Tag Archives: is it cocktail hour yet?

S&C reader mail–sharing new shoes

Ms. S&C loves, loves, loves to get mail from readers. Here’s a recent note that brought a huge smile to my face.

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Ms. S&C

This weekend in Baltimore with my mom I bought these shoes and they’re definitely an S&C-inspired purchase. I just wore them while folding the laundry and I’ve never looked so good doing chores. I jd-bootiesdefinitely can’t wear them to work- which I kind of love. They’re only for fun! I don’t think I’ve ever had such a high heel. I was figuring I’m not getting any younger and if I’m ever going to wear such crazy shoes, now is the time.

These aren’t the exact ones but they look like this except no side zip and plain black leather, not patent.

They haven’t been worn out of the house yet, and will only be viable for social occassions that aren’t likely to go all night or require being on feet the whole time. They’re definitely party shoes – guess I better throw a party soon!

Thanks for the inspiration!

xo
JD

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Oh JD, thanks so much for sharing your latest footwear addition! And, if you’re not throwing a party soon, maybe the mister can take you out? Or, meet a few friends for cocktails? You and these shoes deserve a night on the town!

posted by Ms. S&C

S&C diversion–guilty pleasures

I’ve been considering participating in Mixology Monday, the once-a-month cocktail creation you share online.  The timing hasn’t been quite right (I always seem to be out of town the weekend before submissions are due – like this weekend).  Plus, I know I’m an amateur (and a bit of a perfectionist), so I’m hesitant to submit anything that I don’t think is brilliant.

This month’s Mixology Monday theme is guilty pleasures.  Here are a few of mine:

  • Shoes – Pretty obvious, huh?
  • Shopping – I’m such a cliché.
  • Cocktails – Primarily, the over-indulgence of cocktails.
  • Overspending – Weakness for designer brands.
  • Pop music – Justin Timberlake and ABBA have a place on my IPod.
  • Celebrity gossipUS Weekly and the Washington Post’s Reliable Source keep me up-to-date with Brangelina and the Bush twins.
  • Potatoes – Potato chips, french fries – I can’t stay away.
  • Facebook – Addicted, positively addicted.

Shoes & Cocktails wants to know: What are your guilty pleasures? And, any ideas how I can make a cocktail out of mine? Post a comment below!

Wild flowers

We are getting close to crowning the next Project Runway winner.  The last episode challenged the designers to create an evening gown inspired by flowers found in the New York Botanical Garden.

Let’s start with the winners:

Jerell – The only guy remaining so he plays with fruit and bobble head dolls back at the hotel to keep himself company.  He also leads the let’s-throw-Kenley-to-the-wolves-pack.  He wins the challenge, but his dress is not without its problems (the bust, hemline, wrinkles).  I do like that it is a kind-of funky eveningwear look.  Most of his clothes seem wearable, but still have an edge.  So, we’re pairing these Christian Louboutin pewter pumps – aptly named “Scissor Girl,” for the cross-band and stud detail.

Leanimal – She loses a bit of her confidence this week.  Maybe it was repercussions from that near bee sting.  She still manages to pull off the next best dress.  Her soft, flowy, lavender gown is quite lovely.  Also lovely are these shimmery Valentino pumps with the side bow.  I heart bows.

And, the losers:

Korto – She designs a super-flattering silhouette (she always does), but goes overboard with the bright fabrics, and why oh why did she use that lace?

Kenley – It is too exhausting to continue with the Kenley-attitude-bashing.  We’re done with that.  And her reptilian dress.

Episode concludes with tears galore – everyone is an emotional wreck – but, it is all for not because no one gets auf’d.

S&C advice–what to wear with my new shoes?

Dear Ms. Shoes and Cocktails,
Here’s a picture of my new shoes. I need to build an outfit around them, and a signature drink. I heart them.

Sincerely,
Ms. Z

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Dear Ms. Z,
These shoes are très chic! I love the unique “cognac” color. In fact, the shoes themselves are quite unusual, especially the over-sized button detail. You know the thing I love about unusual shoes? They can turn a very usual outfit into something special. For the work day, you can wear the same black shirt and plain, old cardigan. Add these shoes and an over-sized necklace (gold would be a lovely compliment to caramel color), and you’ve got a spectacular outfit. Plus, you’ll also be dressed and ready for that last minute happy hour.

When I’m having drinks after work, I’m usually in the Penn Quarter. One place in the neighborhood, that has delicious cocktails bold enough to compliment these pumps, is Oyamel. I need to meet the mixologist over there because the specialty drinks rotate. I had a mango cocktail with a jalapeno infusion awhile back. Spicy goodness. It is no longer there, but the same, fine ingredients such as agave nectar and tropical fruit juices are.

Finally, I’m still one for heels on the weekend. Pair these darlings with dark denim, and you’ll be ready for dinner and a movie or a Sunday afternoon brunch.

Thanks for sharing!
Ms. S&C

In need of Shoes & Cocktail advice? Send Ms. S&C a note at: shoesandcocktails(at)yahoo(dot)com.