Last week marked the beginning of “Designer Sale” season.  Net-a-Porter,  Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus, among others, all began the month of December by kicking off their big designer sales.  Many items have already sold out, and sizes are limited in others, but there are still a ton of goodies available.

Although I have added more than a few accessories to my various shopping bags, this post focuses on some of the boots (and other footwear) still available.  Being that I want them ALL, I have some decisions to make!

First, let’s revisit a few pairs that I have already featured in the “Me Wants It” series (or in my boot-related guest post on The Fabulous Life of the Not So Rich Infamous) that are now on sale.

These fold-over boots were one of my favorites this season, and they are still available in all sizes on Saks Fifth Avenue, and limited sizes on shopbop (6.5 and 10.5).  If you wear a 9.5 or 10 you can buy them at net-a-porter for an even better price!

Belle Sigerson Morrison Fold-over leather boots. Original price $450, Now $314.99 (also available in size 9.5 or 10 ONLY at net-a-porter for $270!)

These Lanvin boots are still pricey, but if you can afford them, now is the time to buy them!  They are a great color and will work for the Fall and Winter seasons.

Lanvin Knee-high leather boots. Original price $1,640, Now $1,148

Not everyone can rock thigh-high boots, especially this color and material.  If you can, you can’t beat these Stella McCartney boots for great quality, look and price!

Stella McCartney Thigh-high satin boots. Original price $1,045, Now $522.50

I just recently posted about these Alaïa sandals, and now they are on sale!  Still love them.  Still can’t really afford them.

Alaïa Chain-link leather sandals. Original price $2,680, Now $1,608

Although I haven’t featured this particular pair of YSL Tribute Sandals before, I have featured other styles.  The stud detailing on these gives them a bit of edge while still looking classic.   These would become a staple piece in any wardrobe.

Yves Saint Laurent Tribute studded leather sandals, Original price $1,250, Now $875

I first spotted these OTK boots on one of my favorite fashion bloggers, Tiffany of I am Style-Ish.  If I buy anything from this post, it will probably be either these or the Belle by Sigerson Morrison fold-over boots.

Roberto del Carlo Over-the-Knee Boot, Original price $725.00, Now $439.00 SALE

These Chloe Boots are another great option.  I love the strap and buckle details, and all sizes are still available at Bergdorf Goodman!

Chloe Wrapped Strap Boot, Original price $1,195.00, Now $836.00

What makes these YSL pumps so fun is the design.  They aren’t really a pump, and they aren’t really a wedge.   You’d definitely make a statement wearing these!

Yves Saint Laurent Clunky Suede Pump, Original price $780.00, Now $522.00

I’ve mentioned my love for Brian Atwood before, so it is only fitting I include these cute ankle boots.   All sizes are still available at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Brian Atwood Helix Suede Ankle Boots, Original price $835.00, Now $583.99

Finally, these nude platforms aren’t on sale.  But they are Brian Atwood.  And they are nude.  With black mesh detailing.  What’s not to love about these?!

Brian Atwood Dante leather platform pumps $640

Have you done any shopping at the Designer Sales, either for yourself or gifts?

Or is there something you have your eye on but are waiting to see if the price drops further?

Only a few days left! If you haven’t already done so, please click here to enter to win a Wendy Brandes Lotus Necklace!

How was everyone’s weekend?

It was an interesting and long one in my neck of the woods. We had a big 3-day event at work that was all hands on deck. It was a success, but I am exhausted! I also appear to be fighting off a cold. Friday the weather in Cleveland was in the 90s, and Saturday and Sunday it was high 50s/low 60s. I guess Fall has finally arrived – no more summer teases!

This week’s selections are a bit dark, but yet fun. Enjoy!

This Nanette Lepore top would look great paired with some dark skinnies. Love the shape and intricate pattern. So cute.

I am a firm believer that you can never have enough jackets, and this Isabel Marant piece would be a great addition to any wardrobe. Leather detailing, exposed zippers, and a great silk and wool-blend. This would get a ton of wear!

I don’t know if I would ever have the occasion to wear this stunning Diane von Furstenberg creation, but I just can’t stop staring at it. I love the contrast of the gold and black. I love the movement in the draped silk… it’s absolutely beautiful.

Now, on to some shoes.

Here we have one of Christian Louboutin’s classic pumps, but in a grey-flannel finish. Why not?

Then, there is this Jeffrey Campbell black suede pump. From the side you only get a hint of the fabulous feline detail on the heel!

Finally, we have these shoeties by Ruthie Davis. It appears I have a thing for spikes. I blame V from Grit and Glamour. Ever since I read this blog post, I am obsessed!

Is summer weather still hanging around in your neck of the woods, or have you finally made the transition to Fall?

All images courtesy of net-a porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, Ruthie Davis Shoes and ModCloth

If you haven’t already done so, please click here to enter to win a Wendy Brandes Lotus Necklace!

To wear heels, or not to wear heels, that is the question

According to a study conducted at England’s Northumbria University, men could care less whether women wear high heels or not.   Per the UK Daily Mail, “the tests looked at whether the change in body posture brought about by wearing heels, such as the illusion of longer legs, tilting torso and more prominent rear, sends a signal which has an effect on men.”  The conclusion?  Male observers were unable to tell which of the female  subjects were wearing heels.  While I agree a shoe alone doesn’t make a woman confident and sexy, I don’t believe it’s absolutely irrelevant.

I don’t know about you, but I wear heels for me.  They make me walk straighter, carry my head high, and feel sexier.  If I feel sexier – I act more confident.  It doesn’t matter whether a man notices my heels or not – I notice them.  Other women might feel just as sexy in flats as I do in heels.  Nothing wrong with that.  The point is, if we are confident in what we are wearing, we show that confidence.  The man might not notice the shoes – but he certainly notices the confidence!

Besides, can you really convince me that the first few seconds of this promo would have been just as sexy if she wasn’t wearing heels?  Everytime I saw this on TV, I died a little inside because I loved the heels so much!

Vote for the Sexiest Shoes of the Year

Obviously, Saks Fifth Avenue thinks heels are sexy.  Per WWD, they, in conjunction with Footwear News, are holding a contest to determine the years sexiest shoe.  Contestants range from Christian Louboutin to Manolo Blahnik to Miu Miu and Dolce & Gabbana.

Voting is open to the public and will take place online, as well as at the 10022-SHOE boutique in the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue store in New York.  Click here to vote online today!

My pick?  These Jimmy Choo Feline’s.

Blog Writer?

I’ve shopped at ModCloth a few times.  Many of the items aren’t really my style, but I occasionally run into something with just the right amount of edge.   Regardless, I always get a kick out of the names they come up with for items, and sometimes the descriptions are absolutely genius!  I was perusing the site last night when I came across the “Blog Writer Dress.”

Although I could see some bloggers wearing this (Tavi comes to mind – and she would rock it), I wouldn’t be caught dead in it.  It looks like a nightgown to me (grandma’s night gown!), is not polished at all, and it’s rather pricey for what it is!   I know ModCloth is just trying to think of fun names for their dresses, but I hate the idea of people thinking bloggers dress like this.   It’s stereotyping, in a way, and am I wrong in thinking the majority of fashion bloggers wouldn’t wear this?

Thou shalt not use the name “Chanel” in vain

This is something we should all be aware of as fashion bloggers: Chanel is on the prowl for people that are misusing their trademark brand name.    Specifically, they would like a cease and desist placed on the use of the word “Chanel” as an adjective.  The powerhouse recently took out the following ad in WWD:

Source: Chic and You Shall Find

So, fellow bloggers, be mindful of that next time something reminds you of a Chanel piece!

Metro Chic and Tom Ford’s Black Orchid

Quite a few of you have been asking about the nail color I am wearing in this photo:

It’s called Metro Chic by OPI for Sephora.  It’s actually a really popular shade from last fall, but I still love it – one of my faves!  Click on the image below to buy it.

Another nail color I am excited about is Tom Ford’s Black Orchid!  Although it looks more red than black, it kind of reminds me of Chanel’s Vamp (please don’t hurt me for the comparison, Chanel!).  Looking forward to seeing this one in person.

A couple of doses of inspiration

Karen Elson looks spectacular in this Harpers Bazaar shoot, and I am seriously coveting those gorgeous red locks of hers!

Photoshoot Details:
Harpers Bazaar UK, October 2010
Photographer: Alexi Lubomirski

Meanwhile, I am strangely drawn to Eniko Mihalik’s hair in this shoot.  I can’t stop staring at this shot… (plus, the dress is gorgeous!)

Photoshoot Details:
Harpers Bazaar Spain, October 2010
Photographer: Nico

How is your Wednesday going? Anything particular on your mind?

I am trying to get myself back on my regular posting schedule, so… without further ado, I bring you this week’s lust list:

This lace Filament dress by Vena Cava is both delicate and decidedly military-inspired at the same time.  Love the asymmetrical hem (as always), and the contrast of the lace (especially the back!), army green silk skirt, and lamé detailing.

Meanwhile, this ruffled silk chiffon dress is from Vena Cava’s Aqua line for Bloomingdale’s. More affordable, and just as cute.   

 

You can never own enough leopard print.  Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label brings us this asymmetrical sequined silk skirt.  It’s fun.  It’s striking.  Dress it down for work or up for a night on the town.



Also from Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label, I ADORE this glitter sweater dress.  First, it’s a sweater dress.  Always a winner.  Second, it’s blue.  And it glitters.  I think I am in love. (also – those Louboutin’s the model is wearing haunt my dreams).



Is it odd that this embellished silk-tulle dress by Rachel Gilbert reminds me of Andy South’s braided ribbon creation from this season’s “unconventional materials” episode of Project Runway?  Anyone else see a resemblence, or am I just crazy?  Regardless, I love both!



Next up in this week’s lust list we have – oh wait.  How did he get here?


Gerry, dear – you don’t belong in THIS lust list.

Sorry about that.

Moving on, Diane von Furstenberg has always been one of my faves.  A lot of my closet is made up of staple pieces in shades of black and grey.  This Jori Patchwork Dress would fit in nicely.  Great shape and fun fabric choices.


Now, this isn’t your grandma’s crochet dress.  Rachel Roy takes the art of crocheting to the next level with this stunning metallic gold piece.  Love the touch of lace-up detail in the back.  Perfect for a special night out.


I can’t decide if I would actually wear this, but something about it definitely draws me in.  Kirrily Johnston’s Silent Trees long cardigan is unique looking.  I don’t have anything like it in my closet – maybe that is why I am so drawn to it.

This shirt by Erin Wasson X RVCA speaks for itself.  I Want it.


One of the easiest ways to update your look for Fall is purchasing a statement bag.  This Piper shoulder bag by Diane von Furstenberg has some great detailing.  Nubuck trim, stud accents, gunmetal hardware.  Plus it’s a great size – 14″H x 15″L x 3″D. 

Christina Hendrick’s is wearing a particular pair of Erickson Beamon earrings in her Capitol File Magazine photoshoot that I want to find, but until then, these twisted gunmetal and Swarovski crystal earrings are a nice alternative.  Too, too cute!

What are you coveting this week? 


All images courtesy of net-a-porter, shopbop, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales.

Well, the weather is finally starting to cool down a bit now.  You’d think I would be thrilled because that means fall styles are around the corner, but now, all of a sudden, I find myself clinging to summer.  A few more 90 degree days won’t hurt anyone!

Nevertheless, this week’s lust list is all about fall and includes a few pairs of amazonian heels, lace and military-inspired trends and a dragon!

 

I love everything about this Diane von Furstenerg Pilton felted lace coat.  It’s the perfect shape for someone curvy and the lace panels give it a fun and unique look.  I would rock this all winter.

 

 

All images courtesy of net-a-porter, shopbop and Saks Fifth Avenue.