Steeping Out – Bizzarre Shoes
As a fashion blogger, I like to surf around the web and visit different sites to see whats out there, and let me tell you, what’s out there is a lot. During my hunting trips through the forest of fashion content available online, nothing has perplexed and intrigued me more than odd shoes. Remember this piece I did called “Artistic Footwear” when the blog first started? I realized that I haven’t focused on shoes in a while so behold, dear reader, my end of year round-up of the most breathtaking, jaw dropping, and craziest shoes I could find around the web.
Iris Schieferstein’s stuffed dove shoes
German artist Iris Schieferstein has managed to horrify and mesmerize audiences with these sandals made out of real doves. The artist has used animals as raw materials in her art work for years, and gives a whole new meaning to taxidermy.

Aphrodite Project GPS Alert Platform Shoes
The slogan of these platforms is “Helping sex workers protect themselves.” The shoes have an alarm clock that will ring to ward off potential attackers, built-in GPS, and an area to store away keys, money, and other items.

Finn Stone’s LEG-GO Stilettos
Designed for last year’s Affordable Art Fair in London, these completely wearable pumps will run you about $2,600 in debt. Currently the stilettos aren’t available for commercial purposes, but rumor has it that if you contact the artist directly, he is willing to create a custom one for you.

14DS Clowny Boots

Cat Footwear Autumn/Winter 2012 collection

A picture of me checking out my new pair of CAT Footwear Corrine boots.
On Thursday, October 11th, I attended launch of Cat Footwear’s Autumn/Winter 2012 collection at their showroom in New York City. The collection features footwear that is just as fashionable as they are comfortable. Bloggers in attendance were given the amazing opportunity to take home a complimentary pair of shoes or boots. Featured styles for women included: the Corinne ($230), the Marin ($210), and the Rita ($170), and featured styles for men included: the Isaac ($150), the Dougald ($140), and the Haverhill ($140).
I chose the Corrine boot, made from full grain leather and canvas material. It reaches a few inches below the knee and will look great over skinny jeans or with a short casual dress. It easily slipped on over my work pants, and was unbelievable comfortable. The boots run a little big; I had to select a pair that were about 1/2 smaller than what I would normally wear, so keep this in mind when ordering. But, once you find your perfect size, you are well on your way to a fashionable rugged style that will amplify any winter outfit.

FIRST LOOK: Pour La Victoire’s new Ad Campaign
I love shoes. No matter how many I own, every time I walk into a shoe store, I can’t help but buy a new pair. I am especially fond of unique styles and fine detailing, which is why I’m excited to share with you the Holiday/Resort 2012 ad campaign for Pour la Victoire, a high-end women’s shoe and accessories line adored by celebrities (I’m currently coveting their Tilda Metallic PVC Pump). The campaign was shot by famed fashion photographer, Terry Richardson, and features model Jessica Hart. Check out the pictures from the sexy photoshoot below, and you can also see all the behind the scenes action here.
The shoes featured in the ads are available now through the end of December at high-end retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales.
Get Custom-Made Shoes this Summer
Post submitted by Jolevette
Love to show off you personality through shoes? Always dreamed of having something custom-made just for you? Well now you can. For a limited time, you can stop by Henri Bendel, located on the infamous Fifth Avenue in New York City, and have a sandal made-to-order just for you.

Custom made sandals
My shoe size is between an 8 1/2 and 9, and sometimes it’s hard to find a shoe that fits, especially a sandal. Sometimes I find that sandals are made to narrow so toes go over, or the slipper can be too big; but, not anymore! Until July 16th, the cobblers of Tuccia Di Capri, a shoe company that molds sandals for any type of feet, will be available at Henri Bendel’s to hand-make sandals to order. There are a variety of gorgeous styles to choose from. I felt like I was in shoe paradise!
First, the shoemaker measured my feet with a sole and measuring tape to ensure my foot fit perfectly on the sandal. This also helps them make sure the straps would not be too loose or tight. Next, I got to pick a shoe from an amazing selection of designs. After that, I just sat back and relaxed. If they do not have anything you like, they can make additions.
I decided to pick the Tuvo sandal style with a gorgeous white leaf belt, that had crystals sounding at the top of the foot. This design is special and screams…BLING BLING! What makes this style so unique is that the only other person with a similar pair is The Real Housewives of Atlanta star, Nene Leakes. Who doesn’t want to share something with a celebrity?

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star NeNe Leakes also owns a pair of these!
The art of cobbling is an old, time-honored craft that comes straight from the shores of Italy and now, to your foot! The cobblers take their time to handcraft your shoe, and if you are willing to wait, they will make it right in front of you! The end result is a perfectly fitted, designed-for-you sandal. Now, you are ready to rock any sandy shore or party this summer with style.
Tuccia Di Capri is based in Miami, FL. Learn more about them here»
Essential Summer Shoes for Every Woman – 2012
Every woman needs to have a go to perennial summer essential shoe collection. This is the time of year when our cute toes get to peek out at the sun after months of being forced into sensible winter boots. In the summer months you get to show off your sexy pedicures without the ubiquitous flip-flop anywhere in sight.
There are five must have types of shows for Summer 2012 –
1- CLASSIC – Light colored ballet flats: for everything from swingy short skirts to skinny leg jeans
2- ELEGANT – Nude colored pumps: can be worn with business suits as well as cocktail dresses
3- TRENDY – Fun colored wedges: shorts, maxi dresses, short dresses…the possibilities are limitless
4- SEXY – Black high heel boots with a spring twist: do I even need to give examples of what you can wear such boots with? Black high heel boots are the epitome of must have shoes.
5- WILD – Bright colored f**k-me stilettos: to be saved for a night out when you want to leave your mark on everyone you meet.
The ballet flat is basic shoe but does not need to be dowdy. This blush-tone style, in a pale pink hue, lends sweetness to any outfit while the metal cap-toe gives you an edge.
Nude colored pumps can be worn either day or night and add a bit of elegance to any type of outfit. Try this one with a comfortable cushioned platform can go directly from the office to a party.
A standout wedge shoe can make any outfit pop. Buckles around the ankles are preferable to sling backs and remember to get a platform wedges for extra height.
Black heeled boots are a staple in any closet, a must have and can dress up any plain skirt or dress. For a black boot with a “spring twist” get a boot with peek toes or a cutout at the foot that is not clunky.
Every woman deserves a hot looking stiletto, in a bright spring color, for those nights when she’d like to let her freak flag fly high. For added attention get an extra sexy pair with low-cut vamp for ample toe cleavage, an architectural heel and a peep toe.
Post submitted by Ramola Poonai.
Rock your Red Pumps on March 10th!
“Every 35 minutes, a woman tests positive for HIV in the United States.”
On March 10th, the US will commemorate National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD), a yearly project of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health that seeks raises awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls. In observance of this day, the 4th Annual Rock the Red Pump™ Campaign is back and encouraging women to rock their favorite pair of red pumps. Here are some fierce red pumps you may consider slipping your feet into this Saturday: (more…)
Can you spot the more expensive shoe?
When you buy shoes, do you pay for the designer name brand or the fashionable style? If you see shoes by high-end designers that you covet, but can’t afford the designer price tag, it’s very easy find similar styles that look just as good, but won’t break your bank account. Take a look at some of the shoes below. Can you spot the expensive designer footwear from the cheaper version?

On the left: Dior ‘Miss Dior’ Platform Pump ($660)
On the right: Arturo Chiang Orina Pumps ($69.99)

On the left: Luichiny Women’s Fanta See Platform Pump ($69.95)
On the right: Vince Camuto ‘Missie’ Pump ($118.95)
On the left: Kate Spade Gwen Open-Toe Pump Neutral Snake ($334.00)
On the right: Calvin Klein Women’s Kail Platform Open-Toe Pump ($70.99)

On the left: Jimmy Choo Vibe Glitter-Coated Leather Peep Toe Pumps ($795.00)
On the right: Rampage Gracee Pump ($49.00)
Ring in the New Year with New Shoes
If you’re still looking for the perfect pair of glittery footwear to ring in the New Year with, then look no further. I’ve scoured the World Wide Web to bring you my favorite sparkling creations, sure to out rival the shine of the most decked out Christmas tree. After all, shoes can change a girl’s life at midnight… just ask Cinderella.
Dress Like it’s your Birthday…Everyday
When I think of birthdays, I envision multi-colored confetti sprinkled all over a room, so why not feature that kind of inspiration in your wardrobe. There should always be at least one item in your closet that screams, “Party over here!”. Add at least one glittery, muti-cored staple piece to your collection, and Happy Birthday!

Rare Multi Sequin Mini Skirt, $70.08Iron Fist Twinkle Toes Platform Shoes - Multi-Colored Sequin, $50
Celebrity Shoes…and where you can get them
So I’ve done a post like this before, and it’s one of my favorite types of articles to write AND to read. Because celebrities are thought of as having access to exclusive fashion goods, I love investigating what they are wearing, and where you can go to get the same exact thing. That’s right! Keep reading to learn how you can walk in the same shoes as Hillary Duff, Fergie, and Selena Gomez.
When out to lunch with her mother and hubby Mike Comrie in Beverly Hills, CA, Hillary Duff chose to wear leather buckled 4 inch heeled boots by Vivienne Westwood. You can buy the same except boot at Zapoos Couture for $399.99.

Hillary Duff wears Vivienne Westwood Skyscraper Seditionary - $399.99
Back in July Selena Gomez wore head-turning studded taupe suede ankle booties while promoting her film “Monte Carlo.” You can buy the same shoes at My Wardrobe.com for $354.75.

Selena Gomez wears Sam Edelman Putty Renzo Suede Ankle Boot Stud Heel - $354.75
Leopard print is so in this season that not even trendsetter Fergie could resist adding the animal-print to one of the booties in her footwear line. She wore her leopard print Women’s Gatsby Too Oxford bootie at Nordstrom to debut the Fergie Footwear Fall 2011 Collection in Los Angeles, California last month. You can get them at Nordstrom for $139.95.

Fergie Women's Gatsby Too Oxford - $139.95
A peep toe beauty – Sexiest shoe of the year
Every year, Footwear News, a division of Women’s wear Daily, has a vote to choose the sexiest shoe of the year. The winner for 2011 is far superior to last year’s winner, Christian Louboutini Maralena Stilettos, in style, design and price. While the 2010 winner was priced at $2,445, this year’s sexiest shoes cost a mere $695. Over 35,000 votes were cast online in the contest this time around. For you shoe fetish, below are the top three runners-up, followed by the winner.
Feast your eyes…
Third place in the sexist shoes vote — Chrissie Morris ($1365)

Second runner up — Prada ($1200)

First runner up —Jimmy Choo ($2095)

Winner of the sexiest shoes —Valentino ($695)

Post submitted by Ramola Poonai
Fashionable Rain Boots
It has been raining nonstop in NYC over the last few weeks, and I have decided that it is time for me to cave in and purchase rain boots. I have been putting off owning a pair of these unfashionable ghastly creations for the longest time, but I’ve come to realize that rubber, waterproof footwear are a must-have for the kind of weather we have been experience here. But, I refuse to buy just any rain boot…oh, no, this fashionsista needs to purchase rain boots worthy of a runway or spread in Elle magazine. So, during my quest for cute, fashionable looking rain boots I’ve come across some really cool looking ones, and wanted to share them with you.
Fun Prints

- Kamik Women’s Amelia Rain Boot, $54.95 at DSW.com
- Baxter Rain Boot, $69.95 at BetsyJohnson.com
- Women’s Rose Print Rain Boots – Navy, $32.99 at Target.com
- Kamik Heather , $42.00 at 6pm.com
- Gabriella Rocha Mission, White Floral, $49.00 at zappos.com
High Fashion
The thing I dislike the most about rain boots is that you have to walk with shoes to change into when you each your destination. So, during my search I spent a lot of time looking at boots that will not only act as rain protectors but look chic, and can be worn all day.

1. Coach Tristee Rainboot, $118
2. HUNTER “Champery” Wedge Rain Boots, $175.00
3. HUNTER “Regent Savoy” Rain Boots, $175.00
4. HUNTER “Lapins” Lace-Up Knee-High Rain Boots, $225
5. Dirty Laundry Rhane Rain Boot, $49.95
End of Summer Hottest Trend – Leopard Print

Miranda Kerr poses at the David Jones Spring/Summer fashion preview on Burke Street on August 10, 2011 in Melbourne, Australia. (August 9, 2011 - Photo by Lucas Dawson/Getty Images AsiaPac)
I absolutely adore this season’s latest trend fixation – leopard print. It’s become the new black, or neutral, that you can wear just about anything with. It’s hard to walk into any fashion store and not find pieces with solid black spots peppered against a golden hue, mimicking the look of a leopard’s coat. Leopard print does have a sexy allure to it, and you can unleash your inner wild side with small pieces, or adorn yourself with a full-printed jumpsuit. Here are some of my faves:

Wear sexy leopard pumps to dress-up a netural-colored outfit. - Leopard Print Satin Pumps ($59.00-$66.00)

If you choose to wear a full leopard print outfit, wear solid shoes. The key to this trend is to not go too overboard. - Kardashian Kollection Women's Jersey Wrap Top Jumper
New Obsession: The Kardashian Kollection

So I have to admit it, I have been eagerly awaiting the launch of the Kardashian sisters new clothing line for Sears. Honestly, with the success of running their own clothing store, I was surprised that they would design a line to be featured in the stores of a major retailer, but I’m happy they did. The fashion line is exactly what I would except from the trio: figure-hugging clothes, sexy platforms, and glamorous jewelry. The line called, Kardashian Kollection, includes all of the above, in addition to sunglasses, belts, lingerie and handbags.
It was definitely no surprise that during the online 30% off 72-hour pre-sale, which launched August 8th, a majority of the items sold out quickly. Missed the pre-sale? The Kardashian Kollection is available for purchase at sears.com now, and if you use the special coupon code “Kardashian,” you can still take advantage of the 30% off deal.
The Kardashian Kollection will hit Sears stores nationwide on August 26th.
Summer Luxury Bazaar: Brooklyn Stone Boutique & Cake Joy Dessert Lounge
Yesterday I attended a private press preview and luxury shopping extravaganza at Brooklyn Stone Boutique in the Fort Green section of Brooklyn, NY. Founded in September of 2010, the boutique carries one-of-a-kind selections of indie and international fashion and beauty brands. An avid fashion lover, the store’s owner and founder Regina Stone, takes pride in selecting pieces that are high in quality and exclusivity.

Inside the Brooklyn Stone Boutique.
“What’s unique about the store is that everything is bought in limited quantities,” she explains. “You aren’t going to walk down the street and have to worry about seeing someone else wearing one of the pieces.”

You’ll definitely stand out in a crowd when wearing one of these rare international designer pumps.
Of course, I had to find out what is the most sought after item in the store, so that I could make sure to grab one for myself. As it turns out, it’s the jumpsuits, which are so popular; there were none available in the store for me to see, as they had all sold out for the day.
Also unique about the store, is Regina’s presence, as she enthusiastically admits to working hands-on at the boutique daily in every role imaginable, from operating the cash register to assisting customer with selecting items.

Jewelry display case at the boutique
The costs of the items in the store vary greatly, with enough price ranges to fit everyone’s budget: apparel ranges from $40-$250; handbags are in the range of $120-$325, and the jewelry starts as low as $15 and goes up to $200.

Distinctive decorative jewelry available for purchase at the store.
As the Brooklyn Stone Boutique continues to expand, Regina plans on adding more shopping events, expanding the store’s personal shopping service, and even starting her own fashion line. Don’t live in New York, but want to purchase the unique items sold at the boutique? Visit Brooklyn Stone Boutique’s online store now»
I then headed next door to the Cake Joy Dessert Lounge, which was founded in December 2010 by Executive Patery Chef Kym Rodgers, who does all of the baking herself on-site, seven days a week, with the assistance of one intern.
Item Must-Have: Sparkle Sneakers
I am not an impulse buyer by any means, but the other day when I was walking by Bakers shoe store in midtown Manhattan, glittering multi-colored sneaker stopped me in my tracks, and I had no choice but to enter the store and ask to try on a pair of the sparkly footwear. Usually I would never buy sneakers that were impractical or childish, but impractical and childish these are not. Memorizing, captivating and fun are the adjectives I would use to describe these chicly decorated H by Halston Baillee sneakers. These sneakers added instant glamour to my usual black pants and shirt attire, and are available in three styles: White/Glitter or Black/Glitter & Man Made or Black Multi/Glitter & Suede.
I chose the multi glitter suede style, after seeing how each step I took glistened in the light, and for $29.99, it’s quite a steal! Head to Bakers and get yourself a pair before they’re sold out»

I could not stop staring at my feet as I walked.

Bling, Bling!

Love the shine!
(Photos taken by Jolevette)
Easter Fashion
When I think of Easter and fashion, I think of soft pastel colors, bright florals, and free-flowing clothing. Easter dresses capture the nostalgia of springtime, and usher in feel-good vibes of the summer to come. Here are some tips on picking out your perfect Easter outfit:
1. You can be sexy on Easter. Choose form-fitting dresses with floral patterns such as the White/Turquoise Floral Print Strapless Dress or Bisou Bisou® Scoopneck Allover Pleated Print Dress (both pictured below). You can evoke the colors of springtime and the innocence of youth by picking a dress with beautiful patterns; your dress does not need to be covered in little bunnies and yellow chicks.

Bisou Bisou® Scoopneck Allover Pleated Print Dress - $59.99 (left) and White/Turquoise Floral Print Strapless Dress - $54.90 (right)
2. Let the Breeze in. There’s nothing more sensual than the gentle kiss of a soft, springtime breeze. By wearing light, freely-flowing clothing, such as the Turquoise Floral Twist Strap Empire Waist Halter Dress or Halter print dress, you are able to celebrate the breezy days.

Turquoise Floral Twist Strap Empire Waist Halter Dress - $34.99 (left) and Halter print dress - $39 (right)
3. Add some Spring to your step. Wedges are a very popular accompaniment to a fashionable Easter outfit, but you can wear any type of shoe. Pick shoes with floral accents, patterns, pale or vivid colors. I adore the below floral pumps, available at Payless and Forever 21, respectively.

L-R: Inlove Flower Pump ($27.99) and Floral Mary Jane Heels ($24.80)
Walk like a Celebrity…if you can afford to
Celebrities wear the most fabulous shoes. Just because your name doesn’t appear in headlights, that doesn’t mean you can wear the same footwear as your favorites stars. Here’s what the celebs are wearing and where you can buy the exact same shoes.
Audrina Partridge arrived at a hotel in Sydney wearing Tory Burch “Reva” Ballet Flats, which you can buy for $195 at Bloomindales.

(March 24, 2009 - Photo by Photo Agency)
Bella Thorne accessorized her hot pink cocktail dress with Kate Spade New York Charm Heel at the Justin Bieber movie premier. You can buy the shoes online at zappos.com for $325.

(February 8, 2011 - Photo by Bauer Griffin)
Hayden Panettiere wore black mesh and patent Aileen ankle booties with red lining by Charles Jourdan at Chateau Marmont on Feb. 23rd. You can buy them for yourself at Amazon.com for $154.45.

(February 23, 2011 - Photo by PacificCoastNews.com)
Jennifer Lopez stunned in these metal stud embellished Gucci Sigourney sandals. You can buy these right off their website in 3 different colors: honey color python ($1250); light tobacco leather($795), and military green suede ($795), which J-Lo is wearing in the picture below.

(November 19, 2010 - Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images North America)
Brave the rainbow color palette

(L)- Agatha Ruiz de la Prada Fashion Show as part of Cibeles Fashion Week A/W 2011 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images Europe); (R)- Pam Hogg Show at London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2011 (Photo by Tim Whitby/Getty Images Europe).
When the sun shines on droplets of water, a colorful rainbow appears in the sky revealing a beautiful spectrum of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Although the sun has not been shining enough lately due to the harsh winter weather, there’s no reason why we can’t add the colors of the rainbow to our wardrobe. This winter, you can be the drop of water the sun needs to create its vibrant assortment of color!

Brian Atwood Maniac Mix ($1195)
Glam up your feet with Glitter shoes for less
I can’t seem to get over the sparkly Gianmarco Lorenzi Gregory Shoes Adrienne Maloof wore on the season finale of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (pictured left), which aired on Bravo on Thursday, January 20th. I also can’t get over the $2,795 price tag. For those of you who are in love with the shoes just as much as I am, here are some more affordable options that have just as much sparkle, but don’t cost as much money.

Wear the a similar style by Zanotti for much less - Giuseppe Zanotti Women's I06150 Glitter Pump ($492.72)
Look below at the pumps on the left by Steve Madden , which will run you $130. Check out a similar version from Sears (right), which only cost $30!
Stay ahead of the trend: Peacock Prints and Feathers

Peacocky Color Palette by MAC Cosmetics
I’m starting to notice the emergence of a certain feathery creature in fashion stores – the peacock. Just recently, while browsing through the accessories department of Forever 21, I saw headbands, earrings and other accessories inspired by the colorful bird. Take the time to look through the racks of outfits in various stores, and you will see that brilliant blue-green hues are everywhere, and bright peacock prints are easy to find in the form of dresses, shirts, spandex and shoes. Mac Cosmetics is even launching a peacock-inspired makeup collection, which will be available January 6, 2011 through mid-February 2011. Stay ahead of the trend by infusing some vibrant peacock fashion into your wardrobe.

Mai Lamore Couture Peacock Feather Platform ($13,180).
Sparkle with each step
At New Years Eve parties, most people love to wear flashy holiday outfits that rival the sparkling crystal ball that drops at midnight. I think it’s best opt for simpler styles by wearing just a hint of shimmer…….on your feet. This holiday season dress up a dull outfit by wearing flashing shoes and save the sequin clothing for the 80s. That way, you won’t look as if you’re trying too hard, and you’ll still be a head-turner at your New Year ’s Eve bash.
Artistic Footwear
Shoes have come a long way since its primary purpose of protecting feet from injury. Nowadays, the shoes you wear are a fashion statement, and designers are taking it one step further (pun intended) by creating shoes that are not only functional, but edgy architectural works of art made to be shunned, admired and if your daring, worn. Here are some unique footwear designs are visually bold, unconventional and creative works of art.
- Elephant dung heels by INSA
- Candyland Shoes by House of Gasoline Glamour
- Alberto Guardiani’s Lipstick Heel
- Kobi Levi. Chewing gum 2009.
- Andre Perugia fish shoe, 1931
- Jean-Charles de Castelbajac leopard heel


























































