For a long time I was convinced that I would never actually want to wear a pair of heels designed by Kobi Levi. I tend to like designs that are a little bit classic and a little bit rock-n-roll.  Designs that have an element of humor to them – like Levi’s – are usually not my thing.

Despite this, I have been a long-time admirer of his work.  Not because I wanted to wear them, but because I truly admire each individual design as a piece of art.  These are actual sculptures which happen to be in the form of shoes… beautifully constructed, fun and unique.

It wasn’t until recently that I decided a few are actually quite wearable!

Exhibit A:

Does everyone remember Madonna’s Blonde Ambition Tour (click here if you need a refresher)?   Levi captured the essence of that tour perfectly with these heels. From Madonna’s Jean Paul Gaultier-designed bustier (cone bra! corset ties!), to her trademark blond ponytail and microphone, it’s the ultimate tribute to one of the iconic looks of the 1990s.

And they would look perfect on my feet the next time I go to a concert (especially, say, a Lady Gaga show!)

Exhibit B:

Look at those floppy ears!  I love how Levi designed this shoe so the “ears” curl up slightly at the bottom.  A tiny hint of tongue and a cute nose ramp up the cute factor exponentially.

This particular pair is still more in the “I wouldn’t wear it, but would display it!” camp.  However, I know quite a few people who would love to own these and wear them!

Exhibit C:

OK, I couldn’t resist sharing this design. First, can we talk about the bottom of this shoe?  Pawprints, people. We have actual pawprints.  HOW. CUTE. IS. THAT?!

Don’t even get me started on the tail/strap.  Genius.  These are so not me, but there is just something about them… I think I might actually wear these, too.

Exhbit D and E:

I wonder what Popeye would say if he saw these Olive Oyl heels?!  Again, the attention to detail is magnificent.  It’s amazing that Levi can capture such an iconic character in a shoe design.

As for the Sling-Shot heels? Gimme.  I would wear those right now.  Today.  Plus, they can double as a weapon if need be!

Exhibit F:

The Coffee? heels are among Levi’s more recent designs.  There are two version: porcelain white and diner black.  I can’t stop staring at the heel on these.  Look at how that coffee pools on the ground.  Perfection.

Again, I’m not sure I would personally wear these either, but I would love to see them on someone!

Exhibit G:

These I would wear simply because they bring back happy memories of the playground!  That, and the ladder heel is killer.

Exhibit H:

Can you just imagine the looks you would get wearing these?  Better yet – I wonder how many people would stop you to tell you that you have gum on your shoe? HA!  Love these.  Absolutely LOVE these.

Gimme.  I want to wear these to NYFW.  And the Blonde Ambition heels too!

So… would you wear any of these designs? 

Or are Levi’s more risque designs up your ally (I have to say – I am strangely enamored with these too!)?

Image Credit: All footwear images via Kobi Levi Footwear Designs. Remaining Images via Google Images

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?

The last few weeks I have skipped my usual “lust list” because my mind just wasn’t on shopping (I know, what was wrong with me?!). This week, however, my need for retail therapy is back in full force!

Let’s start with this great “Striped Lofty Dress” by Spendid. At this time of the year I love wearing dresses like this with tights and some great tall boots.

Striped Lofty Dress by Splendid, $296 via ShopBop

Meanwhile, wouldn’t this LRD by Haute Hippie be perfect for a holiday party? I love the asymmetric hem and the bright-red color.

Crepe Mini-Dress by Haute Hippie, $445 via net-a-porter

Then there is this beautiful, beautiful silk-chiffon evening gown by Marchesa. Blue is my favorite color, and this particular shade kills me every time. Simple, elegant, and striking all at the same time. *Love*

Notte by Marchesa gown, $990 via net-a-porter

On a more casual note, I am always on the lookout for a fun striped tank. The black leather paillette detail on this silk racerback tank by A.L.C. gives it a unique look that I love.

leather paillette racerback tankby A.L.C., $595 via net-a-porter

Now, on to the really fun stuff!

I will never own enough statement rings. The bigger the better. I’ve always loved Dominic Joneses designs, and this Beetle ring absolutely fits that requirement.

Stag beetle 22K gold-plated ring by Dominic Jones, $515 via net-a-porter

This next piece by Haute Hippie is something a little different. It’s a fur collar… with chain details. I don’t normally wear pieces like this, but there is something that intrigues me about it. The possibilities might just be endless…

Royal Spots fur collar with chain by Haute Hippie, $695 via ShopBop

On a more affordable note, RichRocks is one of my favorite new online shops. Everything is $100 or less, and there are some amazing pieces to be found. This multi-link oval necklace is already in my shopping cart.

Silver multi-linked oval chain necklace, $100 via RichRocks

Finally, we can’t have an edition of “Me Wants It” without including some footwear. I know we are knee-deep in boot season right now (HA!), but I check out these Alaïa chain-link leather sandals. Beautiful, right?

Alaïa chain-link leather sandals, $2,680 via net-a-porter

What about you – has anything caught your eye lately, or are you saving up for your Holiday Shopping?

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?