New Month, New Shoes: October 2014

Better late than never, right?  It is slim pickings as far as my personal style goes from both ShoeDazzle and JustFab this month, but there still were some great ones that caught my eye.  Also, because this post is so late in the month, I will include shoes released later in October as well in my picks.  Let's get right to it.

ShoeDazzle: "Quera" by Paper Fox ($55.95 VIP members / $75.95 for non-VIPs)

These pointed toe knee high boots caught my eye immediately, and I don't know if I would pick the blue version or the black version - probably both!  However, for my visuals I will pick the black as I think the blacks of the mixed textiles works slightly better with the style.  "Quera" is a back zip entry, and there is a corset tie underneath the sole that laces up to around the ankle.  It's also faux suede in the back and a faux leather in front.  The calf measurement is 15" so it would nicely accommodate skinny jeans for those with thinner calves.  It looks to be about a 4.5" heel as well.

ShoeDazzle: "Harley" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $65.95 for non-VIPs)

"Harley" comes in both a red patent and a gray tweed fabric.  The red is nice, but the gray tweed is my clear choice.  This pointed toe lace up shoe has skin baring side cutouts and a black patent back zip area.  The hardware looks to be gold, but for once it doesn't look to detract from the shoe.  The sole is a lug sole, and although not my favorite for heels, I think it works with this style.  The heel height is 4.25".

ShoeDazzle: "Carlin" by Jessica Simpson ($125.95 VIP members / $139.95 for non-VIPs)

Normally I would not even think to spend $100 on a pair of shoes, but these I can't stop going back to look at.  I. Love. These. Shoes.  Love the pointed toe, the silver studs, the cutouts, the bootie styling, the skinny straps...  "Carlin" is a back zip entry and a 4" heel.  Although these shoes are offered at ShoeDazzle, they can be found significantly cheaper at several other stores.  Just google them!

ShoeDazzle: "Sangey" by Paper Fox ($55.95 VIP members / $75.95 for non-VIPs)

Ah, the lace up styling snags my attention again.  These stunning knee-high boots have a 1.25" platform, a shaft height of 19" and a calf measurement of 15".  However being on the short side, these might be more over-the-knee boots than knee highs on me after seeing them on the obviously tall model.  The heel height is 5.5" with the heel feeling like 4.25" so at least I'd feel tall in them, lol.  Truly, I love the lace up that extends the full length of the back of these.  Without it, they're just another boot.

Just Fab: "Ivy" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

I *HAD* to have these when I saw them, and expect a review of them soon!  The zipper detail, the ankle straps and the silver buckle hardware all add to the edginess of this single sole, pointed toe bootie.  The heel height is 4.5".  Truly, one to add as soon as possible because I have a feeling these are going to go fast.

Just Fab: "Vivica" by Luxe ($45.95 VIP members / $64.00 for non-VIPs)

"Vivica" is another boot with the zipper detail trend (which I adore!) but this one looks to be a mid knee high boot, just shy of an over the knee style.  The boot overall is a faux leather, but between the wraparound zippers on the heel area is a peek of faux suede.  Fabulous detail!  The calf measurement on these is 15" and they have a 1" platform with a 5" heel height.  The toe box looks to be more of an almond toe rather than a sharper point.  These boots also have an inside zip.

New Month, New Shoes: September 2014

September.  The official month of the summer to fall transition wardrobe.  It's a better month than last for both ShoeDazzle and JustFab, but overall I'm still in the 'not so satisfied' camp with the new releases.  I don't know if it's JustFab's buyout of ShoeDazzle that's influencing this change over the last few months or if the buyers at both places just aren't finding shoes that fit my personal requirements to be added to the closet.  Either way, I did find a few shoes worth mentioning.

ShoeDazzle: "Roxana" by Madison ($45.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

Ok, I'll admit it, I want these shoes bad.  I love the menswear oxford styling on them but especially the zipper detail around the sides and top back of the heel.  It's the edgy fall shoe I've been looking for and thankfully I've got a credit to make it mine.  This faux suede shoe has a 1.5" platform and an overall height of 5.75", a tall one.  Just a note, "Roxana" also comes in a leopard print but the black is waaaaay better.

ShoeDazzle: "Kalinai" by Scene ($45.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

It's a bit metallic, a bit reptilian, has a lace up front, and is an open toe bootie - or "shootie" as some are now calling it.  "Shootie" doesn't seem right to me but that's a discussion for another day...  "Kalinai" comes in a black version and a cream version.  I prefer the black but the cream is worth taking a peek at.  The studs look to be copper colored and depending on the metallic accent color in person, might be a candidate for a repaint.  It is a high platform heel at 6" tall (the platform is 2").  Although I've personally been getting away from the high platforms, I do think it works very well on this style.  Definitely one for the wish list.

ShoeDazzle: "Meliana" by Paper Fox ($55.95 VIP members / $75.95 for non-VIPs)

I have a few pairs of knee high open toe boots, but these are a little different.  First of all, this faux croc boot comes in midnight blue, black and leopard.  Surprise!  I personally love the blue version best.  It has a 4" heel with a .5" platform, and the rugged lug sole will help with ease of walking.  I'm still not 100% sold on that sole with a sleeker silhouette but I do think it works with these boots.  It also has an exterior side zip entry as opposed to the interior entry on most.  I really do like them and I do think I'll end up making them mine.

Just Fab: "Losira" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

These are similar to a bootie I already own from ShoeDazzle from last year - "Gywnnie" by Sophia and Lee.  The ones I have are quilted across the entire front and are a much higher platform.  I find myself liking the differences between "Gywnnie" and "Losira" - the quilting across the front and sides, the raised front panel, the side buckles, and the much shorter platform although still a 4.5" heel.  I also find the way the trim goes around the top of the boot very appealing.  If I didn't already have the booties from ShoeDazzle, I'd definitely be adding these to my closet.

Mid Month, New Shoes: August 2014

After a very disappointing August release, the mid-month drop at ShoeDazzle was a definite improvement.  I still didn't find a ton of pairs I liked but I did add some to the wish list this time.  I also saw some photos on Instagram for the upcoming gx by Gwen Stefani line in the last week.  I was very impressed, and now am waiting patiently to start seeing some of those shoes materialize.  Hoping for September!

"Klendel" by Isabella Rue ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

Of all the shoes I looked at this morning, I think these would be my first purchase.  With the diamond pattern they're a perfect transition shoe, as well as they would look really good with colored tights underneath in the winter.  Of course, they're the pointed toe silhouette which I love, and they have a cap toe.  I do like the side cutouts and especially the shape of the adjustable ankle strap.  The buckle does look to be gold, but can be easily painted to silver.  These shoes are a single sole with about a 4" heel.  "Klendel" also comes in a very pretty gray, but personally I will stick with my signature black on this one.

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

I really don't need any more black booties, but I like these a lot.  Of course, the laces are what grabbed my attention, and the fact that they run up the side of the shoe rather than the front gives them an edge.  The grommets appear to be silver -a big plus.  These shoes are a back zip entry and look to be around a 4" heel.  "Kavia" also comes in a red-orange (not a pretty color) and a dark green.  I like the green but again I would definitely stick with black on these.

"Akiko" by gc by Gwen Stefani ($59.95 VIP members / $89.95 for non-VIPs)

There were a couple of Gwen's shoes that I added to my favorites, but this is the one I like the most.  It's another great transition bootie which comes in black (my favorite), olive green and bordeaux.  The side inset is elastic, so it's black on the olive green and bordeaux versions, and provides extra room for those with a bit thicker ankles.  I do like the contrast of textiles as well as the cords coming across the foot into a knot in the center.  This shoe is a back zip entry on an island platform, and look to be about a 4.25" heel.

"Monia" by Paper Fox ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)

I know they're not heels, but they're well worth mentioning.  I am a sucker for quilting and combat boots, and I fell in love with these instantly.  I love how the laces tie around the top as well - and thankfully they have a side zip entry to keep them in place like that.  Definitely one I'd love to have for my more casual days.

New Shoe Review: JustFab's "Armey" and "Reeve"

When I got the mail one day last week I found a fall catalog that JustFab had sent me.  In it was a coupon code for 30% off my order (FALLFAB30, valid 8.11.14 thru 9.11.14) and I decided right then and there to cash it in on two pairs of shoes high up on my wish list - "Armey" and "Reeve", both shoes I talked about in July.  They're night and day as far as styles go (a combat styled knee boot and a tie front heeled sandal), but both are very welcome additions to my ever-growing closet.  Let's get right to them, shall we?

"Armey" by JustFab Luxe ($49.95 VIP members / $69.00 for non-VIPs)

When I do my errands I will choose a stylish yet comfortable pair of shoes to walk in so I can get them done as fast as possible.  These will be another one of my go-to pairs in that department.  They're true to size for a 6.5, even slightly big so if I wanted to wear thicker socks with them I can without feeling like my toes will be all scrunched up.  Of course, being a very low heel they're super easy to walk in.  For comfort they're just fine too although if I were to take a day trip to a museum or something, I would most likely throw in a pair of inserts.  The one thing I will mention about them is that they do have a tighter calf measurement - 14" circumference.  If you have larger calves, this one is not going to fit.  The lace up front is faux, so that's not going to give you any extra room in them either.  They're very well made and even well worth the $49.95 price tag, but more so when you get them for 30% off. =)

"Reeve" by JustFab ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

So let's start out with the fact that I LOVE these shoes even more so in person than I did on the website.  The style is so unique, and the curved shapes on these sandals exude sexiness with how well they flatter the foot.  They're also a mix of faux leather and faux snakeskin textiles which gives them an edge, and all the hardware is my beloved silver.  That said, my one slight gripe on these is the quality of the laces.  I wish they were a slightly better material than your standard shoelace but I can overlook that in the long run.  The other minor issue with the laces is that it is going to take you a bit of time to get them adjusted to your feet.  It took me about 5 minutes per sandal because of the way they are laced through the shoe.  However once you have done that, they are really easy to slip in and out of - just something to note when you receive them.  They do run about a half size small, so instead of my normal 6.5, I ended up with a 7 which fit perfectly.  For comfort they're average, and definitely a candidate for some inserts.  I also found them easy to walk in for the 4.25" heel height.

New Shoe Review: Paper Fox's "Trista" from ShoeDazzle

I was up at 2:30 this morning taking care of my new 6 week old kitten and his accident.  After cleaning up his carrier and him, I went back to bed and hopped on Facebook to pass the time since I was wide awake.  I found ShoeDazzle shared another one of my Instagram photos on their page!  It made the lack of sleep a helluva lot better.  It also reminded me that I had not posted my review of these shoes yet, so here it is!

"Trista" by Paper Fox ($45.95 VIP members / $54.95 for non-VIPs)
This pointed toe, single sole pump comes in both a black and a blue version.  I would wear either color, but I picked my signature black for this one.  It's more of a charcoal gray than black on the background, but the dots are black.  The print is on top of a reptilian texture that has an ombre effect to it, and the whole shoe is topped off with a glossy finish.  Each one of these details really makes this shoe that much more striking in person. 

I found them to be true to size for my 6.5 feet.  I don't have narrow feet and was pleasantly surprised at how well they fit for a pointed toe.  For comfort they're decent.  They could use some extra padding at the ball of the foot especially.  They're very easy to walk in for the heel height - 4.5" - and they have a non-skid sole.  I think they're really well made and look way more expensive than their price.  I would wear these shoes year round too.  I think that they easily can fit into all seasons with the right outfit.

Simple Tweaks: How To Make Your Shoes (Specifically High Heels) More Comfortable

For all the pairs of high heels that I have I can say that most of them fit me just fine.  On the rare occasion that that they don't, I turn to my handy list of things to try to make my feet feel as comfortable as possible.  Love your shoes again with some of my tricks!


For strappy shoes and/or shoes that rub...
try Band Aid Friction Block Stick (around $5-8) during wear.  I keep one of these in my handbag at all times.  It really works but I have found that I need to apply it (you use it like a deodorant stick) often to the affected area if I am doing a lot of walking, like once every hour or two. It doesn't stain or make your feet feel slippery either.  Worth. Every. Penny!

For shoes that rub and/or slip off your heels...
try Dr. Scholl's Inserts - specifically the heel liners (around $5-8).  They come in clear gel and in patterns.  You remove the adhesive and stick them to the inside heel of your shoe.  I've used these on both heels and athletic shoes, and they've withstood it all.  I would caution to make sure you give some time between gluing them to your shoes and wearing them.  Wearing them too soon can cause the liners to slip out of place and force you to have to buy a new set.

For heels that don't have enough comfort...
try some of the other Dr. Scholl's inserts - ball of foot cushions (around $5-8), high heel insoles (around $9-$12) or hidden arch supports (around $5 - $8)  Depending on the style of the shoe, the padding that already exists, and how much I plan on being on my feet I will pick one of these inserts.  I find that I use the high heel insoles the most, and I don't usually have to use the adhesive on the back either to keep them in place.  Most of the time I can transfer them from shoe to shoe, so that saves me some money too.  The ball of foot and hidden arch supports I do usually have to glue into my shoes.  Again, make sure to wait in between gluing and wearing for best results.


For heels that are just a little too tight...
try the premium shoe stretcher made specifically for 3" - 6" heels from FootFitter ($28.95).  A regular shoe stretcher will not work well on a pair of heels because it needs that specific lifted foot shape to be able to get into the toe area properly.  Also, make sure that you are using a shoe stretcher, not a shoe tree.  A shoe tree is meant to preserve your shoes' shape, not stretch them.  I find myself keeping the stretcher in a shoe for a couple of days rather than overnight as instructed.  It seems to do a better job with more time, but even overnight you will have results.  Please note, these are sold as singles, not pairs, and in specific size ranges.  I have been able to get away with just having one but if you are in a crunch (no pun intended) you might want to invest in a pair instead.  Also note that synthetic shoes are harder to stretch.  I would give yourself extra time if the shoes you are stretching aren't leather.  Another alternative is to buy shoes a half size larger and use the heel liners as shown above.

Here are some other methods to stretch shoes.  They are cheap methods, but you get what you pay for.  Personally, I wouldn't recommend using any of these:

Ice your shoes overnight...
Fill a plastic bag with water, place it inside your shoe and put it in the freezer.  Unless you have plastic you can mold EXACTLY to the shoe and then fill with water, the only thing putting your shoes in the freezer is going to do is make them cold.  I've tried this a few times with different shoes and materials.  It has not worked once.

Wearing thick socks and applying heat...
While wearing thick socks, blast your shoes with a hairdryer for 20-30 second intervals.  This does work on leather shoes, but it has extreme potential to ruin them at the same time.  Without leather conditioner the heat will dry out your shoes and can lead to cracks, wrinkles and other unsightly markings.  I'd avoid this is possible.

Potato method...
Find a potato that fits snugly into the shoe, peel it then push it into the shoe and leave overnight.  If your shoes are fabric, consider them ruined with the potato's natural juices.  Leather could also have potential staining.  I haven't tried this but I don't see this working without issues, so again I wouldn't recommend it.

New Shoe Review: Shoedazzle's "Cheque", "Filme" and "Jazzy"

So let's talk some shoes here this morning.  I was overly excited for this box to arrive.  ShoeDazzle had an incredible sale last week - $24.95 VIP for all dress sandals sale - and I took advantage!  I picked up 2 pairs that are regularly $49.95 VIP, and one that was $54.95 VIP.  I think I did pretty well there!  I have already professed my love for the 3 sandals I'll be talking about in previous posts ("Cheque", "Filme" & "Jazzy") but that was before I had them in person.  Did they live up to my hype?  Let's see.

"Cheque" by Beau+Ashe ($54.95 VIP members / $65.95 for non-VIPs)

I cannot tell you how much I love this shoe!  It was the first one of the bunch that I decided to put on Instagram, the photo I took shown below.  I was on the fence about liking the rugged lug sole, but it works so well with this sporty design.  I was also very impressed with the quality.  The pattern is lined up on both of my shoes really well, something I am a stickler about especially when the pattern is so graphic.  I found them true to size in a 6.5, and really easy to walk in for the 4" heel height.  The sole does make a difference in a good way - it makes it even easier to strut your stuff in them.  The comfort isn't so great, but inserts will easily take care of that.  The one thing I will warn about is the ankle strap.  It's not adjustable due to the back zip closure so therefore only a select group is going to be able to wear these.  I have skinny ankles and I have hardly any extra room in them, maybe enough for my pinky finger to slip under.  If you've got thicker ankles, do avoid them.

"Filme" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

This shoe I had high hopes for and ended up being let down.  The style?  Love it.  Really clever use of the film pattern and my choice of the gunmetal color (as opposed to gold) works really well with it.  I did find them true to size for a 6.5 although some of the ShoeDazzle website reviews say it's a bit tight in the toe area.  I did not find that to be the case.  They are very easy to walk in for the 3.5" heel height but they could use a little help in the comfort department.  Quality on these babies?  Not there as far as I'm concerned.  First of all, mine arrived damaged.  One of the toe area straps was separated at the edge.  Then we go on to the metallic material.  It looks really nice until you crease it, and it's sooooo easily and sadly permanently creased.  In just trying them on it looked like I had worn them several times, not good in my book.  I think "Filme" would work better as a showpiece than actually being worn.

"Jazzy" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

Simply. Stunning.  Wow, I thought so before and I KNOW so now that it has graced my foot.  It really hugs the foot and ankle area well, displacing all worries I had.  There isn't a roll or gap while both sitting and walking thanks to the adjustable buckles on the sides.  I found "Jazzy" to be true to size as well for a 6.5.  For comfort, the heel area is well padded but the ball of the foot could use a little more.  Walking in the sandals was easy for the 4" heel height but my pinky toe isn't sitting well in the straps, and in retrospect it looks like the foot model might just have the same issue.  The position of 2 straps above my toes is open enough for it to want to break free.  I don't want to be taping my toes together to wear these, but that might be something I will need to consider if I'll be wearing them for long periods of time.  Overall I am really happy with these shoes.  They're definitely well made and should be a welcome addition to any heel girl's closet.

New Shoe Review: JustFab's "Bellona" and "Allya"

If you didn't catch JustFab's BOGO sale last month, I hate to tell you that you missed out.  It was buy one, get one free on all styles on the site, and of course I *had* to pick up a couple of pairs for myself.  One I had discussed in my June picks, the other was one I was debating whether or not to purchase.  The verdict on these two?  Read on.

"Bellona" ($39.95 VIP members / $69.00 for non-VIPs)

I knew if I didn't grab these, they're going to be long gone by the time I would wear them (early fall).  First off, these are true to size for a 6.5, and the many reviews on the JustFab site say this as well for pretty much all other sizes.  They fit great in the foot area, but for me are really big in the ankle area (I have small ankles), and slightly large in the calf (I have a 13.75" calf and they are 15").  They are a really nice knee height as well, not too tall or short on me.  As far as style goes, these boots are killer!  But they're also a killer of comfort.  Some inserts are a must with these - the padding is not good at all.  The lack of comfort aside, I found them easy to walk in for the heel height - they're a 5" overall with a .75" platform.  Even though they are easy to walk in, the bottoms are smooth and slick so some scuffing up is needed.  For quality, they're pretty well made except for the zippers.  From the ankle up, the zippers work fine.  From the ankle down, they stick just a bit.  Not a big deal, but something to note.

"Allya" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs, however they are $14.95 with a regular price purchase at the time this is being written)

I wasn't sure what to get as my "GO" of the BOGO, and I love a shoe with spikes.  This one does not disappoint.  These come in both cobalt blue and black.  I have spikes in black and several other colors already, but didn't have a cobalt blue so color was an easy choice.  For sizing, they're dead on for a 6.5.  For comfort they're pretty good on their own, but if I were to go to a wedding or something in them I would definitely get me some inserts.  The heel height is 5.75" with a 1.75" platform, and rather easy to walk in for the height.  The bottoms of these are non-skid.  They have a little weight to them with the platform but nothing that can't be overcome in a matter of minutes.  When talking about the quality of these, I am pretty impressed.  The faux suede looks real and the spikes are nicely lined up.  Definitely one of the better shoes I've gotten from JustFab.

New Month, New Shoes: July 2014

So the year is half over - that's good and bad for me.  I'm happy because the first half of 2014 hasn't been the best for me.  I'm sad because wow, the year is half over.  It's flown by.  But let's not stay sad - let's get happy again because it's new shoes time!  This month I was VERY happy with the selection at both ShoeDazzle and JustFab.  There are 10 pairs that I added to my favorites on ShoeDazzle, and 5 on JustFab.  I won't discuss all of them but I'll name the ones I'm most likely to add to my closet.

ShoeDazzle: "Cheque" by Beau+Ashe ($54.95 VIP members / $65.95 for non-VIPs)

First off, the jury is still out on the rugged lug sole on a stiletto.  I think it works very well on these heels, but on so many I have seen I think it detracts from the shoe more than anything.  For walking, I am sure it is a big help with all the extra traction it would give being a 5" heel height (with a 1" platform).  I do really like the doubled up ankle strap, but I do not think it is adjustable.  With the model's ankles obviously being thin, I am also guessing that this one is for those with smaller ankles only.  Besides being one highly drawn to graphic black and white patterns, I do enjoy auto racing; I have a soft spot for the checkers.

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

I have a few pairs of leopard/cheetah print shoes in my collection, and they need to be something special for me to welcome them home.  I think these are, but only in the purple version.  There is a pink version as well but to me it doesn't have the same impact - it looks like the fabric is dirty on the pink shoe, not a good look.  Of course, I am a fan of the single sole pointed toe style, and I love the whole silhouette of these shoes.  It has a bit of a retro mary jane look to them.  "Perlita" looks to be a 4.25" heel.

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

I really like this shoe, but in the blue and black version as opposed to the light/dark pink as seen in the upper right corner of the photo.  I think the contrast on the blue and black works better, but if you scroll down, you'll see a similar version of this sandal from JustFab which I like even better than this.  But back to "Alonsa"...  the lighter color is a matte finish, the darker is glossy.  I really like the detail of the stitching on the edges of the cutouts as well.  My only concern about this sandal is that the back is a lace up - something I like - but in this case, the lace up is a figure 8 that ties at the top.  I am not sure if that is enough to keep these tight to the foot.  I am sure we'll see in the reviews to follow but for now I have to say I at least give this one a thumbs up in the aesthetics.  Besides being a tall caged sandal, the heel height is also a tall 5" with a .5" platform.  My last note on these: they're a knockoff of a $735 sandal called "Mila Caged Heels" by Sophia Webster.  For a nearly $700 difference, I'll definitely take the ShoeDazzle version.

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

It doesn't hurt that these shoes are called "Reeve".  I found myself very taken by Reeve Carney as Dorian Gray in "Penny Dreadful"... *swoon!!!!*   I find the simple corset tie front to be rather appealing as well - just 2 little crosses of the ties on the arch and then again across the ankle to lace it up.  The mix of the textiles is rather stunning too - a glossy faux snakeskin and a matte black.  Combine that with some some sexy curves, silver grommets and a 4.25" stiletto heel, and you've got an edgy sandal worth swooning about.

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

I do like "Alonsa" from ShoeDazzle as shown above, but I really like "Sanna" more because I think it works better in a solid color - it's offered in purple, turquoise and black as can be seen in the upper right of the photo.  Of course, I am going to go for the faux suede purple, but it is also rather stunning in the faux suede turquoise.  The black version is textured and not as striking as the other two.  This sandal is really stunning from all angles as well - front, sides and back - with the addition of the corset tie on the back of the ankle.  "Sanna" has a 4.5" stiletto heel height with a small .5" platform.

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

If you missed out on JustFab's "Darcia" from March, good news!  "Concetta" is a similar style, and I know I  like this one at least as much.  It's a smooth and sleek faux leather textile as opposed to "Darcia's" textured feel.  I like the details on this one - the silver arrow ankle strap buckle, the push through stud closure, the t-strap, and the extra strap around the vamp of the shoe.  It's definitely got a bit of an edge to it, and thankfully all silver hardware!  This single sole pointed toe style has a 4" stiletto heel.

Honorable mention: JustFab: "Armey" by Luxe ($49.95 VIP members / $69.00 for non-VIPs)

I know last month I was complaining about boots, and I still am being that summer is only over a week old.  However, this boot deserves to be talked about.  First off, it's a 14" calf circumference so make sure to keep that in mind if they might make your wish list.  It's a great combat/rocker chic style - the lace up front as well as the round silver buckled straps across the foot and up on the shaft.  It's a side zip entry which I find quite appealing for easy on and off.  They also work well for wearing now on a cooler day with a short skirt, and will definitely be good with tights,  leggings or skinny jeans in the fall.  I have a feeling this one is going to be sold out fast.

New Shoe Review: ShoeDazzle's "Margee"

I've got a few more recent shoe additions to review on my to-do list, but I had to skip that list and go straight to number one when today's review subject arrived.  I have the somewhat similar Bethylin striped wedges that ShoeDazzle offered last summer.  They are a natural and black striped and textured fabric, and I painted the red strip on the bottom sole purple to match my wardrobe better.  They're a nice shoe, but I find that I have not worn them much in the year that I've owned them, mostly because I would rather the natural color be a stark white.  "Margee" looks to be a different story, especially because this girl 1) doesn't like wedges and 2) these could easily become one of my favorite pairs of shoes.  Onto the review!

"Margee" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.95 for non-VIPs)
"Margee" was the one must-have-immediately shoe on the wish list when the June mid-month drop hit.  I was overly excited when the box from ShoeDazzle was delivered Tuesday, and I could not wait to try them on.  My first impression is that they are incredibly comfortable!  They are well padded soles as well as the textile that the vamp area of the upper is made of is all fabric, very pleasing to the toes! The ankle area straps are vinyl backed but still quite comfortable.  I did have a bit of an issue at first with the buckles being a little stubborn, but once I took them off and put them back on again that issue disappeared.  Next I walked around outside in them before settling down poolside for a Instagram photo shoot.  They are a high heel (5.75" heel with a 1.5" platform) but because I'm way more used to stilettos at that height than wedges, they did take a little bit of getting used to.  By the time I completed my short walk I was a downright pro.  The quality is there for the most part.  The stripes on the heels are decently lined up to match on both shoes, but this is probably a coincidence more than quality control as I've learned in the 4+ years I've been with ShoeDazzle.  If that possibility of not matching is something that might bother you, you might want to order two pairs to mix and match, then send the remaining two that don't match as well back.  I did notice that the stitching on one of the ankle straps wasn't as straight as it could be, but that's not something anyone but I would notice while wearing - still a red mark in quality though.  Did I mention that they were true to size for my 6.5 feet?  They're also pretty lightweight for a wedge shoe which is really nice.  I love the Burtonesque black and white stripes, and these fit into my wardrobe so well.  If this color combination is not your cup of tea, they also come in a red and white striped version.  Great offering, ShoeDazzle!

New Shoe Review: JustFab's "Aldeen" and "Tallie"

I've been trying to catch up with reviews of all the shoes I've added to my closet in the last couple of months, and today it's JustFab's turn.  I had featured both of these shoes in my April [Tallie] and May [Aldeen] monthly picks.  I waited a bit to make them mine, and I was glad I did.  I picked them up in the May sale - two pairs for $49.95 - but the semi-annual sale going on right now is even better.  It's two pairs for $39.95 - so it's buy one get one free!

"Aldeen" ($39.95 VIP members / $49.00 for non-VIPs)

When I was out taking pictures for my Instagram of these shoes this past Saturday, three different women stopped me to ask me where I got my shoes.  They are very eye catching and sexy, that's for sure!  Although the site is saying that these run half a size small (some of the reviews say that as well), I did not find that to be the case for my 6.5 feet.  They aren't too bad on the comfort side, although for long periods of wear I'd definitely get inserts.  They're really easy to walk in for the heel height.  As far as quality goes, it's about a 6 out of 10 for me.  There is a small spot on one of the laces where the top material has come off already - although easily covered with a sharpie I was a bit disappointed. The biggest problem with them is the back zippers.  They are really difficult to zip up once you get the shoes on, but unzipping them hasn't been an issue.  They're also a bit of a hassle to get on and off in general.  All that said, I would not part with them.  Oh, and these also come in this weird 70s yellowish-tan color called "cognac" in case you were wondering about other colors.  Trust me, stick with the black.

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

These were one of the shoes I could not wait to get my feet into.  Overall they did not disappoint, and I think if I were to be out photoing them I would at least get the response from passers by that I did for "Aldeen".  I found these shoes to be true to size.  They are lacking in the comfort aspect, but not for the sole.  I don't think I'd use inserts in these as they are well padded, but I sure as hell will keep a BandAid Friction Block Stick around the first few times I wear them.  The textile that the upper is made of is a bit stiff and has a lot of potential for blisters.  They are easy to walk in for the heel height, and I really like that I can adjust the ankle strap if needed.  The zippers are much easier to work than the "Aldeen" shoe, but still don't go up and down as easily as they should.  Again, it's a shoe I wouldn't part with!

New Shoe Review: ShoeDazzle's "Jaffe", "Haru" and "Corinne"

Ah, nothing like a big box of shoes showing up at your door to make the day that much better!!  That happened Monday when I received 3 new pairs from ShoeDazzle.  With all of these new arrivals being recent releases, and two of the pairs being shoes that I have talked about before, here are my thoughts on the 3 of them.

"Jaffe" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

I picked the black and white version over the solid silvery gunmetal of "Jaffe".  The contrasting colors mixed with the strap placement, and then add to that the single sole, pointed toe and stiletto heel - you have one very sexy and stunning shoe, and even more so in person!  As a size 6.5 it's true to size.  I found it decently comfortable in walking around my house in it, but for long periods of wear I know I would need some sort of insert.  I also found them very easy to walk in for the heel height.  There were no quality flaws that I would note here either.  My only gripe about this shoe is that the side "buckle" is really a folded over velcro strip.  It is adjustable which is nice, but had they made that an actual buckle I think the shoe would have been perfect.

"Haru" by gx by Gwen Stefani ($59.95 VIP members / $95.95 for non-VIPs)

If there's one thing I can say about the gx line of shoes it's that they are really, really comfortable.  Except for the "Misaki" open toe booties, I don't think I would put an insert into any of the pairs I have (these, "Izumi", "Hoshi", and "Mayuko").  As far as "Haru" goes, these also come in an indigo/black/white/gray version, and a red/black/white version.  I chose the black as I felt it would best match my wardrobe, and I really like the noticeable contrast of textiles in the upper in person.  They are true to size for a 6.5, but I will warn that the ankle strap is not adjustable.  I have small ankles and I don't have much additional room once they're on.  I found the shoes easy to walk in, and really comfortable as I mentioned earlier.  I would say that they're also well made, though I do think they're a little pricey.  I try to save my VIP credits for the gx shoes to make them more affordable.

"Corinne" by Paper Fox ($39.95 VIP members / $54.95 for non-VIPs)

I didn't talk about this shoe before, but it grew on me since its release.  My hair has blue and purple streaks in it, and this year I've added some cobalt pieces to my wardrobe.  I thought these would be a nice addition to my wardrobe, and an alternative to an all black shoe.  They come in a black version with a muted gold heel/sole, and then this version which is considered blue/silver on their site.  I would say the heel/sole is a muted glossy black, not silver, so I don't know where the silver fits in on these.  The faux suede that the straps are made of is actually pretty comfortable.  That said, I would keep a BandAid Friction Block Stick around just in case the first few times you wear these to prevent possible rubbing and/or blisters.  The sole itself isn't the most comfortable so I'd look for some inserts for longer periods of wear.  They are true to size for my 6.5 feet.  I also thought they were easy to walk in for the heel height and well made.

Proper Hair and Good Shoes

Besides my love of shoes, I have a bit of a fascination with the fashion and style icons of the 1960's.  On my powder room wall is a black and white photo collage of some of those lovely ladies back in the day - head shots of Twiggy, Tina Louise, catwoman Julie Newmar, Goldie Hawn from her "Laugh In" days, and one of the first supermodels, Jean Shrimpton.  I also have Nancy Sinatra sitting in a white mini dress with her matching signature white knee boots, and Brigitte Bardot in short shorts paired with a very fashionable hat and black thigh-high boots.  In the middle of these photos is a poster of the ultimate 60s icon Marilyn Monroe tying on a pair of lucite heeled sandals with her famous "man's world" quote printed on the bottom.  There is even a pair of black high heeled shoe ornaments hanging on the wall all of these fabulous women.

Why did I decide to decorate this way?  Well, both these women and 1960s fashion have lasted the test of time.  Seeing their faces as I get ready each day reminds me to always try to look my best, and to make sure I have a perfect head-to-toe outfit to complement.  I believe Iris Apfel said it best with this quote from Harper's Bazaar:

Mid Month, New Shoes: June 2014

Well, now I know why I didn't find much to add to the wish list at the beginning of this month.  Both ShoeDazzle and JustFab were waiting for mid-month releases.  ShoeDazzle also released new gx by Gwen Stefani shoes in this mid-month drop, so I was especially happy to see that (although now a lot of the gx shoes are starting to look a little too similar in style for my taste).  I have added 12 pairs from ShoeDazzle to my ever-growing wish list, and 1 from JustFab.  Although I added so many of them, I'll be sharing my favorites of the bunch with you.

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

"Randi" caught my eye for 2 reasons - it's a very retro pinup shoe as well as it's red, white, and blue with black polka dots, perfect for a July 4th outing if you've got one to go to.  Normally I don't go for the whole red, white and blue thing, but these I couldn't welcome faster into my closet. I really like the combo of the ankle strap with the "x" strap underneath it (for lack of a better term).  It adds some extra sexiness to the silhouette of the shoe.  They look like they have about a half inch platform, and a 4" heel, so these also should be pretty easy to walk in.  Now I need to find the perfect fit and flare dress to match these!

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

As a girl who doesn't like wedges, these are on my MUST HAVE list.  The Burtonesque stripes sold it for me, as well as the positioning of them on the wedge heel.  I'm super picky about wedges I will add to my collection because they usually aren't remotely flattering to the foot, but this one actually is.  It's a 6" platform wedge as well, and has a really cute ankle strap with a circular buckle to balance out the boldness.  "Margee" also comes in a red and white striped version.  Love it, love it, love it!!

ShoeDazzle: "Jazzy" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

I really love the Paper Fox brand and these sandals are no exception.  "Jazzy" is a stunning cutout sandal, especially with the double ankle strap and the way the lattice comes up the leg a bit.  I am really happy to see that these ankle straps are adjustable and the shoes are not a back zip entry because this style has the potential of not fitting properly on the foot/ankle.  If the lattice isn't flush to your foot, you're going to get gaps and rolls, not remotely the look you were intending on.  This shoe has a 1" platform and is a 5" total heel.

ShoeDazzle: "Filme" by Paper Fox ($49.95 VIP members / $59.95 for non-VIPs)

What can I say about these?  The metallic finish in gunmetal got me to look closer at them, but the fact the straps mimic film is what made me put them on my wish list.  They also come in gold, but the gold is not something I'd wear.  I go for the unique, and these definitely are that.  They look to be a single sole sandal, and about a 4.25" heel.

ShoeDazzle: "Clique" by Paper Fox ($45.95 VIP members / $54.95 for non-VIPs)

Geometric patterned shoes can go either way - the pattern distracts from the shoe itself or works with it.  "Clique" is one that works, and works quite well.  The description says it is 80s inspired, but I really like these pumps as opposed to the horrible fashion of that decade.  It comes in both fuchsia and chartreuse, and I find myself wanting both colors.  It's a single sole pointed toe silhouette, so it might require going half a size up.  The heel height looks to be about 4.25".

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

Although this is considered "fall preview" (grumble, grumble...  it's not technically even summer yet!), I am in love with this open toe knee high boot.   It does look big in the calf area on the model, but it says that it has a 14" calf circumference.  My guess is that she's in a large size and has very skinny calves, because 14" would be downright perfect for me.  The patterned cutouts sold me on this boot, and I really think it is a great alternative to a gladiator sandal/boot.  Of course, it would work for early fall too but definitely one I'd wear whenever it's warm enough out.