Colorful Sandals Perfect for Summer

I recently discussed a great summer shoe option, the slip-on, and have another style that I live in during the summer months- the sandal. The sandal has evolved into a style that can be either dressed up or dressed down with prices ranging from $50 to upwards of $400 for a designer leather sandal. 

I love the bright colors available in a sandal such as this one that match well with all the chinos and shorts in any preppy summer wardrobe. I found a pair of orange leather sandals by Ralph Lauren that are infused with a European aesthetic which makes them not only interesting but more sophisticated and "dressy" in my opinion.

A bright color, such as orange, pairs well with printed shorts. Orange is always a compliment to a nautical color theme. Here, I paired it with anchor printed shorts by Lilly Pulitzer and added a navy and white Kiel James Patrick bracelet to contrast the bright orange of the sandal. The ultimate weekend preppy "uniform" in the summer whether in East Hampton or down the shore.

Summer Shoes: The Slip-On

During the spring I wrote about my love for sneakers and the popularity they have gained. As we transition into summer, a high-top is not the most ideal to wear in hot weather, however, giving up the ease and casualness of a sneaker is not necessary. For the summer, a slip-on style is the perfect alternative to high-tops and winter sneakers.

The slip-on...well...slips-on, making is very easy and effortless. This trend is perfect for summer weekends and a great travel shoe for getting through airport security with ease. Additionally, the slip-on has become a modern alternative to finish off a more casual suit look. From suede to canvas and spikes, there is really an array of options when it comes to the slip-on. Here's a few of my favorites for all price ranges.

1. Gucci Woven Straw & Suede- I love the mixed textures of this shoe. The color palette would pair well with summer white pants or khaki shorts for a more casual look.

2. Rivieras- You cannot go wrong with a pair of Rivieras for the summer! They are so easy and comfortable. I love the French color theme of this pair. A great option to infuse a little European flair into any outfit.

3. Armani Jeans Canvas- The text overlay of this slip-on brings a modern appeal. A perfect option for those summer morning coffee runs or errands on the weekend.

4. Fred Perry 'Kingston Stampdown'- Fred Perry, for me, means iconic, classic styles that have an air of sophistication. This pair embodies the brand's preppy flair and would be great travel shoe whether going to the beach or the city.

5. Maison Martin Margiela Leather- I love the bright, bold color of this pair. They would add a vibrant splash of appropriate summer color when paired against a navy chino or short.

Spring Footwear with Stubbs & Wootton

As winter slowly says goodbye and spring moves in, it is time to start breaking out spring footwear. While I am one to wear loafers and drivers throughout the winter without socks, once the weather turns warm it is almost a given that I will be running around town in loafers on a daily basis. 

Since the slush is gone from the streets, I cannot wait to wear a pair of Stubbs & Wootton. If you are not familiar with the brand, they are renowned for their needlepoint, preppy slippers and are based out of Palm Beach. Their collections offer both classical and whimsical styles that are perfect to get into the spring and summer mode- the perfect time to add a little fun to your look!

I am waiting for the perfect occasion to sport my Persian Rug Slippers. Paired with a solid pant and top, these slippers are a great way to add a fun, whimsical touch to any outfit. Dressed up or dressed down, the Stubb is an effortless, easy piece of footwear to throw on. 

Stubbs has a myriad of styles that I love and that will be perfect for sporting during the spring and summer seasons. Whether you pick a classic, solid pair or a fun, nautical pair with anchors to pair with white pants, you really cannot go wrong! Here are a few of my favorite styles:

Photos: My own, Stubbs & Wootton

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Trending: The Sneaker

The sneaker or tennis shoe has evolved into more than just a shoe for the gym or very casual outfits. The sneaker is now stylish and fashion forward with some styles becoming icons of designers. Don't get me wrong, I love a good loafer, but shopping for cool sneakers has become a favorite. 

Ranging from high-tops to printed low-tops, trendy sneakers can add an interesting element to any outfit. While this look is not for everyone, sneakers are a great way to pull off a modern, urban look. I usually stick to preppy classics, but have been mixing my style up more, incorporating trendy pieces. The sneaker has been a great way to do this.

The high-top has been one of my favorite styles. If this style feels too urban for you, try pairing it with denim on the bottom, but a polo or shirt & cardigan on top to keep some more traditional elements in the look. Above, I paired a dark green pair of Gucci high-tops with slim denim and black polo.

I have a feeling the sneaker will be here to stay for a bit. Below are some of my favorite, current sneakers that make a statement:

The camo and stud sneaker has become synonymous with the Valentino brand.

Valentino

Lanvin

Maison Martin Margiela

Are you embracing the sneaker trend?

Essential: The Ribbon Loafer

Loafers are the perfect shoe any time of the year, however, fall is perhaps the best season to dust your loafers off. There are many different styles of loafers from pebble leather to tassled. Here, I am putting on of my favorite styles in the spotlight: the ribbon loafer. 

The color choices are endless when it comes to ribbons. The style can be found at many designers including Gucci and Ferragamo, but the style is classic Ralph Lauren. Dark brown leather makes the perfect compliment to the hues found in fall sweaters. 

For me, the ribbon elevates the preppy style of the loafer. I have a pair that I have been waiting to unveil with the perfect outfit this fall. Here, I have paired them with a navy chino. Coordinate an aspect of your outfit with a color found in the ribbon for a very pulled together look. Completing the look with a cable knit sweater will result in the perfectly preppy fall outfit whether on campus or strolling around the city. 

Are loafers a go to style for you as we enter the fall season?

Featured Loafer by Ralph Lauren

A Classic Wingtip

The wingtip, or brogue as many call it, is one of the most timeless and classic shoes for men. The style has now even carried over to women's wear. The wingtip has its origins in Scotland and can be worn casual or dressed up with a tuxedo in the original white and black color scheme.

The trend towards more vintage, classic dressing has made the wingtip popular once again. I reach for mine to either wear with chinos in the office, or pair with cuffed jeans on the weekend for a casual yet put together look. With all the color combinations and styles now available you cannot go wrong. From Payless to Prada, everyone is making wingtips. 

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Check out other fashion related posts at Fashion Friday with Blonde Episodes

Lunch With Alexandre Birman

Fashion week is sure keeping me busy. Yesterday, I had the amazing opportunity to attend a sit down lunch with shoe designer Alexandre Birman. The event was hosted at the BG restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman. The restaurant was packed with New York's high society taking a lunch break, but we had our own smaller, semi private room in the back of the restaurant. Other attendees included top buyers, journalists, and magazine editors. Brad Goreski and Olivia Palermo were also in attendance.

Before we sat down, we mingled with champagne and looked at the collection on the display that was set up in the room. It was an excellent way to meet some very cool people!

The luncheon was to celebrate and preview the launch of Birman's S/S 2012 collection which was a mix of neutral and brightly colored pythons. On the menu was a salad, choice of entree, and a dessert plate for each table to share. I've frequented BG before so I knew the food was going to be good.

After we finished lunch, the event moved down to the famous second floor shoe salon where Alexandre mingled with us as well as shoppers. The shoe department definitely became the place to be, it was packed!

Monsieur Louboutin gets a (statement) Celebration

Several months ago, Mr. Louboutin faced YSL in a downtown Manhattan courthouse, fighting to win the rights to his famous red soles. If you arent familiar, YSL made a shoe with red bottoms almost identical to those of fame from Christian Louboutin. 

No decision was made in that first hearing, however. Last week, Louboutin took on YSL again in downtown Manhattan. Both attorneys faced off. One citing that this specific shade of red should be able to be trademarked by Louboutin, and the YSL attorney claiming no one can have a trademark on a shade of color. As far as I understand, we are still waiting for a decision.

Within days of the battle in court, world famous department store Bergdorf Goodman hosted Monsieur Louboutin with a pretty grand celebration. Shoppers got to meet in and get their red bottoms from the new collection signed by him. I just have to wonder, was this a subtle statement by Bergdorf's to show their support for the designer that so many New York women love?

Ill let you decide.

You can read about the event on Bergdorf Goodman's blog here.

Regardless, the windows were quite impressive as always.

All images via BG blog

Favorite Friday: TOMS

We love this brand for its initiative and corporate social responsibility, but lets face it, TOMS are so comfortable and easy/perfect for summer. I have a nautical pair, crazy green and blue stipes, and a limited edition NYC print from FNO.

I'm loving these from the TOMS website:

The brand has also recently launched and eyewear collection. You may recall my obsession with sunglasses here.

I may have to add a pair of these to my collection because the price is great and they look great!

all images via

Do you own a ton of TOMS...whats your favorite pair?