Ever since I caught a glimpse of the Dries Van Notes S/S 08 sandals on the end of the denim-covered legs of Judy Aldridge… I’ve been kind of obsessed. I love the bright colors, the straps, and the casual cool of the designer slingback which, of course, I can’t even dream of affording. (Also, good luck finding them for sale somewhere – Lord knows I’ve tried!)

While strappy shoes generally intimidate me (images of blisters, rubbed-raw skin, and after-shoe-removal indentations haunt me still…), I definitely enjoy the funky class that embellished or loud sandals bring to the party. You can toss them below an otherwise “ehh…” dress, or just like Judy does with jeans of any state, worn casually with some serious visual interest at the feet.

My criteria (you should probably get use to this Miss-Elle’s-Dad influenced method of shopping – breaking it down to the basics!):

• Colorful somehow. Whether it’s straps, the sole, the overall color… Whatever. Just has to be colorful.
• Embellishments will do. A jeweled T-strap, just at the toe, shells, rocks, people – it’s all good stuff.
• No taller than 3.5″! I want to wear these all over town.
• Sandal shape is preferable, as these will be the official “summer ‘09″ sandals.
• I’m not particularly partial when it comes to the type of heel involved. Wedges are fine, stacked heels are fine… Just no stilettos.
• The shoes must have some type of heel anchoring mechanism (i.e. not mules). If I’m going to be walking in these, I can have and shoe-loss episodes… I need to be strapped in!

After searching for a while, I noticed exactly how hard it is to find a classic, embellished/funky shoe that’s not based in a neutral color like black, brown or silver/gold metallic.

So let’s see what we did find!

Nine West Moochy Sandal
$78.95 $55.14

The Good: Color options forever, very strappy, very… blue.
The Bad: Lack of rockin’ embellishment… Though the knots are nice. Also, the slingback strap looks awfully thin… Thin like razor-wire. *cringe*

Restricted Khiara Heel Sandal
$64.95 $54.14

The Good: LOVE the orange/brown combo, really sturdy-looking heel, I dig the saltwater sandal style
The Bad: Well, there’s literally no embellishment here… And cork heels are kind of tacky, in my opinion. I’m also a little iffy on the patent leather. I already have one pair of orange patent leather shoes, and I’m not sure if I need two…

Nine West Doverly Sandal
$79.95

The Good: I don’t have yellow shoes, and this lemony yellow is GORGEOUS! The straps are really visually interesting, and the heel is structural, yet cool.
The Bad: I’m not really down with the champagne-colored satin sheen alongside the bright yellow. It makes it all look just a little country club.

Apepazza Andorra Wedge Sandal
$128.95 $59

The Good: Definite embellishment! Loving the ins and outs of the straps, and the heel looks cozy.
The Bad: I’m not a huge purple person. Literally and figuratively. I’m not sure that purple shoe + wedge heel would look anything other than “struggling fashionable geriatric”.

London Underground Happy Mediator Sandal
$98.95 $54.42

The Good: Love. The. Color. Love the stacked heel and I’ve been wanting peep-toe, slingback booties forever.
The Bad: These are peep-toe, slingback booties. Why did I include these again?

FRYE Dolly Woven Sandal
$198 $93.88

The Good: In a previous life, my name was Dolly. Also, these have a REALLY similar shape to the Dries pair I love, and the metallic isn’t horrifying.
The Bad: Wooden soles send a tiny shiver up my spine.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Know Best T-Strap Sandal
$79.95 $69.90

The Good: Same cute saltwater sandal style as the Khiara heels above. Really into the embellishment on these, and the straps are adorable. 3″ heel? Nice!
The Bad: Purple. =(

So? Which is the victor? I vote: The Kenneth Coles (last) or the Frye “Dolly” sandals. I can get down with purple if they’re in an adorable shape like those. The Kenneth Cole sandals are just perfect – no ifs and or buts about it!

Which would you choose? Are you into the idea of “loud sandals”?

Technorati Tags: dries van noten, heeled sandals, loud sandals, summer shoes

I would like to introduce you to Bad Joan: an online sample sale featuring overstock from the best up and coming and indie designers offered at up to 80% off of retail! They offer women’s clothing, shoes, bags and jewelry and work directly with the designers to guarantee 100% authenticity. And, honestly, “online sample sale” isn’t the best way to describe this site because, contrary to the typical “sample sale” format, these products are available until they’re gone – no start/finish/crazed rush – they’re there for perusal, and the (very infrequent and unobtrusive) mailing list notifies you of new additions!

Guys, I have been swooning over Bad Joan’s inventory for months, and almost have an ulcer from the guilt of not telling you about them sooner. I am the worst fashion blogger ever, hoarding all the amazing, unique designs all to myself.

Well, no more! Let’s put a stop to this and use some Bad Joan pieces in an art project, yes?

Ready? OK!

Shoes: First, because that’s obviously what this outfit is all about… Marcello Toshi Rosario Pumps ($390 $85)
Dress: Love this not only because it’s made from sustainable fabrics, but also because it’s an easy, throw-on piece… ecoSkin Copper Dress in Cloud ($235 $45)
Earrings: These are statement earrings, but not so much that they’re unwearable… Lisa K. Lace Cake Earrings ($175 $58)

Summer date nights, anyone? Those shoes are hypnotizing… (Hopefully that means he or she would be, too!)

Jeans: I love the wash on these, and they look like the perfect amount of “skinny”… Karmel & lden Wendy Low Rise Skinny ($158 $60)
Top: The strong, bold zipper against the beautifully draped, butterfly-like shoulders make for a beautiful contrast… Object of Desire Dolman Zippered Top ($168 $33.60)
Shoes: These might be the most incredible wedges I’ve seen this summer… Colin Robertson Lynnette in Blue ($387.50 $77.50)
Bracelet: Just the right about of blue to make the shoes pop – this outfit is a beautiful bruise… Samanca Kelly Bracelet in Blue ($150 $30)

Easy, easy weekend date, girl’s night out, dinner with friends, concert… Pretty much, you could wear this anywhere.

Dress: Not only is it the perfect cut, length, and neckline for just about any woman – the colors are also extremely complimentary… Kaj Ani Striped Wool Jersey Dress ($415 $83)
Shoes: This guy is slowly climbing up my “Obsessed with” list… Marcello Toshi Tulipan in Brown ($425 $90)
Clutch: You don’t need a loud bag when your shoes are screamin’… Tucker Paisley The Joey Clutch in Green ($165 $85)

Talk about going from the office to the cocktail hour…!

Which outfit would you wear? Why did you choose it?

xoxo.

1. “Kaprise” $119.95 $89.96 2. “Merriee” $89.95 $67.46 3. “Sambuka” $79.95 $59.96

Title: 25% off PLUS Free Shipping!
Location: Steve Madden
Link out: Click here
Description: 25% off your order AND Free Shipping as a “Thank You” to all customers who shop through their affiliates (me!). Use code: WeLoveCJ25
Start Date: 2009-06-23
End Date: 2009-06-26

Like what you see? Check out more events on the Event Calendar !

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: affiliate sale, steve madden

Elaine Turner Croc French Purse
$71.19 $53.39

Title: eBags Any One Item 25% off!
Location: eBags
Link out: Click here
Description: Today ONLY. 25% off one single item!
Date: 2009-06-23

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: ebags, elaine turner, purse, sale

I know that I overuse the word “obsessed”. In fact, just this morning I wrote an email back to reader, Patty, and I think I dropped the “o-bomb” about 3 times.

As far as posts go, the most recently abused subject of the “obsessed”-overuse movement was the Whedgle. The only difference between that occurrence and others is that I actually am certifiably obsessed with the Whedgle. It’s all I think about – it’s all I talk to poor Jennifer Nicole about. Only. She hates me now. I had a dream I was dating a Whedgle last night, and we were about to tie the knot.

Yes, it’s borderline sickness, but consider my method of sedation…

Michelle, my darling friend and blogger of Decline Designs, sent over a trackback (when someone links to one of your posts from another blog) containing perhaps the most perfect Whedgle I’ve ever seen in my life.

Behold, the Seychelles Bad Mama Jama Whedgle:

According to Michelle, these bad boys are 20% off at Shoes.com using the code SALE (creative, no?). So that puts the final price at only $59.19.

Please tell me if you purchase these so I can start trying to figure out where you live.

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: Shoe Porn, whedgle

I’m unsure how to describe the subject of my current lusting… It’s really half pump, half wedge… But it shouldn’t be classified as either, individually. It’s really a hedge or a wheel… Or maybe a whedgle, but it only works if you say it correctly. Here is a helpful video:

I fell in love with these obviously for their design, but also because I love the support that wedges give, but miss the “cli-CLACK, cli-CLACK, cli-CLACK” that straight heels make.

Also, the super curvaceousness of these new-style pumps give off a sneaky, deliciously sinister vibe, which I really adore. They’re an unexpected surprise, which is sufficiently lacking in today’s fashion, if you ask me.

$22.99	$22.99
$9.99	$9.99

Do you see? Do you see how sexy and mischievous that heel is? It’s not a wedge, but it’s not a heel… Brilliant!  I am completely in love with all four pairs. Admittedly, these are obviously quite inexpensive and, thusly, buyer beware if you’re looking for quality. I believe anything can be fixed with an insole, though, so I’m feeling pretty tempted at the moment.

However, if you’re a little more cautious about your shoe purchases (which I’m pretty sure most of you are – Bravo!), here are some more (and by more, I mean more) options from reputable brands, sure to keep your little feets nice and cozy.

Carlos by Carlos Santana Rescue

$98.95 $47.98

Cindy Says Felix Slingback $149.95 $67.17	Miz Mooz Zora Pump $106.95 $49.50
Shoes for Lovely People Stacey Q $144 $65	Boutique 58 Miranda $114 $51
Naughty Monkey Nookie Wedge $94.95 $45

Enough options? I encourage everyone to check out the side view of the shoes if you like them… It’s a tantalizing experience.

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: heels, shoes, wedges

Something hit me while I was perusing some of my favorite blogs the other day and contemplative my “personal style”. A lot of times, I’ll find myself holding back style-wise because of the reactions I’ll get from people. While some may dress “outrageously” to get reactions… I don’t really want any. I like to wear what I like to wear, and I don’t particularly like it when people look at me, or check out what I’m wearing. It’s weird, I know.

So, I was thinking… What item would I really love to wear, if it weren’t for those pesky reactions (which shouldn’t matter, anyway)? Red skinny jeans. I’ve always thought that they were super versatile, super chic, and – despite the loudness – quite sophisticated.

The hesitancy stops here. I’m going to do my best to not worry about other people’s glances and just do it. Naturally, the first thing on my list are those delicious jeans.

Sidenote: In case you’re confused by the column-action going on below, I’m trying to do a better job of incorporating “plus sized” garments into my posts about style. Being a borderline plus-sized girl, I catch myself wishing for more even coverage in the land of fashion blogs. “Be the change you want to see…”, right?

The two perfect pairs of red skinny jeans are below:

RVCA Dem Pants in Marco Red $52

Tripp Red Skinny-Leg Twill Pant $48

I love the sateen-ish feel of the RVCA pants, and the Tripp twill pants are so vibrant!

Here’s how I’d wear ‘em on the weekends:

Nice, breezy, comfortable, and clean. Just how I like my… weekends?

This is how I’d wear them to work (heck yes I would!):

I love highlighting the blinding hue of the pants for work… It’s fun to keep it professional everywhere else, but have a blazing streak of rebellion at the same time.

How would you dress these puppies up for a Girl’s Night Out?

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: bright, pants, red skinny jeans

There is one thing that honestly plagues me about being a budget fashion obsessive… All the cheap, great deals I find – dresses for $40, tops for $25, etc… – they’re great and everything, but my lust for fashion falls in the originality, the craftsmanship, the shape… You won’t find these things together in most budget fashion lines (Forever 21, I’m talking to you).

Months ago, I’d never heard of the website 80sPurple, nor had I ever heard of an affordable clothing line with all the aforementioned concepts fully in tact and strong. Recently, though, I caught wind of such a line, and learned that its baby-Daddy was none other than 80sPurple.

The Purple Label is a collection of architectural, cutting edge apparel at prices that make Forever 21 look like an overpriced pile of crap. Well, sometimes looks aren’t deceiving, on both accounts. I’m curious about the construction, but from what I can see, this is promising. For girls who love what’s happening on the runways, but are about 8 years in Med school away from being able to afford it – your wish is 80sPurple’s command.

Purple Label is an accumulation of prevailing design pieces in which our buyers have explored all over the map and hand-picked to bring these special pieces all to one central, easy-access location. Providing you with the latest fashions, we strive to keep it fresh and affordable. Quantities may be limited, so don’t miss out!

Phila Triangle Pocket Dress
$32

Rizo Bustier Shorts Jumper
$46

Julia Gladiator Gator Sandals
$38

Joan Long Zippered Skirt (Grey)
$26

Rachel Tuxedo Short Jumper
$46

Womens Sam Tux Dress (Pink)
$36

Wool Coat
$82

Have you tried this label? Heard anything? Let me know!

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: 80s purple, affordable high fashion, purple label

… for our bank accounts, that is.

Not only were they basically giving away handbags all last week, as a part of their killer “Happy Hour” program, but they’ve picked up some awesome, affordable new brands, too. If you’re unfamiliar, Mapel’s Happy Hour is every day from 2pm – 6pm PST. Each day they have a new, awesome product from their inventory marked way, way down – but only for 4 hours!

Recently, I was notified by the Miss Staci Stevens that Mapel has picked up Tulle, Miss Me, Alternative (!!!), and Kersch – a brand I haven’t heard of but Staci praises their good garment construction, and if there’s an outside opinion I trust, it’s hers!

Tulle

I’ve been coveting products from Tulle for months. The fact that Mapel stocks them now is just a gigantic bonus (especially because of the 20% off discount code).

Tulle’s garments are study, beautiful, and classic. I’m dying over those shorts! (Also, if you’re wondering, those adorable shoes are made by Frye from a couple years ago! I’m obsessed with them!)

Alternative

I love Alternative Apparel. I hate American Apparel, and feel comfortable doing so because of great companies like Alternative. They started in 1995 after the founder set out to create “the perfect t-shirt”, and I’m pretty sure that goal was accomplished. It also doesn’t hurt that their tees only cost about $10.

I think I’ll likely need one in every color. That is, one of everything in every color.

Miss Me

I’ve been familiar with Miss Me as long as I’ve been addicted to budget fashion. Take that addiction and combine it with a passion for shoes, and you have Miss Me. They also have a clothing line, but Mapel has picked up some of their most adorable footwear for the summer season.

Definitely check out the sandal selection on Mapel’s website! (The shoes pictured are only $32!)

Kersh

As I mentioned previously, I’m not familiar with this brand, but after poking around Mapel’s selection of Kersh products… I think I’m in love. Very bohemian, very girly… Perfect attire for summer, anywhere.

Their prices are ACE! The tops go from $24-$40, and the stunning little dress is $84!

What is your favorite new brand of the 4? I think mine would have to be Alternative. I can never find basics that are well-constructed and totally affordable… That search stops at Mapel!

(Don’t forget about the 20% off coupon code, exclusive to Broke & Beautiful!)

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: alternative apparel, kersh, mapel, miss me, tulle

Since I’ve been slacking on the outfit posts, I figured I’d just come out blazing (AHAHA, PUN! You’ll see why.) and offer up my new toys for your viewing pleasure. Well, hopefully, anyway.

I’ve been craving this elusive item called a “Boyfriend Blazer” for months now. My coats are all trench-like, and with summer on the way, I can’t be donning big black anymore (what? Naming my clothes is a favorite pasttime. Big Black is one of my faves.)

My Mom’s birthday gift to me was this great blazer from NY & Co. I’ve never purchased any of their products before, however I’ve definitely admired their site in the past. This blazer is so well-constructed, not to warm, and the fabric is soft ad smooth – everything I wanted in a jacket! If you’re interested, it’s on sale!

Sorry about the wet hair, I was running out the door. Hey, when coffee calls, coffee calls. I figured with my luck, if I waited to come back, the Chicago wind would have completely ruined anything good that I had going.

I’m wearing a ton of other new favorite things, as well. Actually, some aren’t new – i.e. my beautiful Enzo Angiolini “Maylie” pumps from Solestruck.com. Solestruck is a fairly new shoe-drooling site, but their selection is epic, and I dig the layout of the site.

The most classic, black peep-toe: priceless. Luckily, these only came in around $80. I threw some Foot Petals in them to ease the “breaking in” process (yes, these have been sitting in my closet, unworn, for almost a year…) and now I’m completely addicted.

In other new-news?

I received my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful bag from Mapel. It took forever to get here because my stupid mail guy refuses to punch the buzzer when he has a package for me. Sorry! I’m not waiting my the door! Jeez.

This bag is sooooo soft. I’ve been wanting a chain/quilt bag for a while, and this one is similar to the Chanel classic, yes, but it’s different enough for me to feel comfortable. The closure of the bag is easily one of my favorite parts – to oversized discs that interlock give a modern spin on the old classic, coin-purse style. This purse, unfortunately, is no longer available on Mapel’s site, but there are a ton of new, sexy ones for your perusal.

Blue sweater, Forever21 (like 3 years ago, m’kay?!), $10
Pants, SELE, 15DollarStore.com, $15
Blazer, NY & Co. City Style Blazer, $60 (now under $40!)
Shoes, Enzo Angiolini “Maylie” Pumps, SoleStruck.com
Bag, Compose, Mapel, $32
Ring, gift from my Grandmother
Necklace, Siany O’Hara’s Emporium of Whimsy, $4

How was your weekend?

xoxo.

Technorati Tags: jacket, mapel, outfit, purse