It’s Vieable: Oversized Roses

August 12th, 2010

Worn almost as a chic badge of honor, thanks to Valentino and Sonia Rykiel,  roses are a HUGE trend in fashion, appearing on both clothing and accessories alike. Having become less camp and more luxe over the years, it’s high time to find the perfect oversized rose for you. From roses that fall in soft knit layers to stiffer petals, and even the more more ostentatious varieties found in  leather iterations on a bag, there are all kinds to suit your fancy. Our picks are for both the modest and superfluous rose-wearers – which is your favorite?

Arden B Exploded Rose One Shoulder Top

Kate Spade New York Striped Rosette Tank

Handbag Heaven Audra Floral Tote

Alice + Olivia Rose & Safety Pin Necklace

Silk-look Floral Brooch Pin

-From my friends at TheEnvied

Wouldn’t that big black bag look marvelous with a pair of petal pumps, such as these Valentino Rose Pumps?!  And that necklace!

BODHI Shoe Bag: The Shoe Lover’s Travel Companion

August 11th, 2010

This designer bag may just be the best thing ever created for shoe lovers on-the-go!  Yesterday I first learned about the BODHI Shoe Bag, new for Fall 2010.  It is an oversized travel purse, made from the finest Italian leather, and can hold up to 6 of your favorite pairs.  SIX!  That’s the perfect amount of shoes for a business trip or weekend getaway, or even just a hectic day when you need to get from the gym to the office to a dinner party all in 24 hours.

I love that this bag looks chic and carries so many shoes, because I hate stuffing shoes in a carry-on that isn’t sturdy, or (worse) sending them away in a checked bag.  The agony of wondering the odds of the shoes getting lost…or stolen!  If I owned a BODHI Shoe Bag, It could double as my “personal item” and I could still bring another carry-on and have my most precious designer stilettos and favorite black pumps right there next to me the whole time.

The bag has a tiered construction and soft linen lining to ensure your shoes travel safely.  Do you need one in your life?  The BODHI Shoe Bag retails for $528 and is available at top retailers including Nordstrom and www.bodhibags.net.

Review: Kuru Footwear Women’s “Rapid”

August 9th, 2010

Kuru Women's Rapid

There’s more to Kuru Footwear than meets the eye… much more.  Kuru offers the most anatomical active footwear on the market.  The patent-pending KuruSole technology fits and molds to the contours of your feet, giving you superior cushioning and support.  KuruSole was developed through a collaboration of footwear and foot health experts.  Watch this video to learn more about he technology behind Kuru Footwear:

KURU ‘RAPID’ REVIEW:

I received for review the women’s Kuru ‘Rapid’ in black with pink trim. This style runs a half-size too small, so I asked for a size 9.  The Rapid offers a relaxed slip-on fit and casual styling perfect for traveling, yard work, walking and hiking, among other activities. See below for a breakdown of the pros and cons, but the only con is they are a little bulky for my taste.  But if you’re looking for a casual shoe that will make your feet feel amazing, you should forgive this point.

Features: antimicrobial, breathable, moisture-control shoe liner; anatomical sole with orthotic heel cradle; water and stain resistant soft shell upper; collapsible uppers (perfect for stashing in your pack); and rugged, durable outsole.

Pros:

  • Super light, collapsible for easy packing
  • Waterproof and stain-resistant upper, great for outdoor activities
  • Comfortable, fit perfectly from day one (no break-in time required)
  • Relieves plantar fasciitis

Cons:

  • Bulky, not as attractive on my foot as I’d like (but more attractive than most active-casual footwear)

In addition to making really comfortable shoes that come in recycled boxes, Kuru donates to social/environmental causes.  When you make a purchase on the company’s website, you can choose to register your purchase and Kuru will donate a portion of its profits to the cause of your choice.  The Rapid costs US $79.97 and currently comes in two color choices.  Get your own: www.KuruFootwear.com

Via Spiga’s 25th Anniversary Rooftop Event and Capsule Collection

August 4th, 2010

On Monday night, I had a great time at Via Spiga‘s 25th anniversary rooftop celebration at the trendy Empire Hotel (the one Chuck Bass owns in Gossip Girl).  My friend Jordanna (@Pink_Prez) was there with me, and we spent the majority of our time gawking at all the fabulous shoes (of course).  The shoes shown here on this model are part of the limited edition Via Spiga couture shoe collection, featuring silver snakes crafted by world-renowned jewelry designer Kenneth Jay Lane.  The 25th Anniversary Capsule Collection shoes are designed by Via Spiga’s Creative Director, Paola Venturi in collaboration with Lane.  Venturi selected a Kenneth Jay Lane crystal embellished snake ornament to adorn each of the shoes.

Aren’t these commemorative shoes gorgeous?!  The 25th Anniversary Capsule Collection will be sold on ViaSpiga.com and at Via Spiga’s flagship store in Manhattan’s trendy Soho district beginning in October 2010.  Via Spiga takes its name from the legendary street in Milan, and the brand specializes in sleek and architecturally inspired styles that make luxury fashion available to all women.

Head on over to Lucky’s website for shots of some incredibly chic shoes worn by rooftop partygoers!


Behind-The Scenes Peek at Scarpasa.com Founder’s Shoe-Buying Trip to Brazil

July 18th, 2010

Chris checking out some flats with lattice patterns

Chris Luhur, founder of Scarpasa.com —a web store that sells stylish and walkable flats, sandals, boots and low and mid-heeled shoes of the highest quality—has been chronicling her shoe-buying trip to Brazil. Chris personally scours the globe to curate a unique online shoe boutique that delivers a selection of shoes that are fun, functional AND fashionable.  On her “Chris & Tell” section of Scarpasa’s “Footnotes” blog, there are four posts about the trip – giving readers a behind-the-scenes peek at the trip .  Some prevalent trends she has noticed at the shoe fairs include neon colors and lattice patterns.  What do you think of neon shoes – yay or nay?

Fearless Friday: Limited Edition Geox Heel Has Me In An Empire State Of Mind

July 16th, 2010

I have fallen head over heels in love with NYC since moving there in January, and while it’s nice to be back home in Kansas for a few weeks, I have to say that I pine for the city.  When I saw these Empire State Building heels by Italian shoe brand Geox, I actually gasped.  Not only do I LOVE that the entire shoe sparkles, but this is the ultimate tribute to the allure and glamour of the city that never sleeps.  Don’t you think these should have made an appearance in SATC2?!

According to GlamChic, Geox launched this limited edition collection of footwear inspired by the Empire State Building for Spring 2010.  Each pair includes a 5″ heel, which is available in gold and silver, and is shaped like the iconic building.  Get your own for $230 at Geox’s store on West 34th Street, right across from the landmark that inspired them.  And what better time to celebrate the Big Apple?  This year also marks the 25th anniversary of New York, New York becoming the official song of NYC.

Does this shoe make you want to visit or even move to New York?  Do you want a pair of your own?

Product Review: IdealHeel Stiletto Protector

July 14th, 2010

Ideal Heel "Practice Safe Steps"

When I’m heading out on the town in high heels, I often cringe with every step, knowing obstacles such as street grates, cracks, and cobblestone lie ahead.  Nothing ruins my day like a new scuff or gouge on my beloved heels.  That’s why, when I heard about IdealHeel I was intrigued to learn more and try them for myself.  Basically, IdealHeel is a sturdy rubber accessory that slips easily over stiletto heels to protect them from damage, so you can “Practice Safe Steps”.  Sounds great, right?  Let’s put them to the test…

I tried the IdealHeel on my Giuseppe Zanotti pumps

I received the two pairs of IdealHeel pictured above for review – one Medium in brown and one Tall in black.  Medium IdealHeel is great for 2″-3″ high heels, while Tall is more suitable for heels up to 4″ high.  I slipped the Tall IdealHeel protectors over my new Giuseppe Zanotti leopard pumps (bought from ElisaV’s eBay store, still gushing!) and went on a walk around the block.

IdealHeel slips on easily

I’m pleasantly surprised that the protectors don’t make my shoes look ugly, in fact I kind of like the thicker heel!  They are sturdy and have good traction on gravel and in the grass.  I can easily slip them off my shoes and throw them in my bag when I reach my destination.

Verdict: A+ Seriously, IdealHeel is the best heel protector I’ve tried because it protects the entire heel and it seems durable too!  The only downside is that IdealHeel is made to fit standard pumps and stilettos, so if the bottom of your heel is wider than a dime, or if the heel is dramatically wider at the top, your heels may be too thick for this product.

GET YOUR OWN NOW for just $12.99 per pair at www.IdealHeel.com!  IdealHeel is currently available in 2 sizes and in black, dark brown, camel, clear, and pink.

Create Your Own Perfect Pair At Lanalia Shoes (Exclusive Coupon Code!)

July 12th, 2010

Lanalia 'Roma'

Perfect for the fashionable bride-to-be and any woman who enjoys owning one-of-a-kind footwear, Lanalia shoes gives women the ability to fully personalize their purchases, from choosing a desired heel height and color to the crystal decoration.  Every pair is handcrafted and hand-sewn in the heart of Los Angeles, California and decorated with Swarovski Elements crystals.  Lanalia provides on-trend styles with a mix of luxury and practicality.  But these shoes aren’t only gorgeous – each one features a full-length cushion of Poron, a NASA-created high-density cushioning with built-in arch support.  Your feet will stay dry and cool throughout the day thanks to the Napa leather lining.

The price of the shoes falls between $265 and $725, which is fair given this is quite an investment that you will treasure for years to come.  But to sweeten the deal, Lanalia is offering a special promotion exclusive to Shoe Smitten readers: 10% off at Lanalia.com with coupon code Smitten12, Expires 12/12/10

Create your own perfect shoes at www.Lanalia.com!