SHOE ASYLUM

2010-01-12T16:33:00.002Z

This blog is no more unfortunately....

I'm now on tumblr. Follow me here at Dangerous Liasons and here at Shoesgasm for shoe related and just general prettiness.

Christian Louboutin Silver Sandals

2009-11-20T15:41:00.003Z

Ooh la la! These Louboutins are fabulous and my new lust object. They're amazing and beautiful and the metal encrusted bow and shiny silver leather makes me swoon. They provoke an immediate response, and my response is WANT. They're £630 and hopelessly out of my budget. Booooo....

Christian Louboutin Silver sandal with bow.

ASOS ALTO Animal Print Platform Ankle Boot

2009-11-18T11:56:00.005Z

Now these are obviously 'inspired' by the lovely, and majorly more expensive Louboutin leopard print boots, as shown here:

I actually really really like them though. They're different enough to be interesting in their own right, and look great. Am I crazy though? What do you think - yay or nay?

ASOS ALTO Animal Print Platform Ankle Boot.

Faith Black 'Labella' Embellished Sandal

2009-11-17T15:14:00.002Z

These 'Labella' sandals are rather nice aren't they? A little bit tough, a little bit girly, 100% fabulous. They're very classic in design, with an elegant heel, with the embellishment adding a little pizazz to what would be a pretty ordinary shoe. I think they're great, but at £95, I need to save my pennies a bit first. Maybe it's something that Santa can bring me?

I've been an awfully good girl this year after all...

Faith Black 'Labella' Embellished Sandal.

Marni Two-tone leather sandals

2009-11-13T10:49:00.005Z

I'm all about black and white shoes at the moment it seems, and these Marni two tone platforms are no exception. White shoes are just making so much sense to me this winter. Now I love Marni, a lot of people find their shoes ugly, but I find beauty in the clumpiness and drama in the square toes. I think these are fabulous really. I love the architectural quality to these, and the black edges make these look beautifully geometric and tres modern. The contrasting platform is the icing on the cake. They're just begging to be worn with colourful tights to highlight the geometric design, and if they weren't £450, that is exactly how I would wear them.

Marni Two-tone leather platforms.

CHRISSIE MORRIS - Panelled python peep toe shoes

2009-11-10T22:22:00.004Z

I don't know what it says about me, or about my tastes, but it seems that every pair of shoes I ogle over at the moment, are over the £1000 mark. This is highly demoralising and puts me straight into a shoe - fund related depression. These Chrrise Morris platforms are set to do exactly that, but damn are they beautiful!

Are you swooning, because I certainly am! I love the thick black geometric pattern, and I've never seen a pair of bottle green shoes look so sexy.

The heel is sculptural and incredible and the square/angular-ness is inspired. They come in at a hefty £1119, which is probably down to the python. I don't even care, all I know is that I want them and I can never have them.

Booo...

CHRISSIE MORRIS - Panelled python peep toes.

Alexander McQueen Embellished Pumps

2009-11-05T13:59:00.006Z

Wow. When I think of white satin peep toes with black rhinestones, the image I get my my head is of some revolting tacky monstrosity, and not these simply beautiful pumps from Alexander McQueen. They're gorgeous, and just what I've been craving. Sometimes you need to see something beautiful to make you feel better about everything. I love the tiny rhinestones, and for them to be black rather than silver is an interesting and welcome change. I also really like the cut out at the back, yet again adding a little quirk to what could have been a fairly conventional shoe.

The back view is rather lovely too, with the studs continuing down the heel with the circular detail on the back. Obviously they're expensive, at a whopping £935, but sometimes it's just nice to indulge in a bit of shoe porn!

New Look Cage Shoes

2009-11-04T13:49:00.004Z

I'm loving these New Look caged sandals. Not only are they a great price at £15, but I actually think they look a whole lot better than some of the more expensive caged sandals that have been on the market recently. I think its because of the curved vertical lines, producing a much more pleasing aesthetic.

They also come in black:

I'm definitely going to check these out in person, my only question is, silver or black? But even then, buying them both would hardly break the bank!

New Look Cage Sandals.

Azzedine Alaia Silver studded platform

2009-11-02T13:30:00.006Z

Wow, these are pretty special! I don't usually go gaga for Alaia (is it just me that always hears the 'totally important designer' bit from Clueless in my head every time the brand is mentioned?), but these are just fabulous. The studding is more glam than tough and I love the way the studs reach down onto the platformed heel, and also the way the studs differ in size. Sexy and modern. Very very good work indeed. They're fabulous, as they should be for a jaw dropping £1,120.

Maybe if I win the lottery hmmm?

Azzedine Alaia Silver studded platform.

Shoe Deja Vu?

2009-10-30T12:48:00.004Z

Oh hello, Faith 'Larrior' sandals. Haven't I seen you somewhere before at a much higher price point? What shoe do you remind me of? Could it be these Nicholas Kirkwoods...
I see what you did there Faith, very good. You're only missing the cutaway platform and the colour is slightly different. They're £75 here.

Celeb Shoes: Dannii Minogue

2009-10-29T14:51:00.003Z

The lovely Dannii Minogue tweeted this ridiculously fabulous pair of Louboutins a few days ago. She received them as a gift. Which kind person gave them to her? Only Cheryl Cole for her birthday! How lovely, and what a gorgeous choice. I wish someone would buy me Louboutins for my birthday....

It's the 23rd of November by the way, just in case you were feeling generous.

Sauce: Dannii Minogue's Twitter.

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI - Open toe boots with crystals.

2009-10-28T12:30:00.005Z

Oh Guiseppe, I thought we understood each other? I thought that we'd talked about this, and you were going to keep making fabulous shoes that make me swoon and weep because I can't afford them and we would have a beautiful relationship? So when I see these at Farfetch.com, I'm not angry, I'm disappointed.

Can you explain these to me? Can you tell me why you felt the urge to place a leather sock on top of a jewel encrusted peep toe? This is not in the terms of our agreement Guiseppe, especially not for £869. I expected more and you've let me down. I just.... I just don't know how I feel about you right now. I feel let down quite frankly. This is clearly not your best work. Not when you produce such lovelies like these:

and these:

These are the kind of thing we're after Guiseppe. Oh, whats that? You didn't mean to? It was a mistake and you'll never do it again? Thank God. I forgive you, this time. Don't do it again. Show me something lovely next time...

New Shoes: Office 'Last of the Giant's' Pump

2009-10-27T13:54:00.005Z

So these are my new shoes, all 6 inches of them. They are truly ridiculous, and take me from a minuscule 5'4 to a giant 5'10. I'm in love with them. Although I'm terrified to go outside in them for fear of breaking my legs. They're the kind of shoes that strike fear into the hearts of flat shoe wearers everywhere, but they are beautiful, they just need some careful handling before I'm willing to wear them anywhere that doesn't involve a taxi ride.

If anyone else is willing to walk on the wild side, they're down to £30 in the Office sale.

CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA Maxine sandals

2009-10-23T16:33:00.003+01:00

I'm loving these Charlotte Olympia plum and pink sandals at the moment. The colour is just speaking volumes to me and I love the signature inverted platform. Why don't more shoes have pink platforms? I'm envisioning these with a very simple outfit so the colour really pops out at you. Shoes like these are statement makers after all!

They're uber expensive at £515, but oh so gorgeous.

Charlotte Olympia 'Maxine' Sandals.

Dorothy Perkins Black Ruffle T-Bar

2009-10-21T16:14:00.005+01:00

There's not a huge amount of choice when it comes to pretty shoes in the mid-heels marketplace. Most of the options are dowdy or look somewhat stunted and squat next to their slimmer, long line cousin, the high heel. It's like being the ugly duckling in a room full of swans. So, with this in mind, it's lovely when you come across a mid-heeled shoe that is genuinely nice to look at, as is the case with these ruffle t-bars from Dorothy Perkins:

Aren't they lovely? They're pretty and practical, and I certainly wouldn't mind having them on my feet one bit! They're a fantastic price too at just £28. As with all attractive mid-heeled shoes, these are selling out pretty quickly, but these and the pink version are still available up to size 5 if you move fast.

Dorothy Perkins black ruffle t-bar heels.

Three for Tuesday: Black Sky High Heels Edition.

2009-10-20T15:11:00.007+01:00

It's been a while since I did this, and today when i'm procrastinating heavily seems the perfect time to revisit this. Here is my pick of the three best knock-out sky high heels that are available on the internet right now.

These criss cross 'Jezebelle' heels from Nine West are first on the list. When you want chunky thick straps and a tall, long heel. When you want to be tough but elegant at the same time. When you want sexy but understated. When you want a shoe at a reasonable price (£85) that looks way, way more expensive than that. Is there anything better than these?

Next up are these 'Sofia' heels from ASOS. They're hitting all of my shoe buttons right now: they're black, studded, super high and have the most gorgeous heel slope going and at only £60, they're a serious bargain. I want them. I wouldn't even need to leave the house in them, i'd just sit with my feet out in front of me and stare at them all day and I would be content. Gorgeous....

And I've saved the best till last, these stunning Dune 'Jadore' bow heels that I j'adore v. v. much and made me swoon as soon as I first set eyes on them. In fact, I've included two images of them, so you can see just how gorgeous they look on a person's feet.

They're so, so, so, so, (I don't think I can stress enough how much I love them) pretty, and I need them in my life. Everything is wonderful about them, the shape, the sexy, going-on-forever heel and the perfect platform sole, and thats not even mentioning my personal obsession, the side bow (with studded diamantes!). It's almost as if these were designed for me. They're £99 and are going on my birthday wish list. They'd better not sell out!

1. Nine West Jezebelle Cross Front Heels.
2. ASOS Black Studded Sofia Heels.

3. Dune Jadore Diamante Bow Heels.

A brief musical interlude....

2009-10-16T13:00:00.004+01:00

I'm really not in the mood to make a serious post today, so instead, here are two songs that are basically the songs of my life. If I had a theme tune to my life, either of these two songs would be it.

I just love the line, "you can't bring me down, cos I've got these shoes".

But this one is my absolute favourite. Everyone has seen this, but it continues to be my favourite shoe based song ever. "I think you have too many shoes, SHUT UP!" is legendary, and i'm seriously thinking of dressing up as Kelly for Halloween.

Can anyone else think of any good shoe related songs?

Evans Black Suedette Tassel Boots

2009-10-14T13:43:00.004+01:00

Hurrah for Evans! Perfect for those who are wide of foot, or fat of calf (like me). They really do some great boots, and they're perfect for me, who was not blessed with long, lean legs, but instead small stumpy things.

I just bought these for the winter months. They're only £40 and I love the tassel detail. They're not real suede, but for £40, I don't mind one bit. I usually go up a size in boots, but because Evans shoes are wider fitting, I take a 38 instead of my usual 39 in boots, which makes me feel like I have small feet, which is nice! They're so comfortable, and the tiny bit of elastic on the side means they don't rub, even without tights. All in all, I'm in love with them, and thrilled that because they are that little bit wider than normal boots, I don't have to wrestle them on in the mornings, they zip up nice and easy. Hurrah for Evans, saviour of wide calves everywhere!

Evans Black Suedette Tassel Boots.

Ugly Shoe of the Week: Emma Cook for Topshop boots

2009-10-09T14:13:00.003+01:00

Just ew. Ew at £130.
No doubt someone will buy them because they're by a designer, clearly someone is because the beige ones are already sold out in size 3, 5 and 8.
Ewwww.
They come in all kinds of lol-worthy colours too.

EMMA COOK ANKLE BOOT.

Designer Introduction: Tanja S. London

2009-10-08T12:55:00.009+01:00

I first came across Tanja S. when I was doing a random google search for embellished wedges and immediately fell in love with her footwear. Tanja S. is Tanja Savic who has created her own shoe line after working for the likes of Jimmy Choo and Topshop. Her first collection is for A/W 09 and I have to say that the collection is incredible, full of drama and luxury, and I yearn to own a pair, especially the wedges which I think are the standouts.

She also does a pretty fabulous run of stilettos too;

If you're big on beautiful dramatic shoes with lots of work put into them, Tanja S. London is definitely someone to keep an eye out for. There is no news on stockists or prices but she has a pretty good website which is well worth a look here. She's definitely someone I will be watching out for in the future.

Rocketdog 'Bubbly' Wedge Boots

2009-10-06T15:53:00.003+01:00

The leaves have started falling now, which was really pretty until today when it rained. A lot. Thus turning pretty autumnal leaves on the pavement into slippery streets of death. Autumn is not half as pretty when you're skidding about trying not to fall on your ass.

So obviously this means that more substantial shoes are in order, and at the minute I'm loving these 'bubbly' boots (the name is awful though!) from Rocketdog. They're £89.99, toasty warm and more importantly have a rubber sole with grippy bits which will keep you on your feet through wet leaves and rain. And they're available here.

Jimmy Choo for H&M New collection revealed!

2009-10-05T10:41:00.000+01:00

While the collection itself won't drop until the 14th of November, the PR campaign hs already started and the images of the collection have already started appearing on the internet. Prices are uncertain as of yet (I can only get them in euros) but seem as if they are going to range between about £50 - £180 for a pair of leather thigh boots. But you don't care about that, you just wanna see pictures! I was going to post all of them, but there's a massive amount, so here are the ones that I think are the most fabulous:

Basically, it's a great collection, and I think people better get ready for the mass hysteria and scrum like behaviour that is going to occur when these finally go on sale. But personally, I think the two flats are possibly the nicest out of the collection, and I'm loving the fuschia sandals as well. Shall I be seeing you in the queue?

Schuh Penne Knotted Court

2009-10-02T10:58:00.003+01:00

The Schuh sale is on right now and these 'Penne' knotted courts are down to only £20. I think they're a lovely pair of pumps, elegant, striking and classic and for £20, you couldn't really go wrong with owning these shoes. Plus Schuh always gives you free delivery if you order online, which is another satisfying bonus. I love the knot, which turns these into something a bit different from your average black shoe. Just lovely!

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI - Strass crystal platform sandals

2009-10-01T11:17:00.004+01:00

Ohhhh.... I love these. Guiseppe Zanotti is fast becoming one of my favourite shoe designers. They do everything I like, high, high heels, lots of embellishments, and superb quality. These are no different, the jewelled upper is stunning, sort of an elaborate necklace for your feet and is contrasted perfectly with the high platform. It could look strippery, but the delicateness and extravagance of the jewelled upper turns it instead into an incredible shoe.

I am swooning as I type... wow.

They're a jaw dropping £909, so I don't have even the smallest chance of ever seeing these, but if you have waaaay more money than me you can get them from FarFetch.

Ugly shoe of the week: Azzedine Alaia Leather Ankle Boots with Zip Detail

2009-09-29T11:55:00.004+01:00

Ew ew ew ew ew! No thank you Azzedine Alaia. Just no. I am in no doubt that these shoes are made of the best leather and that some stupid people will buy them, but open zip boot sandal type things are not the way forward, no seriously, they're not.

Especially not when you're charging £1,335 for them. For shame Alaia!

My Shoes: Primark grey suede bow flats

2009-09-28T16:18:00.004+01:00

I don't document new purchases all that often, especially when there aren't any images available on the internet, but for these I'll make an exception...

They're very predictably me, grey with bows is always going to make my heart leap, and the fact that they're real suede from Primark made me grab them really quick. These babies are now my go to flat shoe, they have elasticated backs so they're incredibly comfortable and they look way more expensive than the £11 that they cost me. I love the ridging on the toe, which stops that kind of mishapen toe that you sometimes get with flats after a bit of wear. They're just cute, cheap and practical and I love them. They're also somewhat reminiscent of the Miu Miu banana flats I featured a few days ago which is an extra added bonus!

They're not available online (damn you Primark get an online shop stat!) but they're still available in store.

Mechante Gold Python Pumps

2009-09-25T14:59:00.004+01:00

I love Matches. Almost everytime I browse their wares I always see a new designer or someone I've never heard of that makes me go,OOOOH! Like these Mechante pumps which are just lovely:

They're a pretty nice pair of gold pumps right? But what makes these really speak to me is the back, which is wonderful.

I love how the detail doesn't stop at the heel and flows right down onto the sole, making these shoes from a 'pretty nice' pair of shoes, into a faaaabulous pair of shoes. I love the attention to detail, and they python looks extra luxe when contrasted with the black of the heel.

Good job Mechante, I shall be keeping an eye out for more from you!

Miu Miu Velvet Banana Flats

2009-09-24T10:54:00.003+01:00

I love these, really I do. As it starts to get colder there's something about velvet that becomes more and more appealling as the temperature lowers. It feels luxurious and decadent and these velvet Miu Miu flats are just fabulous. I know I'm a sucker for a big bow, but I feel these would work for both day and night, and are pretty cheap for Miu Mius at £175. Still not in my budget, but less than I expected for a pair of Miu Miu flats regardless.

They look comfortable and elegant, and since moving to a city that is one big hill, I find myself increasingly fixated with flats. If I had the money I would have these in a heartbeat.

Does anyone want to buy them for me??

Miu Miu Velvet Banana Flats.

Red or Dead 'Rivoli' heels

2009-09-23T15:15:00.002+01:00

Oh these are pretty! I'm not the biggest fan of Red or Dead shoes usually, but these are definitely ticking all my boxes at the minute. i'm definitely in a leopard print frame of mind and these are exactly what I had in mind.

The hidden platform gives the shoe a lovely arch, the pattern isn't too big or too small, and definitely doesn't look garish, which is sometimes a worry with animal print footwear. The lace detail on the front isn't too ruffly and I love that the heel is fabric covered too, something you see less and less at the minute. These are definitely on my wish list.

Red or Dead Rivoli Leopard Satin Heels.

Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte: Extreme Shoe Porn

2009-09-22T15:50:00.009+01:00

For like the one person in the entire world who doesn't already know this, I'm a massive Kirkwood fan. And these babies for Rodarte are making me swoon like nobodies business...

Just look. This is sheer shoe porn:

Beautiful huh?

I have no idea if these will even go into production and if they do they will be approximately 4736584 pounds, but they need to be celebrated. Swoooooooooooon....

CLICK TO ENLARGE. All images come from the Livejournal community Fashin.

Ugly shoe of the week: Marc Jacobs - Metallic Leather Ankle Boots

2009-09-22T15:35:00.003+01:00

I haven't done this for a while, probably because I haven't come across anything that has struck me as so heinous that it immediately needs to be put up on the web for all to see, but these Marc Jacobs 'boots', and I use the term boots lightly, deserve to be mocked and derided across the land.

Yeah, I don't know if you're thinking the same thing as me, but as soon as I saw these I thought, Genie! Genie with an ankle injury that needs to be strapped up. And I don't know about you, but when channelling looks for my day to day life, Genie with a foot injury, is not really one of them. Everything about these is just BAD BAD BAD. And the price makes them downright shameful.

But if you want to spend £580 on a pair of genie 'boots', who am I to stand in your way? You can get them here.

Burberry Prorsum Suede Platform Heels.

2009-09-18T11:35:00.006+01:00

Ever wanted a pair of super high heels that you can wear when it's snowy and icy? Well Burberry have come up with a solution for you.

And although they're not to everyone's taste, I love them a whole lot and if I had £395 to spend, they would be mine. These chunky platforms will allow you to stomp your way through even the most treacherous terrain. The dove grey suede is gorgeous and if you got struck by lightning these shoes would definitely ensure your survival too with the huge rubber platform, I mean, it's almost essential that you buy these shoes. Practical and sensible, what's not to love?

Burberry Prorsum Suede Platform Heels.

PIN UP Stud Boot By Topshop Boutique

2009-09-17T13:25:00.003+01:00

Ohhhh me likey. Me likey a lot. This boot by Topshop encapsulates everything that I want in a boot at the moment, namely, studs, leather, high high heel. They're gorgeous, no? I love the placing of the studs too to make an abstract style pattern on the front of the boot. The heel is a gorgeous sharp spike too. The whole package is pretty much perfect.

The only thing that bothers me is the price: £150.
If that doesn't bother you, you can get them here.

Beatrix Ong - Snakeskin Panelled Court

2009-09-17T11:34:00.002+01:00

When I first saw these babies, my first thought was pretty! My second thought was OUCH! Because these shoes are expensive. £739 in fact. It's pretty bad when a pair of shoes costs more than it would to whisk yourself away on holiday for a week. They're still undeniably lovely though, and just the sort of sculptural and interesting that I like in a shoe. I love the navy snakeskin coupled with the pinky-white and beige panels, it's sculptural but still elegant and the juxtaposition of the two styles works very well together. I would very much like to wear this shoe, but for £739 I doubt thats going to happen anytime soon!

BEATRIX ONG - Snakeskin panelled court shoe.

New Look Black and White Brogues

2009-09-16T18:26:00.004+01:00

I got these today! They're £25 and real leather from New Look and look much better in person and are currently my new favourite shoe. I think I'm going to be living in these as they're so comfortable and suitably quirky for my tastes.

I'm wearing them with denim 'jeggings' (god I hate that word) and a men's blue and white stripey shirt with the cuffs rolled up for a bit of a mannish look and if I had a panama hat I would be rocking that too. These shoes make me think of Singin' in the Rain and Fred Astaire and retro goodness and I just don't want to take them off.

You can get them here.

SHOE REVIEW: EMU BRONTE BOOTS

2009-09-15T14:35:00.005+01:00

When Adam from Fitness Footwear asked me if I wanted to try out a pair of Emus I jumped at the chance. I’ve actually had them for ages, but it hasn’t been cold enough for me to put them on my feet and test them out properly. Well, I’ve just got back from Cyprus, and a week of 35c weather has made England seem freezing, freezing cold. So out came the Emus at last!

I chose the emu bronte boots in Charcoal and as soon as I slipped them on they made my feet all toasty and warm. They’re lined with real sheepskin and are fabulously warming. The dark grey colour is great too, and stands out from the million other sand coloured Uggs, Emus and store brand boots out there. The quality is great too, and unlike other cheaper versions, these will last you ages. The sole is tough and durable, and so is the boot itself. They’re surprisingly sturdy actually.

The thing I liked best though, and this is going to sound weird, is the sole. It has Emu all over the sole, so when you step outside in the wet, ‘emu-emu-emu’ is printed on the ground with each step. I can’t wait to try them in snow. I’ve already been tempted to take them along to the beach with me to ‘emu stomp’ all over the wet sand.

All in all, they’re great, I love the colour, I definitely love the warmth and I’m looking forward to wearing them when it gets cooler. Words of warning though, if you have thick calves don’t get the tall version; go for the shorter versions instead as they are slightly narrow in the leg. I had to wrestle them on at first, but now that they’ve stretched out a bit with wear they’re fine. They’re pretty cheap too and very well made, ranging from £60-£80, making Emu ‘Bronte’ boots much cheaper than Uggs. I’m definitely a convert!

Topshop Boutique 'Paradox' Sandal

2009-09-14T11:00:00.000+01:00

Trawling through the web, seeing what I'd missed in the shoe world when I was on holiday, I spotted these babies on the Topshop website. How beautiful are they?? I just swooned. They also come in black and a red colour, but this jade green colour is where it's at in my opinion. They're £110 and stunningly pretty. They remind me of the YSL Tribute Courts but with the extra strappy detail which brings it into a league of its own.

Not the most practical option, but so, so pretty... I want them.

BUY: Topshop Boutique 'Paradox' Sandal.

Brian Atwood 'Wagner' peeptoe platforms

2009-09-11T11:00:00.000+01:00

Oh Mr. Atwood, why must you get it so consistently right, all of the time? Your shoes are so simple and yet so perfect, always providing exactly what I want in an understated manner. Your shoes are never gaudy, never brash, they are always perfectly simply elegant. I want to know how you do it...

Take these for example, these Brian Atwood 'Wagner' peeptoes. They are magnificent. They could be perfectly ordinary red peep toes, but you can really see the craftmanship, everything is spot on with this shoe. And I think thats the genius of Brian Atwood, they're just really well made, sexy, elegant shoes, where everything from the arch of the heel to the smooth, smooth platform has been cleverly calculated and well executed. You could dress these up with a little black dress, or dress them down with a white t-shirt and blue jeans. They're shoes that you could wear anywhere and I think thats why I like them so much. They're £480, which of course is not cheap, but I think they are worth it.

Simply beautiful shoes.

BUY: Brian Atwood 'Wagner' peeptoe platforms.

Tory Burch 'Reva' Leopard Print flats

2009-09-10T17:17:00.000+01:00

I'm going to get it out of my system now: I love Tory Burch flats. Many people think they're just overpriced flat shoes, but honestly, they are so comfortable that they're worth the price tag. And I especially love these 'Reva' leopard print flats with the iconic Tory Burch buckle.

They're made from ponyskin, and are £185, but I could see these brightening up very simple outfits, such as a black dress, with barely any effort. They're chic and ooze understated elegance. The stretchy sides keep them on your feet and they don't rub, like cheaper stretchy shoes do. Aaaah I want them!

Buy: Tory Burch 'Reva' Leopard Print flats.

Matalan Purple Snake Heel Platforms

2009-09-09T17:00:00.001+01:00

Matalan are starting to get their new season footwear up on the website now and i'm loving these purple faux snakeskin platform pumps. They're cheap as chips at £14 and having had a good experience with Matalan shoes in the past, I'm guessing that the quality of these would be way higher than the £14 that you paid for them. They certainly look more expensive anyway. I like the ankle strap, and the inverted platform which more and more shoes are carrying at the moment. The colour is a lovely vibrant purple and they'll definitely attract attention if you wore them out, and for £14, it doesn't matter if someone spills beer on them either!

Buy: Matalan Purple Snake Heel Platforms.

Dorothy Perkins black suede studded ankle boot

2009-09-08T14:00:00.000+01:00

Dorothy Perkins has some great shoes and boots around at the moment and I especially like these flat studded ankle boots from the winter collection.

They're rather lovely I think, and practical too. They're lovelier in person too and come in black and a stone colour which is also very nice. They're £50, but if you're interested, the website is doing 15% of shoes and boots for a limited period, making these £42.50 instead, which is great value for a pair of real suede boots.

They're very slouchy and would look great paired with skinny jeans. You can also adjust the straps if you want to support your ankles a bit more too, which is nice.

BUY: Dorothy Perkins suede studded boots.

2009-09-07T13:00:00.002+01:00

I have been looking, searching high and low for a decent replica of the amazing YSL Tribute courts. You know the ones, the ones with the impossible heel and huge platform, the ones that have been seen on every celebrity from here to kingdom come. These ones:

There have been many imitations, but none that have really drawn me to them, unlike these Carvelas, which I spied on the ASOS website. I think they're beautiful.

I love the tiny gold studs, which remind me of the Chloe pumps and boots from last season, and the smoothness of the leather. I think they look elegant and glamorous. In other words, I want them. In fact, the only thing that is stopping me from purchasing is the price, they're £130 which is highly annoying. In fact, Carvela used to be the budget range from Kurt Geiger, and in my opinion £130 is not budget. Carvela is not a designer brand, and every one of my designer shoes (I have 7 pairs) have come in cheaper than that, in sales and on ebay, except for my Louboutins. So I won't be buying them. But they are still very beautiful and if you have more money to splash, I think they're a great shoe.

Buy: Carvela Astoid Studded Heels.

Holidays!

2009-09-04T17:33:00.003+01:00

I'm off to Cyprus very early tomorrow morning for a weeks break in the sunshine! I've queued up five days worth of posts for the downtime, and I'll see you when I get back. I only wish I was taking these cute Stella McCartney cloud sandals with me....
Sighhh....

Whoa Salvatore Ferragamo??

2009-09-04T16:10:00.006+01:00

I don't know about you, but when I think of Salvatore Ferragamo, I think of this sort of thing:

i.e the infamous Ferragamo bow flats, practical and sensible and classic. I don't think of these absolute stunners of a shoe:

They are so gorgeous that I literally swooned when I saw them. The curve and the heel is almost pornographic and even though I know I couldn't walk in them to save my life, I still completely adore them. I would sit down and stare at my feet, knowing that I had purchased something beautiful, I mean really, who needs to actually walk in their shoes?

They're 490 euros from Luisaviaroma and to be honest, I think they're worth it. I have never seen a more classy, sexy shoe. They're just so beautiful.

Buy: Salvatore Ferragamo Suede Two Tone Heels.

'Eleanor' KG Kurt Geiger Pumps

2009-09-03T19:39:00.006+01:00

As soon as the Kurt Geiger email popped into my inbox and they featured these shoes, I knew I had to put them up here. They're super high and a gorgeous colour and I love the bluey purple suede and burnished bronze heel and I think they look great together. The platform makes them ultra wearable and they would look gorgeous on your feet. They're so pretty and elegant and I would definitely wear these for both work and play.

They 've got them in black and bronze and orange and gold too, and they're equally lovely, but there's something about the blue pair that called out to me.

BUY: 'Eleanor' KG Kurt Geiger Pumps.

New Look A/W Boots!

2009-09-03T14:15:00.005+01:00

I'm back! I finally have internet again, THANK GOD so it's straight back to blogging. Last week, during the Great Internet Drought of 2009 I received a lookbook from New Look, highlighting the new A/W collection from New Look. The clothes and accessories were really good, but the thing that stood out to me were the boots.

The thigh high boots are fabulous, and really cheap at only £50. I doubt they are real leather or real suede, but the thing that I like the most, about all the boots, is the metal spike heel. They're stretchy, so would fit many calf and thigh sizes and would mould themselves to your legs, much better than some of the droopy thigh boots that are around.

I love these witchy patent lace up boots too and I can't wait until they hit the shops, and yet again they have the great metal spike heel.

These Union Jack courts are great too, the pewter, silver and black diamantes across the toe are brilliant and definitely something that I will be checking out instore. They're only £35 too, wihich is a great price. I can see myself wearing them with tight jeans and I can't wait to see what they look like in person. They should be hitting the shops pretty soon, and the website too, so keep an eye out.

Internet problems: temporary hiatus.

2009-08-27T13:47:00.002+01:00

Urgh my internet has gone down and it looks like it will be at least a couple of days till its fixed at the very least.

So that means that there will be no posts for a while. Sorry!

New Shoes! Vivienne Westwood Lady Dragons.

2009-08-26T13:51:00.007+01:00

Sorry for the temporary hiatus guys, I've been unwell. Feeling much better now though. And my recovery was certainly aided by something exciting in the mail. Look!

I finally bought them! After months of blogging about them and lusting after them I finally got my hands on a pair from Hervia who finally got them back in stock in my size! And I have to say I'm in love with them. They're not white, but sort of pearlescent, and change colour depending on what light you're in, basically anything from shimmery white to a sort of light tan/beige colour.

I adore them, and I think I picked the right colour, as reading about them from other buyers, some people thought that the blue/peach/yellow pairs were a little bright, whereas these are just right. Or maybe I'm just more easily satisfied! I don't want to take them off, and since its a horrible wet day and I'm not going anywhere, I don't think I will! They are officially the nicest pair of rubber shoes I own, and i'm now up to three pairs!

Buy: Lady Dragon Vivienne Westwood/Melissa shoes.

Two Shoes in One: A Matalan revelation...

2009-08-20T13:54:00.006+01:00

I honestly don't know why I never realised this, and I feel incredibly stupid for being in the dark about this, but Shoeperwoman alerted me to the fact that the ruffle on my Matalan 'Dillan' Louboutin replicas is detachable.

I honestly never realised, and as soon as I found this out, then obviously I needed to see what my pair looked like.

And they look fabulous... and in fact I think I'll get much more wear out of them without the ruffle, as before they were a bit extravagant, only to be worn with plain, muted outfits because the shoes had all the drama that you needed.

I love the ruffle, don't get me wrong, but sometimes you do want something a bit more sedate, well, as sedate as bright orange shoes get I suppose. They look fresher I think, without the ruffle and now that I've seen them without, I reaaally want the red pair that Shoeperwoman has.

Having two pairs of shoes in one makes these an even bigger bargain that they were originally. £18 for two pairs of shoes? Insane! Thank you to Shoeperwoman for alerting the world to this, I am a very happy bunny indeed...

Christian Louboutin Nitoinimoi 120 suede boots

2009-08-19T11:07:00.004+01:00

Yeah, sorry. It's more boots i'm afraid. Once I get into something it takes an awful lot to shift my focus, and these blue suede boots from Christian Louboutin aren't doing anything to change my mind. They're rather gorgeous, and the black leather strapping contrasts beautifully with the blue suede. They're just the right amount of edgy and right amount of feminine and I'm semi in love with them. Heel height is 4.5 inches but I think I can spy a 1 inch platform to make these easily manageable.

Unfortunately they have a price tag to match at £775, but is anyone really surprised? It is Louboutin after all.

Buy: Christian Louboutin Nitoinimoi 120 suede boots.

S***R - "Laura 3" ankle boot

2009-08-18T12:57:00.004+01:00

It's not often something this pretty is associated with a swear word, but these S***R boots are the exception. The nudey, grey sort of colour (although the site calls it 'off white') is unusual and i'm loving the leather straps, which I think are a great embellishment that works really well. They have my favourite kind of heel too, very solid, but with a slight curve so it doesn't look too clunky. They're a good price too, at £75. They come in a wide range of colours and if you like the look of these, check out Farfetch as they have lots of other pretty and quirky S***R products, such as these:

Pretty, no?

If you like them as much as me, you can find them here.

Practical Post: Shoe storage solutions.

2009-08-18T11:31:00.005+01:00

Sorry for the lack of blog posts yesterday, but I was moving! And the sheer horror of moving 70+ pairs of shoes has got me searching the net for shoe storage solutions, because trying to transport a vast number of shoes, most of them without shoeboxes, is horrendous.

During my trawl through the internet I found this:

The Shoe Wheel by Rakku which really made me smile. It can hold up to 30 pairs of shoes and can be adjusted to include many different styles of shoe. I really love this actually, it's fun, compact and you can see all your footwear at a glance, and they're easy to get in and out too. It also makes your shoes into a focal point, and i'm all for that. It's £50 and available here.

Another cheap option is this canvas shoe storage unit from Very.co.uk.

This comes in a variety of colours and is very cheap at only £30. It has a screen to hide everything from view if you'd prefer and holds an awful lot of shoes. It would be very easy to transport too. The shelves vary in height so you can store boots, flats and heels in the same place. I think it's fab and a bit more practical than the shoe wheel, if not as interesting. It's something I can definitely see myself investing in anyway. You can get one for yourself here.

David Wyatt Pink Sandals

2009-08-14T11:03:00.004+01:00

Do I like this shoe? Well, does it have a bow? Is it brightly coloured? Does it have a sizable heel and look fairly frivilous? Yes? Then of course I like this shoe.

I am getting ever more predictable with my shoe choices, but I can't help it. I love bows, and just when you thought nothing different could be done with a be-bowed shoe, David Wyatt comes along and makes me fall in love again so, so, easily. The big black bow could be a little jarring, but I think it really brings out the colour of the pink satin and adds an extra oomph to what would otherwise be a pretty basic sandal. They're £450, which is a tad expensive, but they're oh so well done. Oh, and check out Matches for more David Wyatt stuff, it's all rather lovely.

Buy: David Wyatt Pink Bow Sandals.

Boots, Boots, Boots

2009-08-13T11:01:00.005+01:00

I'm all about boots at the moment, and it seems that all the fash mags are too, and typically, the minute I get myself geared towards autumn, we get glorious sunshine. But I'm not going to let that stop me from looking. I get excited about winter boots, and without fail every year, I always end up with the boot with the most impractical heel ever that I can't walk in the rain/snow/sleet without sliding all over the place.

Not this year, as I'm moving to Sheffield, known in my mind, as city of hills and steepness. This year I will buy flat boots. I will do it. And nothing is going to sway me from my task. Luckily for me, the shops are teeming with flat pretty boots. Like these, from Office.

They satisfy all the criteria. They're leather, flat and warm (they have a faux fur lining) and are pretty good value at £95. I'm loving the wrapping along the leg.

Also on my want list are these Ted Baker flat riding boots:

which are the most gorgeous antique rich brown colour and are £90 at Oli. They're classic, have a lovely buckle detail, and would last you many winters (unless you are like me and cannot resist the allure of a new pair of boots every winter).

If I were to buy a pair of boots with a heel. I'm not at all you understand, but in theory, if I was going to... it would be these, again from Office down to £60 in the sale.

Very Vivienne Westwood-esque with fabulous strapping and all round piratey, bondagey goodness. I would have these in a heartbeat, but sadly there will be NO. HIGH HEELED BOOTS THIS WINTER. I need the capital letters to drum the message into my head. But they are beautiful all the same...

BUY:
Office Boogaloo Black Leather Knee Boots.
Ted Baker Flat Riding Boots.
Office Bondaged Up Ivory Knee High Boots.

Shoe Lust: Topshop Anique Stud Ankle Boots

2009-08-10T12:11:00.003+01:00

I would like to introduce you all to my current lust object, the beautiful and delightful 'Anique'. It hails from Topshop and is £85 and has made me swoon inordinate amounts over the weekend. The more I look at this boot, the more I want it. It's blue (omg I don't have a blue boot yet), it has studs (small, feminine studs yay) and decent sized heel with a decent sized invisible platform. So, so pretty and a delight to behold.

Buy:Topshop Anique Stud Ankle Boots.

My Top 5.

2009-08-07T13:05:00.004+01:00

Click on the picture to view bigger.

So I thought I'd do a bit of a personal shoe post today. My top five shoes this week. I should mention that my top five changes all the time as I am a fickle beast, so this really should be called 'Top five shoes that I like the best today' but it's not quite as snappy somehow.

First up we have my high heeled Office trainers. I know a lot of people hate high heeled trainers/sneakers but I'm not one of them, they're very comfortable and people always comment on them. I wear them a lot with denim shorts.

Next is the infamous orange Matalan ruffle shoes, I've blogged these to death really, but they are still exceptional. I'm already excited for the new collection of Matalan shoes, which Shoeperwoman blogged about. Especially the Givenchy alike studded heels, I will be all over them like a rash when they hit the shops.

Then there's my Melissa Fuschia Vinyls, which are possibly the comfiest heels I own. Plus, waterproof!

Now I would like to introduce the only flat shoe on the list, my Topshop glitter mary janes. For when I need a break from heels, but feel like I need sparkles. I wear these to work a lot to cheer myself up.

And lastly, the most painful shoes in existence, but so beautiful that I don't mind: my Miu Mius mary janes. I'm still in the midst of a love affair with them, I doubt I will ever be bored of them. They're too gorgeous!

Chrissie Morris: Metallic Ayers Sunburst Sandal

2009-08-06T14:08:00.002+01:00

These Chrissie Morris sandals are a bit special, and at 949 euros, they want to be. They're made of python, which helps to explain the price and are sculptural and beautiful at the same time. They pretty much rock, i'm completely loving the straps and the sturdy looking heel suggests that these would probably be reasonably comfortable. I personally would wear them everywhere, even to bed.

Buy: Chrissie Morris - Metallic Ayers Sunburst Sandal

Shoe Offer

2009-08-06T10:05:00.002+01:00

Alicia from Whooga Boots got in touch with me recently and has offered readers of my blog a £15 gift voucher at her site. She does UGG boots ,and as it’s starting to look towards winter I thought I would offer it out there to you guys. There are no conditions of use and she ships to every country. All you need to do is enter WEAREALLSH in your shopping cart.

I don't know if anyone is in the market for some UGG boots, but don't say I never give you anything!

http://www.whoogaboots.co.uk/

Shoe Review: Birkenstock Gizeh sandals

2009-08-06T09:31:00.004+01:00

I don't really think the weather can make up it's mind at the moment. First it's sunny, then it's monsooning, then it's completely freezing. It's meant to be August! So with schizophrenic weather in mind, i'm really trying to enjoy the last few summer days before it goes all miserable and grey for the rest of the year.

Admission time: I've always been a Birkenstocks fan, I'm half German (they are my heritage after all) and I grew up with them, and even though there are prettier sandals out there, with more bells and whistles, I still always default back to my Birks.

These are my Birkenstock of choice, metallic silver Gizeh toeposts. I'm usually not the biggest fan of toepost sandals, but unlike others these don't rub, because what Birkenstock is synonymous with is comfort. And these are so comfy. I had a white pair previously that I lived in when I was in Thailand, as they support your arches and, if you have high arches like me, makes walking in sandals much easier.

Birkenstock shoes are still my go to comfy summer flat, and although you might not get to wear them for much longer this summer, they'll last you years. And when you finally chuck them away, i'll bet you'll get a new pair!

The Gizeh style, my personal fave, comes in black, brown, white and metallic silver, are about £39.99 and I would thoroughly recommend them.

BUY: Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals.

Ugly shoe of the week: Barratts snake effect ballerina.

2009-08-05T11:22:00.008+01:00

Seems pretty inoffensive right? Actually seems quite nice? That's what I thought at first too, until I clicked on the front view and balked at what I saw...

It's like they took a perfectly nice faux snakeskin flat and got a two year old to stick random sparklies to the front, not paying any attention to where they were sticking them. They seem to have totally missed out the other half of the shoe, the jewels being placed in the middle and only to one side.

Plus they gems don't seem to go together in a cohesive way either, you have large stones and smaller ones, but there is no design present at all. They've just been stuck on any old way, with a bow added for extra WTF? Ok, they're not the worst shoes ever features on 'Ugly shoe of the week' but they annoyed me.

Random gem stone application is not big and not clever.

Gawp in horror: Barratts snake effect ballerina.

Designer Spotlight: BEHNAZ KANANI - Suede and aligator T-bar shoes

2009-08-04T11:24:00.007+01:00

Now here is a shoe designer I have never heard of, but as soon as I saw these (and several other beauties) on Farfetch I knew I had to post them. It was an instinctive reaction, I just went 'oooooooooh' and was immediately sold on these. They're pretty wonderful, light pink and grey are literally the colours of my existence at the moment, and these go together beautifully. In fact, the only thing that's stopping me from buying them, aside from severe lack of funds, is the price.

They're a whopping £1479, which I guess is due to the grey aligator that has been used. Behnaz Kanani is definitely a shoe designer that I'll be keeping on my radar though, due to other magnificent designs such as these:

and these:

They're weirdly sculptural, and beautiful in that ugly/pretty sort of way. I'm definitely a fan.
You can get all of these shoes from Farfetch. Happy shopping!

Bridal Shoes: Faith Ivory Diamond Shoes

2009-08-04T11:10:00.005+01:00

Well I was at a wedding this weekend, and it got me thinking about Bridal shoes. They've definitely come a long, long way in recent years, and now look like something you would wear even if you weren't getting married. Personally, I would be tempted to wear a pair of blue shoes (I have my heart set on blue suede Rolando's by Monsieur Louboutin), but for those that want to keep it traditional I think these are pretty wonderful.

They're pretty, a bit sparkley, have a reasonable heel so you're not wishing you could have a seat while you take your vows and come in way cheap at £55. What's not to like?

Buy: Faith Ivory Diamond Bridal Shoes.

Shoes I Want Ladylike Edition: Three for Thursday.

2009-07-30T10:41:00.004+01:00

Today is all about glamour, but affordable glamour. In fact, each of the three shoes I'm sharing with you today come in at under £70 because we are in a recession, and spending money on expensive footwear is not a luxury that many of us have. Anyway, who says that to be glamorous you need to spend lots of money? This way you can be chic and cheap!

First up are these Carlotine black and white peeptoes from Faith, and aren't they lovely? They're £65, and the most expensive of the three, but they're also my favourites. I think they're gorgeous and the black front doesn't jar with the white back and platform. The suede front mixes well with the leather back too. In a word, they're elegant.

Next up are these pink satin peep toes from Priceless Shoes if you want to inject a bit of barbie into your life. While they don't go with as much as the Faith peeptoes, they're fun and look fairly expensive, which considering they're only £17 is wonderful. I think everyone should have a pair of ultra girlie shoes in their life and these are fab.

And finally, these leopard print shoes from Dorothy Perkins are slightly less traditional, but I still think they are considerably classier than most animal print shoes. The red heel gives it a zing and the paleness of the leopard print make them stand out from other leopard shoes. They're an excellent price too, at £35. It would be rude not to really!

Buy:
Faith Carlotine Platform Peeptoes.

Priceless Satin Peeptoes.
Dorothy Perkins Leopard Print Court Shoe.

Ugly Shoe of the Week: Alexander McQueen Patent Leather Sandals.

2009-07-29T10:26:00.002+01:00

Oh no. And usually McQueen can be counted on to produce such lovely footwear too, such as these and these, so for him to come up with something like this is disappointing indeed. They would be perfectly reasonable too, if it wasn't for the random legwarmer attached to what is a satisfactory sandal. I mean, the pink soles are fab, and the contrast with the black leather is great, so why ruin it?

For shame Alexander McQueen. 80s inspired rubbish is not what I expect from you. But if you love them you can get them from Net-a-Porter.

Buy: Alexander McQueen Patent leather sandals.

Nicholas Kirkwood Suede Python Platforms

2009-07-28T13:39:00.003+01:00

Nnnghhhh... I can't speak. This is shoe porn at its very best and I am here prostrate with grief at my computer because I will never, repeat, never be able to own these. Click on the picture to see what I mean, supersize shoe porn. I'm dying. Maybe if I sold a kidney, you only need one right? They are £995. And its so unfair.

Life is cruel sometimes...

Buy:Nicholas Kirkwood Suede Platform with Python Cut-Out Detail

Shoe Review: Skechers Shape Ups.

2009-07-28T11:53:00.002+01:00

I am not a girl who turns away free shoes, so when I was offered the chance to review these new Skechers Shape Ups that are meant to tone your legs like a session at the gym would, I jumped at that chance. Free shoes? That give me fab legs? Gimme!

I guess I need to admit something before we start: I am not a trainer wearing girl AT ALL. Like, the only pair of trainers I own are some Vans Sk8 His that I bought to go to the gym in. And then never went to the gym. I'm just not into them. Why, when you can have heels instead? Also I hate the gym, I hate it with a passion that burns a thousand suns. And no, I am not exaggerating. So when I was told that there are shoes that tone you up so you don't have to go to the gym, I was really interested to try them out. I've had Fit Flops previously, and they didn't work at all, so I was apprehensive, but totally willing to give these Shape Ups a good go.

I picked the Skechers Shape Ups in navy and silver

and when they arrived, I was surprised at how not completely hideous they were.

I mean, they're not gorgeous or anything, but as a girl who was put off MBTs because of their sheer ugliness, these were a pleasant surprise. Also they're cheaper than MBTs at around £89.95 which is a bonus. Also, they're really comfortable! And not difficult to walk in at all. The shoes come with a diagram and instructions on how to walk, but you don't need it really. Just put them on and go! They make you walk with a bit of a wiggle though, as they're very bouncy, so after a while I was pretending to be Marilyn Monroe.

I wore these all weekend, and I was shocked. Unlike the Fit Flops, I could feel that the backs of my legs were tighter when I got back home again after a days shoe shopping. They actually do work! Apparently though, Skechers Shape Ups have undergone a clinical case study to become officially sanctioned fitness shoes. You can click here to view the study. I was really impressed with these, and I'm not just saying that because I got given free shoes. I would actually be prepared to spend my hard earned cash on a pair of these, because I could really feel that they were working to tone up my legs. And my legs seriously need toning up.

While they're not fabulous enough to tempt me away from my heels full time, I will definitely put them on the next time I know I have some walking to do. I can shop, and feel all smug because I'm doing some exercise! Which is always a winner really. They're definitely a serious contender to the MBTs at half the price, and a definite winner over the Fit Flop. If you're interested, you can get them here at Fitness Footwear for £80-£90.

Whats in my Bag?

2009-07-27T11:52:00.007+01:00

OK, this is most definitely not a shoe, but I'm doing this anyway because the wonderful crime fighters at The Fashion Police want to know.

My bag:

My stuff:

From top left:

1. Umbrella, because I live in Manchester. Enough said.

2. Commes des Garcons Incense series Avignon perfume. It smells of old churches, I'm not kidding.

3. 86 different lipbalms, mostly cherry flavoured. There is a Carmex one, a cherry chapstick (god the song, whyyyyy does it always come into my head?) and a Nivea pink tinted one.

4. Loads of sets of keys. Work keys, parents house keys (I dunno why they're in my bag, considering it's 200 miles away and its not like i'll be popping round unannounced), safe keys.

5. Pills.

6. Painkillers, .both for obvious reasons.

7. Selfridges leaflet. You can tell I live in a nice area, I never used to get Selfridges leaflets I can tell you!

8. Pens. Um, when do you not need a pen?

9. Plasters. As a high heels girl, ESSENTIAL. I cannot leave the house without them.
10. Tissues. I stole these from my mum's obviously, as I don't have an ASDA anywhere near me. Again, pretty much a given that I would have these.

11. Out of date bus pass LOL. I've been using this to get on the bus for ages. They totally don't even look.

12. Ipod classic. 160gb of musak, makes the journey to work pass a whole lot quicker.

13. My purse, isn't it pretty? It's from Accessorize and my mum got me it for Xmas. It keeps opening up though cos of the amount of receipts and stuff i've shoved in there.

14. Prada Sunnies. Because its sunny atm, and I have v sensitive eyes.

15. What you should have seen but I left it at work: the book i'm currently reading - James Ellroy - White Jazz. Also, phone. Nokia N95 8gb. But I'm taking these pics with it so obviously it's not there.

Shoe Lust: Betty Jackson Studded Ankle Boots

2009-07-27T10:53:00.003+01:00

With the weather so dreary and hopeless outside, it's no wonder that already my mind is turning from summer to the cooler months, and to footwear suitable for rain and winds. I think these Betty Jackson ankle boots would do nicely, and would look fabulous with skinny jeans and a leather jacket or black tights to stomp about on not so nice days.

They're gorgeous, the heel is just right, with a hidden platform to make walking in them a doddle, the leather is just shiny enough and the studs are enough to make me gasp. Studs and black leather are made for each other I think. They're £255, which isn't cheap, but who cares about money when you're in love?

You can buy them here at My-Wardrobe.

Balmain Suede Zipped Ankle Boot

2009-07-24T12:59:00.004+01:00

When I first saw the price of these boots, it was almost enough to make me spit out my coffee, but I can't deny that these Balmain boots are stunning, and if I had the £1,520 going spare that these babies cost, I probably would be right there buying myself a pair. They are undeniably gorgeous, and also undeniably out of my price range by oooohhh, £1500.

Rather hilariously, I own a similar version of these boots. Except, I've had my boots for about a year. They came from ASOS and were £11 in the sale.

Obviously, they're not even half as good, but if you like the zippyness, I have no doubt that shops will be producing something similar to the Balmain version as the weather starts to get colder again. But if you have the money to spend on the originals, you can buy them here.

Shoes in the Mail!

2009-07-23T12:48:00.005+01:00

I spoke a while ago about something exciting that was coming for me in the post, and after a bit of a wait, they're here at last! I'd like to formally introduce you to my S/S07 Miu Miu 'Pretty' Mary Janes!

I lusted after these when they first came out, but didn't have the £200+ to spend on them. Then by chance I stumbled upon them on ebay, NIB and I won them for a steal at £46! So I'm currently traipsing about at work in them, they are so beautiful and I'm completely thrilled. They're super high with no platform, so they're not the easiest to walk in, but the way they look definitely makes up for that.

I love it when I get my hands on a shoe that I've wanted for ages. It makes it all the more special somehow...

Kurt Geiger 'Dolly' Shoes

2009-07-22T11:36:00.002+01:00

Time for a bit of gratuitous shoe porn. Beautiful, no?
They're £100 and shiny and bow-dazzled and green and you can get them here. I want. BADLY.

Oooohh Comfy!

2009-07-21T13:00:00.001+01:00

I currently have a hole in the bottom of my foot from an unfortunate mishap this weekend involving lots of jumping around and innappropriate footwear. Consequently, it is difficult to walk, and it is even more difficult in fact to find any type of footwear that brings relief from the pain. I'm in my Topshop blue suede loafers at the moment, but even they are like walking on glass. So right now I want more than anything to be able to spend my day in these:

Not the sort of shoe, well, they're not even a shoe really, I would feature, but oh my god these look like bliss right now. They are Muk Luks Women's Nordic Knit Sherpa Boots and they look like you would be padding around on cushioned wonderfulness. I cannot put into words my desire for these. You can get them for yourself here for only £17.40. Or you could get them for me.

No?
Sigh....

Ugly Shoe of the Week: Office Magnum Lace Boots

2009-07-21T11:11:00.002+01:00

I'm all about boots at the moment, maybe it's the rain but I find myself craving multiple pairs of black stompy boots. So imagine my horror when I click into Office shoes 'boots' section and come face to face with these horrors. Yes, they are disgraceful really. They've been reduced to £30 in the Office sale but I really can't think of a single person who would allow these things on their feet. Everything that could be wrong with a shoe is wrong with these. And to help you, I have compiled a handy list of faults:

1. The Material - Because I have always wanted boots that look like they're made out of a rumpled bin bag. Office, how wonderful of you to appeal to me in such a way!
2. The Buckle - And I just adore lumpy buckles in random places.
3. The Peep Toe - Peep toes are just so essential on boots. I can't think why people haven't been doing this more often over the decades...
4. The Laces - I was wondering how I would keep my two pieces of overpriced bin bag together. How very thoughtful of you to offer me that solution. I am thrilled.
5. The Slingback - Oh Office, really you are spoiling us! Peep Toe and an open back, how very thoughtful! Especially when it looks as beautiful as this one does!

Office describe these as 'yummy'. I on the other hand describe these as 'slummy'. However, if you disagree with me, and wish to own these beauties, who am I to stop you? You can buy them here. Funnily enough, they're still available in all sizes.

Dorothy Perkins channeling Nicholas Kirkwood??

2009-07-16T14:49:00.006+01:00

Do these seem familiar? If they do, it's because they look a whole lot like these:

and these:

Obviously they're not an exact copy, Dorothy Perkins rarely completely copies designer shoes, but they have definitely been inspired by Kirkwood's shoe aesthetic. There are lots of nods to Kirkwood's unique style, the cut away platform, the sculptural nature of the shoe, and cut out design on the front is all very similar to what we have seen from Kirkwood in the past. So these are different enough so not to call them a replica shoe, but still including much of the best from the designer they were influenced by.

I'm definitely enjoying this break into new territory from Dorothy Perkins, their designs are getting more edgy and much quirkier.

The Dorothy Perkins shoes are only £40 too, so if you fancy a Kirkwood-alike, for a much more achievable price, you can buy them here.

Pretty Tough: Giuseppe Zanotti Rivet Sandals.

2009-07-16T13:04:00.003+01:00

These Giuseppe Zanotti Rivet Sandals skirt the line between tough and pretty really well. They look somewhat delicate, with an elegant heel, but the rivets toughen them up and give them a gritty, hard edge. They're also very, very sexy. These heels get the balance between tough and girly just right, and I adore them.

If you feel the same you can get them from here for £465.

The Tribute to Tributes...

2009-07-15T10:05:00.002+01:00

Well the YSL Tribute tributes that I blogged about previously have finally arrived and they are amazing! Not exactly as good as the real thing, but a very good copy indeed, I'm thrilled with them. The heel is sturdy and the platform makes them easy to walk in. I haven't road tested these outside yet, but walking around indoors is no problem whatsoever. They look much more expensive than what they were too, so thats £36 well spent in my opinion.

The black and gold ones aren't available anymore, but they're still doing a variety of colours, including black patent here. If you're looking for a decent copy at a very good price, I thoroughly recommend them!

Faith Purple Hedwood Sandals

2009-07-14T11:29:00.002+01:00

These Faith 'Hedwood' heels are a bit gorgeous and hitting all of my shoe buttons at the minute. Are they high? Check. Are they brightly coloured? Check. Platform soled? Check. Have an interesting detail that sets them apart? Check, Check, Check. There is nothing but checks from me with regards to these shoes.

In short, I think they're fab-u-lous. If you do too you can get them from Debenhams for £70. I would get them myself, but I just bought something very exciting that I can't wait to arrive. Eeep!!

Ugly Shoe of the Week

2009-07-09T15:45:00.004+01:00

These T.U.K 'Bondage' monstrosities are currently in the Schuh sale at £30, but would anybody in their right mind buy them? Aside from the colour (love, love, love red shoes) there is not one single thing about this shoe that would compel me to drop even £30 on these. They're ugly, clumpy, and so wholly unappealling that I can't even stand it. No, I'm sorry, and i'm really trying here, I can't think of anything good to say about them.

If you want to drop money on a shoe with a serious platform, why not try these instead?

These Schuh 'Panther's' on the other hand, are much more preferable. Yes, they have a large platform, but they're also pretty, and look incredible on your feet for only £59.99. This is what large platform soled shoes should look like. But its up to you really, what would you rather have; stumpy legs due to clumpy shoes, or killer pins and fabulous shoes?

You can get both shoes from the schuh website, Here.

Could you walk in these shoes?

2009-07-08T11:37:00.004+01:00

Office's Sole Survivor shoes are pretty extreme. They have an enormous, almost 7 inch high heel and are pretty imposing. OK, that heel is coupled with a huge platform, but I still feel all quivery at the thought of walking outdoors in these. If you slipped or turned your ankle in these it would mean serious injury. They're gorgeous, and even more gorgeous in real life, but I can't help thinking that the heel is too ridiculous for words, more fetish wear than actual footwear.

Are heels getting too high? We all know designer footwear ranges are full of impractical footwear, think of YSL's super high heels for instance, Louboutins new 7 inch range. But those shoes are made for women with the money for drivers; they don't have to walk everywhere. The general public do not have that same luxury.

There is a definite increase in heel heights over the past few years, and as high street stores are now producing ever more vertiginous heels, is it time to stop?

YSL Tributes?

2009-07-06T11:30:00.003+01:00

Looking for a lookalikey of these babies?

I have been for aaaages and I'm glad I held out and didn't buy the much more expensive Steve Madden copies instead as I'm delighted to have come across these:

They're not fakes, they don't have the YSL logo inside them, (I hate fakes, I love replicas, there is a difference in my opinion) and what they are is a very good copycat for an excellent excellent price. I would love to be able to afford the real things, but I can't. These are the next best thing I think, and are £32 (you can't beat that price) and available from ebay.

They're not an exact likeness, and obviously you can't tell what the quality will be like, but for £32 I'm willing to take that chance, and have ordered myself a pair. I will report back when they arrive!

Topshop Madame flats

2009-07-03T11:26:00.003+01:00

These might be a bit of a slightly controversial shoe, but I love them. I do feel the need to justify my love for them though... they're not my usual shoe style at all, but I love the colour and the use of suede, and I think it stops them from looking old fashioned, and like something an 86 year old would wear. I think they're cute. These will be gracing my feet this summer, and I think they'd look great with a slightly nautical look, maybe with white shorts and tanned legs.

I stand by my choice! If you agree with me you can get them in the Topshop sale for £15. They do them in a variety of colours!

ASOS Sale!

2009-07-02T11:52:00.008+01:00

The behemoth that is the ASOS sale started today, and already I am wracked with guilt and indecision. Do I buy things? I shouldn't buy things. There is so much prettiness and cheapness that I keep adding things to my basket even though I know I shouldn't, and then closing the tab in my browser because I feel guilty. There is so much that I want.

My picks:

1. Fornarina bow sandals.
2. ASOS Cage Front Platforms

3. ASOS Fringe Slingback Sandals

4. ASOS Leather Embellished Sandals.

There are way more, but I would be here all day. I've managed to refrain from getting out my credit card so far, but I don't know how long I'll be able to hold out, especially for the grey fringe sandals which I think are fabulous. Wish me luck!

Bridal Flip Flops anybody?

2009-07-01T15:47:00.004+01:00

I don't know about you, but if I get married, the last shoes I want on my feet are flip flops. Even crystal studded ones. Even if I were to get married on a beach, I would still insist on proper shoes, because you know, it's meant to be a special occasion, you're meant to make an effort. Flip flops are never going to look like you've made an effort, regardless of how much bling you put on them. Not even these:

These are from ebay, and are going at £38.99 with £4 shipping, making these horrors £42,99, which makes them even more horrendous to be honest.

I also thought that these were a one-off, something ridiculous, but uncommon, which would make them forgivable, but when I google searched I found waves and waves of Bridal flip flops! Am I the only person who feels they're inappropriate? Judging by the amount of them that are available, it would seem so.

You can buy them here or marvel in their horror some more. Let me know what you think!

Shellys Stripe Mid Heel Peep Toe Sandals

2009-06-29T11:05:00.002+01:00

It's not often I call a pair of shoes adorable, but that is exactly what these Shellys sandals are. They're very cute, and very practical, with a candy striped low heel, and they also come in a coral colour. I think these would be an ideal summery alternative to work footwear. They're fantastic for summer and are a great price, at £44.50.

You can buy them from ASOS here.

New shoes! (and a new dress)

2009-06-26T13:17:00.002+01:00

Yeah, so I got some new shoes a few days ago. Beyond delighted. Never taking them off. They'll get their first official outing at my cousin's wedding in August, a bright red dress with bright red soles sounds magicial to me. And here's the dress for further consideration...

I can't wait!

Lanvin Satin Peep Toe Mules

2009-06-26T11:45:00.006+01:00

While I don't know how practical these Lanvin dusky pink satin mules are for anywhere outside of the bedroom, I do know that they're gorgeous. And if I had £250 to spend on a bedroom shoe, these would be the ones that I would buy. I love the ruched fabric and the gold heel, and although I can't envision an outfit that doesn't contain anything more than fabulous underwear that would go with shoes like these, I do want them. But then that's nothing new for me.

If you feel the same way, but have way more money than I do, you can get them at the Browns sale for £250.

Marni Two Tone Plaforms

2009-06-22T14:11:00.004+01:00

Todays shoe of the day are these wonderful Marni Platforms, which are now nearly 50% off in the Browns Sale and are down to £180. I personally think these are wonderful, and a real statement shoe at an absolute bargain of a price. The tan and pink patent leather makes these shoes perfect for summer, if it ever decides to be summer weatherwise anyway! If you feel the same way, you can get them here.

Jimmy Choo for H&M

2009-06-17T13:42:00.004+01:00

The most exciting collaboration to be announced in ages! H&M announced today that they will be working with accessory giant Jimmy Choo to create a line of shoes and bags for the high street store. H&M and Jimmy Choo will also be working on a line of women's clothing to compliment the accessory collection.

With Jimmy Choo shoes usually selling for over £400 I can just imagine that there will absolute insanity at the stores when the line launches on November the 14th. Chaos ensued when the other collaborations launched, but I believe this one will most definitely be the worst. Shoe girls are far more vicious than clothes girls, for definite. I can see the carnage now.

Jimmy Choo's president Tamara Mellon said today she felt honoured to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M.

'It's such a privilege to design a collection to appeal to fashion savvy, street smart women.

'Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to wear out at night,'

And apparently men will be able to find out what Jimmy Choo is about too, and H&M and Jimmy Choo also plan to launch a mens shoe and bag line. I can't imagine there will be the same stampede though, can you?

From the first pictures, the shoes look excellent and I'm especially loving the black cut out sandals in the first picture. There is no word on prices yet, but hopefully it won't be the same as the Matthew Williamson line, where dresses sold for £250. If they are truly affordable prices (i.e. under £100), I will be thrilled about this. We shall see closer to the time!

Louboutin 'Miss Boxe 100' Wedge Pumps

2009-06-16T11:47:00.004+01:00

I've never really been one of these people who is massively into Christian Louboutin's shoes. They've always been a little too elegant for me, and I'm someone who likes my shoes to look a little bit tough, to have an edge about them. Louboutin's were always a little too ladylike to get me interested.

These 'Miss Boxe 100' limited edition python wedges on the other hand, have my heart racing. I love the colour, I love the style and if they weren't £607 I would have them on my feet at the earliest convenience.

If money isn't an issue, you can get them here, where they are exclusively available from Net-a-Porter.

Ugly Shoe of the Week: 'Roulette' heels by Carlos Santana

2009-06-15T16:49:00.005+01:00

I don't know about you, but when someone says the name, 'Carlos Santana', I don't think of shoe design. This has to be one of the most insane collaborations ever and brings up lots and lots of questions: Why did the long established and acclaimed Mexican guitarist Carlos Santana think it was a good idea to lend his name to a shoe range? And who would buy them? And what marketing exec even thought this would be a good idea? I haven't the faintest idea.

All I know is that he would be best stopping with this madness, because these shoes are fug.

I still don't understand why this line even exists to be honest, and these shoes aren't doing a whole lot to convince me, because I can pretty much guarantee 100% that vomit splattered peep toes? They aren't ever going to be on my shoe lust list. And just incase vomit pattern was not fabulous enough, they also come in a wide range of hilarious colours and patterns. Look!

Nope, not really getting any better really are they? But If you think otherwise though, you can these from Zappos for $88.95.

Maison Martin Margiela Disco shoe

2009-06-12T19:58:00.006+01:00

Ever fancied a pair of mirrorball heels? Wondered why you just cannot get shoes like that on the market these days...? Well Martin Margiela is here to solve all of your shoe desires with his Disco shoes which are possibly the most bling pair of shoes I've ever seen.

They look like something Beyonce would wear, which would normally be a total turn off for me, but there is something utterly hypnotic about these shoes and I just love them. They have a wincingly large price tag at £625 but wow, they are incredible.

If the price doesn't put you off and you feel you need to own them, you can get them HERE.

They're Baaaack!

2009-06-12T10:42:00.005+01:00

I know how many people have been desperately after the Melissa/Vivienne Westwood Lady Dragon heels since they first sold out. They have kept appearing on ebay for some time now at inflated prices but good news for everyone who still craves a pair, they're back in stock at Browns in peach and in blue!

They're also back at their original price too at £75 and won't last long, so if you want a pair, act quickly before they end up for £200 on ebay again! The peach are already only available in a 39, 40 and 41, and the blue are only available from a 38 upwards. If any of your sizes are still available you can get them at Browns now if you hurry!

Giuseppe Zanotti Buckle Detail Sandals

2009-06-10T19:17:00.006+01:00

These Giuseppe Zanotti sandals are pretty wonderful, and even more wonderful is the fact that they're only £182 at The Outnet right now, reduced from a jaw dropping £455. The tortoiseshell heel is a really unusual feature and puts an original stamp on what could have been a run of the mill black shoe. As with everything else on The Outnet, you have to move fast as things sell out quick, so if these are your thing click here before they're gone.

P.S There's also some new discount Louboutins, Choos, Rupert Sandersons and even more Guiseppe Zanotti at really good prices if you have some money to spend. So don't say I never give you anything!

Brian Atwood - Nappa Gold peeptoes

2009-06-10T11:36:00.003+01:00

Sigh.... such is the perils of being a shoe blogger that you're constantly looking at lust-worthy objects that you cannot afford. I am heartbroken on a daily basis, especially when confronted with these ridiculously beautiful Brian Atwood heels. They're magnificent, no? Unbelievably sexy, and glamorous and oh! I want them. The gold leather is so, gold, for lack of a better description, flowing and liquid, might be a better way to describe them. These shoes leave me speechless, it is definitely love at first sight here.

Sadly they are £398 from Matches, so I don't think they'll be on my feet anytime soon.

Internet bargains!

2009-06-09T13:08:00.009+01:00

Here are what I think are some of the best bargains to be had around the internet at the moment. Who needs physical shops now you have the internet? Much easier, and much less stressful...

Now these Miu Miu jewelled peep toes have been around for a while now, but I don't think I've ever seen them at as good a price as these. If you're the lucky owner of size 3 (36) or 4 (37) feet you can get these for a mere £125 from Flannels. Unfortunately for me, I'm a size 5, so they won't be winging their way to me anything soon. I am heartbroken, obviously.

Also at a really good price, are these F-Troupe flats, reduced from £70 to £35. I think they're adorable, but then red + bows are always a good mix in my opinion, especially when they have gold studded embellishments on the bow.

The same could be said about these Office 'Witchcraft' wedges although I don't know what is particularly witchy about them. I do know however, that they're gorgeous and that the florals and the pale green fabric work brilliantly against the raffia wedge. And yes, I know, they're another shoe with a bow. Sometimes I am too predictable.

They're only £20 though, so what more could you ask for? And if you're not so hot on the green, they also do them in black too.

Alexander McQueen: All the P's - Patent Platform Pumps

2009-06-09T10:54:00.003+01:00

Sometimes in life a girl just needs a sexy, ultra glam shoe to get her through the day and I think these fuschia platforms by Alexander McQueen are just the shoes to do that. Impossibly high at 13 cm, these heels will make you feel like a goddess and look like one too. Sigh, even the curve of the arch is beautiful. It's definite shoe lust from me.

If anyone knows of a cheaper alternative, let me know. But if you have the cash to splash out on these you can buy them from Net-a-Porter and I am so unbelievably jealous of you.

Aldo bargains!

2009-06-09T10:00:00.001+01:00

The Aldo sale has started again and there are some great bargains to be had. For example these 'Pattengale' heels, down from £80 to £39.98. I've had my eye on these for a while and now that they're 50% off they're even more attractive than before and unusual enough that you won't see them on other people when you're on a night out. They're very sexy too.

I love the black and snakeskin together and the brass buckles are a nice touch. You can get them here at the Aldo website.

Another bargain are these 'Rosselle' sandals, which are completely fab and again, reduced from £80 to £39.98 in the sale.

I think I like these more than the last pair actually. I am a big fan of wood heels, and I love the combination of the zebra and the dark brown leather straps and at a very good price. If you agree with me you can get them here, again at the Aldo website. Perfect summer shoes in my opinion.

New Look Pink Mesh Sandals

2009-06-08T15:30:00.000+01:00

It is not often that I think neon pink mesh heels with a silver platform are completely brilliant, but sometimes I even surprise myself. These are great aren't they? It's not me being delusional?I don't know what these would look like in the flesh, but I'm definitely tempted to go instore and check them out, because they are calling to me in a way that I would never have expected.

They look expensive to me, and more futuristic than stripper shoes, which I think these could have easily turned into if it wasn't for careful design. They're £40 at New Look and have a whopping 14cm heel, so not everyone will be able to manage them. They also come in black with a gold sole, but I think these look much fresher than the black pair.

Who needs neon pink mesh heels? I think I do!

Crazy hoarder woman strikes back: shoe edition

2009-06-08T13:00:00.005+01:00

Because I have no life, I decided to catalogue my shoe collection this weekend to see exactly what I have and what I want to give away or sell on ebay. There are 55 pairs in all, and I've probably got about 10 -15 pairs at my parent's house.

So here we go... my crazy/somewhat obsessive shoe collection:

High Heels

Click on the photo to enlarge.

From front left:

1.Barratts nude laced sandals, 2. Topshop burgundy peep toes, 3. Chloe satin criss cross sandals (with killer red heel), 4. Topshop blue suede ribbon tie heels, 5. New Look black courts.

6. Topshop orange slingback mary janes, 7. Primark gold mary janes (got these for £2!!) 8. Marc by Marc Jacobs pink and black heels, 9. Melissa fuschia Vinyls, 10. Red or Dead silver star heels.

11. Evans black purple and gold gladiators, 12. New Look black and white brogue heels, 13. United Nude stealth sandals, 14. Primark brown cut out laced shoeboots, 15. Aldo metallic heeled platforms (these are like 6 inches high and ridiculous to walk in).

16. From Ebay - tan and rope gladiators, 17. Louboutin-alikes (with red sole), 18. Georgina Goodman PVC heels, 19. New Look criss cross shoes (most comfortable heels ever), 20. Primark purple mary janes (more £2 shoes).

21. Office red criss cross sandals, 22. ASOS tortoiseshell courts, 23. Office high heeled sneakers, 24. Matalan orange ruffle shoe, 25. ASOS Marni-alike sandals.

High Heels pt 2.

Click to enlarge.

I couldn't fit them all in one photo, so here's the ones I had left over.

From front left:

26. Castaner ochre espadrilles, 27. Terry de Havilland silver and black wedges, 28. Vivienne Westwood Anglomania red mary janes

29.more New Look patent black courts (blah work shoes), 30. Barratts leopard print courts, 31. Fly London zip courts

32. Vintage grey granny shoes, 33. Primark slingback shoe boots, 34. Primark cream and black sandals.

Flat Shoes

Click to enlarge

From front left:

35. New Look tan gladiators,36.Primark suede bow flats (that everyone in England has), 37. Primark suede studded sandals

38. Office red bow flats, 39. Dorothy Perkins purple satin ruffle flats, 40. Marc Jacobs mouse flats (which are missing one eye :( it may be time to retire them)

41. Topshop gold mary janes (£7 in the sale), 42. Moda in Pella blue ballets flats, 44. Fit flops (ugliest shoes I own)

45. Nikes, 46. Vans Sk8 His, 47. Dr. Martens

Boots

Click to enlarge.

From front left:

48. My grey fluffy slippers, from Accessorize, 49. ASOS patent ankle boots with gold soles,

50. Per Una khaki witches boots, 51.Dolcis purple fringed ankle boots, 52. Ebay vintage black leather calf boots,

53. ASOS patent zipper boots, 54. Frye motorcycle knee boots (bargain of my life, reduced from £199 to £30!), 55. Schuh stone suede slouch knee highs.

And we're done. I think I really need to give some away, they are taking over my life and I have no space for them all.

Sigh....

Yay or Nay ? Ebay lace up shoes

2009-06-04T14:12:00.008+01:00

Today's Yay or Nay is a slightly more difficult choice than the last one. This weeks option is from ebay and are selling at £17.99 Buy it Now with £10 shipping from China and come in cream black or pink.

Part of me really likes them; the cream colour is fab, and I like the lacing detail, but the other part of me is wondering if I'm completely deluded and that these are seriously ugly. What do you think?

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