If The Shoe Doesn't Fit

$50 Xperience Days Giveaway

2012-03-12T00:17:00.005-04:00

Have you ever wanted to try something new? Not just a new pair of shoes (that's always good too), something like skydiving, rock climbing, or high speed racing? Maybe you'd rather stay grounded so perhaps wine tasting, cooking classes or a chocolate tour sound better to you. Or maybe you're looking for an awesome, unique gift to give to someone. Well, Xperience Days has the coolest selection of experience gifts you can find!

Xperience Days has thousands of awesome gifts you can choose from nationwide. There are tons of options including a relaxing Day at a Spa, an exciting Drive in a Race car, a chartered Sailing Excursion, a breathtaking Aerobatic Plane Ride or Dance Lessons! there's something for everyone...and Shoenistas, you can change your shoes for every outing! :-)

Seriously, I would love to do sooo many of the things Xperience Days offers! I'd have a hard time choosing between the Saks Fifth Avenue Club Experience, Perfume Making, and a Trapeze Class.

The fantastic news is that the wonderful folks at Xperience Days are giving a $50 gift certificate to one lucky ITSDF blog reader. The winner will be able to put it towards their own Xperience Day. Prices range from $44 and up for Xperience Days depending on the activity and location, so the winner will be able to have a fantastic time!
Enter today! Good Luck!

I received no compensation for this post.

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How To Accessorize

2012-03-08T06:44:00.003-05:00

Every shoe obsessed woman loves

her bags and accessories as well!

Today's guest blogger Hannah Gale shows us

how to use accessories to make our outfits!

Accessories can make or break an outfit. A wild pair of stilettos and a bright, oversized clutch can instantly bring a little black dress back to life, or they can do the opposite – turn a simple yet graceful piece into something trashy and garish.

It’s always been said that you should match your shoes to your handbag, but I’m about to throw out the rule book. For me, it’s not so much matching, but ensuring that you’re accessories work as a team, often in styles and colours that co-ordinate.

For example, a red patent handbag and matching pair of court shoes, would for me, be a fashion nightmare. Instead I’d team that handbag with a pair of black heels, because black and red are a known colour pair. They don’t try and outshine each other, they are seen as classic colours and therefore match but in a more subtle way.

It’s not just colours either. You wouldn’t team a pair of trainers with a sparkling clutch, or a floor-sweeping gown and strappy sandals with a slouchy satchel, they contradict each other too much.

Here’s my top 3 handbag and shoe combinations for this summer, for a little bit of accessory inspiration, because let’s face it – we all have off days.

1. The platform heel and oversized envelope clutch – This look is one for the fashionistas, it’s the on-trend combo for 2012. I love it because it’s got an element of practicality to it – the shoes are more comfortable and the bag space more generous. This look conveys a glamorous image, and although great for evenings worn with a nice dress, can also be worn with jeans and a sweater for an A-list daytime look.

Envelope Clutch: Tory Burch

Heels: Miu Miu

2. The summer sandals and the hobo – For me this look is best when it has a tribal edge. It’s the perfect downtime combination when the weather’s warm, great for lazy days at the beach. It’s practical and comfortable, and this look can be worn easily regardless of age, my favourite colours to go for here are brown, with splashes of neon and metallic to liven it up.

Bag: Salvatore Ferragamo

Shoes ProenzaSchouler

3.The wedge and statement bag – this one is a typical summer look. A great pair of strappy woven wedges and a big summery statement bag – this can be a bright colour, or a fun floral print. This is a great look for going for dinner, or to the movies, and always puts a smile on my face because warmer weather is on the way. I think this is also a great combination for work as it’s smart and yet colourful.

Bag: Gucci

Shoes: Jimmy Choo

Hannah Gale from BagServant.co.uk – An online handbag destination which features bags from high-street to vintage and designer. As well as featuring your favourite brands, we also blog about hot new styles, our favourite trends and celebrity style.

Running shoes: fashion accessory or practical sports utility?

2012-03-06T06:44:00.008-05:00

Are running shoes about style or function?

Today's guest blogger Chelsea Johnson

takes a look at how we got to many of

our current running shoe perceptions!

It's a matter of some debate where and when running shoes originated.

Some people are also keen to debate exactly when they make the transition from being simply things worn for the practical purposes of participation in sports to being a fashion accessory.

Of course, you may not be terribly interested! Yet this subject may affect your choice of running shoes even today.

Times past

If you look at some old Victorian photographs of men or women playing tennis or getting ready to run, you'll see that they are wearing some sort of shoe or boot that appears to be designed for the job.

Just how technologically advanced they were may be open to some doubt but what can be said is that the idea of sports shoes is nothing new.

In fact, the traditional British mainstay of early sports shoe was the Plimsoll (known as sand shoes in some other English-speaking countries) and this goes back to the 1830s. They’re also still widely made and used today though perhaps rather less for running as such.

By the early years of the 20th century, some US manufacturers were beginning to make a form of shoe specifically designed for baseball and running. These they called sneakers.

From the earliest days, sneakers were something of a fashion icon and perhaps were worn by some as much for their looks as their practical sporting capabilities

Jump forward to the 1920s and you will occasionally see photographs of people in social situations such as parties or cocktails and they appear to be wearing what are, to all intents and purposes, sports shoes - though in some cases these continue to be the traditional Plimsoll.

What seems to be clear is that sports shoes have been around for a long time and that they have had a use in non-sporting environments also.

Today's world

There are now almost innumerable versions of comfortable running shoes for all conditions that also look good too.

Some of these are spiked and specifically designed for the track. Others are made of a variety of high-tech materials and are aimed rather more at things such as jogging or hard surface middle to long-distance running etc.

Since the 1970s or 1980s, manufacturers have increasingly woken up to the realization that not only do their running shoes need to be designed to give the maximum support to an athlete’s foot but that they also may need to serve as fashion statements in social circumstances.

If you are purchasing running shoes today, the good news is that excluding highly specialized shoes for track events, you may be able to select a shoe that will serve you equally well whether you are out pounding the pavements or simply heading off to visit the shops.

The one thing you can be sure of is that you will have plenty of choice available!

Chelsea Johnson is a blogger with a passion for fashion! Whether she is writing about jewellery, clothes or even comfortable running shoes for all conditions, Chelsea’s enthusiasm for looking fantastic brims over!

5 of Hollywood's Most Memorable Red Carpet Fashions of 2011

2012-03-01T06:44:00.002-05:00

Award season...yup it's that time again...

no doubt we'll see lots of interesting fashions!

Today's guest blogger Emily looks back

at some of 2011's most interesting Red Carpet looks

http://style.mtv.com/2011/12/16/best-lady-gaga-fashion/

You have to wonder if there was some sort of back room contest taking place to see who could produce the most over-the-top red carpet outfit in 2011. While no one could rival Lady Gaga’s meat dress from the 2010 Grammys, there were certainly some memorable entries that we saw last year.

1. Helena Bonham Carter

This eccentric British actress never disappoints in providing us with a breather from the dull and predictable. Her outfit of choice for the 2011 Oscars was a quirky, black velvet dress by "Alice in Wonderland" costume designer Colleen Atwood. The corseted dress was a nod to the 18th century and her demented Goth fashion leanings. The finishing touch was a lot of leg accessorized with a Union Jack garter belt.

HollywoodReporter.com

2. Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s wore an Alexander McQueen costume to the 2011 Bambi Awards that was dubbed the “Post-Apocalyptic White Swan" by the fashion media. The head-to-toe creation is armored on top and intricately layered with tiered ruffles from the waist down. Lady Gaga managed to give the bold dress extra shock value by replacing the lace headdress originally featured on the runway with a helmet that matches the metal bodice.

3. Nicki Minaj

The only way to describe Nicki Minaj’s 2011 Grammy Givenchy outfit is to compare it to the “Bride of Frankenstein” meets a leopard. Her hair was a platinum skyscraper with a random black streak that suddenly produced a leopard print short fringed hairdo. The animal print theme continued with a high collared dress that tied at the neck and leopard print tights, gloves and boots.

Hollywood Reporter

4. Katy Perry

Katy Perry floated down the red carpet 2011 AMA awards looking like an angel - literally. Her Giorgio Armani, Swarovski encrusted gown was made of white satin and featured a long, cascading train and wings on her back. The look was slightly bizarre, ethreal and beautiful but fashion critics were not impressed with this red carpet choice. What fashion critics fail to realize is that this diva dresses for impact that will keep them talking.

5. Jesse J

British songtress Jessie J turned heads at the "2011 VH1 Soul celebrates Divas" award show with an edgy haircut and a gaudy Falguni and Shane Peacock dress. The confusing and revealing black and gold floor-length gown featured heavy gold embroidery and the grandma panties and bra awkwardly concealed her lady parts.

While 2012 is still new, without a doubt we have already seen some stunning outfits. Only time will tell if they can outdo any of these radical outfits for 2011! Snooki already has pulled out some interesting personalised t shirts and bootie shorts of course and if the rumor is true that she has a little guidette in the oven, there may be a whole new generation hitting the red carper soon!

Emily is a blogger who enjoys writing about the latest fashion trends and celebrity gossip.

Animal Print Shoes

2012-02-28T06:44:00.002-05:00

We know you've got animal magnetism,

but it's the animal... print that is...

on your feet that everyone's talking about this season!

Today's guest blogger Liberty

helps look at the latest in animal print trends!

Animal print is an enduring trend, and seems to be big news on the catwalk season after season; from the classic leopard print to mock- snakeskin and zebra stripes. While some of us are brave enough to pull off the top-to-toe animal print look, others would prefer a more demure take on the trend, and that’s where shoes can be the perfect way to showcase it; by providing a playful flash of print you can add a bit of sophisticated edge to any outfit. The best thing about animal print is that it can be dressed up or down, and it works well as a pattern on both flats and heels.

Five Of The Best

Give a seductive edge to your footwear with these multi-tone shoes by Christian Louboutin. With their exotic-skin print, these heels will be the most prized pieces in your accessory repertoire; and the graphic approach to leopard print makes them stand out from the norm. Wear with a simple black top and a colour-pop skirt.

Put a fashion-conscious foot-forward in these bi-colour high heel shoes by Chloe. With their contrast-tone python panels, these luxe accessories are the perfect homage to the textural trend, and the chunky heel is hot right now, too.

Punctuate your look with some serious style in these black and leopard-print Scarlett embellished shoes by Sam Edelman. Slip them on with thigh-skimming shorts for a fierce finishing touch to any outfit!

Step into summer and tap into on-trend highlighter hues with these faux python and neon sandals by Stella McCartney. Add vibrant denim and a rainbow stripe top for a fashion-forward daytime ensemble, or pare it down with a black dress for a simple but effective evening look.

Last but not least; keep a stylish step this season in these multi-tone leopard-print shoes by Tory Burch. Wear these fashion-forward flats with chic urban apparel for a spot-on finish.

Liberty is a UK based fashion blogger currently writing on behalf of Matches Fashion, who sell designer dresses and shoes.

All images courtesy of Matches Fashion.

Sam Edelman Boot Giveaway!

2012-02-27T09:21:00.003-05:00

It went so well, we're gonna do it again!

If The Shoe Doesn't Fit, the auction site for shoe lovers, is giving away a pair of brand new Sam Edelman Shaolin Boots Smokestack Grey thanks to a donation from one of their vendors Sadiesmom. You can see some of the cool shoes she has for sale in her store at Sadies Shoes.

Note: This giveaway is for a pair of size 8M boots, brand new in their box!

Some details about these fabulous boots:

Faux fur and suede upper in a pull-on dress knee-high boot style with round toe
Adjustable collar with toggle closure
15 inch shaft height, 13 1/2 inch circumference collar
Textile lining, cushioned insole
Rubber traction outsole
3 1/2 inch heel
MSRP $199

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Oscar Winning Shoes

2012-02-26T16:54:00.001-05:00

The Oscars are upon on and are you as excited as I am to see all of the fashionable dresses and of course the shoes?! There are several different shoe designers who are all vying for celebrities attention this year (and the last year at the Oscars too): Atwood, Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Roger Vivier, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Sergio Rossi are all a few of the main designers to date.

Gwenyth wore these stunning Brian Atwood "Martina" ankle strap pumps!

Michelle Williams wore sparkly Jimmy Choo shoes last year,

except they were the “Crown” pump closed version, not the

open toes version that you're seeing above.

Mandy Moore wore Jimmy Choo “Viola” sandals last year

underneath her gorgeous champagne gown.

Sweet looking Hailee Steinfeld walked the

Red Carpet in satin Ferragamos shoes last year.

Check out the Prada shoes on Carey Mulligan (below)!

Even though I couldn't track down a pair of Christian Louboutin

shoes on a star on the Red Carpet,

I'm sure we'll be seeing Christian Louboutin shoes

and many other stunning pumps

this year on beautiful actresses.

I'd love to see a shoe like this {Christian Louboutin} on an actress:

Stunning, right?

So are you looking forward to the Oscars?

Enjoy watching the Academy Awards!

Finding the perfect pregnancy shoes

2012-02-23T06:44:00.003-05:00

Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman's life,

but sometimes she needs a little help finding shoes

that will keep her feet feeling fabulous. Today's guest blogger Olivia

will help us find the right shoes for this special time of our lives!

Once you've got your positive pregnancy test, the chances are that you will be running to the lady's room every five minutes because of the onset of pregnancy signs like morning sickness and a magically re-filling bladder. Later on, as your baby bump grows, your center of gravity will decidedly shift. All that extra weight will also put some strain on your lower body, especially the ankles and feet. And then there are swollen ankles! But where do find the perfect pregnancy shoes?

It's obvious that stiletos are out. In fact, women wondering how to get pregnant can start with ditching killer heels, along with taking their folic acid! They put pressure on all the wrong places, make most pregnant women look and feel really clumsy, and definitely encourage falls and slips. Pregnant women should also stay away from shoes that make them scrunch up their feet because they are too small, or the back keeps popping off.

Flip-flops make some women tense up their feet constantly, though others are used to them and find them comfy. Tense feet may cause cramps, and will affect the way you walk, and your body's posture. Shoelaces are a nightmare for moms to-be who can't even see their own feet. I was stubborn and stuck to my lace-up Timberland boots, but surrendered in my seventh month of pregnancy... after I had to ask a shop-assistant at a maternity store to help me get them back on! Boy, that was embarrassing.

Finding the right shoes is clearly not as easy as it sounds! Ballet pumps may seem like the ideal shoe to pregnant women who like to look fashionable or have a dress code to adhere to at work. But beware — those shoes with a very thin sole and no heel at all won't offer an expectant mom the kind of support she needs. Shoes with a sole that's completely smooth underneath are risky, because it's easy to slip up on them, particularly while you are expecting a baby.

What does that leave? Trainers are probably the most comfy and they keep the wearer's health in mind, but they are hardly suitable for every situation. In hotter weather, pump-style shoes with a tiny heel can be a great choice for pregnant ladies who like something more elegant. Pick good, flexible leather or fabric for those swollen ankle days — and make sure that they either offer good support themselves, or that you add orthopedic insoles. During the winter, boots with the same qualities are probably the best choice. Do make sure you can get them on unassisted before you buy!

Olivia, a mom of two, is passionate about female health and fertility. Visit her blog, Trying To Conceive , for everything from how to get pregnant to weight loss after pregnancy.

Our First Shoe Giveaway!

2012-02-20T06:44:00.028-05:00

If The Shoe Doesn't Fit, the auction site for shoe lovers
wants to give you some shoes!

Why? Just because we like you!

It's our first shoe giveaway!

Manufacturer suggested retail is $84.99

These pretty Lolita shoes from Pinup Couture come in a variety of colors all with a nice 5 1/4 inch platform. Pinup Couture is cool retro and vintage-inspired footwear. We liked them... so we are giving them to one lucky winner. It might be you!

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Shoecology

2012-02-18T08:32:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post for my fellow shoenistas to let you know that you are not alone. While you may be misunderstood by those who don't understand your deep need for shoes - I understand. In fact, I have come up with the perfect explanation for you to use.

Next time you come home with another pair (or three or five) of shoes and your guy starts complaining, you should tell him that buying shoes is important. It is therapy.

He may not be convinced right away, but don't worry about that. This trick is fail-proof! If he doesn't buy into the "therapy" theory, there is a back-up plan.

My husband sometimes says that I always shop, but I still always complain that I have nothing to wear. Well, I suppose I have failed at shopping for shoes. I have been shopping for 20 years and still have not found the right pair of shoes!

And that, my darling, is why I need to shop for shoes a lot more. It is therapy!

Designer vs Cheap: Why Paying for Designer Shoes is Ultimately Worth It!

2012-02-16T06:39:00.002-05:00

We've all wondered whether expensive designer brands are worth it.

Today's guest blogger Zoe shares with us some thoughts about why

designer shoes are a good value at any price! Check it out!

In today's tough financial times it's always the best option to seek out a bargain. We've all celebrated finding a great cashmere bargain, a reduced rump steak or a half-price Dior lipstick. But is the cheap option always the good option? After all, a silk dress for $40 is fantastic, until it falls apart after two weeks. Your designer silk dress might be $400 but if it lasts you 10 years, you've only spent $40 a year, which certainly beats $20 a week. Finding a designer bargain is tricky. Designer ladies boots aren't always plentiful in charity shops, as people tend to hang on to them. But some things really are worth paying for.

Materials used in shoes such as ladies designer boots and high street heels play a big role when it comes to a product's price. An exotic snakeskin or speciality leather will obviously set you back more than something in basic leather, and Swarovski crystals break the bank far more than rhinestones. These aren't the only things that affect shoe pricing though.

Creating comfortable and quality shoes takes time, effort and research. The costs of manufacturing as well as the methods involved also vary massively. Designer ladies boots and shoes will often use handcrafting techniques and these are paid for each time a new pair of shoes is produced. High Street shoes will usually be made using machines that don't need paying by the hour and increasingly cheap labour is being employed abroad, raising ethical questions.

If you see a pair of shoes you just can't live without, it stands to reason that a talented designer is behind them and that costs money! Time, creativity and the ability to produce uniqueness - that's definitely worth your money in the long run. There's more to a pair of Louboutins than their iconic red sole.

However, this doesn't necessarily suggest that a pair of designer $400 shoes will be 10 times better or more comfortable than its $40 High Street equivalent. Some of the time, a designer label costs more because there are people out there who will pay more for the exclusivity and label prestige.

Designer ladies boots and shoes are often copied (or paid homage to) on the High Street. What's hot on the catwalk will always make its way eventually to Topshop, Faith and even Primark. But if you want to be wearing the real McCoy your best bet is to buy designer and enjoy admiring glances from fashion-forward women who know shoes.

If you want to guarantee that the ladies designer boots or high street flip-flops you're contemplating buying are right for you, the best thing to do is try them on. Walk around for a few minutes and you'll get an idea of whether or not they're worth $500 or $25. Take friends with you who will give you an honest opinion on whether the shoes suit you and then whether they suit your bank balance!

Zoe is an avid blogger and experienced freelance writer, and loves to share her knowledge through content on the internet. Zoe is currently writing on behalf of heritage handbag and footwear brand Jane Shilton.

Boots! Boots! Boots!

2012-02-14T17:00:00.000-05:00

Our boots are the best when we buy them,

but keeping them that way isn't always easy!

Today's guest blogger Danae Matthews

shares some great ways to keep out boots beautiful!

We love our boots don’t we ladies? They are the perfect way to step up any outfit and give it a little vava-voom. But boots, especially tall or over-the-knee, can pose one constant problem after wear, where to put them? At least I know that this is my main problem.

So frequently I see my beloved winter companions slouched over in my closet, getting banged around and I wish that I had a better solution to store them. Well ladies, we’re in luck because in case you didn’t know there have been some major boot storing revolutions made in the last couple of years!

Boot Boxes, Amazon.com $30.00 for set of five

Great for storing out of season boots, boot boxes are tall boot storage containers that are lidless. They simply open from the front or the back and that way can stack one on top of the other with access. They protect your boots from mold and temperature damage, as well as give you a great visual of the contents inside!

Boot Hooks, Container Store, $9.99

For the few lucky women with closet space to share boot hooks are a great way to store boots, as well as keep them from slouching over.

Boot Holder, Container Store $4.99

Boot stands are great because they keep your boots in perfect pairs, upright, and can easily go from the closet floor to the hanging rack!

Boot Shaper, Container Store, $9.99

One of my personal favorites, the boot shaper goes inside of your boot and on your closet floor. Not only does it keep your boots perfectly in shape all season, but it keeps them from being a crumpled mess when you actually go to use them.

Danae Matthews writes for the on-line women’s health resource, Women’s Health Base. On WHB she keeps her on tip and lifestyle blog, Danae’s Corner.

Happy Valentines Day...to Me!

2012-02-14T10:46:00.000-05:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Valentines Day! I hope you have someplace to go and someone to spend it with...if not, you can be like me and spend money instead! :-)

I'm deciding which pair of "love"ly shoes to treat myself to today. Any suggestions?

These are my choices:

This might be the only way I get flowers today...

These look fun and funky from Vivienne Westwood!

I always fall in love with Badgley Mischka - especially these!

These look nice too - a dark red and a bit conservative - but probably comfy!

So what do you think? Any of these or can you suggest something else?

Shoetastic Crafts

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Since it is the month of love, I decided to let my creative juices flow and come up with some ideas with which to spruce up the celebrations. In addition to Valentine's day, we will also be celebrating hubby's and my anniversary and my birthday this month. Seeing all the delicious and creative recipes got me started on a new creative tangent.

So it happened that I found some cute ideas on Pinterest. All the great craft ideas not only inspired me for the month but for school projects, ornaments around the house and much more.

Do you know what these are? They are shoe-licious cupcakes! They are so cute that I am thinking of trying them out tomorrow and then making them for each celebration as well. I adore cupcakes and shoes equally and this is the perfect combination. You are right - they are probably too pretty to eat... HAHAHA!! Who am I kidding? Saying no to cupcakes? Not likely!

A friend will always appreciate a pretty handmade greeting card and what better than a shoe card? Use some beads, ribbons and pretty paper and you will be BFFs - forever. It is also a great idea for market day at your child's school.

Kids bored? Give them a bucket of Lego and tell them to make you some shoes. I don't suggest you wear them. We all know what happens when you trip over a loose Lego - it usually happens in the middle of the night...

Preschool girls usually just love dressing up in Mom's shoes. However, if you help her make her own shoes, she can design them in any way she wants to.

Have you ever done shoe crafts? What is the coolest craft you have seen or created?

Clear the Path for Color Blocked Shoes

2012-02-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Color blocked is not only trendy, it's fun and fabulous!

If you feel like wearing a pair of jeans and a white tee,

I think color blocked shoes spice up the look!

I happen to love this trend right now. It mixes colors

together beautifully and the patterns are delicious.

I never used to like different patterns and colors paired

together, but now I'm crazy over it!

So what do you think?

Are you in love with the color blocked shoes

to wear during this season and beyond?

I think color blocked shoes are fantastic if you need rescuing

from an outfit you're not sure what to do with.

Sometimes all I want to do is throw on a pair of jeans or a black skirt,

paired with a simple top, and be on my way.

Color blocked shoes bring the perfect pop of color and

style to any ensemble!

I can't wait to get a pair of color blocked shoes soon.

Why Your Wardrobe Should Definitely Include Knitwear in 2012

2012-02-09T06:36:00.004-05:00

Staying fashionable is about more than just shoes

(yes, I actually said that), and today's guest blogger Elliott Jones

helps us understand why knitwear is a critical part of our 2012 wardrobes!

Knitwear has sometimes had to live with the tag of being a little old fashioned and the kind of thing that your parents, or grandparents, would wear. 2011, however, saw an increasing number of major fashion catwalks feature an extensive range of knitted products.

Perhaps we should not be overly surprised by knitwear making a comeback, as there has been a growing trend amongst the younger generation, for some time, towards craft as a hobby. This may have been one of the sparks for its current resurgence, and there is little doubt that, in 2012, knitwear should be represented in your wardrobe.

Some of the major high street retailers such as Crew Clothing and Topshop have introduced new ranges of knitwear, reflecting the recent upsurge. Several top models, such as Claudia Schiffer, have also launched their own knitwear range.

Although knitwear is often considered suitable for the colder winter months; it can, just as easily, be worn during the summer. The Miya cardigan by Crew Clothing (around $70) is a good example of this. Lightweight and stylish; if worn over a simple tee shirt, it gives the wearer a fashionable appearance without being heavy and bulky. The Crew Clothing range this year leans towards a nautical look, with items such as the Hanley Knit and the Nautical Tunic especially reflecting this.

Being one of the major British retailers of clothing (and soon to be a global brand), Topshop have a wide range of not only styles, but different types of knitwear to suit all seasons.

The following is a rough guide to the type of knitwear available from Topshop, but is applicable to all knitwear products:

Ripple Knit
Rippled knit knitwear is usually two toned, with bands of alternate colours. The stitching is inverted to give a wave like appearance. The current fashion towards a boxy style makes these ideal with tapered trousers.

Fisherman’s Knit
Originally designed to be worn by fisherman during cold fishing trips, this design has been around for many years, proving itself popular due to its warmth and thickness.

Box Stitch
Another thick item of knitwear that uses box stitch; these can be worn loosely and casually. The ideal item to wear around the house, yet with a bit of adapting, works well for an evening out.

(Northly Knit by Crew Clothing ($130)

Cable Knit
Sometimes referred to as Aran sweaters; these chunky tops will remind you of the 1970’s if you lived through that era.

(Knitted Crest Cable Jumper by Topshop ($60))

Lace
One of the most popular styles on the catwalk last year, lace makes excellent knitwear for that special night out.

Pointelle Knit
Created by dropping a stitch deliberately, this pattern creates a ‘holey’ design and is suitable for casual wear around the house, or, accessorized, for a casual night out.

Mesh Knit
As the name suggests, this design is based upon medieval armour, giving a mesh like appearance. This design is often popular with the alternative crowd, and is ideal for wearing with skinny jeans for those looking for a fashionable grunge look.

So, wherever you choose to shop for knits this season, you will find a wide range of styles to suit all tastes and occasions and, with the unpredictability of our weather, and knitwear’s resurgence; it is a great item to have in your wardrobe for 2012.

This article was written by Elliot, on behalf of Crew Clothing. Crew offer a range of men’s and women’s clothing, and have recently expanded their range to include a junior range.

Fahionable Running Shoes

2012-02-07T06:15:00.000-05:00

You can’t run if you don’t have the right shoes!

Jason, our guest blogger today is going to help us learn

how to look good and feel good when we’re off and running!

On your mark, get set, go!

Just because you're going for a run doesn't mean you can't look stylish. Today's running shoes combine technical features and function with a fair degree of fashion, allowing even the most dedicated runner to sport an athletic-chic vibe that looks as great running errands around town as it does hitting the trails. Here are a few of the most fashionable running shoe choices for women.

Puma Complete Ventis 2. This fashion-forward shoe, which retails for about $100, sports a girly raspberry pink color scheme with sleek silver accents. Although this shoe is designed for neutral runners, it's packed with technical features such as a super-lightweight midsole and duoCELL cushioning. Enhanced heel fit design and reflective trim round out the special features of this stylish running shoe.

Saucony Grid Flex. This running shoe sports a cool, slightly retro vibe for the hip and fashionable runner. Available for about $70, the Saucony Grid Flex offers an extra durable sole with loads of traction, making it a great choice for wet conditions or trail running. It's breathable mesh construction and neutral-gait midsole add to the Grid Flex's versatility as a running shoe. But if you simply like to flaunt your running shoes as part of your casual lifestyle, this shoe looks trendy and stylish with jeans, chinos and active wear.

Nike N7 LunarGlide+3. You'll feel fast, fleet and fashionable in this Nike model. This distance running shoe is perfect for overpronators who also need substantial cushioning. It's got great style, with a black color scheme trimmed in bright turquoise with tiny flashes of red and yellow. The Nike N7 LunarGlide+3 looks as chic with flashy running gear as it does with leggings or yoga pants as you run around town or relax at home. Retailing for about $100, this shoe is both lightweight and breathable, so it's super comfortable for long distances or a long day.

Asics Hyper-RocketGirl XCS. This shoe is a cross-country flat, sleek and speedy for races and streamlined for pre- or post-run wear. Its black, white, and hot pink color scheme is trendy and bright, and at only $55, this shoe is a great value. Some of its technical features include a thin SpEVA midsole, low profile design for faster running and solid but lightweight cushioning system inside. Its solid rubber outsole gives this flat great traction, whether you're hitting the ground running or simply having a busy day.

bio: Jason blogs on a variety of topics, from shoes to cars. Currently he is a blogger at buy my car, a company in San Diego that purchases broken automobiles.

Boots: The World’s Most Effective Cure for Cankles

2012-02-02T06:14:00.028-05:00

Today's guest blogger, Brianna Michelle shares with us

how the rich and famous deal with the dreaded...cankle!

Check out her insights!

Sculpted arms, flat tummy, toned thighs, but ugh! Those dreaded cankles. Sound familiar? If so, don’t despair – you’re in good company with the rich and famous. Even the thinnest of stars can struggle with bloated ankles. (Don’t believe us? See below for proof). So how do the glamorous stars of Tinsletown deal with this age-old problem? Boots, of course :) Take, for example, Katy Perry:

Despite her countless hours of working out – she’s seen here in workout clothes – her ankles look like those seen at every mall in America. Her fix? Well . . . see below:

Boots! And what a difference. Long, lean and tons of sex appeal. Not a cankle in sight.

What about Alicia Keys? Check out her bare ankles:

And her cure?

Boots! And shiny ones at that. You might be starting to see a pattern here. How about one more – perhaps Miley Cyrus?

But this teen sensation knows exactly what to do:

Boots! Wow, it’s like magic.

So if you’re worried about your cankles, don’t be! The stars figured out the solution to this problem long ago . . . You just need a great pair of knee-high boots.

Brianna Michelle writes for Worn This Week, a site that shows you what celebrities wore and where you can buy it. If you’re interested in, for example, Mila Kunis Style, make sure to check them out!

All photos credit celebuzz.com

4 Things To Look For in a High Quality Children's Shoe

2012-01-31T06:37:00.005-05:00

Shoe shopping for little ones can be tough, but the tips

about what to look for in high quality children's shoes

from our guest blogger Mary Blanchard will make it easier!

4 Things To Look For in a High Quality Children's Shoe

When shopping for a child's shoe, it is important to look for certain markers that will ensure that the child is able to wear the shoes comfortable for an extended period of time. Many parents purchase shoes that are too tight, but don't realize it until they are out of the store. Or, they rely on the child's knowledge of how a shoe should fit, which is not a great idea. If you plan to purchase some new children's shoes in the future, follow this guide to help you find high quality pairs.

Adjustable Options

All shoes for children should have the ability to be adjusted to fit snugly and provide arch support. Although it is quite common to find slip on shoes for young children, and many parents enjoy them because the child can wear them without needing to tie their shoelaces, they simply won't provide adequate support. Look for either Velcro closures across the front of the shoes or laces which can tighten to fit the foot perfectly.

Value for Money

Although it is a good idea to find high quality shoes for your child, it is also important to remember that children will outgrow any pair of shoes in a matter of months. Therefore, you want to make sure you are able to get a great price on any pair of shoes. Rather than buying cheap pairs that may not provide enough support for your child's feet, find higher quality pairs where you can get a good deal. Look online for coupon codes that can used on shoe retailer's websites, or even great clearance sales at your local shoe store.

Comfort

Even if a shoe has received great reviews and is made from high quality materials, it may not be comfortable for your own child. Allow them to try on a pair of shoes when you are not in a hurry and they are in a cooperative mood. Let your child walk around in the shoes for a few minutes to get a feel for whether they are truly comfortable or not. Put your hand in the shoe to feel for any thick seams which might irritate the foot after extended periods of wear.

Space in the Toe Box

Some parents purposely choose a shoe that is too large for their child in the hopes that they will grow into it and save on having to buy another pair in the immediate future. While it is correct to want to not buy a tight pair, it should not be too big. Once the shoe is on tightly, feel the space in the toe box between the big toe and the end of the shoe. There should be approximate 2 inches there for growth, but not more than 3.

By considering each of these factors and trying on several pairs before purchasing one, it is possible for your child to be wearing high quality and yet still affordable shoes. Use coupon codes or coupons to get great deals on the best shoes available.

As a stay at home parent, UK resident Mary Blanchard understands the importance of making her dollars stretch. She frequents the coupon croc site to access web discounts to stay within budget.

Would You Wear Fluorescent Shoes?

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Since BRIGHT and BOLD tends to be the most recent fashion statement, it got me thinking about bright shoes. I personally don't think that I'd be able to pull off such a bold piece of footwear on my feet - what do you think?

Fluorescent colors need to be worn by a certain type of person with a bold and fun personality who is not afraid to stand out. Someone who enjoys a good laugh and someone who doesn't mind being stared at. I however, am not this person. I may seem outgoing, but in fact I'm rather shy. It would be hard for me to wear fluorescent shoes, but that's only because I don't want to be a sore thumb.

Bright and bold is fun, don't get me wrong, but could you pull it off?

Would you be so bold to wear fluorescent colors and shoes?

So what do you think...is fluorescent for you?

Here are a few places and occasions you could wear fuorescent shoes:

*fancy restaurant

*dancing location

*costume party

*Valentine's Day

I actually owned a pair of bright yellow fluorescent heels and I wore them during my first corporate job. But I rarely wore them. Every time I went out in public with them on people made comments...they said: "Hey, I liked your shoes!" See what I mean? I became the center of attention and I wasn't a fan of that. If only we could wear bold and bright shoes without the commentary. Hence why I think that fluorescent is not really for me. Maybe in the future I'll wear brightly colored shoes, but not for now. :)

What do you think - is wearing fluorescent shoes something you would do?

Maybe you've already done it?

Bravo if you have! ;)

Fashionable Socks!

2012-01-26T06:44:00.030-05:00

Socks can be a great accessory if you know when to wear'em and

how to choose the best ones for what you're wearing.

Today's guest blogger, Adam Bruk shares with us some great tips for

making your sock selections smart and fashionable! Enjoy!

Choosing the right pair of socks to keep your feet warm while looking fashionable can be rather tricky. There are some shoes that you can’t wear socks with at all, and others you would look silly not wearing socks with. Finding the right pair of socks to wear with your winter footwear is important for keeping your feet warm. You never know when you’ll need to take your shoes off when entering someone’s house or after stepping in a puddle and getting them wet. For these reasons, we’ve put together a guide on how to wear socks for a few popular styles of shoes.

Source: media.onsugar.com

High Heels and Pumps- If you asked us last year if it’s ok to wear socks with heels, we would think you were crazy. However, we’ve noticed more and more women this year fashionably wearing socks with their high heels. You no longer need to sacrifice comfort for style, especially during the bitter cold winter months. Knee socks are fashionable and will protect your legs from the harsh winter elements. We’ve also seen women wearing heels with crew or slouch socks as well. Knee socks are a bit more appropriate for office attire, while knee socks, crew, or slouch can be worn for a night on the town!

Source: stylebakery.com

Flats- While you can wear socks with flats during the winter months, it’s not very fashionable to wear them during the summer. There are two styles you can go with when wearing flats. This year, we’ve seen many people sporting knee socks, or even thigh high socks, with their flats. This certainly helps to keep your legs warm and goes well with a shorter dress. However, if you don’t want your socks to show, you can always opt for a pair of liner socks. They fit around your feet and perform the same functions as no show socks.

Athletic Shoes/Sneakers- It’s very important to wear a pair of socks when working out or wearing athletic shoes. While going without them might be more convenient, it’s not healthy for your feet. The type of socks you wear depends on the cut of your shoes. For example, if you are wearing a pair of shoes that go up on your ankle, such as basketball shoes, a pair of ankle socks is stylish and provides the most comfort. However, they shouldn’t be worn with a low cut athletic shoe. As a general rule of thumb, if your shoe doesn’t come up your ankle, neither should your socks! Opt for a low cut pair of socks or no show socks to go with your lower cut athletic shoes or sneakers.

Source: deadspin.com

Sandals- Unless you don’t care how you look, socks are never to be worn with sandals! It looks rather goofy and is not stylish at all. Plus, if it’s warm enough to wear sandals, you shouldn’t need to wear socks with them.

We hope this guide helps you find the right pair of socks to keep your feet warm and fashionable this winter!

Bio: Adam has been busy this winter helping visitors find the right pair of socks to keep their feet warm and fashionable this winter. He also works with the diabetic online community to help people with diabetes find diabetic socks that are fashionable and fit their outfits.

Are You A "Shoe Person"?

2012-01-25T06:44:00.016-05:00

Did you know that 39% of women consider themselves "a shoe person" while 50% of women have more than 10 pairs of shoes, and 13% have more than 30 pairs of non- athletic shoes.

Take a look at this cool infographic from ShoeSniper.com, a comparison shopping site, and see how your shoe closet stacks up against the numbers! You should be able to click on it to see it larger if needed.

If you decide you have a few shoes in your closet you don't wear anymore and want to sell them - use code SHOES for 5 free listings on If The Shoe Doesn't Fit, the auction site for shoe lovers, or you can always swap them for free!

So how about it, are you a "shoe person?"

Bridal ShoesTrends for 2012

2012-01-24T06:15:00.002-05:00

If you're going to be a bride this year or know someone who is,

then you'll want to hear about the latest 2012 bridal trends

from our guest blogger Christina Lyttle! Enjoy!

Gone are the days when shoes took a backseat while shopping for one’s wedding because the increasing number of slender and petite wedding gowns have ensured that your shoes get the proper amount of attention. Also, the trend has shifted from white to more ‘colors’. So, if you are planning a gown which will allow some room for you to make your own style statement at your feet, you must know about the bridal trends of 2012.

· Glitter - Every wedding needs a sparkling star and your shoes will ensure it. Bling and glitter is the trend of the season. If you are a little wary of sparkle, you can have just a hint of gold or silver but if you want to dazzle your wedding attire, go full throttle and remove all full stops on the oomph factor. You have various options in this fashionable development. You can go for a plain metal body but jeweled heels, or you can have gold dust all over your pumps. The added advantage is that, unlike your traditional footwear, this will be useful to you even after the wedding is over. You can pair these up with cocktail dresses or your little black dress and turn eyeballs.

· Lace – Lace it up if you dislike the twinkle. Lace can pep up an ordinary looking stiletto. Dark colors like plum and deep red would look good on the light colors. You can contrast it with your wedding dress, or simply choose a color that compliments the fabric. Even a simple ribbon in a darker shade can do wonders to your prosaic shoe. Be willing to experiment and give a thumbs-up to lace because it is classy and elegant.

· Mix and Match – There is no need to match everything, you must learn a little mixing along with matching. Go for a shoe that is totally unexpected and surprise everyone. There are many kinds of different and unique looking shoes available which scream chicness and style. Go for some glamour and pick those electric blue pumps. Add some ornamental flowers to them and you have balanced its eccentricity, thereby creating perfect wedding footwear.

There are many colors that are ruling the roost like Azure, Tiffany Blue, Cobalt, Plum, Cranberry etc. These colors will add to your look and ensure that you are the center of attention of your wedding, even fashionably. Experiment, innovate and research about the trends. Or better, create your own!

Christina Lyttle is a fashion expert with five years of experience under her belt. In her free time, she loves teaming wigs of different colors, like purple wigs, blonde wigs, and others to enrich the look of funny costumes designed by her.

Tips for Buying Vintage Shoes

2012-01-17T06:18:00.016-05:00

With shows like Mad Men and Boardwalk Empire ruling the small screen, vintage styles are more popular than ever. The person that buys vintage is the kind that likes the unique and special. Some may even be considered old souls. They are treasure hunters in their own right, searching through their grandmother’s attics, consignment shops, or the local thrift store; perusing the internet or seeking out funky vintage boutiques.

While vintage clothing, jewelry, handbags and other accessories can be found with little effort, buying vintage shoes is not always as simple. Unlike a vintage blouse, skirt or pair of pants, a pair of vintage shoes can’t be tossed in the washer, or tailored to fit; they show their age easily because of the nature of their wear. This doesn’t mean they can’t be found though - you just have to know some tips. Here are a few pointers for being successful in your vintage shoe hunt.

Ignore the size. People always say Marilyn Monroe wore a size 12 dress, but guess what? That’s like a 4 or 6 by today’s sizing standards! The same applies for shoes. The only real way to know is to try it on but that's not always possible. If you’re shopping online, ask the seller to measure the shoe’s insole and width or if that's not possible, know that the size may not be accurate and be prepared. In some cases, leather can be stretched if the shoe is too narrow, but there’s nothing (spare a magic wand) that is going to make that shoe longer.

Consider repair costs. If you happen to find a pair of 40 year old shoes, it’s safe to say they’re not going to be in perfect condition. Things that can be replaced are heel caps and soles; loose stitching can also be fixed. Before buying you may want to check with your local shoe repairman on what the cost will be; that way you know what’s a bargain and what’s not worth it.

Use a critical eye. It’s easy to be blinded by the fact that you might, just MIGHT look like Jayne Mansfield in those vintage shoes, but you have to be logical. There are some things that can’t be repaired or fixed; cracked leather, torn holes, missing buckles, eroding straps, strong discoloration, deep scratches, etc. The only thing that shoes with these problems may be used for is perhaps decoration on a book shelf.

Make friends with Google and Wikipedia. Most vintage shop owners are honest people who are happy to be dealing in a medium they love. However, don’t be taken advantage of because of lack of information. Vintage is generally defined as anything older than 20-25 years. Which means that the 80’s and early 90’s are all of sudden considered vintage! Decide if you personally consider that vintage because you’re probably not willing to pay as much for a pair of shoes from 1992 as you would for something from 1962. Also consider that designers make shoes that look vintage though might not be. Take a look at the shoe and if you can find a designer name or label of some sort, plug it into Google or Wikipedia. You should be able to find some information on that brand including a time frame, popularity, styles, etc. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll have a better idea of how much you should be paying. You may even find a similar shoe for a better price this way!

Don’t be afraid to buy vintage shoes, it should be an enjoyable and rewarding process. It should never be an impulse purchase, but you’ll be happy you took your time as soon as someone asks “Where’d you get those fabulous shoes?”

5 Hot Shoe Trends for Spring 2012

2012-01-13T05:52:00.002-05:00

Not only are we thankful it's Friday, we're thankful for our

fantastic guest blogger Christina Lyttle! She helps us kick off
the weekend looking at some hot shoe trends for Spring 2012! Enjoy!

Have you been saving carefully to invest in the lovely pair of shoes you saw on television? Before taking the plunge, acquaint yourself with the top trends in the category of footwear this 2012. This would be a wonderful guide to help you shop the trendiest shoes for the season.

1. Metallic-toed shoes - These are a reigning favorite that is expected to rule the racks the coming season. Not only are such shoes highly durable, but also the wide array of designs they come in make them more fetching. Glamour and practicality are well combined in this trend out to beat everything else in 2012.

2. High and pointed - Bid goodbye to the rounded toes that had been doing the rounds in the past season. The pointed toes and high heels are here! Get shoes with pointed toes and flaunt your attitude as you strut in them. However, in this context you must remember that the shoes shall only go the pointed way, while the sandals and the booties will keep reigning, in the rounded toed avatars.

3. Odd but trendy - This is a reference to the super mega platform shoes that celebs have been donning of late. Are you bit bothered about how comfortable they would be? Well, for starters you must not be that skeptical. Since the fashion pundits have been considering the mega platforms as highly popular, there must be some reason for the same.

4. Texture trends - As far as the texture of the shoes are concerned, transparent and shiny is in this summer. Were you thinking of teaming up a transparent pair of shoes for the Cinderella effect? Then go on ahead and don it. 2012 welcomes designer variants of the vinyl shoes. Of course, a bit of bling works to advantage and the designers have added shiny tones to their shoe materials. Gold and silver have moved on from dresses to the footwear.

5. Color trends - After you are decided on the style of the shoes you want to wear, you are sure to spare a thought for the colors that are in fashion, right? In the contemporary fashion market, shoes too have become daring over the years and you can find a plethora of options—from bright orange to electric blue. However, nude is giving such bright colors stiff competition as are the pastel shades in pale lime, aqua and rose.

Decide on your comfort and requirements. Once this is done, go over the trend list and fill up your shopping bags with the latest shoes this year.

Christina Lyttle is a fashion expert with five years of experience under her belt. In her free time, she loves making different kinds of Halloween and themed party costumes. You can click here to buy baby halloween costumes made by her. She is also the owner of the wrinkle cream site, http://www.wrinklecreamreview.org/.