Tag Archives: project runway shoe pairing

Dancing queen

I loved the Project Runway drag queen challenge. I loved the queens, who are so much more entertaining and so much more fun than the usual models (yawn). I loved the return of the beloved Chris March. And, I loved the much-talked-about, everybody’s-new-favorite-Tim-Gunn-line, said to the increasingly annoying Blayne, “It looks like a pterodactyl from a gay Jurassic Park.” Holla!

It was très difficult to find shoes spectacular enough to pair with these over-the-top designs. My favorite design of the night was Terri. Girl has a bit of an attitude and it shows in her clothes. Her designs always have many interesting elements, and her creation for Acid Betty was no exception. These multi-color gladiators definitely have some edge, but nothing can beat those platform boots (I love how one ties in with the stripes on the kimono-brilliant).

Joe’s Elvis-turns-Sailor outfit was the winning design. It may have been a little safe, but there’s no question Varla Jean Merman was loving it. I chose these round-toe platforms for her naughty nautical look.

As far as cocktails – definitely something with wasabi for Acid Betty (bloody mary, martini), and maraschino cherries for Varla.

Animal instinct

The latest Project Runway episode challenged the designers to dress Brooke Shields for her role in the TV show, Lipstick Jungle. I’ve never watched the show, but I kinda wanted to roll my eyes (again) at the shameless NBC cross-marketing machine. But, it turns out, I like Brooke Shields. She came off warm, down-to-earth, and I think I want to be friends with her. The designers, on the other hand, are ego-maniacs!

Despite their inflated opinions of themselves, there were some good designs. Korto does it again, along with partner Joe, on her ethnic-bohemian getup. Unfortunately, the dress couldn’t carry itself alone. Unless paired with some funky animal print shoes, like these from Dolce & Gabanna? Roar. I so wanted to pair the dress with the Christian Louboutin leopard haircalf platforms, but I resisted.

While I really like Jerrell’s use of textures, I wish I could take this outfit down a notch. I think Tim calls it “using your editing eye?” Get rid of the over-sized bag, sunglasses, and tone down that zebra-gold-trimmed belt (keep the zebra, save the gold accents for the shoes). The shoes in the gallery photo work, but I’d also consider these Tory Burch crocodile embossed slingbacks. Love the stacked heel and soft, patent leather peep-toe.

Finally, the winning design. I would love Keith and Kenley’s creation for myself. The layered, high-waisted skirt and flowy, floral top — I’m a big fan. I’d get rid of the scarf, and maybe all the dark accessories. That way, I can pop into my own pink Ferragamos.

Shoes and Cocktails would love to hear what you think about the designs, shoe pairings, and of course, what to drink! I think I see a martini in our future.

Star spangled

Project Runway brought us a perfectly timed Olympic design challenge. The cynic in me was initially worried that this blatant NBC-affiliated, cross-marketing contest would turn out lame, but instead, I was pleasantly surprised.

I salute the top two designs. Korto’s high-waisted, floor-skimming linen pants are perfection and define cool. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times – linen, especially white linen, is the fabric for summer. As for the shoes, I think these firey red Gucci’s are a great match. The classic design and gold crest detail represent prestige and good taste.

 

 

 

 

 

I also love Terri’s multi-textured ensemble. The blazer and scarf patterns combined with the tuxedo-style pants are part of a winning red, white, and blue collection. And it is one that I can’t resist pairing with the signature red soles of Christian Louboutin. These satin, strappy, peep-toe, halter slingbacks bring yet another textured element into the mix.

 

 

 

 

 

What should the ladies drink in these shoes? Albeit a tad unrefined, I can’t think of anything more appropriate than a classic American lager given the occasion.

Such great heights

Project Runway brings us more adventures in fashion design with the New York City nightlife inspired challenge. Also known as the I’m-not sure-the-right-person-won-or-the-right-person-went-home-and-what-the-heck-does-Sandra-Bernhard-have-to-do-with-fashion episode.

Anyway, let’s get to the designs, and more importantly, the shoe pairings! I liked Kenley’s dress and shoe pairing over in the PR photo gallery. The bright green peep-toes are a good match with her bold printed fabric. Because I’m still digging Miss Portman’s eco-friendly shoe collection, I’ll also suggest these purple beauties with the chiffon pompom. Adorable.

My favorite design was Leanne’s layered skirt. I’m not crazy about the shoe pairing in the gallery photo, so I’m offering up these replacements. You may see them again in a future post titled “shoes I can’t afford, but would die for.” If she is going to insist on wearing the large gold necklace with this outfit, how about pairing these gold Jimmy Choo’s? High shine, high style, and just plain high (with a 4 ¾ inch heel!). Or, if you want a pair of shoes more beautiful, more perfect than anything else in the entire world, go for these Christian Louboutin’s. These high-fashion picks deserve an equally glamorous drink. A Bellini perhaps?

posted by Ms. S&C

Social consciousness looks good on you

Naturally, Shoes & Cocktails is a big fan of Project Runway. In episode 2, also known as the models-shop-for-their-own-environmentally-friendly-fabric-and-almost-everyone -ends-up-with-the-same-ugly-brown-fabric-challenge, Natalie Portman was guest judge. If you haven’t already taken a look, check out Miss Portman’s vegan shoe line over at Té Casan. They are not as budget-friendly as they are good for the environment, but they are as elegant as her. And keep in mind that 100% of the proceeds will go to various non-profit organizations dedicated to environmental preservation and animal rights. If I was tasked with pairing shoes from the collection, I’d choose these lovely reds for Suede’s winning design. And, give the lady a glass of champagne!