Sole Looking for a Mate? Loeffler Randall's Ella is Available . . . at 70% Off

Remarkably, these adorable red Loeffler Randall cutout shoesies have somehow found their way to the 70% off clearance section at Shopbop. Not so remarkably, they seem to be available in just about every size but my own. I can only gaze covetously at them while cursing my size 7 1/2 feet for not being a bit smaller or just a shade bigger. At this price, it's tempting to go for the 8 and hope for the best, but LRs run pretty true to size and I've learned from past experiences that an oversized slingback is bound to be a pain. Plus, the final sale rules prohibit returns in case we don't work out.

If you're a 6, 8, 9, 10 or 10.5, they're yours for the taking. Loeffler Randall Ella Cutout Suede Heels, now $127.50 (originally $425).

Photos: www.shopbop.com

Casting Call: Be My Work Bag

It's been about three years since I splurged on a handbag, and the new job has inspired me to begin the search anew. I'll be auditioning various styles over the next couple of months, aiming for luxe but steering clear of all things "it." Though my workplace is relatively casual as far as dress codes go, I'd like something a bit more structured and serious, and after several years of toting around every color but black, I think I'm ready to get back to basics. This Marc Jacobs Paradise Rio bowler feels very right now, yet is classic enough to see me into old ladyhood.

$995 @ Barneys.

Hmmm. But so gorgeous in rich brown, too.

Photo credit: www.barneys.com

Fantasy Friday: Celine's Suede Dreams

In which we shop with imaginary money and indulge our fanciest fancies.

On a recent visit to Jeffrey, I was, for the first time ever, quite disappointed with the shoe selection, which usually has me clutching my wallet close, fearful that I might lose all control and unleash some inner Teenwolf-esque beast I've not yet reckoned with. To be fair, they were in between seasons -- with the summer sale rack already picked clean and fall shipments only just starting to trickle in, it made sense that there wasn't much to salivate over. I lingered over shoes I'd never normally consider, only because the thought of leaving Jeffrey's air-conditioned environs was none too appealing on a 90+ degree day. After a ten-minute go-round, I turned to leave, despondent yet relieved at not having emptied my wallet. And then, désastre! On my way out, I caught sight of this trio of sky high suede wedges from Celine Fall 2010. The picture does no justice these beauties -- they're so much lovelier in person.

The green called to me in particular, telling me to pay no mind to the others and reminding me of the time I passed up a gorgeous pair of green suede Miu Mius in favor of more practical, less interesting black. Unfortunately, this chance at redemption would cost me upwards of $800, and since I have never and should never part with such a sum for a pair of shoes which do not also possess magical powers, I quelled the stirrings within by reminding myself of all the starving people in the world that could be fed and clothed for a year on less than that, while silently praying they'd someday go on sale at a more conscience-friendly price. However, as I cast one last longing glance over my shoulder, I sensed that this encounter was to be both our first and last.
Photo: Michelle Sellers, Jeffrey New York

Summer Essentials: Madewell's Silk Shorts

Silk shorts. I like this idea.

However, they'd have to be structured enough to not pass for Victoria's Secret sleepwear, and it's probably not advisable to wear them in certain weather conditions (read: hot enough to induce sticking action). Fortunately, Madewell makes a pair that looks sporty enough to withstand summer heat, with enough style and elegance to banish any associations with bedtime apparel.

Boardwalk Shorts in nightfall, $72.

Photo: www.madewell.com

Shoe Be Doo Bop: Summer Sales are Prime for Shoe Picking

It's been an age since I had a proper shop-in so I'm happy to report that, due to the searing heat of the past several days, I've been forced indoors and have been merrily shopping away via laptop in the comfort of my air-conditioned abode. With summer sales in full swing, it's proven to be quite the fruitful spree, and I've managed to score a few pairs of shoes on the cheap. I'm trying not to go too crazy, as I need to save the monies for the upcoming Barney's Warehouse Sale (yes, despite swearing up and down to the contrary I'm going again -- apparently the elbow stabs and emotional scars inflicted by the hordes of rabid shoe fiends have faded into distant memory) as well as a pair of gorgeous Celine wedges (to be divulged in this week's Fantasy Friday post).

Some recent scores:

Over at The Outnet, I managed to find the anthracite/silver version of the pretty green Vanessa Bruno Athé flats that were stolen at my birthday party. Though they're a poor substitute for my lost loves, I still like them. Beware, though -- I'm a US size 7.5 and decided to choose an 8 for extra room. When I put them in my shopping cart, this somehow converted into an French 37, which the website's sizing guide will tell you fits more like a US 6. My roommate, who is a true 6, tried them on and confirmed this. I'm somehow still able to wear them (they're just a tad snug, but the suede should give way), but I thought I'd give you a heads up in case you're considering them. Vanessa Bruno Athe Studded suede ballerina flats, $146 (originally $325).

I also picked up a pair of studded Vanessa Bruno Athé sandals (I can't help it -- she just manages to do studs in such an appealing, understated way). After wearing them today, I quickly realized why they were on sale. They hurt something awful. The strap that wraps around the ankle dug into my skin all leech-like, and soon it was all redness and pain. Being that I have freakishly miniscule, child-sized ankles, I can't imagine that they'd fit a normal person. Vanessa Bruno Athe Studded leather flat sandals, $145 (originally $290).

They also had these adorable yellow suede boots, which look like sunshine in boot form.  They're not my style, but I'd love to see a much chicer someone else wear them. Any volunteers? Vanessa Bruno Athe Suede knee-high boots, $166.25 (originally $475).

Photos: www.theoutnet.com

Grey in the Key of Summer

Grey is an oft-repeated color in my wardrobe, a year-round staple seen more than my friends can stand. I can't seem to dress myself without putting on at least one piece of gris, be it heather or slate, French or dove, putty or smoke. Summertime is no exception, though I tend to go a little lighter in both hue and weight, ditching the rich woolens in favor of slippery silks, and trading chunky weaves for sheer burnout cottons.

Three fine examples of grey gone summer:


I find that grey looks more warm-weather appropriate when it has a bit of a purplish tone to it. Purple + Sage combine to form the loveliest of greys in this Pins and Needles Silk Button Down Lace Skirt, $58 @ Urban Outfitters.

A feather-print dress in a featherweight fabric is gorgeous for summer. Add a sprinkle of small studs and it becomes perfection. $48 @ Need Supply.

It looks lovely in a light suede, and these Nova suede peep-toe heels are adorable (not to mention very reminiscent of Coclico). $62 @ Need Supply. Also available in navy and black.

Photos: 
1) www.urbanoutfitters.com
2-4) www.needsupply.com

Montauk On My Mind: Beach Weekend Essentials from Steven Alan

Since I moved to New York, I've been dying to spend a summer weekend in Montauk, and three years in, it's high time I made it happen. Steven Alan's seaside accoutrements are the perfect form of inspiration.

On a recent trip to the West Village location, I fell in love with a bin full of gorgeous, extra large beach blankets and found it impossible to choose just one. $48 each.

A splash of orange livens up a simple bikini. Mociun triangle bikini top and boy short bottoms in coral/charcoal, $115 each. Also available in a one-piece. 

Sunbleached stripes for collecting shells along the seashore. Perry Dress, $225. Available in three different colors.

Looks great belted, too. I wish this Sunshine and Shadow belt was still available. UPDATE: Commenter Melanie, who helped me find a blue version of the belt way back when, has come through a second time with this equally amazing black and white one, on sale at Mohawk for $87 (was $174). Thanks, Melanie!

I'd love to own this gorgeous weekender (the fruit of SA's collaboration with V Australia) but it probably costs more than my entire fantasy weekend. I love the nautical details, and the bottom has a separate compartment for storing wet swimwear! V Australia + Steven Alan Perfect Bag, yours for a cool $777.

Still missing from this adventure: a straw hat, Persol sunnies, and the perfect pair of espadrilles.

Photos: www.stevenalan.com

Maxed Out: Splendid's Long, Lean Dresses Offer Summer Style with Coverage

So much has happened during my nearly-three-week hiatus! While in the midst of an epic client pitch at work, I simultaneously started summer school and embarked on a flurry of interviews, which brought me a new gig. My aging, long-suffering computer finally went kaput, prompting me to invest in a new MacBook Pro. Spain took the World Cup. The Urban Outfitters on Broadway burst into flames. Trader Joe's opened in Chelsea. Both Hollister and Abercrombie and Fitch were invaded by bedbugs, causing me to maintain a distance of a few hundred yards from any pedestrians wielding shopping bags from aforementioned stores, now and forever. My life has changed.

Now that the dust has settled, I am back and will try my best not to disappear on you too often. And without further excuse or ado, here's today's post.

It's hotter than Hades, and from the looks of it, New Yorkers can hardly keep their clothes on in this oppressive heat and humidity. Though less clothing makes perfect sense, sometimes a gal can grow weary of wearing skin-baring nothings, day in and day out. Perhaps your sun-scorched skin is in need of  protection, the AC at your office leaves you quaking with cold, or its been a wee bit too long since your legs met a razor. Enter Splendid's maxi dresses. Supremely soft and lightweight, they offer enough cross-ventilation to keep the body cool on the city streets, while allowing you to cover up. Throw on a belt or summer scarf to break it up, or a denim jacket if the night turns brisk.

Splendid Cotton racer-back maxi dress, $125 @ Net-a-Porter.

Splendid Strapless jersey maxi dress, $115 @ Net-a-Porter. Black is currently sold out.

In case you develop an addiction, Net-a-Porter also has some Fall-appropriate option with sleeves from Alexander Wang and The Row.

Photos: www.net-a-porter.com