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Walter Steiger Leopard Print Pumps

Walter Steiger Leopard Print Pumps
Although leopard is a bold and trendy print, it is just as classic and timeless. Whether found in a handbag, a skirt, a scarf or a pair of pumps, leopard creates an effortless sense of sex appeal. Walter Steiger's Leopard Print Pumps ($804) encompasses this sexiness beautifully. Styled in a silk satin leopard print, Steiger's peep toe pumps have a 1/2 inch platform sole and a slightly arched heel that measures over 4 1/2 inches. To maximize on its wow factor, pair with a monochromatic outfit for a stunningly chic look.

Have tips or suggestions? Contact me @marsha712

Converse And Marimekko Launch Sneaker Collaboration


The partnership between Finnish textile and clothing design house Marimekko and shoe purveyors Converse is now online. The "Converse ♥ Marimekko" collaboration brings us Converse classics pepped up with the bright and boldly abstract Marimekko fabrics. In the video above Marimekko's design manager, Noora Niiininoski, explains that the brands are a natural fit for each other because they both have a timeless style. The new spring line ranges in price from $75 to $85. Marimekko seems to have an infinity for American brands, it also has a long-standing deal with Crate and Barrel.

[via Curbed]

Luxist Speaks to Lisa Sorrell about Cowboys and Sorrell's Custom Boots

Luxist Speaks to Lisa Sorrell about Cowboys and Sorrell's Custom Boots

Boots are special by dint of numerical minority: most people don't wear them, so we tend to notice them. As well, they present a larger palette for expression and are often expressive far beyond mere size. Yet the statements most boots make concern their wearers: the bella donna in an intoxicating pair of thigh-high Cavallis will probably have you wondering what other influences she might be able to exert on you.

But there is no archetypical wearer, no marble goddess eternally posing in an ur-Cavalli-thigh-high to which all subsequent thigh highs can pray for inspiration. (And yes, we do think that is a shame...)

Cowboy boots, on the other hand, speak to origins and a certain history in a way that few other boots do. Wellington wearers aren't trying to channel Napoleon's nemesis, nor are those in postilions likely to be anywhere near a coach – whereas the very point of a cowboy boot is to recall the men of the prairie. They are the Grecian urns of the American West, but instead of wine, their 10-inch, stitched and inlaid and tanned leather tops are portage for the overflowing, canteen-stained aura of "selfless, honest, independent, and self-reliant" loners.

And when you put them on, those are the waters in which you choose to dip your feet.

The problem, as with most cult relics, is that they are poorly understood. So Luxist spoke to custom boot maker Lisa Sorrell of Sorrell's Custom Boots – whose average boot runs $6,000 – to learn more about how the West was worn. One of the first things she told us: "I tell my customers that cowboy boots are a way for men to wear high heels and bright colors."

Poorly understood, indeed...


Barker Black Intros its More Affordable Spring/Summer 2011 Collection

Barker Black Intros its More Affordable Spring/Summer 2011 Collection

If you like Barker Black shoes but your accountant doesn't like the cost of donning them, then the brand's Spring/Summer 2011 collection might be the appropriate middle ground. There are eight slippes in washed linen and woven silk wool, four suede moccasins and three high-top sneakers.

The slippers can be had in black, natural, navy, charcoal or purple and all will be embroidered with "Death" on one foot and "Glory" on the other, in a contrasting color. The sued mocs range from cobalt to green to snuff brown, adorned with a silver crossbone. And the silk-striped high-top sneakers will come in deerskin or calf depending on your choice of orange, green, grey, black or white hue.
Instead of the the $775 entry to Barker Black's standard line, this new collection begins at $425 for the moccasins, $495 for the slippers and $550 for the sneakers. Well, except for the Hartwell slip-on wingtip loafer (pictured) in antique honey calf, which takes you back up to $775. You can get those for your accountant - we have a feeling he'll let that expense slide. They'll be available from March at Barker Black stores and online.

Emporio Armani x Reebok EA7

Emporio Armani x Reebok EA7
What happens when the Armani aesthetic comes to a sneaker? Emporio Armani EA7 and Reebok have created the EA7/Reebok ZigTech line. The Zig-Tech line is Reebok's line of shoes with distinctive zig-zag soles and this latest iteration is a continuation of the Armani/Reebok partnership which includes activewear and shoes. The whole line has a bit of a sci-fi-meets-sportwear aesthetic. Shown above is the rather architectural ZigLace shoe. The Reebok ZigPump which comes in silver with glossy patent inserts has midfoot strap to keep the foot in place and the classic Reebok pump mechanism.

Lanvin Patent Leather Wedges

Lanvin Patent Leather Wedges
Perhaps it's the excitement and Oscar buzz over Black Swan, but Lanvin's Patent Wedges ($1280) completely reminds me of the movie. I can just imagine Natalie Portman's character wearing these to show her femme fatale side. They are seductively gorgeous and have an air of powerfulness with shimmering patent leather, a nude colored silk ribbon ankle tie which beautifully breaks up all the black, and 1 1/2" platform that instantly forces you to take notice. A subtle detail that speaks volumes is the angled detail on Lanvin's 5 1/2" wooden wedge heels. Wear with wide leg pants for a conservative look or with a body hugging dress to show off your femme fatale side.

Manolo Blahnik On The Art Of Toe Cleavage

The February issue of Hemispheres Magazine contains an interview with the legendary Manolo Blahnik. The interviewer finds that the king of stilettos is as charming as his shoes. Blahnik, who is 68, still designs every shoe in his collection, first drawing them out on paper and later sculpting prototypes from beechwood. He opened his first U.S. shop in 1979 but didn't become a household name until "Sex And The City" turned his shoes into the ultimate aspirational footwear.

Blahnik for his part is sanguine about his lot in life saying that "things happen to me by accident. But now I love what I do and can't live without it." He's emphatic about hating exercise saying that he'd have been miserable in ancient Greece. As for shoes, the fabulous Manolo thinks toe cleavage ought to be subtle. He prefers pumps to sandals. Check out the complete article for his thoughts on the iPad, his favorite actresses and more.

Lisa for Donald J Pliner Barco Boots

Lisa for Donald J Pliner Barco Boots A basic brown boot with subtle leather detailing makes for a fashionable and classic look. The Barco ($165) by Lisa for Donald J Pliner has qualities of a motorcycle boot, but a chunky high heel and slim body creates a feminine and alluring feel.

While an over-the-knee boot can run a fine line between sexy and street walker, luckily the Barco has a balanced combination of casual chic and femininity. I especially love the braided detail and exposed metal studs. These accents allow for the boots to stand out but not be too flashy. They can be worn casually or dress them up for a night out.

Have tips or suggestions? Contact me @marsha712

Maison Martin Margiela Fold Over Boot

Maison Martin Margiela Fold Over Boot Straying away from the slim fitting, skinny high heeled tall boots, today we feature a rugged Fold Boot ($329) from Maison Martin Margiela.

It's a classically styled, no nonsense boot that can be comfortably worn all day, everyday. With features like a chunky heel and a round toe box, you can say goodbye to pains and aches.

Margiela's brown chunky boots would look ideal with leggings or steel gray skinny jeans contrasted with an ultra feminine top.

Have tips or suggestions? Contact me @marsha712

Kobe Bryant Stars In Robert Rodriguez Short Film For Nike


Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant is the latest celebrity to star in a short film for a brand. Bryant teamed up with director Robert Rodriguez for a new short filmed titled the Black Mamba which highlights Kobe's latest sneaker, the Nike Zoom Kobe VI. The film is short in Rodriguez's gritty Grindhouse style and also features Kanye West, Bruce Willis and Machete star Danny Trejo. In the six-minute film, West and Willis get to play villains with Bryant in the hero role, playing a sky-high game of basketball. The film will air on TV during the NBA All-Star break but a 30-second preview is shown above. This isn't the first time we've seen Kobe capitalize on his Black Mamba alter ego, he also has a Black Mamba watch.

The LA Times also reports that a three-pair set of Zoom Kobe VI sneakers called the Neighborhood Pack will be released. The pack represents different parts of Southern California. The East L.A. shoe is done in Dodger blue, the Hollywood show has a 3-D reptile print and the Orange Country shoe is orange with a translucent green sole and a sunset.

The film follows a slew of other short films for brands made by top directors. Some of the highlights include Zoe Cassavetes for Miu Miu, Eduardo Ponti's film for the W London, David Lynch for Dior, and Guy Ritchie for Dior.

Luxist Giveaway: Havaianas Love Sandals

Luxist Giveaway: Havaianas Love Sandals

If you're looking for an ideal casual Valentine's Gift, look no further than the new limited edition LOVE sandals from Havaianas. The Brazilian flip-flop giant has created the perfect mix of comfy footwear with an adorable red and gold design. If you're gifting your Valentine a classy ring, or any larger piece of jewelry, try tying it around a sandal strap as a fun way to wrap your gift. We love any gift that hints the spring sun is right around the corner.

The sandals are available exclusively on the Havaianas site for $24, and a small run is available for purchase now. Luxist has a pair to give away at random to one lucky reader. Just leave a comment on this post and we'll randomly select a winner this Friday, February 4th. Good luck!


* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed before February 4, 2011 at 5:00pm Eastern Time.
* You may only enter once.
* One winner will be selected in a random drawing and notified by email.
* One winner will receive the Love Sandals from Havianas, valued at $24.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

See full giveaway rules here.

This contest is now closed. Thank you for your particpation.

Snow Bunny Chic, Hot Looks For Cold Weather


The winter season is in full swing. And that means it's time to hit the slopes. Skiing is such an exhilarating sport and one that I've been learning for the past 5 years. As much as I love the sport itself - the anticipation that builds while your on the lift, the thrill you experience as you first rush down the mountain, the peace of mind you have as you find your rhythm and skillfully maneuver your way down to the bottom - I really enjoyed buying all the gear that comes with it.

Seeing D&G's Fall 2010 collection revived an excitement for hitting the slopes and looking as stylish as possible. Their collection was filled with traditional winter motifs but paired with unexpected pieces like a snowflake sweater bodysuit and reindeer full body all in ones. So to get you ready for ski season, we've gathered some fashionably chic ski gear essentials to not only keep you warm but also looking your best as you ski down the mountain slopes or lounge in front of a fireplace in the lodge.

Have tips or suggestions? Contact me @marsha712

Manolo Blahnik Turns Legendary Shoe Into A Charm

You'll soon be able to wear your Manolo Blahniks around your neck. Manolo Blahnik and TOUS have announced the launch of an jewelry collaboration featuring the designer's "Campari" shoe. Manolo Blahnik for TOUS will be launched this March in 300 TOUS boutiques world-wide, starting in Mexico and then Rockefeller Center in Manhattan.

The idea for the collaboration began with a fateful encounter. Manolo Blahnik met Rosa Tous at a luncheon in Madrid last summer and commented on the teddy bear pendant she was wearing. She said she would love for him to design a piece for TOUS and the idea was born to use the mary jane shoe 'Campari,' as a charm. Rosa added that the shoe should be dangling from a gold chain with a diamond button. And so began Manolo Blahnik for TOUS.

Alexander McQueen College Bootie

Alexander McQueen College Bootie
Alexander McQueen's Tan Booties ($1165) uniquely merges various trends to create a breathtakingly gorgeous pair of boots. Small cutouts along the sides outlined in white leather along with lace detailing offer a hint of sophistication and sexiness. McQueen's College Booties are styled in a complementing light caramel leather that accentuates the shape and adornments. A darker color would overpower the accents making them easily overlooked. While a skinny 5 1/3" heel won't fair so well in the snow, they are a perfect match to the boot's overall look.

Iris Van Herpen Platform Boots

Iris Van Herpen Platform Boots
Reminiscent of McQueen's unique armadillo shoe, Iris Van Herpen's Platform Boots ($1170) are just as unusually captivating. These unique boots are styled in jet black leather and glammed up with shimmering gold accents throughout the vamp to the toebox and along the back of the heel. Additional features include a hidden platform sole and a 4 1/3" heel. With such an over the top look, pair with skinny jeans, an understated top and playful accessories or contrast Van Herpen's hard edge platform boots with an ultra feminine dress and fitted black suit jacket.

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