Category Archives: shoes

Getting Experimental

Posted on November 3, 2010 by | 4 Comments

I do believe I’ve found a new signature cocktail for fall, and I couldn’t be more excited to spread the word. Miss Mojito encountered this particular cocktail at Balliceaux, a Richmond restaurant with a truly creative menu. The charmingly-named Down the Rabbit Hole combines an unexpected mix of muddled blackberries, tequila, red wine, ginger liqueur and lime juice. The wine tempers the kick of the tequila, while the muddled fruit provides the perfect touch of sweetness. The end result is a ruby-red concoction that is as easy on the eyes as it is on the taste buds. Now it’s time to start experimenting with proportions. I’m thinking equal amounts of wine and tequila with a small handful of berries, a splash of ginger liqueur and the juice of half a lime.

As long as I’m experimenting with my cocktails, I figured it couldn’t hurt to do a bit of shoe experimentation, as well. And there’s no better way to experiment this fall than with one of the season’s most intriguing – but potentially most difficult to pull off – styles: the over-the-knee boot.

My top pick is by Frye, but I hate to shell out major cash for a shoe that qualifies as a trend. And the $500 Frye boot certainly qualifies as “major cash.” That’s why my top pick is this $120-pair by Naughty Monkey, available on Piperlime. I love the sculptural heel and slate gray color.

Miss Mojito wants to know: Is anyone else getting experimental with their shoes and cocktails this fall?

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Farm-girl glamour

Posted on October 26, 2010 by | 3 Comments

Clearly, Ms. S&C is looking to glamourize farm life. (Or, maybe it is time for her to embrace her farm-girl roots?) First, she fell in love with this farm-girl chic look over on The Sartorialist. Then, she ran across these boots at Nine West (from the aptly named “Vintage American Collection”).

No, they are not authentic. They are not perfectly weathered from removing brush by the pond or hauling bales of hay. But, they are awesome, and she wants them. (Now, off to find the perfect utility coat to match!)

posted by Ms. S&C

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Back to (Black) Basics

Posted on October 18, 2010 by | 2 Comments

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about what many would argue is the penultimate staple of a girl’s wardrobe: the basic black pump. It’s a shoe that can dress up a pair of jeans and add the perfect polish to any work outfit. It can be difficult to find that perfect pair though – one that melds comfort, fashion and versatility. That’s why I think that a few different versions of the black pump are a wardrobe-must.

My personal preference is a round- or almond-shaped toe – I think it’s utterly feminine and flattering. That’s not to say that I turn up my nose at a pointy toe – I certainly have a couple of pairs in my closet – but I feel like the round toe has a certain classic longevity.

Here’s a quick look at my three favorite round-toe pumps.

This pair of Steve Madden Mary Janes is one that I turn to time and time again, and in fact have had to re-heel several times due to far too frequent wear and tear.

This pair by Rocket Dog has a slightly retro look thanks to the knot on top and the curve of the shoe. I’ve worn these to weddings and work – love the versatility factor!

The elevated platform and laser cut-outs elevate my latest acquisition, a Calvin Klein pair, from classic to super-special. I also love the heft in the 4.5-inch heels. This shoe is sure to quickly work its way into regular wardrobe rotation.

Miss Mojito wants to know: Am I the only one with a black pump obsession? Tell us about your personal faves!

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Talk me down

Posted on October 11, 2010 by | 2 Comments

Can someone talk me out of these, please?

This J. Crew silk and wool dress isn’t perfect for fall, right? It probably wouldn’t look good with (black or brown) opaque tights and boots. It isn’t the grown-up glamour I talked about for my fall wardrobe. And, I’m sure it wouldn’t look good with my black booties, my new oxfords, or these Tory Burch riding boots.

I don’t need these quilted boots, do I? I mean, who wants this mixture of nylon and leather textures? And, who cares if they would look good with my skinny jeans and the plaid flannel shirt I just bought at Target? Plus, they wouldn’t go well with my brown corduroy mini… Oh, good grief.

Ms. S&C wants to know: What do you need her to talk you out of?

posted by Ms. S&C

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Miss Mojito Meets Fall

Posted on October 6, 2010 by | 1 Comment

Miss Mojito is finally at a stage where she can embrace fall in all its brisk glory. I’m ready to meet the season full of cheer, and for good reason. Fall is prime shopping time in the Mojito household, and this season in particular brings the perfect storm of colors, pieces and patterns that are calling my name. Those cold-weather staples that mark the start of a cool new season are some of my favorite shopping indulgences – and the reason that my checking account has taken a significant dip as of late. Here’s why.

Coats and Jackets
Cropped leather moto-jackets and luxe faux-leopard coats are haunting my dreams these days. I couldn’t resist a black pleather bomber-style jacket with an oversized shearling collar from H&M – and for $30, there was no need to resist! This Burberry Prorsum jacket is the original inspiration.

Sweaters
I’m stocking up on thin layering v-necks and cardigans, and am pining for some chunkier, sweater-coat style knits.

Hosiery
When the cold weather sets in, you’ll find me wearing tights six out of seven days a week! This season, I plan to invest in several patterned pairs in neutral shades. But I plan to take things up a notch by layering tights and delicate printed socks – a sheer, polka-dot pair is my favorite hosiery purchase so far, and they look lovely when peeking out of the top of. . .

Boots!
Here at S&C, it’s no surprise that I’m something of a boot addict. Fall always finds me lusting after boots galore. Lace-ups with chunky heels, like this pair by Deena & Ozzy from Urban Outfitters, hold a spot of honor on my wish list.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, sartorially speaking.

Miss Mojito wants to know: What’s on your fall fashion forecast?

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Three quick things: rain boots, beer, magazines

Posted on October 5, 2010 by | 1 Comment

Three quick things.

(1) Hunter Rain Boots
A friend emailed saying she was on the lookout for a pair in orange or green. (And after all this rain, DC, aren’t we all?) PS: I kinda like the red ones for myself.

(2)  Punkin Ale
Our suitcases are hardly unpacked, and we still don’t have much food in the fridge, but you can find Dogfish Head’s Punkin Ale in the house. With its hints of pumpkin and brown sugar, I say: Hello, Fall.

(3) S&C Reading Material: The New Yorker
I just finished the September 20, 2010, issue of The New Yorker, and it is jam-packed with awesomeness. There’s an article about Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg (did you know he’s a huge fan of The West Wing?). The article on Mickey Drexler, J. Crew’s CEO, is pretty interesting (I love and hate that he uses an intercom). There’s a feature on a very cool fourteen year-old fashion (and very successful) blogger, Tavi Gevinson. And finally, there’s a short, funny segment on Pavement tickets (funny because, I, too, bought Pavement tickets many, many months ago, but smartly opted for Will Call).

posted by Ms. S&C

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/09/20/100920fa_fact_widdicombe

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Biz Cas (and so much more)

Posted on September 7, 2010 by | 3 Comments

Fall wardrobe planning continues! Last week, Ms. S&C highlighted a few favorite items from Anthropologie. This week, she’s sharing items from another one of her favorite retailers: Banana Republic.

With the help of the Give & Get 30% off special, Ms. S&C was able to *get* the below items (and *give* a percentage of the sale to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). I know what you’re thinking: everything is gray and black. Where is the color, Ms. S&C? Where is the boldness? Where is the glamour, you speak of? Why is everything so…so business casual?

Biz Cas

Ms. S&C’s fall wardrobe picks: items that are versatile
and so much more.

While Ms. S&C does want to infuse some glamour in her wardrobe, another important element is versatility: the ability to mix and match (and the ability to wear the items to work). Accessories are, of course, another major element: shoes, bags, belts, statement jewelry, fun scarfs, gloves, and tights. (Good lord, don’t forget the tights!) Textured or printed tights can transform the ruffle skirt (though, it is silk and pretty fabulous on its own) into something spectacular. A studded belt can help give the herringbone jacket some edge. And, a bold printed scarf up top, those leggings (and the chic suede booties) on bottom — you can put together a kick ass outfit.

Ms. S&C wants to know: What do you like for this fall? What items do you want in your closet this season?

posted by Ms. S&C

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Grown-up glamour

Posted on September 3, 2010 by | Leave a comment

Last fall, Ms. S&C aspired to dress boldly. She wanted bright, rich colors and prints (paisley and polka dots were favorites). This year, she still wants color and prints — and a certain level of boldness — but also glamour.

Ms. S&C wants glamour in a grown-up way. She wants style that is charming, a little mysterious, a little adventurous, a little sexy, but also smart.

A good example: this floral dress from Anthropologie. When trying it on, Ms. S&C knew she was in love with this dress before she even headed to the full length mirror for a glimpse. The brilliant floral print, the ultra feminine neckline, the sculptural cap sleeves, the striking waistband: it is glamorous, it is flattering, it is work appropriate, and it is a great transition dress. Ms. S&C can wear it now with nude slingbacks (she already has!), and she can wear it in the fall with black tights and some simple black pumps.

Another favorite from Anthropologie is this Tracy Reese print dress. With a price tag slightly under $300, this is an aspirational buy. Again, we’ve got a funky print, combined with a great collar and delicate silver buttons. The classic design makes it feel grown-up, but the whimsical print and silk fabric makes it feel glamorous.

As for shoes, Ms. S&C already has shoes in her closet that work well with both dresses (her black platform peep-toes from last fall are certainly an option).

Anthropologie also has an incredibly unique footwear selection. You don’t need a great dress when wearing Anthropologie shoes — they are showstoppers unto themselves. Here are a few of Ms. S&C’s early favorites. Love the thicker-heel trend this season. Love that curry color on the peep-toes, that rose detail on the black pumps, and a pair of oxfords will be in my closet stat!

Ms. S&C wants to know: What fall trends do you like? What new items do you plan on having in your closet this season?

posted by Ms. S&C

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Breaking Shoe News

Posted on August 19, 2010 by | 4 Comments

Miss Mojito just received a phenomenal shoe delivery. So phenomenal, in fact, that a live, breaking news update was in order. Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to what will undoubtedly be my favorite shoe of fall and the pre-fall transition season: the Ginara Clog.

I’ve heard all the talk about how the clog is just huge for fall, and I had my doubts – it’s an inherently unfeminine and slightly clunky shape. But clunky, I’ve learned, isn’t always a bad thing when it comes to shoes. Banana Republic has taken the clog and feminized it, adding a lovely sling back (all the better for walking) and a slightly rounded toe. I’m obsessed with the wooden base, the hardware detailing and the gray suede.

This is the first shoe I’ve bought from Banana Republic, and I’m as pleased as punch. And thanks to a combination of discount cards and sales, I got these for a steal at $50 off!

When the box arrived at my office today and I finally got around to opening it, I broke into a chorus of Alleluias – literally. Then I quickly put them on and walked around the office for five minutes to show everyone how happy I was with these shoes – really.

This is such a fantastic purchase because I deliberated for just ages on whether or not to take the clog plunge. I visited two Banana Republic stores in person with no luck locating this particular pair, and since the Web site doesn’t have a picture of a model wearing the shoes, I just couldn’t envision their beauty. Until now.

Added bonus: they’re available in a rich, brown leather too. Which, honestly, I might just have to buy as well. They’re that amazing.

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Summer Fun with S&C

Posted on August 11, 2010 by | 1 Comment

With the end of summer in sight, I’m feeling more than a little motivated to make the most of these last hot days of August. That means spending as much spare time as possible poolside, indulging in sunset cocktails, planning picnics with friends and fun, warm-weather weekend trips.

How does this translate to the world of Shoes & Cocktails? I can’t think of a better way to get more fun out of summer than with Todd Thrasher’s Bomb Pops, a youthful treat with an adult twist. These fruity, layered popsicles pack tequila, vodka and rum into each pop. I forecast these being the perfect weekend sweet treat!

(Exciting Side Note: Miss Mojito will take her first-ever trip to Restaurant Eve’s Tasting Room this weekend to taste Mr. Thrasher’s cocktails and Chef Cathal Armstrong’s cuisine in person! Rarely have I been this excited for a meal.)

On the shoe front, I’m feeling seriously tempted to indulge in some most excellent summer sandal clearance, and Piperlime is just the place to do it. I’ve been eyeing these seriously chunky, slightly ridiculous and delightfully curvaceous Naughty Monkey sandals for ages now. And at almost 50 percent off, they’re starting to creep into my price range. Plus, they might translate well into the early days of fall.

Long live summer!

Miss Mojito wants to know: In what end-of-summer indulgences are you partaking?

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