nice shoes, a great bag, and no drama

louboutin's [perfect] color explosion

2012-02-23T08:55:00.000-05:00

black is every girl's best friend. but let's face it . . . color is more interesting. meet pigalle 120 in patent pollock.

this [rather tall] beauty is the perfect combination of shoe design excellence and abstract expressionism. and when you wear pigalle 120, your feet will essentially become a canvas . . . on 4.7-inch heels.

want them? of course, you do. they're available for $625 directly from the designer.

walk tall, ladies!

kelsi dagger's [very hot] mary jane

2012-02-22T08:55:00.000-05:00

this sky-high beauty pair supple suede with a mary jane look to produce a shoe that is nothing short of fierce.

trinny, as it's called, pairs beautifully with many looks. with a 4.25-inch heel and 1.25-inch platform, trinny plus riding pants means your legs will go on for days.

want these lovelies? of course, you do. they're available for $99 in the d.c. metro area at rich hippie, which is situated at 1603 village market blvd., suite 108, in leesburg. you can also order them for shipping from rich hippie via telephone---(571) 223-3231---or via email to the nice shoes shopping team.

walk tall, ladies!

ash booties ::: 100% rocker chic

2012-02-21T08:55:00.000-05:00

i’ve been feeling a tad rebellious lately, and these giorgia booties by ash perfectly suit my mood.

the studded leather belt and the side cut-outs add a rock vibe to the black canvas upper sole. giorgia is the perfect shoe to wear to that concert you've been dying to see. indeed, at nearly 5 inches tall, you'll be a rockstar anywhere.

grab this beauty in all-black or military-plus-black from bluefly.com for the rocking price of $147.

rock tall, ladies!

makeup mondays: big, batting, beautiful eyes

2012-02-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

by makeup artist, jamie d'agostino

big, beautiful, doll-like eyes are a dream for any woman.

Makeup: Jamie D'Agostino Makeup Artistry; Photo: Sara-Anne Photography

accentuate this asset by applying the darkest shadow across the lid from lash line to crease. use a mid-tone color in the crease, then add highlighter under your brow bone and in the inside corner of your eyes.

follow up with eyeliner on the top lid only. if desired, a soft shadow can be used at the lower lash line, but be sure it is several shades lighter than the liner on top.

finish off your enhanced eyes with a coat of mascara and you’re ready to take on the world with your eyes wide open.

one more "pro-knows" tip

for big, beautiful eyes

big-eyed betties can afford to draw liner on thicker than many woman. so go for it, play it up, and have fun!

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makeup mondays are written by jamie d'agostino, the exclusive makeup artist for nice shoes founder, leigh macdonald. each monday, jamie shares makeup tips and tricks on NiceShoesNoDrama.com.

lovely lizard ::: by giuseppe zanotti

2012-02-20T08:55:00.000-05:00

isn't it fun when a shoe designer nails it? we think so.

and giuseppe zanotti did just that with this fabulous peep-toe sling-back. we l-o-v-e the double platform and way-high (5.7 inches, if you like precision) heel. and the stamped lizard . . . it's chic, it's hot, and it's oddly sophisticated.

plus, the shoe's shape is nothing short of perfection. for beauty and shoe versatility, this beauty is a winner. if you need to own it, it's $750 directly from the designer.

walk tall, ladies. in this little number, that'll be no problem.

girl sundays ::: a perfect ballet flat

2012-02-19T08:55:00.000-05:00

i think this flat from target is pretty perfect.

i really like the use of two different colors, one on the ankle strap and another on the body of the shoe.

and since we're talking about colors, these are really great . . . so great that it's hard to pick just one! the pink-plus-orange combination is very fabulous, but so are the purple-plus-magenta and turquoise-plus-lime green.

and ... at only $14.99, i'm hopeful that i can buy all three and won't have to choose between them!

there's one more thing i love about this shoe: the ankle strap. here's why: flats with ankle straps are really smart for girls like me who want to be stylish, but smart. i can run and play in these, and even p.e. is no problem. the strap keeps the shoe in place, which means i don't take any embarrassing spills as i run to make my team's save in kickball or soccer. i like that!

let's walk with confidence! we're tomorrow's leaders, in the shoe world and then some!

handbag glamour ::: a la gucci

2012-02-18T08:55:00.000-05:00

just as gatsby was beguiled by the green light at the end of daisy’s pier, you will be enchanted by these green beauties by gucci.

these jeweled masterpieces are heavily inspired by art deco, and we're l-o-v-i-n-g their unapologetic nod to glamor and decadence.

the first of gucci's "garçon" beauties boasts a metallic mirror backing, black crocodile trim, and a flapper-worthy tassle (crafted of metal!). as if that's insufficient, gucci adds swarovski crystal detail, a luxe leather lining, and a detachable strap.

the other "garçon" goddess likewise includes a metallic backing, gorgeous tassle, and removable strap. but it also offers gorgeous gold crocodile trim and features a separate interior compartment.

it's true . . . these beauties aren't priced for the masses. even so, they are timeless investment pieces worthy of family heirloom status. and we assure you of this: others will be green with envy of any uber-fashionable lady who ultimately carries either of these stunners.

if you'd like to add either to your collection, you can purchase them from gucci directly. the bag adorned with black croc is $4,900 and available for pre-order here, while the gold croc bag is $5,200 and available for pre-order here.

carry with confidence, ladies. we appreciate you!

louboutin's e.t. ::: out. of. this. world.

2012-02-17T08:55:00.000-05:00

my, oh my, ladies. maggie's studded stepsister is here, and she is truly out of this world. meet asteroid.

this beauty pairs a shiningly perfect pink with sueded zebra and hand-placed crystals on the toe. and it's also towering. indeed, asteroid's 6.3-inch heel is paired with a 1.6-inch platform for a tall, gorgeous y-o-u.

what do we think of her? unreal, unbelievable, and altogether unworldly. #happysigh

if you'd like to add asteroid to your shoe collection, you can do so by clicking here to visit monsieur louboutin's online u.s. boutique. and the price? $1,595.

walk tall, girls! it's friday!!

Preview: VENeffect at Neiman Marcus

2012-02-17T08:30:00.000-05:00

Recently, we enjoyed a lovely breakfast in the Cafe at Neiman Marcus Tysons Corner to get a sneak peek of a new skincare line exclusive to Neiman Marcus. The line, named VENeffect, debuts next week during the Neiman Marcus Beauty Event, which begins on February 23 and runs until March 4.

VENeffect is the result of nine years of research and development by two sisters, Cecil and Rebecca, and the line's name is coined from the phrase venus effect. The sisters---a physician and a beauty industry veteran---were moved to teach women about the "beauty effect" of hormones in the body and to develop products to address estrogen and elastin loss in the skin. After exhaustive research, the two turned to the plant world---and photo estrogens, in particular---to build a product line that is as unique as it is effective. Phytoestrogens are plant-based “mimics” of human estrogen. They not only bind to skin receptors safely and effectively, they also preserve and restore collagen, and in doing so, phytoestrogens dramatically increase skin's elasticity and reverse the signs of hormonal aging.

Currently, the VENeffect anti-aging product line includes a moisturizing cream, SPF moisturizer, eye and lip treatments. We understand that the sisters are hard at work developing other products, and they hope to soon add a luxurious serum to the line. The products are made in the United States, are non-comedogenic, and are never tested on animals.

Stay tuned for more on this new line. In coming weeks, our Makeup Maven, Jamie D'Agostino, will share a VENeffect product review in her Makeup Monday series. Meanwhile, grab a peek of VENeffect and so much more when you stop by your local Neiman Marcus during its upcoming Beauty Event.

red-soled sandal ::: in nude or black

2012-02-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

we really love this shoe. it's hot, it's italian-made, and it's crafted by christian louboutin, the king of many-things-fabulous in the shoe world.

meet the exagona leather criss-cross platform sandal.

it pairs creamy leather criss-cross straps with a towering heel and platform duo. indeed, this beauty's six-inch heel includes a two-inch platform that leaves a heel-loving diva with a walkable four-inch heel.

want it? we do.

it's $1,095 and available in nude at saks fifth avenue and in black at neiman marcus.

xo & walk tall, ladies. we just know that you will.

classic curves ::: by ferragamo

2012-02-15T08:55:00.000-05:00

curvy in all the right places! these skyhigh ferragamo wedges are so sleek and smooth.

but once you get a glimpse of the back, the touch of edginess from the cut-out heel definitely turns things up a notch. and if these don’t get you excited for warmer weather, i don’t know what else will!

oh but did i mention that these wedges are 50% off from their original $1,110 price? luisaviaroma.com has ferragamo’s t-bar strap wedges on sale for $550! so embrace the curves and walk tall ladies!

sandal love ::: at victoria's secret

2012-02-14T08:55:00.000-05:00

this beauty---dubbed the city sandal---by colin stuart, is just like you: fun and smart. and that makes it unstoppable.

at just $68, these strappy street-chic heels will serve you well as they strut from day to date and everywhere in between.

the city sandal is tall, but quite walkable, with a 5.5-inch heel and half-inch platform.

you want them, we know. so we'll make it simple . . . click here.

xo and walk tall, ladies.

makeup monday: the eyes have it

2012-02-13T14:00:00.000-05:00

by makeup artist, jamie d'agostino

it is often said that “eyes are the windows to the soul.” indeed, when i'm working with clients, eyes are my favorite feature to emphasize.

it's important to realize that fabulous makeup application is influenced by the size and shape of eyes, as well as how they are set.

over the next couple of weeks, i'll share tailored professional tips. so whatever your eyes' shape, size, or frame, you'll know the steps for achieving Y-O-U-R most flattering eyes. #woot!

'the pro knows' tips for

smaller eyes

play up petite, pretty peepers by covering the entire lid with a light, shimmery shadow, followed by a midtone color in the crease.

for a day look, use an angled brush to apply the same midtone color underneath the bottom lash line from the center to the outer corner. lining the top lid is essential. and as you line with eyeliner, be sure to keep the line thin and close to the lashes. sweep on some mascara, and you’re ready to roll.

for a stronger look, line your lids all the way around to give an appearance of more open eyes. tips of the trade: create an illusion of larger eyes by applying a flesh tone liner in the inner rim of your lower lash.

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makeup mondays are written by jamie d'agostino, the exclusive makeup artist for nice shoes founder, leigh macdonald. each monday, jamie shares makeup tips and tricks on NiceShoesNoDrama.com.

fun, flirty, & fabulous ::: at dsw

2012-02-13T08:55:00.000-05:00

spring '12 boasts so many wonderful prints. and if you're anything like this gemini, it's hard to choose just one. good news, ladies . . . you needn't choose!

meet the zigi soho print pump. it combines floral, snake, and leopard prints in a way that will satisfy the wallet and shoe wishes of any print-loving shoe diva.

and this beauty is tall! oh, yes . . . a two-inch platform and a six-inch stiletto heel. want it? [um] of course, you do. it's $79.95 at dsw.com.

xo & walk tall, ladies!

loving louboutin ::: a red handbag

2012-02-11T09:30:00.000-05:00

well hello lover....

still searching for that perfect valentine? or have one, but could always use another lipstick toting love in your life?

the world's ultimate cupid, monsieur louboutin, has again answered our red prayers and aimed straight for our hearts with the breathtaking eden peony satin clutch!

this beauty boasts a gold chain shoulder strap (23”drop) and louboutin's signature red-soled stiletto detail on the clasp closure. sigh, could we love him more...?

we have just two words for this ruby satin beauty: be mine.

if you agree, this clutch is available for $1325 from neiman marcus.

xo, ladies! and remember to walk tall!

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we're delighted to welcome shannon cerminaro doyle

to the nice shoes team!

each saturday, shannon will feature a bag on the nice shoes site, and if today's fabulous feature is any indication of the bags she'll be sharing with us, then "wow" is all we can say.

::: want to know more about shannon? here you go.... :::

I am a mother of two fantastic children, samantha (3) and pierce (1). I am married to a wonderful man who has long known of my obsession with all things fashion, with a particular weakness for fabulous handbags, and has loved me despite of it! I am originally from New Jersey (ok, exit 9 J). I came to the DC area to attend The George Washington University. I fell in love with the DC Metro area and I have been here ever since. I enjoy supporting causes that are dear to me, spending quality time with family and friends, following fashion (of course!) and enjoying all of the fantastic events and culture that the DC area has to offer. Thank you so much for welcoming me to the fabulous Nice Shoes, No Drama community!

(more) spring green ::: by ballin

2012-02-10T08:55:00.000-05:00

bring on the spring green! i simply can’t get enough of this color. it is so chic and perfect for the upcoming season.

these suede cross-over sandals from ballin are also shoe perfection. made in italy, these sandals can’t possibly be any more perfect. well ladies, they absolutely are! the 5.5-inch heel will highlight your legs in those flowy skirts and spring dresses that are just waiting to emerge with warmer weather.

prepare yourselves for walking tall in the spring ladies and order these stunners from luisaviaroma.com for $550!

in love with P-I-N-K brian atwood. #reallyinlove

2012-02-09T08:55:00.000-05:00

this beauty---dubbed florencia---has stolen our hearts. really.

florencia is part of brian atwood's spring '12 lineup, and we absolutely adore this shoe.

perhaps it's the platform and its sliver of glitter. maybe we're smitten with the sky-high glittered heel. it's s-i-x inches high, after all! or maybe, it's the odd combination of bold and basic.

in truth, we love all of these things. but our favorite feature in florencia is undoubtedly rooted in her colors. she boasts two utterly perfect shades of spring pink in a way-luxe matte suede.

yes, we're smitten. and we think you will be, too. want it? oh. yes! it's available for pre-order for $350 at neiman marcus.

walk tall, ladies. we know that you will!

weekly splurge ::: a la golden gucci

2012-02-08T08:55:00.000-05:00

"gucci gucci, louis louis, fendi fendi, prada..." raps kreayshawn. our weekly splurge indeed features a beauty by one of the top four main glam designers.

allow me to introduce you to betty, the luxurious t-strapped peep-toe by none other than gucci himself. with a festive 5" heel, glowing 1" platform, and metallic genuine python exterior, these pumps are sure to turn anything you walk on into gold!

pre-order these extravagant lovelies online from sak's at a ripe $1100.

$pend and walk tall, ladies! xox

being your best ::: a lesson in laundry

2012-02-08T08:25:00.000-05:00

like many, i don't adore laundry. but i've had a revelation.

for those of you who are thinking,

"an article about laundry...? seriously? i can't do this,"

stay with me.

this will be quick, painless, and hopefully instructive.

on the days that i really despise laundry, it's generally because it seems to tower. on those occasions, i'd swear that each of my family members wears four ensembles daily, just to add to the collection of dirty clothes.

but this morning, i realized that laundry really isn't so tedious when i keep up with it. indeed, by keeping the pace, i avoid the tower of unfolded clothes and the task is quite manageable.

and isn't that how most things work? i'd say so.

whether you're planning a wedding, working through a sizable project at work, or drafting a class project, taking things in incremental, manageable steps typically renders a project that is under control as it develops and at completion, well-crafted.

so go ahead and conquer your day, and whether or not it involves laundry, tackle your day---and your projects---at a pace that keeps you in the game. you'll be glad you did, and i bet you'll even walk a tad taller.

xo, ladies.

leather :: lace :: valentino. aaaah....

2012-02-07T08:55:00.000-05:00

do you know any combination sexier than leather and lace (besides peanut butter and chocolate)? no? we thought you'd feel that way . . . because there is none!

these peep-toed pumps will give you extra bounce when you're clubbing, but are simultaneously great statement pieces for a cocktail party.

translucent lace is complemented effortlessly with baby pink leather, and these beauties by valentino are completed with petite, studded t-straps.

these studded leather beauties boast a one-inch platform and a way-high five-inch heel. and for $995, these can be yours a la net-a-porter.

walk tall, ladies! XO.

makeup monday ::: your [sweet] skin

2012-02-06T14:30:00.000-05:00

every girl wants stunning skin, and exfoliating is critical if you want soft, smooth, and seamlessly textured skin.

you should exfoliate a couple times each week. and in a pinch, you can even use an oh-so-sweet product you'll find right in your pantry.

sugar!

that's right.... just add a bit of white sugar to your daily cleanser. exfoliating with sugar isn't just easy. it will make your skin glow and provide for easier blending when you apply your makeup.

good stuff, yes? then tune in every week for makeup monday and your easy dose of how-to tips from a pro.

xo, ladies!

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makeup mondays are written by jamie d'agostino, the exclusive makeup artist for nice shoes founder, leigh macdonald. each monday, jamie shares makeup tips and tricks on NiceShoesNoDrama.com.

hello, south beach! & charlotte olympia

2012-02-06T08:55:00.000-05:00

charlotte olympia has the perfect shoe to help me celebrate my 2 best friends who will soon be moving to miami! the ‘ocean drive’ pump, as it’s so perfectly named, just screams south beach!

blush suede adda the beachy vibe, but the metallic palm leaf accents are what steal the show. at 4.5 inches, ‘ocean drive’ is the perfect shoe to strut down the boardwalk in and get used to the miami lifestyle.

no plans for miami any time soon? don’t you fret ladies, the ‘ocean drive’ pump is the perfect way to welcome summer and get in that beachy mode!

these charlotte olympia beauties are available for preorder at nordstrom.com for $1015. you don’t need to be in miami to turn up the heat, you just need to walk tall ladies!

riveting glamour ::: under $60

2012-02-03T08:55:00.000-05:00

you'll be the belle of the ball in this beauty from bakers. melina, as it's called, offers dazzling glamour at an altogether doable SALE price. and the best part? review after review ... melina is deemed "comfortable" by those who've purchased before you. win win, yes?

this pump pairs an allover glitter design with a sky-high heel and a formidable platform. more particularly, you'll be 5 inches taller, but with a platform that's almost 1.5 inches in height, you'll strut easily with a walking heel of just 3.75".

want it? at only $59.99, everyone will want it. so act quickly ... it's' here!

xo, ladies. you've got a weekend to conquer!

spring green ::: by brian atwood

2012-02-02T08:55:00.000-05:00

i am so over winter already! i cannot wait for spring and all the gorgeous colors that come with it!

i have to say, kelly green is quickly becoming my new color obsession so naturally these gorgeous brian atwood sling backs are going to be the latest addition to my spring wardrobe.

kelly green, sling back and snake embossed leather? how much better can these shoes be? well, with a 4.75 inch heel, your legs will look even more amazing!

want ‘felicite’ in your closet just as badly as i want it in mine? of course you do! and shopbop.com is the place to get them for $325!

welcome spring with gorgeous color and walk tall ladies!

timeless pumps by aldo

2012-02-01T08:55:00.000-05:00

in need of a set of timeless pumps with style that will never fade?

try the westberry by aldo. she is sleek and modern, with a minimalist, chrome 5.25" heel. she is sophisticated with gorgeous, mauve suede. and she is edgy, with a 1.25" platform and swooping heel design and overall shoe contrast.

you may purchase these lovelies online from nordstrom at the great price of $140.

walk tall, ladies. the westberry will leave you berry satisfied! XO.