After the last 5 posts I thought I’d go through a rewind like I did with the Bridal Shoe Series a while back. Here’s the recap of the styles that I fell in love with when I was traveling through the UK, Germany, Italy, and Austria this past May.

Here goes…

The traditional ballet flat: these will never go out of style. Invest in a quality pair that comfortable and don’t be afraid to get them in different colors. I know it may seem kind of outrageous to buy such a simple looking shoe for what seems like an inflated price, but when you’ve been wearing the shoe for the next 4+ years, you’ll be glad you bought them “way back when.” The French Sole Sloop is a perfect example of the everlasting ballet flat.

Get Them: French Sole Sloop

Related Post: European Flats I: French Sole Sloop

The sling-back flat: A properly fit sling-back can add comfort to your feet if you have been walking all day and provide some much needed air that the closed in flat doesn’t. Once you have your traditional ballet flat the sling-back flat the Cole Haan Air Aiden Sling is a worthy next purchase. Keep things interesting by choosing one that has different colors, or like the Aiden has texture.

Get Them: Cole Haan Air Aiden Sling

Related Post: European Flats II: Cole Haan Air Aiden Sling

The in-between season flat sandal: Nowadays with weather being as unpredictable as it is these days, the end of Spring doesn’t always mean that the barely there strappy sandal is weather appropriate. That’s what the in-between season flat sandal is for. This Frye Cameron Skimmer is enough of a shoe to keep your feet from freezing when the temperatures are a bit chilly and/or rainy and enough of a sandal to keep you from being disgruntled about not being able to wear the tank top and shorts near Summer. Go for different colors and a basket weave look to keep the style fresh and light. Then, when the weather does become that perfect sunny and 75, you’ll be able to pair the shoe with summer wear.

Get Them: Frye Cameron Skimmer

Related Post: European Flats III: Frye Cameron Skimmer

The Embellished Flat: if you already have your traditional ballet flat (or think that they are too simple for your style), try the ballet flat with added detail like this Corso Como Drew Flat. A flower at the top, bow, or buckle are all welcome details to the flat. Keep in mind that a gigantic bronze cut-out at the top of the shoe may not necessarily look bad as long as it goes along with the theme of the shoe. On the flip side, a big ol’ mess of small embellishment are just as likely to make the flat look too busy and unbalanced, so be sure that the shoe is not overwhelmed with added details. And remember, colors are your friend so feel free to look for contrasting colors in the different textures and materials of the flat.

Get Them: Corso Como Drew Flat

Related Post: European Flats IV: Corso Como Drew Flat

The tennis shoe style fabric flat: It’s a mouthful to say, but this shoe style is great for everyday. I love that we can wear this more casual shoes style (with or without socks) without having to resort to wearing actual tennis shoes. The other great thing about these tennis shoe style fabric flat is that you can find them almost anywhere and they tend to be a bit less pricey than their leather counterparts and don’t have to worry about keeping them super clean because they are more like tennis shoes. The Tommy Hilfiger Katie Slip-On here is a great example of this type of shoe with the rubber sole to keep you from slipping and the fun patchwork/leather material combo. It’s also cute enough to wear with a denim skirt or casual summer cotton dress.

Get Them: Tommy Hilfiger Katie Slip-On

Related Post: European Flats V: Tommy Hilfiger Katie Slip-On

Posted in Cole Haan, Corso Como, Flat, French Sole, Frye, Sandal, Slingback, Tommy Hilfiger | No Comments

Want to graduate from the thong/flip flop fashion? If so, I suggest this great Pinta Sandal by Steven.  Steven is the more mature but still stylish off-shoot brand of Steve Madden that will bring you from the club to work seamlessly.  It’s not quite a thong but not your usual gladiator sandal either.  I really like the ankle strap that allows you to run from place to place securely and looks edgy.  Plus, let’s be honest, if you are a twenty something (or 30 or 40 or etc..something) working professional in where you’ve got the “business casual with jeans” dress code thing - strolling in with flip flops just doesn’t really fly.  In the Pinta you’ll be acceptable anywhere!

Get Them: Steven by Steve Madden Pinta Sandal

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Birkenstocks are not just for so called tree-huggers and hippies. After spending a week in Munich, Germany (the sandals’ country of origin of course), I caved in and bought a pair of Birkenstocks. I took a side trip to the home of “The Sound of Music,” in Salzburg, Austria and wore these babies all day long from the train station and as I walked the hills and streets of the city from morning ’till night. No pain. Trust me on this , they are ridiculously comfortable and not to shabby looking either, plus, they will last forever because..well..they are Birkenstocks. I’ve never heard of one breaking down, ever. So here’s the pair that I pick for ya’ll to try out if you don’t want to go with the old school one or two strap sandal. This cute little Piazza sandal will give you comfort, last forever, and always somehow be in fashion - even if it’s not cutting edge - no one could fault you for wearing them. =) There’s a reason why Birkenstocks still sell and have had to make very very few changes to it’s original style - so jump on the band wagon and pick up a pair.

Get Them: Birkenstock Piazza

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Sometimes less is more. This statement is entirely true when it comes to this DV sandal. It’s simple two strap thong sandal set in a Roman style pattern makes this minimalist sandal ideal for the summer. It comes in fun colors which makes it even better for the summer and will go with all your summer dresses and shorts. Don’t be caught in boring rubber thong sandals, instead opt for something a little more trendy and unique..like the ‘Daisy-6′ sandal.

Get Them: DV by Dolce Vita ‘Daisy-6′ Sandal

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Lately sandals have been slightly reminiscent of the Roman times..especially with the gladiator sandals. But another great trend is the Goddess sandals. They are much more feminine and pretty. I love the ‘Daryl’ sandal, it’s structured without being heavy, which makes it feel so much more dainty. You can’t really go wrong with this sandal, it will go with your dresses, skirts, and jeans…making it versatile, which we all know is key when shopping for shoes.

Get Them: DV by Dolce Vita ‘Daryl’ Sandal

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If you haven’t noticed already the ‘Gladiator’ look is back with a vengeance! Funnily enough I am writing this from Italy..where of course the whole ‘Gladiator’ craze started. You will be glad to know that this trend is also striking here as well. I really dig the multiple straps and buckles (as usual). I tend to lean toward the matte leather just because I think it will go with more and really brings out the look. If your a bit confused on how to wear these…no worries! Try these with some cute shorts, or a mini skirt, I have even seen people wear them leggings and a baggy sweater.

Get Them: Pelle Moda ‘Neena’ Sandal

Posted in Pelle Moda, Sandal | Comment (1)

Biviel BV1208 - Flats are a great option for comfort and if you happen to be taller, they can also be dressed up or down.

Nine West Falcoin - satin is always a lovely way to keep things elegant. Go for detail (like the pleating in this Falcoin) and bright colors to also add your own flavor.

Charles by Charles David - Tyrst: stylish and traditional. Subtle lizard prints like this Tyrst sandal is great and the twist makes the show modern.

Nina Vikki - great for a wedding that goes into the evening because of the color, while still keeping your feet cool in the summer.

Bridesmaid shoe tips: you don’t have to be “matchy matchy” with your dress. Contrasting colors will go great with the popular single tone bold colors that are being used for many dresses today. Look for comfort as well. Only wear a shoe with a heel height, and constructed in a way, that you know you will be comfortable in the entire day- no matter how fabulous the shoe is. Comfort is key, you don’t want to be wincing in pictures. You can mix things up with different colors, prints, materials and straps. Also, it doesn’t hurt to suggest having all the bridesmaid’s getting the same shoe in a variety of colors. Makes for nicer pictures, and we all know how important pictures are.

Links to previous posts: Biviel Bv1208,  Nine West Falcoin, Charles by Charles David Tyrst, Nina Vikki

Posted in Biviel, Charles and David, Flat, Heel, Nina, Nine West, Sandal, Special Occasion, Weddings | No Comments