I finally made it for an overdue manicure and pedicure, which meant down time to flip through my magazines. (The backed-up stacks had gotten really tall).
Well, this certainly caught my eye:
Jean Paul Goode's brilliant Star War's concept for Harper's Bazaar this month.
Flourescent bulbs standing in for light sabers was a stroke of genius. And it looks like Charlotte Gainsbourg and Nicholas Ghesquière are thoroughly enjoying their Jedi duel. I suppose the real "hats off" is to Ghesquière, for making Darth Vader's head gear worthy of Balenciaga.
Would you wear this Balenciaga hat? Or only to a Star Wars Convention?
Did your Mom ever teach you how to walk in high heels when you were younger? I remember a bunch of us girl friends practicing how to walk in our first heels before the Junior Prom.
Well it seems that even models need to learn. Platforms and super high heels are accidents waiting to happen unless you have strong ankles. Drinking your milk (It does the body good) is probably not a bad idea either. Anorexic models look like they don't get enough.
Video from The Telegraph UK
Given the sky high fashions these days, I've actually seen Classes - yes, classes - for walking in heels!
But really, just remember these tips:
1. Pilates lovers will understand this: engage your abs when you walk. Don't let your ankles take all your weight.
2. Stronger calves and ankles also help you stabilize. Do your calf raises.
3. Practice walking in your heels before the big event.
4. You know those Pole Dancing classes? They can teach you all how to move in heels!
5. Or just know when it's time to call it quits suffering for fashion. Falling on your face is never attractive.
People often ask me about comfortable yet stylish shoes. Yes, there are fashionable alternatives to Birkenstocks and Uggs! Here are some trendy ideas:
A terrific everyday heel is the wedge. They give just enough lift compared to flats, but don't kill your feet like slim stilettos would. The higher heel gives your outfit a little more style than a clunky alternative.
For an everyday look, I love this convertible suede boot which looks great on bare legs for spring to early summer. The shaft height converts from an ankle bootie to a calf-high boot, so you get 2 looks in one.
As the weather warms up, this shootie has a heavy tapered heel that is not too high. Stacked heels achieve the same comfortable effect. People with nice legs can carry off this look, and the neutral shade naturally lengthens your bare-legged silhouette. It works with narrow, linen pants too. See the Balenciaga photo I posted in the entry: Technical Difficulties
Of course, the new shoe paddings in drug stores or department stores make most shoes more comfortable now. Ball-of-foot gel inserts are a godsend for stilettos! Heel inserts are great for flats.
The biggest advice for healthy feet from Podiatrists is - Change your heel height throughout the day.
Travel Style dilemma: You only want carry-on luggage to avoid checked bag fees. How many outfits can you fit in?
The trick is to make what you have work twice (or thrice) as hard. We begin with a basic travelling dress: a fitted sheath in a stretch fabric blend for comfort. The light ruching on the side adds soft drape.
Airport to Lunch
For the airport, comfort is key:
Throw on a knit, like this cotton capelet
Distressed leather shoes are surprisingly comfortable with the platform style and thick, rubber soles
Ballet flats work just as well and make it easy to put your shoes through security
The look can go straight from the airport to a lunch appointment or casual meeting.
For your evening look,
Evening Outfit
Switch to a stretch, marabou bolero for packable, evening glam
A wide, accent belt cinches your waist
Black, suede booties with ruching and a bow finish the look
The booties can work the next day with black cigarette pants
If you don't want to accent your waistline, a long scarf wound around is flattering. A structured blazer on top can also make your look office-worthy.
Geometric cut-outs on suede, peep-toes & buckles on leather
These are tried and tested. I just came from a 3-day trip with workout clothes, 2 casual, 2 daytime and 2 nighttime outfits, all within one roller case. Airlines can't keep you from being chic!
I was looking for a bit of excitement after the calming effect of the Rena Lange Trunk Show. So I stepped into the Shoe Department.
See the latest Christian Louboutin creation on the left (this design was formerly a bootie in the Winter Collections), and the geometric cutouts on the suede Chanel wedge heel! I guarantee these styles will be copied by the more affordable labels soon.
The sun is shining and trees are a-bloom. Time to pack away your fabulous winter boots. How do you take care of them if you've thrown away the boxes and packaging they came in?
Boots keep their shape best when standing upright in your closet. Save a spot on the floor, or even on a high shelf that has room at the top.
Clean off any stains or debris from your boots. Suede boots need to be brushed off.
Keep their shape by stuffing the toe areas with tissue paper.
Tall boots benefit from boot trees. If you don't want to purchase them, thick magazines folded in half lengthwise do the trick.
