, that can still take you from day to night. Here are some of my favorite brands and styles of this summer staple:

J. Crew Quorra Sandal

Michael Kors Erin Patent Ballet Flat

J. Crew Keaton Cutout Oxfords

Tory Burch Reva Ballet Flat

J. Crew Melange Ballet Flat

Zara Woven Ballerina Flat

Zara Pointed Ballerinas with Bow

Zara Tricolour Vamp

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Chuck Taylor Reincarnated

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on August 21, 2010 at 8:33 am

Converse was once just a ordinary canvas sneaker with a rubber sole. They were first produced in 1917 and called  the “All-star”, until being popularized by professional basketball player Chuck Taylor, which soon made the sneaker known as the ‘Chuck Taylor’ or ‘Chucks’. After years of the traditional black canvas, rubber sole with the Converse star logo on the side, the Chucks have been reincarnated with some funk.

While window shopping at my favorite shoe department: Nordie’s, I came across these all black canvas sneaker with an all black toe and a studded tongue. As I examined every detail on this trendy sneaker, I noticed a familiar star logo… OMG…these are Chuck Taylors. It didn’t stop there, Converse’s new collection had color, glitter and much more. So, I did what any shoe lover would do and tried them all on.

I tried a grey and baby pink ruffle slip on Chuck. The canvas was grey, they had no laces and pink ruffles trimming the shoe lace loops. They were very pretty and feminine. After trying on other sneakers in hot pink, glitter, studded, low and high-top, I came across the ultimate Chuck Taylor. An ‘XX Hi’ knee-high sneaker. This knee high shaft updates a classic lace-up style designed with a back zip entry for easy on-and-off wear. Talk about taking sneakers to the next level.

After driving my shoe guy Victor crazy, I decided to go with the all black canvas, black toe and studded tongue Converse. However, I still have my eye on those ‘XX Hi’ knee high sneakers. That will be on next week’s shopping list!

For more Converse styles visit www.converse.com or www.nordstrom.com

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The Perfect Shoe

In Designers, Fashion on July 14, 2010 at 5:25 am

Marilyn once made it quite clear that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”  With that said, I think it is safe to say that a perfect heel is not far behind.  If your average stiletto is a friend, consider a Louboutin heel your guardian angel.  Often seen on the perfectly pedicured feet of popular starlets, Christian Louboutin heels are often seen in sky-high versions of satin and in the fanciest form, embellished with dazzling crystals.

From the most recent collection, a stiletto bootie features a sheer upper with flame-like crystal detail.  Unlike many shoe designers, Louboutin does not stop dazzling when the heel is reached.  Fabulously colored crystals envelope the heel, which also reveals the famous red color on the inside.  Such intense sparkle may be meant for evening, but I would suggest showing this incredible piece off for any daily activity.

From the same collection, a stiletto sandal features shocking pink and metallic gold with similar crystals decorating the heel.  Perfect for that hot new night spot, this shoe will certainly be the center of attention.

If sexy heights and exquisite details strike your fancy, there is absolutely no better choice than Christian Louboutin.  Never ignore your diamonds, but make sure your other friend gets an invite, as well.

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Espadrille 101

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on May 7, 2010 at 7:13 pm

When you throw on that adorable new sundress you purchased for the summer season, think twice before you go to put on the flip-flops. Add some style and height with a pair of Espadrilles! They are sexy, trendy and will make any women feel instantly girly. Who wouldn’t want to feel like that? However, there seems to be some confusion as to what classifies as an espadrille, so I am here to provide you with a little Espadrille 101!

These casual flat or high-heel sandals have been around for centuries. Originated in the Pyrenees, espadrilles were once worn as peasant footwear.

Love these Prada Espadrilles

Now, top designers like Prada and Gucci produce espadrilles. Unfortunately, not at a peasant-budget price though. Even so, this trend is everywhere and you shouldn’t find a problem locating a cute pair  within your budget at retail stores such as DSW or even Payless.

These shoes usually have a canvas or cotton fabric body and a flexible sole made of rope or rubber material molded to look like rope. The Jute rope is the key ingredient to what makes an espadrille an…espadrille! This natural fiber is very eco-friendly and gives a casual look to any style.

Espadrilles have become a staple piece, such as an LBD (Little Black Dress) or a pair of Levi’s. I personally own about six pairs of these shoes in black, white, brown and some crazy vibrant colors that are very daring to wear, I like to live fashionably on the edge! I wear them with sundresses, capris or even my bathing suit at times. They can be worn both day and night to most events. I wouldn’t consider them an option for wedding attendance though, unless it was on the beach.

So ladies, whether you’re under the sun or chowing down at a BBQ this summer, don’t forget your espadrilles but… do forget those flip-flops!