Back Next Week!

I'm so sorry, I had not planned on being on hiatus for most of this month.  Home improvement projects take a lot longer than expected...  You know, you fix up one thing and the thing next to it looks bad, needs to be fixed/painted/replaced/etc., and so on, and so on.

On the plus side, I've cleaned out my closet to make room for some new shoe arrivals.  I'll be listing lots of things I've decided to part ways with on ebay soon - brand spanking new in box shoes along with some clothing, a few handbags and some Monster High dolls.  I have several pairs readily available for purchase now so have yourself a look now or later.

Signing off to get back to work.  In my best Schwartzenegger voice...  "I'll be back!"

Will Work For Shoes

I know we all joke about working for this or that, and I've always said I would work for shoes...  It finally happened last month.  Besides being a shoe addict, I am an artist/graphic designer and I designed a logo for my friend's new photography business.  She asked me what I wanted for payment, and I thought I'd probably buy shoes with the money anyway so why doesn't she just pay me for the work done with shoes?!

I picked out a few different pairs that I had on my wish list and told her to surprise me with her selection.  Yesterday these were the ones that showed up at my door (I promised to show her a photo of them).  They're called "Telisa" by Beau+Ashe from ShoeDazzle. 

My quick review of Telisa:  As a 6.5, they're true to size.  They could definitely use some extra padding.  They are extremely easy to walk in for someone who wears high heels.  An expensive looking shoe, very well made.  The ankle strap is non-adjustable and I have skinny ankles.  There isn't a lot of extra room on my ankles so an average sized ankle or smaller is all that will fit in these.  Overall, very happy with them!

★

Jeci was also my good luck charm in the "shoefie" contest I won the other day.  She made sure that I was participating, and I'm really glad she did.  With her encouragement (which happened to be right when I was starting my photo shoot) and me knowing her photography skills, I took the time to get THE most perfect photo of my new shoes to submit - it only took 14 tries! 

Everything worked out in the end for both of us, so thank you Jeci for both the shoes and for being my cheerleader!  Best of luck with your new endeavor!! =)

New Month, New Shoes: April 2014

First of all, I have to send a big THANK YOU to ShoeDazzle for picking me as a winner of the birthday shoefie contest for this past Friday!!  Woot, woot, and a very happy 5th birthday to you!!  Here's the photo I posted on my new Instagram account that gave me the win - the shoes are "Misaki", a downright fabulous open toed bootie from the gx by Gwen Stefani collection that is exclusive to ShoeDazzle (fyi, $59.95 VIP members, $110.95 non-VIPs and it also comes in red faux suede with black accents).

So let's get onto the new month of goodies!  Wow, April 1.  Where is this year going?  At least it's in the 70s here this week so I can start breaking in all my new sandals!  I don't want to think about closing up my toes again until long into fall.  It's also time to start showing off fun pedicures, like the one I'm sporting in the above photo.  I decided to do an ombre grayish blue theme (goes from inky black-blue to silvery light blue) with colors from Nicole, Essie and OPI.  That reminds me, I need to make an appointment for this weekend for a new one...  OK, done!  We're talking all sandals for my top 3 ShoeDazzle and JustFab styles!

ShoeDazzle: "Star" by Paper Fox ($54.95 VIP members / $64.95 for non-VIPs)

This is first and foremost the style I will be purchasing this month.  I have been looking for a gladiator sandal boot with a sexy heel that will nicely fit my smaller calves.  This is definitely it - and it also comes in nude.  I'm always more partial to black, so black it is for me.  I am a sucker for a tie front (if you haven't figured that out by now), and I love the studded details.  "Star" is a 4.5" heel with a 1" platform which could be a bit teetery, but with a little practice you will look like a star wearing them.

ShoeDazzle: "Breana" by Beau+Ashe ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

This sandal is reminiscent of a sandal I had bought on clearance/final sale a few years ago - but it ran big so I ended up selling them on eBay.  It's the caged style and stringlike straps that caught my attention on the other pair, and here again I find myself wanting.  I also like the front of these with the way the vertical straps are placed, and the delicate buckled ankle straps.  With the single sole, it looks like these are about a 4" heel.

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

Time to add a little color into the wardrobe with this next pick, "Jaycee".  I would hope these shoes would be as pretty and vibrant of a faux patent pink in person as they are in the photo, so fingers crossed!  The sandals are so unique with the insides being almost like a bootie in structure, and it gives a nod to graphic nature of retro mod fashion.  But the icing on the cake?  Tiny spikes on the buckle to keep with my rocker chic style!  They also come in silver - also pretty - and have a 4.25" heel.

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

Last summer I had seen a similar strap treatment but on a knee high gladiator sandal.  I thought it was too much black on the leg as a boot, but as a caged ankle bootie sandal I love it.  The studded detailing and the buckled ankle strap give it an edge.  The heel height looks to be about 4.5" but again with practice will be worth being able to strutt your stuff in these

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

I thought this sandal was just so unique in style, as JustFab puts it, "part gladiator and huarache".  I wish it came in other colors besides the navy and cognac (light brown) but as navy I would definitely consider wearing it.  The thick ankle strap mixed with but not touching the gladiator upper is a silhouette I haven't seen before, and I do like how the middle vertical strap is about the same thickness as the ankle strap to balances it.  I know it would be easier to walk in than the stilettos with the 4" stacked chunky heel, but would still give you that height.

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

I love this simple cross cross strappy gladiator sandal, and all the colors it comes in!  I'd pick the seafoam for now, but both the black and pink would work well with my wardrobe too.  Even the nude version is appealing here with the caged styling.  This bootie has a zip back entry and 4" heel with a 1" platform.

Sole Spotlight: Iron Fist's Spring/Summer 2014 Line

Iron Fist, how do I love thee?  Let me count the ways!!  You manage to make me love you even more every season since I discovered your brand a few years ago.  I already have half of the new spring and summer shoes on my wish list.  The wonderfully unique themes of your footwear always keeps me wanting, and these are my top 3 "wants" so far...

Note: Iron Fist shoes only come in whole sizes.  I am a usually a 6.5, and their size 6 fits me perfectly.

"Lollipop Lorelei Wedge" in pink, $70.00

Check out these wedges.  I have said it so many times, I do NOT like wedges but these are just oh-so-cute!  From the fish and mermaid theme to the bubbles to the summery pink background to the shell like applique on the heel - they have sold me through and through.  I love the final touch of the skull charm on the ankle strap.  They're my favorite from all the new shoes I've seen and most likely the first I'll be adding to my collection.

"Sweet Tooth Strappy Super Platform" in black, $65.00 -and/or-  "Sweet Tooth Peep Toe Platform", $50.00

I downright adore this sugar skull inspired print.  The black background makes all the colors pop.  I am in love with the mary jane style, but I also find myself so drawn to the open toe and pink bow on the heel.  It even comes in a wallet this season...  Decisions, decisions!

"Skin Crawler Heel" in multi, $45.00

I have the purple edition of their signature zombie stomper peep toe platforms, but I find myself really drawn to these shoes as well.  It must be the color scheme as well as the sinister teeth across the toe area.  I'm happy to see that Iron Fist is embracing the single sole pointed toe style (my fave!).  The Skin Crawler also comes in a super platform (multi) version and a peep toe platform (turquoise) which has a much smaller platform and a black bow on the heel.

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.