Fashion Fix: Leopard Print Gold Toe Flats

When I think of cute shoes Ivanka Trump isn't the first (or second, third, or 100th) person that comes to mind. So, imagine my surprise when I was in Nordstrom Rack the other day and came across these leopard printed little gems! Turns out Ivanka Trump has an entire line of shoes, bags, etc... and I was more than happy to toss a few coins her way.

My friends know that I'm a sucker for anything gold, but I also rock pretty hard for prints. Safe to say you can find me rocking black, gold, or prints. I probably wear too much black, but what better way than to add a pop of something awesome -- enter the leopard print gold toe flats!

I got them on clearance at Nordstrom Rack for under $40 which is great. Feel free to check out your nearest Rack store if you wanna snag a pair.

Ivanka Trump "Carla" Flats

Nike Dunk Sky Hi Sneakers

I'm the furthest thing from a sneaker head, but life in Seattle has been making me feel a bit more hipster. Seattle has this extremely relaxed vibe that has been inspiring me to add a bit more comfort to my style. Of course this comfort is not going to come at the expense of having actual style... don't get it twisted, some Seattle folks take their comfortable style and look a bit too boho (read: homeless) and that's NOT what's up. I'm back commuting to work and I promised to never be one of those chicks on public transit rocking hideous gymshoes as I come and go. No way, Jose.

In an effort to have comfort and shoes that make my eyes twinkle, I thought the Nike Dunk Sky Hi line of sneakers would be the answer to my commuter shoes prayer. The 3 styles I'm currently googly eyed over are the Nike Dunk Sky Hi, Nike Dunk Sky Hi Paris, and Nike Dunk Sky Hi Sneakerboot. As of right now I'm telling myself to just pick one (the sneakerboot is in first place)... but if my money is looking right I just MIGHT snag all 3.

For all of my commuters, what's your shoe of choice for the Fall/Winter?

Nike Dunk Sky Hi - $120

These shoes are absolutely gorgeous and speak to my soul! The army green and black leather make my life force delight... I can already imagine rocking these with leggings and a bold, red lip! Winter uniform.

Nike Dunk Sky Hi Paris - $225

When I initially saw these shoes I could only see the Gold. That alone was enough for me to buy them... let's be honest, my inner Persian was doing a 2-step. The quilted print is giving me a Chanel vibe, and although I'm not obsessed with the brand I do love the hints of black in the print. Black is my favorite color and these would be a dope way to add some pop to an all black get up.

Nike Dunk Sky Hi Sneakerboot - $180

These shoes make my heart sing. They were divinely made for the soles of my feet to survive my first winter in the Pacific Northwest. Maybe "survive" is a dramatic word since the winters are much more mild than Chicago... but I am beyond thrilled to welcome these sneakerboots into my wardrobe. I'm still on the fence about which color to get, but seriously... you can't go wrong with either.

Sam Edelman "Louie" Black Fringe Booties

One of the perks of living in Seattle this time of year is the lack of extreme winter weather. While it's already started snowing back in Chicago and on the East Coast, Seattle is still in the 50s and very "sometimesy" (if that's even a word). Sometimes there's rain. Sometimes sun. Sometimes clouds. It all varies.

So, without the need to buy any snow friendly boots, I've been eyeing this dope pair booties to add to my growing Sam Edelman collection. His name was never on my radar before, but I slowly realized that all of the boots I gravitated towards were made by him. These are the latest in a growing collection.

The "Louie" boots come in a few colors and can be found on his site retailing for $160. I'm smitten with the black leather with black fringe! I am already shimmy shaking all around in my head lol.

Now, I don't have a problem dropping the money for his shoes, BUT I do know that I can usually find his shoes at Nordstrom Rack for a bit cheaper. I need to be on the hunt for these... but don't be surprised if I cop them for full price. Sometimes you just pay for what you want lol.

Fashion Fix: Gold Ankle Strap Sandals

Every once in a while Forever21 blesses my fashion life force with a little gem, and yesterday was one of those times. While browsing I snagged these Gold Strap Sandals, the perfect addition to my spring/summer fashion life force... and at $26.80 you can't beat the price.

The quality is also pretty good, which can sometimes be hit or miss with F21 shoes. The gold detail is pretty solid, and the back also features a gold zipper. The construction is on point and I think they'll easily hold up all season. If you're up to splurge a few more bucks, the pricier BCBG alternative might tickle your fancy.

Forever21 Gold Strap Sandal - $26.80

BCBG Gold Strap Sandal - $69.95

Everyone knows that my inner Persian excites whenever I see some Gold, so these sandals are the perfect go-to shoe for me. I think I might go back and pick up the nude as well. You seriously can't go wrong with gold accents.

Have you started getting your spring/summer wardrobe in order?

Zigi Soho Leena Booties (via @DSWShoeLovers)

Founds these in DSW and instantly fell in love! Zigi Soho Leena Booties currently $99.95 at DSW.

Basic Black Pump

Since I started my new job a few weeks ago, it dawned on me that I need a total overhaul on my current wardrobe. I still have a casual dress environment, but the older I get the more "quality pieces" I feel I should have. I mean, I'm 28... should my closet be over taken by yellow F21 bags? lol...

On my search to update my wardrobe I'm hoping to cancel out trendy items, instead building a foundation of basics and staple pieces. It's not that I want to spend a lot of money either... but I need things that can last a while and easily pair with other item... all without breaking the bank.

Working from the ground up, I wanted to find the perfect black pump. My favorite colors are black and gold, and these Steve Madden "Ilussion" pumps are perfect! They're 4.5 inches which satisfies my craving for height, black which goes with everything, and feature a gold toe which gives them a little something extra.I envision rocking these with a pair of skinny jeans, simple tee, and red lip! It sounds magical in my mind right now, but like many ideas I'll have to see how it actually comes together.

Steve Madden "Ilussion" Pump - $99.95

** Sidebar: I have no clue why Steve Madden misspelled "illusion" but yes, that was his doing lol... I know how to spell the word :) **

Steve Madden shoes for Fall 2012

It's safe to say that Steve Madden will be getting a pretty penny from the bank of Ishea this Fall. I was browsing his site last night and fell in love with 4 pairs of shoes, all of which will make great additions to my Fall Wardrobe.

$149.95 - Steve Madden "Awwsome Pump"

I'm obsessed with Gold (someone even calls me Xerxes lol) and these stilettos satisfy my craving for spiky, gold  goodness! I'd rather pay $75 or less for these, but Gold is a wardrobe staple for me so it's a solid buy.

$109.95 - Steve Madden "Buzzer Pump"

When I first saw these shoes my mouth watered!!! I love the color and can envision pairing them with just about everything in my closet. I tend to prefer wearing black/white/gold so these will be the perfect pop of color.

$149.95 - Steve Madden "Hilight Wedge Sneaker"

I'm not really into sneakers, but I am into black suede lol. These shoes are sophisticated, casual and right up my alley. I don't know what I'd do in them, but I want them in my closet. My soul won't let me pay over $100 for sneakers, but I feel these could be worth the price. I don't know. I'll have to try them on.

$89.95 - Steve Madden "Kimmie Flat"

These remind me of the Steve Madden "Studlyy" spiked flats I already have, but with a a twist. You can never go wrong with gold and leopard... and both at the same time? Yes, please.

Nike Free Run 3

Nike Free Run 3 - Color: Hot Punch/Reflect Silver - $100

I want to shout from the heavens because last week I discovered the most bad ass, amazeballs pair of gym shoes - - the Nike Free Run 3!!! Now, I'm a stiletto/boot girl and the mere thought of spending more than $40 on a pair of sneakers makes me scrunch up my face, but one look at this vibrant color and I was sold. I know a few people that swear by Nike Free Runs and I'm definitely on the band wagon. I've worked out in these shoes for a week and they're awesome. Comfort + Design... what more could you ask for.

Since I have flat feet a constant worry for me is the amount of arch support I'll find in a shoe and I was pleasantly surprised that these are very supportive. Plus, I'm all about the bright, borderline obnoxious color! Aren't they just fab. They have made me more excited about my workouts because I look down at my feet and I'm walking on clouds of happiness.

I bought my pair at Nordstrom (along with the Nike+ chip to keep track of my workouts - - another awesome purchase), but the fun colors have been flying off the shelf. I suggest ordering them online. They fit true to size.

Fashion Fix: Peep Toe wishes & Leather Studded dreams

A picture doesn't do these shoes justice... they are AMAZING in person! I found them @ my shoe heaven and had to have them. The leather is soft to the touch and the gold accents are top notch. They were marked down for over 50% off their retail price - - amazeballs! I rocked them the other day with a casual pair of cuffed skinny jeans, black top, and gold accessories.

Fashion Fix: Simply Devinne

A few weeks ago I came across a blog post that featured denim shoes and I could do nothing but scrunch my face up and leave negative comments. I thought some things should just be denim free!

Well, imagine my surprise when I was shopping this past weekend and found a pair of denim sandals that caught my eye. I was reluctant to pluck them off the shelf just because they were denim shoes lol... but I couldn't deny the fact that I was being drawn to them. I decided to follow my instincts and buy them and I couldn't be happier. Yes, denim shoes aren't for everyone... but I realized that these Steve Madden "Devinne" shoes WERE for me! The detail on the toe and ankle cuffs is what makes these shoes pop and I got them for nearly 30% off the retail price. They come in black and brown colors too... but I like the denim. It's different and fun for summer. What do you think?

Shoe Envy

Here are the latest crop of shoes making my heart skip, mouth water and eyes green with envy!!

Nicholas Kirkwood Suede & Lizard Open Toe Boots

Giuseppe Zanotti for Balmain multi buckle boots

Nicholas Kirkwood - Python Web Suede Sandals

My Obsession...

While I'm not equipped with the skills to turn down a free drink (or crab legs) I do have the common sense to not spend my rent/mortgage money on shoes. Still, these are the latest shoes making me salivate...and the price tag makes my eyes bulge!

Giuseppe Zanotti - Contrast Stitch Ankle Boots - $895 (pre-order)

Giuseppe Zanotti - Half Open Wedge Sandals - $595

Hell on Heels

For some reason I forgot (blame my selective memory) that these shoes KILL the back of my ankles whenever I wear them. I put them on pause for a few months and was itching to rock them again. Well, needless to say the shit hurt. I look like tiny people have been sawing their tiny knives at the back of my ankles all day long. Looks like I'll be putting these shoes back on time out.

Designer Inspired

Anyone that watched Bravo TV's season 4 of Project Runway had to be blown away by the amazing talent of Christian Siriano, 23. I was a fan from the beginning and excited when he won the show. I think that his designs were not only creative, but technical perfection and fun.

It was recently announced that Mr. Siriano would be joining the likes of designers such as Lela Rose, Alice + Olivia, and Patricia Field (of Sex and the City fame) to design a line of shoes and bags for Payless Shoes. His line is scheduled to debut in Fall 2009 and will range in price from $25-$45.

They say that imitation is the finest form of flattery and let's hope that is the case because after taking a look at the preview of Christian's shoes it's safe to say that they were a bold swagger jack of another Christian's (Louboutin to be precise) black, spiked heel design for Rodarte. I mean, Mr. Siriano didn't even try to downplay the swagger jack.

Christian Louboutin for Rodarte - Black, Spiked heels

Christian Siriano for Payless - Runway Samples

Despite being runway samples, I know that Christian's shoe/bag line will be hot and being offered at Payless will ensure great prices.

For any Chicago folks that are interested in checking out some of Christian's clothing designs, they can be found at:

Bonnie & Clyde's Boutique
1751 W. Division St. 1C
Chicago, IL 60622

...and might I add that I found the cutest purse there! Though I don't promote violence this bag is HOT!

Vlieger & Vandam - "Guardian Angel" Satchel, $365

Designer Inspired

I've always loved L.A.M.B. shoes but could never bring myself to pay the $300 - $600 price tag. I mean, they're cute but they aren't THAT cute (not to mention that Gwen Stefani is a singer, not a designer. These aren't Louboutins... If I don't wanna drop $20 for her cd why would I throw hundreds of dollars her way?) Still, the price didn't change my eternal lust for all things L.A.M.B. Their shoes are absolutely delicious to me. I haven't seen a design I didn't like... yet, I'm always brought back to the price tag. Even on sale they're over $200 and that's just not the business (especially in a recession).

"Hunter" by L.A.M.B. - $380

While perusing the shops in Water Tower I came across Wet Seal's version of the L.A.M.B. "Hunter" shoe in black and white. Being the shoe addict I am I copped both colors.... Sometimes you can't just pass up a good deal.

Wet Seal Version - $34.50
**They do look better in person**

I don't have an issue with designer inspired items but I do draw the line at those knock-off Louis V bags that don't even bother jacking the LV but instead use like stars on something. Yeah, those make my flesh crawl... but L.A.M.B. isn't that serious to me to not want to buy these shoes. I'm actually wearing them today and must say that I like them a lot. They aren't as comfortable as my Steve Madden or Sam Edelman shoes I've been rocking lately, but for $34.50 ($27.50 with my discount card) these were a must have and nice addition to my closet.

**Sidebar: If you're a fan of the Sam Edelman boots I have and you're in the Chicago area, he'll be having an in-store at the Nordstrom on Michigan Ave. on March 26th, 12-3 pm. This is a great opportunity to meet the designer and see a preview of the spring 09 collection.

Adventures on the CTA: "Feet Cold?"

Before I ended up on someone else's blog I decided to go ahead and put myself out there. Yesterday it was (according to weather.com) 20 degrees but felt like 9 and this didn't stop me from rocking my latest Steve Madden purchase.

Now, when I first got on the bus I noticed a few stares and what not but when the bus driver proceeded to ask "feet cold?" I knew there was an issue.

Yes, I'm wearing strappy stilettos... in the winter... and it's cold out... and a few snow flakes are falling.

And? Your point?

Women have suffered for fashion for years and I, by no means, am the exception. It was a little nippy outside but the leggings and sweater I was wearing did a good job of keeping me warm. I'm literally outside for 5 mins tops everyday so it was no biggie for me to brave the elements to be able to rock my shoes... and in case you're blind, have cataracts, or live under an f'ing rock - my shoes are the business, corporation, AND the man! (seeing as how we're in a recession that's a pretty good thing...)

I absolutely love my shoes and think that they are some of the most comfortable stilettos I've ever owned. These shoes were definitely made with a city girl in mind.

Moutwatering Goodness

It's been a while since I really bought a good pair of shoes. I guess I became a victim of Forever21 and ended up making that my one stop shop. I mean, you can go in there and buy an entire outfit, including the accessories and shoes for under $100 (in most cases under $60). Cheap Affordable, trendy fashion is addictive. After a recent visit to Forever21 it dawned on me that I'm not eternally 21... I'm actually 24 and with June quickly approaching 25 will soon be my bff. I had a sit down with myself and said "self, it's time you start dressing your age" and by that I meant that I need to start investing in quality pieces of clothing that (gulp) will cost more than $17.80 (or whatever funky price forever21 has). The first step in my journey to limit my forever21 intake consisted of a trip to Nordstorm Rack. (FYI: The State St. location is having a designer jeans sale on Friday 2/27 where all jeans will be $59.97 - - where'd they get that price? What's with the 97 cents...)

As I was walking down the shoe aisle a light shown down from heaven and I saw them. My heart stopped and for a moment it was just the shoes and I in that narrow aisle. I eagerly grabbed them off the shelf and clung to them like they were the reason for my sole existence. Once I slipped my foot into them it was like magic... these shoes were sending me on cloud 9. I'm not sure if it's acceptable to describe a shoe experience as "orgasmic" but that's exactly what it was. Watching my calf muscles flex as I walked around with the shoes on was exciting...I knew I had to have them ASAP.

Not only am I a sucker for the "little black dress" but I have a weakness for black, leather stilettos...or anything that compliments my legs. The plus side of being 5'2"? My legs may be short but they're so toned... even I like watching me walk. lol... I'm getting off track - - back to the shoes! Well, I ran to the "shoe mate" counter and eagerly anticipated receiving the mates to my killer find. The lady took about 5 mins searching for them but when she came back with the shoes I was elated.

I'm excited to start putting some miles on these shoes and wanted to share with everyone what I was so excited to find:

Martiny - Steven by Steve Madden

Sam Edelman - Lombard Booties

...and please notice the detailing on the heel and toe... a photo doesn't really do this shoe justice. The detailing and workmanship of the leather in the front is really what sold me. It's vented, similar to fish gills.


The next shoe on my "must have" list is this sexy, black suede, studded stiletto bootie by Steve Madden called "Revenu". This shoe is hot...

*and for my Chicago folks the Steve Madden store at Water Tower is having a ridiculous sale - - Buy 1 Get 1 90% OFF... talk about recession pricing!

Color Splash

Stilettos. Check.
Clips. Check.
Bright colors. Check.

I came across this candy colored dream the other day. They are the Baird Neoprene Boots by Report Signature and unfortunately as fast as I fell in love with them my heart was broken. The shoes were featured in a recent issue of Elle magazine...however, the issue went to print before Report Signature made the decision to NOT send the shoes into production. According to the company there was little interest shown in them by buyers. I'm amazed because after googling the shoes I saw a lot of hype surrounding them. I think they would've sold well. I was getting ready to make these my shoes for spring... now I'll have to continue my hunt for the perfect spring stiletto.

I <3 Shoes

Unlike shopping for a bra or a pair of jeans (which can be daunting tasks) shoes always fit...there's no struggling to find your size, squeeze into them or feeling let down that they "make you look fat". Stilettos are my shoe of choice and I don't mind suffering for fashion. I've been coming across some cute shoes today and wanted to share...and might I add that I'm not one of those super secretive girls that when you ask where I got something from - lie, say it was a gift, or "I don't remember". I love getting a good deal and believe in sharing the wealth.