Sole Spotlight: Shoe Themed Jewelry From "Zoe's Barbie Shoes"

Raindrops on roses and fluffy orange kittens,
Da Bears and Tim Burton and SHOES make me smitten,
The packages that the mail carrier brings,
These are a few of my favorite things!

★

One day a few months ago I sat down to look for some shoe jewelry on Etsy.  I had a purple Barbie shoe bracelet that I purchased several years ago and I wanted to find one in a different color scheme.  My search kept bringing up one shop in particular: Zoe's Barbie Shoes.

It was shoe jewelry heaven and I thankfully had the time to leisurely go through the shop.  Besides the bracelets I was searching for, there were earrings and necklaces, and even more - wine charms, keychains, brooches...  all made with shoes!  And some were not just shoes, but, for example, a bracelet with my beloved Chicago Bears and football themed charms mixed in with orange and blue shoes.  Squee!!!!!  When I found that I knew it was kismet.

The jewelry is made by Matthew "Zoe" Gladkowski, a Barbie fanatic (yes, the photo below is him in his amazing Barbie room).  He played with Barbies as a kid, encouraged by as he says "the BEST Grandmother EVER!!!"  Today with the start-up help of his Grandmother, he has over 1000 Barbies total, ranging from the 1960s dolls to those of today.  Besides his extensive Barbie collection, Matthew also knows REAL women's shoes.  He has done drag as "Biter Ann Jaded" and now can appreciate a well made heel.  That is something I appreciate as well!

Over the years when a friend would gift him Barbies for his collection, he would always make them a keepsake bracelet with the shoes.  In 2012 a friend found her bracelet from back in the 80s and posted it on facebook.  When the requests from others wanting one began to flood in, the Etsy shop was born.  With his 500+ listed creations being incredibly popular, today in just over 2 years he's almost at his 1000th sale.

When playing, he would dress his Barbies impeccably, obsessed with color coordination and making sure outfits, purses and shoes all matched.  This skill is definitely brought into his jewelry today.  The pieces are made with different yet coordinating shoe styles and colors, charms and vintage beads.  A lot of the materials used for his pieces are found while thrifting, and seriously, can you think of a better way to upcycle?!   Matthew makes his jewelry in his Barbie room and will often take a few dolls from the shelf that match to keep him both inspired and focused.  Making the items for his shop also gives him the most perfect excuse to spend more time with his collection enjoying it.

His charm bracelets are the most popular, with the rainbow, tropical, pastel and goth (made with deep red, purple, navy, forest green, silver, and black shoes) themed ones being the frontrunners.  Matthew also gets a lot of custom orders, such as a recent necklace and bracelet set he made to match actual John Deere themed heels, or the one I requested from him.  Besides my Chicago Bears, I am a huge Tim Burton fan.  I requested a "Nightmare Before Christmas" themed bracelet with black and white shoes.  I couldn't love it more!!!  The shoes are all my style sexy high heels, and mixed in with them are with vintage beads, Jack and Sally charms, a few pumpkins, a few skulls, and some spider webs.  I've already got my next custom request picked out.  It will revolve around Catrine DeMew, a Monster High doll I consider my alter ego...

Lately Matthew has been trying to expand his shop and make a larger variety of jewelry.  He has been adding many cameo styles (such as can be seen in my bracelet above), some with shoes and some without.  He has also been starting to use more clip art and customer photos to make truly personalized jewelry and gifts.  His creations come very nicely packaged, perfect for gift giving or better yet, a nice present for yourself (as mine both were).  Speaking of gifts, I have one just for you.  Go check out Zoe's Barbie Shoes on Etsy right now.  And the gift - use coupon code CUPCAKEDEB during checkout to receive 20% off your purchase.  Happy shopping! =)

Decadent vs. Deal: Louboutin, L.A.M.B. and Zanotti

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm a "practical" shoe addict.  I love a bargain priced yet well made edgy shoe.  If it's designer inspired, it's an added bonus because I don't actively search out knockoffs.  Here's a few more of my "decadent vs. deal" shoe finds.

First up we have Christian Louboutin's "Pivichic" from last year (found at Saks Fifth Avenue but sold out, around $800), a shoe I fell in love with when I first saw it worn by Emma Watson.  I was thrilled to find one so similar in design (currently on final sale $29.95 VIP, $45.95 non-VIP from ShoeDazzle).  I have the "Teya" shoe and I would say they're true to size even with the PVC and the pointed toe.  The heel being a bit shorter and thicker than the Louboutin's also gives it a bit more stability.  Want them to look more like Louboutin's?  The bottom is black but could easily be painted the Louboutin signature red.  Act fast though as Teya is currently on final sale, but for a few pennies less than $30 how can you go wrong?

 

Next we have a shoe I had no idea was a L.A.M.B. doppleganger when it joined my closet.  I loved the mesh and the unique cap toe of each of them.  L.A.M.B.'s version, called "Sandy" ($224.99 from heels.com), also comes in a black on black version.  However, what sold me was the cobalt blue and black version of "Davina" from Beau+Ashe (currently on final sale $29.95 VIP, $45.95 non-VIP at ShoeDazzle).  I also like the smaller mesh on "Davina".  Although I love a good pair of fishnets, I prefer them to be on my legs and not necessarily my shoes.  As a 6.5 I would say "Davina" is true to size, although some might prefer to size up with the pointed toe since it is ever so slightly tight.  It's also another fabulous shoe on clearance at ShoeDazzle, so grab them while you can. 

My last share of the day caught my eye because last summer I purchased a bargain priced sandal from Paper Fox called "Lenny" - which sold out in a matter of days.  After receiving them I noticed they were pretty damn close to a Giuseppe Zanotti creation ("Lace-Up Scalloped Sandal", found at NeimanMarcus.com, $1195.00).  While perusing this spring's new offerings, I've found two more incredibly close designs.  The first is one from Piperlime.com, "The BlondeSalad x Steve Madden Trome" priced at $130.00, and then the even cheaper "Vernon" from JustFab ($39.95 VIP members, $49.00 non-VIPs).  All three are suede (although JustFab's is faux), and styled in both the lace up and laser cut trends.  The Madden shoe also comes in a blush version, but Justfab added both a nude and a red one to the mix.  I prefer the black in these, but you could get all 3 colors for less than the price of the Madden pair.  Three is better than one, right? ;-)

Simple Tweaks: Writing a Helpful & Informative Shoe Review

I spend a lot of time on shoe sites looking at shoes.  When I find a pair of shoes that I am interested in purchasing, the first thing I look to is the description from the seller.  Sometimes information I am looking for is not listed - such as calf measurements on boots - so I will seek out reviews to hopefully find out those missing details.  It seems to me that reviews are getting less and less helpful; they're only an opinion of how much the wearer likes a given shoe and maybe one other detail.  I am very happy to read that people like their new shoes, but PLEASE help the undecided by giving us some much needed specifics: sizing, comfort, your personal style, ease of walking, and quality.

Let's take a look at some actual reviews to see what you should and shouldn't be doing when you are writing one.

Example #1: Unhelpful
I come across reviews like these the majority of the time.  These particular reviews are for a shoe that could possibly have sizing issues for my small ankles (the ankle area is non-adjustable).  The shoe came out in January and this is pretty much all I've got to go on so far:

I am thrilled these ladies love their new shoes, but not one of these reviews tell me anything helpful.  I would assume that they fit because they love the shoes, but are they comfortable and are they easy to walk in?  Are they well made?  Does anyone have any suggestions on the ankle area?  Why doesn't my husband think the shoes in question are "man bait"?  Unfortunately I still don't know most of these details, so I have to continue to wait for more reviews that might or might not give me the answers of what I'm looking for.  As I said before, this is very frustrating and unhelpful.  In the future, please make sure that you are not leaving reviews like the above.


Example #2: Somewhat helpful but needs work
The shoe that was reviewed is a high heel with a pointed toe area which sometimes means you have to go a half size up.  I was waiting to read a review addressing this and these are two that do talk about it:

The girl who wrote the first review and I happen to be the same size and this was extremely helpful in answering my personal sizing question - but that's it.  The second review let me know it's comfortable so check that point off my list.  She addressed the sizing issue as well but she had the exact opposite issue as the girl in the first one.  She also did not state her normal size so I won't take her word for it.  In both reviews I would have liked to see more information about the shoe, but at least I've been able to get some questions answered.  These are a great start, but the next review is what they should have been aiming for.


Example #3: Optimal - helpful and informative
This is how I write reviews, and this is an example of one I wrote for ShoeDazzle for "Chiyo", a shoe I just received today from the gx by Gwen Stefani line (it was posted on their website before they did their update on 3/15/14):

As you'll notice I covered each of the 5 points:
- Sizing: 6.5 and true to size
- Comfort: not enough, needs gel inserts
- My personal style: I wear stilettos
- Ease of walking: easy to walk in
- Quality: incredibly well made, worth the price
I only had 500 characters to write all of that information into a nice paragraph, but was able to do it with a few characters to spare.  I was also able to squeeze my love for them in there.  If you're already taking the time to leave a review, why not spend a few more minutes giving us the best review you can give?

So what have we learned?

A good review makes all the difference between me buying the shoes in question and me deciding to wait - only to find out that I have to go down a size and they're sold out already.  I have created a checklist in infographic form for the next time that you are in the position to write one.  Please refer to this to help out your fellow shoe lover by writing a helpful and informative review the next time you are in a position to do so.  Thanks so much in advance!

Throwback Thursday: Vintage Shoes

If there's one era I tend to gravitate towards, it's the mod 60s. My decor is very graphic and retro in nature, and I do like a lot of the clothes and accessories from that time too, such as Emilio Pucci's designs. From time to time I will check out eBay to look for some vintage finds. Several years ago I happened to stumble upon these purple and lavender cherry heels, one of my most treasured pairs.

They were "deadstock" (merchandise that was never sold to or used by consumers before being removed from sale, usually because it was outdated) and in pristine condition.  The original sticker price tag of $12.95 was still on them and the brand stamped inside says "Inspired by Mr. Alfred".  I don't remember what I paid for them, but I know it wasn't much, maybe $20 + shipping.  A very short while later I found a vintage dress that couldn't match these shoes more perfectly, again for just a few dollars.  I did have to take it to a tailor to be shortened a few inches, but otherwise it was another terrific find.

When looking for vintage shoes on eBay, I would recommend looking for barely worn or deadstock as those will be in the best condition for a new person wearing them.  More worn in shoes might not be so comfortable as they have already conformed to someone else's feet.  I would search on color and size for starters, and then style if you are looking for a particular one.  Also, sign up for the daily emails of your searches to keep tabs on what's out there without having to spend a lot of time actually being on eBay.  Last but not least - be patient.  Fabulous finds like these come to those who wait.

New Month, New Shoes: March 2014

It's March already!?!?  Summer hours begin where I live on April 1st, so it's definitely getting close to sandal weather - I'm really excited about that!  This month's new releases for both ShoeDazzle and JustFab are also more geared towards the warmer climate in both color and style.  I've found shoes I like at both shoe clubs again.  Maybe now that JustFab and ShoeDazzle have the same owners, Rachel Zoe's ShoeDazzle influence might be carrying over to JustFab a bit.  Who knows for sure, but whatever it is I'm happy to see some style choice improvements in the last two months at JustFab.  So let's get started with my top 3 picks of this month from each club.

ShoeDazzle: "Sondra" by Madison ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

What don't I love about these sandals?!!  I am so happy to see a small platform.  I love the ankle strap and the faux black patent.  The whipstitched detail gives it a very edgy and unique detail.  It's a 4.25" stiletto heel but it doesn't look as high as it is.  "Sondra" also comes in brown with red stitching, but I have to say in my opinion that color combination is hideous.  Definitely go for the black version on these.

ShoeDazzle: "Kamryn" by Sophia & Lee ($54.95 VIP members / $64.95 for non-VIPs)

As much as I don't tend to go for the chunky heel, I adore these shoes.  The gladiator styling combined with the silver hardware will turn heads.  I also love the double ankle strap.   I am hoping the ankle strap is somewhat adjustable as my ankles are quite small, otherwise the list of those who will be able to wear these shoes comfortably is going to be quite short.  "Kamryn" also comes in white - not as edgy but I'd consider purchasing it if it were to go on sale.

ShoeDazzle: "Tootie" by ShoeDazzle ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

"Tootie" comes in a black/white/turquoise version which normally I would prefer as far as color schemes go, but I feel that the red works with these sandals better.  The colorblocked faux-patent upper is nicely simplistic to balance out the graphic nature of the bottom.  And speaking of that, I am incredibly smitten with the retro mod-inspired pattern on the heel and platform - which in this case is a good reason to have a sky-high platform.  At a 5.75" heel height including the platform you'll be noticed in these.

JustFab: "Jeneva" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

I know why I am so attracted to these - they remind me of a stiletto heeled version of Faroine (a wedged sandal) from the Truth or Dare by Madonna collection, which I own.  Now I am trying to decide whether or not to put Faroine on eBay and get these instead because I don't like wedges much, but that's a topic for another day...  "Jeneva" also comes in cobalt blue and both faux-suede versions are stunning with their web-liked pattern.  Love!

JustFab: "Darcia" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

"Darcia" captured my attention with the single sole, the pointed toe, the v-strap, the ankle straps, the web-like design on the heel upper, and the faux-pigskin texture (pictured in the upper right corner).  Now say that 5 times fast!  I wish there was a better picture of the area on the back of the heel, but the only way I can view it is in the video that accompanies each item.  It's a gorgeous detail and is the icing on the cake on these shoes.  They also come in a black/gray/blue snakeskin pattern which isn't nearly as aesthetically pleasing, so stick with the black on these.

JustFab: "Rynter" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

This laser cutout, open-toe, caged bootie is a perfect transition shoe for spring.  "Rynter" comes in purple, red, nude and black.  I like all of them but the nude because it doesn't highlight the cutout details as well as the others on lighter skin tones.  It looks to be made of a faux-suede material, and the heel height is listed at 6".  I believe the platform to be about 1.5 - 1.75" making the actual heel height slightly over 4".   I am also happy to see the back-zip entry to have a color-coordinated zipper with a silver pull, especially on the purple version.  It is refreshing to know I would not have to take the time to repaint the hardware on these shoes if they were to make their way into my closet.  Just saying...

Gwen Stefani's gx Line

Gwen Stefani and ShoeDazzle got together and the result is downright fabulous: gx.  It is a line of 11 shoe styles and 11 handbag styles exclusive to ShoeDazzle with all of them being very affordable - only $49.95 to $75.95 if you are a ShoeDazzle VIP!  They were just released today and I've picked my favorites of the bunch - including a bag, so let's get right to it.

"Chiyo" ($59.95 VIP members / $89.95 for non-VIPs, estimated ship date 3/5/14)

I saved one of my $39.95 credits just for this line, and specifically this shoe.  I cannot tell you how much I love the design - ankle strap, slingback styling, corset tie (and a 2 colored tie at that), black and white striped detail where the toe area starts, pointed toe, white footbed, 4.25" stiletto heel...  So many details but they all work together brilliantly.  It also comes in red but the black is much more at home in my closet, and more dynamic in my opinion.  With the tie front and adjustable ankle strap these shoes would most likely fit those with larger ankles.  Now I have to patiently wait for them to arrive.  I'm counting down the minutes...

"Mayuko" ($54.95 VIP members / $89.95 for non-VIPs, estimated ship date 3/5/14)

This pump comes in 3 faux-suede versions: black/white, orange/red, and black/nude.  I am not a fan of the last two combinations, but the black and white one - definitely.  I like the colorblocked twist on the classic pump - the black heel and toe cap, and then the white upper.  The black stripes on the sides add an edgy element, and so does the black on the .5" island styled platform.  I'm definitely keeping my eye on these.

"Hatsumi" ($65.95 VIP members / $99.95 for non-VIPs)

I love these shoes, and in all 3 colors they come in - cobalt blue, red and black.  Again, the front ties are two-toned on all three.  I like that the shoes have a back zip entry so you can leave the laces intact once worn, and that the ties are long enough to wrap around the ankle at the top.  The textile is faux-patent with a shine to it, but not too much shine that the shoes lean towards the trashy side.  I declare "Hatsumi" another winner from the gx line.

and now for the bag... Furano ($59.95 VIP members / $84.95 for non-VIPs)

The cobalt blue and the corset styling is what drew me to this bag.  It also comes in black, but I find the contrast with the blue, black and silver to be much more interesting.  It's a good size - 11" L x 13.5" W x 5" D so not too big, not too small.  It has a zip top closure (always a plus) and the handles have a 15.5" drop.  The signature print lining inside is a nice touch too.  "Furano" was by far my favorite of her bags, but all were in the $49.95 to $69.95 for VIPs price range and with an edgier style to them.

Mid Month, New Shoes: February 2014

ShoeDazzle gives its customers new releases two times per month.  Usually I might find one that I like from the new selection.  Yesterday I found three I want to talk about: Agnes, Charity and Judith.

"Agnes" by ShoeDazzle Signature ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

I am a sucker for houndstooth and these have fully captured my attention.  In fact they've captured it so much I'm not sure which color scheme I would be putting in my closet...  One minute I like the red, and the next I think how much I want the black and white.  Decisions, decisions!  The other things that sold me on these pumps are the ankle strap, the single sole, the pointed toe, and my favorite detail - the front v strap.  It's a detail that makes these shoes unique.

"Charity" by ShoeDazzle Scene ($39.95 VIP members / $54.95 for non-VIPs)

Purple shoes always seem to be hard to find, and ShoeDazzle has had an abundance of them this month.  This stiletto sandal by far is my favorite of the bunch (it also comes in a nude/tan version which isn't remotely as interesting).  These shoes are an edgy evening style with snake-inspired accents.  I love the shapes of the purple pieces which mimic the angles of the straps.  There is a back zip entry which will probably dictate the size of ankle it will allow to wear them, so if you have a thicker ankle I would avoid this one.  Otherwise it's definitely a shoe to put on the wish list.

"Judith" by ShoeDazzle Signature ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

I saved the best for last.  Do you see what I see on these shoes?  They look average yet sweet from the front but the back of the heel is a spider web pattern.  I LOVE that!  Truly one for the goth girlie-girl, although they do come in a not very noticeable nude version too.  I do like the double ankle strap as well, and again the single sole with pointed toe has me sold.  These wicked beauties will be entering my shoe closet very soon!

Expensive Taste: Decadent vs. Deal

Although I love shoes, I'm not into expensive designer shoes.  They are shoes:
a) I cannot afford
b) which will wear out, get scuffed, break a heel, etc., just like any other pair of shoes
c) when I add up how many pairs I could get at let's say $50/pair for the same price, I would rather have the quantity instead of overpriced footwear.
Bottom line, I don't pay much attention to designer shoes or to the Hollywood folk that wear them.  That is why you will rarely see anything priced above $150 on this blog, most being in the $40 to $75 range.  I am a shoe addict, yes, but I would consider myself a "practical" shoe addict with a style that's all my own.

About a year ago I surprised myself when I began to realize the hint of expensive taste I have lurking behind my cheap footwear.  On Pinterest I will pin to my "Shoes" board regardless of the photo being from a designer or a discount store, and anything else in between.  I started to come across very similar shoes that I already had in my closet, not knowing they were designer inspired when I bought them.

This was the first pair I noticed it on.  I had purchased the "Sahara" shoe by Scene last year (no longer available, was $39.95 VIP, $44.95 non-VIP from ShoeDazzle).  Afterwards I found Valentino's "Rockstud" which retails at the low, low price of $1075 at Valentino.com.  What's the difference?  I don't see much in the style except for the slingback strap being studded on the Rockstud, and not on the Sahara.  In fact I prefer Sahara due to the strange angle the sides of the toe area connect to the sole on the original Valentino version.  Sahara is also vegan, a plus for me.  I'm not a vegan, but with synthetic materials being the quality that they are today, I don't see a need to wear real leather on my feet.  Sahara's studs are not of the same quality but if need be you could easily repaint them.  At a savings of $1035.05, score one for the addict-affordable version of these edgy shoes.

I've found others I really like that are available for purchase now.  Take this tribal inspired duo, "Savanna" by L.A.M.B. (Gwen Stefani's shoe line - $324.99 from heels.com) vs. "Kit" by Paper Fox ($48.95 VIP, $54.95 non-VIP from ShoeDazzle).  Again, I prefer the low-end vegan version.  I like the triangular pattern on Kit much better than Savanna's.  The eyelets on the two shoes should be reversed (says the artist in me) to better match the black and white patterns, but they were meant to be slightly mismatched for whatever reason.  I can attest to Kit running about a half size small, and being a shoe for only those with small to average ankles.  Because the straps across the front do not adjust it dictates the size of those people who can wear them.  Savings on this one? $276.04, or 5 pairs of shoes.

I have a passion for mod fashion and its inherent graphic nature.  These booties definitely fit that bill.  On the left we have Gianvito Rossi's "Geometric Cutout Bootie" ($1168 from Avenue K) and on the right is "Julienn" from N.Y.L.A. ($54.95 from DSW).  These are so close in style, I can't say I have a preference for one over the other.  Again the low end pair is a mix of faux leather and faux suede.  It also has a slightly thicker and probably a bit more stable heel.  The $1113.05 price difference between the two is staggering.  

When you compare these shoes side by side, are you able to justify paying the price tag of the expensive pair when the one next to it is such a steal?  It would be nice to own a pair of authentic designer shoes, but I know I wouldn't splurge.

Alternative Valentine Shoes

It's that time of year again, the time of hearts, candy and cupids.  I like a little bit of v-day in my house and in my shoes but I don't want anything saccharin sweet gracing my decor and especially my feet.  Here are some alternative valentine shoes that will get you in the mood for love, but are also very wearable the rest of the year.

"Bordello Teeze 12-2" by Pinup Couture ($62.99 from SinisterSoles.com)

I have the same shoe style from this brand but my pumps have a Dia de los Muertos pattern.  From my personal experience I can tell you that the shoes are pretty easy to walk in even with the high heel and platform.  They're comfortable enough, but if you'll be doing a lot of walking or standing in them you will want to get yourself some gel inserts.  These shoes only come in whole sizes, so make sure to size up if you are between sizes.

"Marah" by Betsey Johnson ($109.99 from heels.com)

This satin heeled and sequined bootie is definitely a dressier shoe but nicely subtle when it comes to the hearts pattern.  Being black on black it also works incredibly well for those with anti-valentine sentiments.  They're a little pricier than my average shoe purchase but a) they're Betsey Johnson (made by Steve Madden), b) they're well made with details like a non-skid sole, and c) heels.com includes shipping and free returns in the price.  If these were to make their way into my closer, I'd pair the open toes with a pedicure in a slick dark red or purple polish.

"Ginger" in leopard by Bettie Page ($55.95 from shoebuy.com, also comes in a black, a red and a pink patent, all with leopard heel accents)

This pinup inspired pump is adorable with its faux patent bow front, scalloped edging, polka dot interior, and the part that makes this one of my valentine picks - the big leopard print heart on the back heel.  Each of the other schemes it comes in is just as adorable as the full leopard and all would work beautifully for valentine festivities.  Bettie Page is another brand that offers only whole sizes.  From what I've read, you should size up if in between sizes in this one as well.

New Month, New Shoes: February 2014

This month was quite interesting in the shoes offered by both ShoeDazzle and JustFab.  ShoeDazzle showed their members a softer side overall (plus lot of my favourite colour purple!), and JustFab finally has a shoe for me to talk about.  Hooray!

My top 3 choices from ShoeDazzle this month are Chatelle, Keeva, and Alannah.  The shoe I picked from JustFab is Reanne, and all are shown below.

ShoeDazzle: "Chatelle" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

This hot blue and black snakeskin sandal is by ShoeDazzle.  It's very similar to one I mentioned in my Tuesday Trend: Snakeskin feature last week, but I think is probably the better deal both in price (only $9 and change more) and in quality.  You'll have to pay shipping with GoJane, which you don't if you are a ShoeDazzle VIP (although this item would qualify for free shipping as a non-VIP).  I haven't had any quality issues with ShoeDazzle in a few years, and I would especially note that the ties on this don't look like they'll break after one wearing like the GoJane shoes did.  The sandals have a 1" platform and also come in black/orange and black/white versions.

ShoeDazzle: "Keeva" by Michael Antonio ($53.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

Michael Antonio's "Keeva" embraces the black and white trend of this season, but also gives it a bit of an edge with all the buckled straps.  I'm really happy that the hardware appears to be a gunmetal color as opposed to gold.  With the back zip closure, I would hope that the buckles on the straps are also functional to allow those with smaller or larger ankles to get a nice fit on these sandals.  It looks promising.

ShoeDazzle: "Alannah" by Sophia & Lee ($54.95 VIP members / $65.95 for non-VIPs)

I love a good multi-seasonal shoe.  Sophia & Lee got this one on the money.  These shoes also have a bit of a edgy, darker vibe.  I love the triangular shape of the tie front area, and the perforated upper that gives the material some added texture and pattern. What really captivated me about these shoes is though they are menswear inspired, they still hold a good deal of sex appeal with the stiletto heel, open toe and slingback.  Definitely one I'll be adding to my closet.

JustFab: "Reanne" ($39.95 VIP members, $49.00 for non-VIPs)

Finally, a style I really would consider purchasing!  I'm all about the single sole and/or small platform lately.  That's what first made me gravitate towards this shoe.  Add to that the corset front styling and the studded details - now you've got something on my wish list.  I like these a lot because they're a little casual and a little dressy at the same time, but still have an edge to them.  I know northerners would probably cringe thinking of wearing something like these shoes in wintertime, but I think in the warmer southern US I could easily get away with them.  Let the contemplating begin!