The Forged Ring Collection is one of my newest designs that really illustrated this point.  If you follow me on social media, you know that I like to push the boundaries a lot, which is why this collection came with these variations!

The forged/hammered texture is achieved using a Voronoi diagram in my 3D software Blender.  This is just geek/math speak for partitioning a surface into sections at random.  I played around with parameters to ensure that the generated textures are not "clump" together and that they look organic.

Realizing that the texture may feel a bit scratchy on sensitive skin, I decided to decrease the intensity of the texture on the sides of the finger and gradually brought it down to zero for a smooth finish.  Initially, I intended the band to be 1.3mm but after receiving the prototype, I was very intrigued by the way the texture came out and was determine that it will pair well with mini diamonds.  The proportion wasn't exactly right with the size of diamonds I had in my mind so I went thinner with the textured band, 1.1mm to be exact and dare I say it, it is perfect.

I also created a personalized option with a 1.8mm band, one that you can gift yourself or a love one with an engraved little message.  What is unique about this is that the engraving is not stamped, it is designed onto the wax and printed especially for you when you make your purchase.  Digital engraving creates uniform spacing and a deeper groove that lasts a bit longer than just regular stamping.  Just look at how perfect the word 'LOVE' came out on this delicate ring.

Digital jewelry design is a very trial and error process.  A creation may look great on screen, but it needs to be produced in real life and that never is exactly what you envisioned at first try.  But when you get to the final product, it may just take your breath away like all my creation did for me.

Want to learn more about my design process? Want to learn how to get into digital jewelry design?  Send me a note!  I love answering all your emails.

To digitally design a piece of jewelry is not unlike drawing your design on paper and then finding ways to produce it.  Instead, I use software to render my designs in 3 dimensional space on a computer.  I don't specifically need a workshop space (I've designed at a cafe once using my laptop) and I can simulate how light reflects off the design without ever melting metal.  I wrote a bit more about the process in a previous blog here if you would like to learn more.

In conventional jewelry making, a new design is carved onto wax painstakingly by a skilled artist and then cast into the metal of choice.  The carving could take hours and require very steady hands.  If the design is intricate, the wax may break and the artist will have to start over from scratch.  Therefore, traditional handcrafting really is an art form that is to be respected and praised.

Then can 3D printed jewelry be considered handcrafted still?  Well, on average, my designs take over 24 hours to more than 50 hours to create on the computer.  It may start as a doodle on paper that transforms into a design or I may go straight into the program and start forming the shape that I am dreaming up in my mind. You can think of it as digital sculpting, but instead of a chisel, I am using a mouse or a tablet.  Once the piece is finalized, it is sent to either a 3D printing lab or to a traditional caster.  Either a wax model or a castable resin model is then printed before casting into precious metal.  Every step afterwards is the same as traditional jewelry making.  The piece is still polished by hand to a shiny finish and stones are still set meticulously by a master stone setter.

So to conclude, yes my jewelry designs are definitely handcrafted, it may not be in the traditional sense, but in my opinion it is no less meticulous nor artful.

Since I last wrote, my beloved cat Latte had passed away.  She was my first pet and I am still dealing with the loss.  There are good days and there are bad ones but I am glad I was fortunate to be chosen to be her guardian for 15 years.  There will be other cats that I will provide a loving home for in the future when I am ready but at this point in life I will keep her memory in my heart and concentrate on the new direction of my small business.

So onto the topic at hand, I have created a few pieces recently that I am excited for.  It is still in its prototype stages, but I thought I would share as an update and teaser (if you haven't seen my personal Instagram progress posts yet).  So here they are:

The flutter ring is already available (2nd from bottom) as is the pendant version!  It is super dainty, but oh so glittery!  I hope you all like it!

I can't wait to finalize the rest of the prototypes, which is your favorite?  Email me!

When I left the corporate world a few years ago, it was scary but I set out to do something creative and to achieve a work life balance.  The more I design, the more exhilarating I feel about my work.  It is time I take this side passion on with full dedication and I hope you will continue on this sparkly journey with me.

The Acanthus Leaf Cuff Bangle

Designed to look carved out from the band of the bangle, this cuff features scroll works of one of the beloved design motif on architecture, the acanthus leaf.  Just the right size to perch on your wrist without weighing you down.  Get the shine on with brass, bronze or sterling silver option or a muted but equally unique (and affordable) option in polished steel shown in picture above.

The Acanthus Leaf Ear Climber

Love the acanthus leaf design, but still a bit too big and loud for you?  How about an ear climber in a slightly different design in stead?  I am often awed by the marvel that is 3D Printing with the intricate details that it can bring to life from my digital design.  Take this ear climber for instance, the curves create such play on light that a flat surface design just won't be able to do.  This design can be worn casually like I am doing in this picture above or dress it up for an evening out.  The curves on this design might even match the lace on a wedding dress ;-)

The Seashell Fan Necklace

Nothing says Summer more than things that remind you of the beach.  This scallop seashell inspired necklace is available in steel and semi precious metal options for those of us who dream of sun tanning by the sea sipping on frozen drinks...

Enjoy summer everyone!

As the name suggests, 3D printing is the process of creating a 3 dimensional object in a printer from a digital file or otherwise known as a 3D model.  The printer interprets the file and essentially slices it into many thin layers and build it from the bottom up.

One of the most industry disruptive aspect that came out of 3D printing is fast prototyping.  Before this technology, people who had an idea for a product would require to conduct intensive research and spent a lot of money in order to turn an idea on paper into a physical product.  With desktop 3D printers available at very affordable prices these days, you can print your idea as quickly as the next day.  Faster prototype means faster entry to market.

(Source: https://store.printm3d.com/)

Industries that have already shown adaptation if not already an increased demand for skillful 3D modelers include: Design & Manufacturing (think fashion accessories, footwear, consumer products etc); Medical & Dentistry (tailored limbs for a war veteran, a crown for your teeth, braces even); and Entertainment (game design & special effects).

Contrary to the misconception that one needs technical know-how to learn 3D modeling, it is actually not required.  There are many free software and corresponding tutorials out on the market today to get you on the right track.  Software such as Tinkercad, Fusion360, Sculptris, and Blender3D to name a few.  I have used these in the past 2 years and now I solely use Blender3D to create all my jewelry.  My background was in financial services and I had no prior knowledge on this tech at all.  The learning curve was steep but extremely rewarding as you turn a digital model of your own creation into a tangible product.  I can tell you honestly that anyone can learn this new skill, you just need to believe and dedicate time to learn it.

(Source: My Original Tinkercad Design)

 As the global market moves toward automation and the reality of traditional jobs slowly getting eliminated, shouldn't you learn new skills to better leverage yourself or get a side hustle started in case of a rainy day in your future?

Please let me know about your thoughts on the topic, or if you want to explore further into learning this new skill, send me an email at info@TwoPerfectSouls.com or use this contact form.  I am no expert at this tech, but I will be glad to try and answer any questions you may have.

But the greatest news of all is that now my international admirers can purchase my designs through Etsy and enjoy the ease of the marketplace have been providing for years.  

This weekend thru Monday 2/19 11:59pm, to celebrate a personal milestone (and to say I am sorry I've missed Valentine's Day), I am offering free shipping on all items on this site, just use code FreeSHFeb18.

Lots of new designs are in the works, check back often and be sure to follow us on Instagram to see some sneak previews.  -E

I want to be able to expand and push my knowledge in 3D design and modeling into more products and materials.  So to start the year right, I ventured into a new type of porcelain material created by my production partner Shapeways.  They've announced the production of this material back in March 2017 and I have been dying to get my hands on designing with it.  

This unique porcelain compound they developed in-house can be cast using 3D printed molds and is completely food, microwave, and oven safe.  Since I am currently digging the vintage vibe, I decided to design a vintage french porcelain inspired trinket dish and I absolutely adore the result!  This is now available exclusively at my Shapeways concept shop, as their highly skilled ceramicist will carefully hand glaze each piece and go through an exclusive quality check before it gets shipped out to my customers.  Did I mention that you can customize a mini message or initial in the middle?  Go and check out all the colorful glazes available on the site!

At this point, we've all seen the fidget spinner toy.  I love the idea of something that helps those of us who fidgets at difficult situations.  However, I don't really want to have to remember to bring it with me everywhere I go and it's not really something I would like to take out during meetings or while giving a speech.  So I created a stylish jewelry alternative, a floral spinner pendant charm.  Utilizing an interlocking method, Shapeways was able to 3D print and produce my design into a beautiful piece of jewelry. The petals spin around the middle and would not come apart, it is just a very stylish piece to fidget with if I do say so myself.  If you are a fidgeter like me or just love the piece, it is now available on the site and on my Shapeway's shop!  To see the spinning in action, I also created a clip showcasing it here, so check it out!

2018 is going to be one creative year, I just know it, so stay tune for more!

Remember, all of our jewelry products are made to order and usually takes about 2-3 weeks, so if you are thinking of getting something for that special someone or yourself, you should really hurry!

Once again, thank you so much for supporting a small business like ours.

Here's a showcase of something new and old in my jewelry collection.

I have been working on signing on the shoe brand ZUMO SHOW for a while and I am happy to report that I can finally release the news that my shop is now offering their coveted backless loafers! Use the code below for 15% off this collection from now till Sunday!

What makes ZUMO SHOW's loafers (or slides as some might call them) so unique is the fact that they are first hand embroidered on silk or velvet by a team of artisans who have a long line of embroiderers that dates back generations.  ZUMO SHOW then perfectly merged this ago old art form with the modern style of a backless loafer and their signature shoe style was born. 

I personally love the contrasting colors and how the layering of threads gave the image an ombre effect.  Each shoe takes about 15 days to make as it goes through a vigorous inspection by the team of "grandmother" artisans.  But once you receive it in your hands, you are holding something truly special. 

The style itself is comfortable and so easy to pull off with any outfit, is it any wonder that it is 2017's shoe trend of the year and adore by bloggers and celebrities alike?

Here are a few of my favorites.  From now till Sunday 5/14/2017, use code MOMS2017 for 15% off this collection!

If you don't know already, Shapeways is a 3D printing service and marketplace company.  They are headquartered in NYC and one of their manufacturing facilities is in Queens NY, not far from where I grew up!  I perfect every details of the designs I list here on Two Perfect Souls at this facility before it is 3D printed and shipped to your doors.  So to be recognized by the engineers and teams over there was unbelievable.

Have a read at the article at the link below and drop me a note if you have questions!

Inspiration comes from pies I had during the holiday season.  I love how intricate you can weave the pie crusts when you make them from scratch and how they all look geometrically pleasing at every angle.  

I wanted to make these earrings a part of your fun accessories, so I opted to keep it minimal.  However, I designed the lattice works to have a bit of a wave and curve which is great for catching glints of lights as you move.  Got any idea or designs you want to see made into jewelry?  Tell us, we might just make it and 3D print it!

Hi!

Just a quick post about our partnership with the one and only Kimberly Kong of The Sensible Stylista.  We are giving away a pair Made to Order shoes of your choice from our collection for one lucky winner!  Head on over to Kim's blog and enter the raffle, the giveaway ends on Jan 2nd and the winner will be announced on Kim's website the day after.

Good luck!

Edit: The Winner has been announced, she has been notified via email!  Stay tune for more events like this!

The five blessings are usually uttered during Lunar New Year as a way of greeting and well wishes to friends and family.  Growing up Asian American, that was pretty much the only meaning I know of the blessings.  It was not until I dwell into their meaning more did I realize their uniqueness.  

The symbols for each of these five blessings have evolved since the ancient times and varies in different Asian cultures, but I chose the ones in my collection because I like the symmetry I see in them.  And unlike the sizable signet rings traditionally worn by men of status in many societies; I designed mine significantly smaller with dramatic curves into the band to fit the more slender fingers of women.  Because here at Two Perfect Souls, we believe small can be impactful.  

Now onto the meaning of these blessing symbols.

Fu - luck or good fortune achieved by having performed good deeds.  This symbol is the first of the five blessing symbols and often associated with the appearance of the Fu deity in the night sky according to Chinese mythology.  The phenomenon explained in western astrology as the rising of Jupiter, the fifth planet from the sun.  Incidentally, the appearance of the planet in the night sky is also believed to mean auspicious times ahead.

Lu - Prosperity; the literal word itself translates to the salary received by being an official in the government or holding a position of influence.  In ancient China, such position is achieved through years of study and passing the final imperial exam.  It is a well wish for someone to have perseverance and hardwork to achieve success.  Men who held these position can be seen with dress robes with these symbols embroidered onto them.

Shou - Good health or Longevity.  It is believed to be represented by Canopus or the second brightest star in the sky and often personified by an old looking but kind and smiley deity.  Imprinting of the symbol (or variation of the symbol) onto baked goods to be consumed on an elder's birthday is a ritual many Chinese families still practice.

Xi - Happiness.  I strayed from tradition on this symbol because the more commonly known double happiness stresses the importance of a union in marriage to achieve happiness.  I believe the modern day individual can achieve happiness by oneself, therefore the individual happiness symbol is used in my design.

Cai (or Tsai) - Wealth, specifically monetary wealth.  It should not be surprising that the last blessing is wealth and that it comes after good health and happiness.  The symbol, most recognizable with the coin slot in the middle is widely used in places of business.  Both decorative and serve as talisman for auspicious business dealings.

So there you have it, I hope these rings grace your fingers and their meaning strengthen you as you proudly make a statement in the world.  Thanks for stopping by and be sure to share this article if you find it interesting.

Love, Evelyn

There were times when buying a pair of shoes use to take a really long time.  One would have to take a trip to the shoemaker to have your feet measured, wait for molds of your feet to be made, then back for re-measurement of your feet and adjustments made to the molds, then finally, after more time spent waiting; you get to meet your new sole mate.

Photo Source: Wikipedia.org

This traditional way of shoemaking is an artful skill that are still being practiced in the world and sold to the fortunate few who live near these artists and can afford the patience and their craftsmanship.  To those of us with a smaller budget, fret not!  We have found a few shoemakers who have adapted a new way to bring a bit of the traditional shoemaking to the modern world.

When we think about measuring our feet, most of us are thinking about the length and width; a line going vertical and one across at the big bone.  Our shoemakers believe, however,  that we should measure the widest part in terms of circumference instead of a straight line.  This allows for a surer fit and accommodates bone and muscle thickness at the top of the foot.  The shoes that you order using this method of measurement will least likely be pinching your bones and toes.

Once you have your measurements down, you should follow this matrix and find the size that best fit you. (Click to open up our Size Chart on another page)

It is now time to talk about your foot arch.  Your arch really affects how high or low your shoe heels should be and is probably the hardest to measure yourself without a professional present.  To accommodate that, our shoemakers are letting you dictate the height you are comfortable with.  That’s right, most of our handmade to order shoes have heels ranging from 1.5 inches to 4 inches.  If the height you desire is not an option, simply write us a message, and we will consult with our shoemaker to determine if it can be made.  Don’t see a color you like, but saw the color in a different shoe on our site?  Let us know, we will do our best to source that color for you.

How long does a pair of handmade shoes take to make?  Usually less than 2 weeks and you get them at your door step typically by the 4th day after we shipped it.  Oh yeah, shipping is on us!  So...happy shopping!

It finally feels like Spring this week in NYC!  The city seems to have woken up from a slumber overnight and there is a breath of freshness everywhere I look.  Here at Two Perfect Souls, we have new things for you all as well!

We have partnered with a shoe craftsmen alliance based in S. Korea to bring you handmade-to-order shoes for your petite feet in high fashion designs!   

Ever thought to yourself when you were shoe shopping ‘Gee I wish that heel was a little shorter and the width a little wider’?  Well, that was me all the time!  Many of the styles on the site (and more coming!) will be available in several heel heights and a width adjustment option.

Production time for handmade-to-order ranges from 1-2 weeks (dependent on the shoemaker and materials needed) and will be shipped via express from our shoemakers directly to your door (typically 4-7 days).  We’ve updated our size chart page with a measuring guide to help you with size selection.

AND…..for a limited time, all ready to ship shoes are now 15% off!!!  

So go on, treat yourself something new for Spring!

A quick note on some exciting news!  I am teaming up with a Seattle-based blogger for a giveaway of the pair she is wearing in her latest post!  If you have been following us, you’ll notice that we’ve been obsessed with Carina Axelbrooke and her style.  Developer by day and fashionista by night, she is the epitome of a modern day role model for women everywhere.  Head on over to dressedupdev.com to read some of her blog entries and you’ll know what I mean.

(Photo: DressedUpDev.com)

In her latest entry, “Princess Charming”, she writes about her struggle of finding shoes that fit to be similar to the fairy tale; how Prince Charming searched all his land to find that one special lady who fits into the the glass slipper but in reverse.  What a fitting description right???

(Photo: DressedUpDev.com)

So onto the details of the giveaway!  We’re giving away 1 pair of this Dansi peep toes as seen on Carina.  All that stands between the goods is 4 easy steps.  

(Photo: DressedUpDev.com)

We will announce on our social media next Friday on 2/5/16! Good Luck!

In Ancient East Asia, Emperors and high ranking government officials used special seals made out of semi-precious stones such as jade to give documents their authorship and authenticity.  These unique seals are hand-carved by artisans in an ancient form of writing that are not easily recognized or duplicated by the untrained eye.  The seal and the imprints were considered the highest form of authentication in the realm.

Famous artists still use this form of signature on their works and on works of others as a sign of appreciation.

(Photo: http://chineseart.tumblr.com/)

My grandfather first introduced the art of Chinese Calligraphy to me when I was a child.  I remember learning how to grind an ink stick with water to a precise consistency and how to control my breathing so my hands wouldn’t shake and touch the rice paper while I painted.  I must admit I was not a very patient child growing up; the only way he got me to sit down every night to practice was a promise that he will have a seal made for me when I am good enough.  Even then he knew I had a competitive side to me and it worked; I practiced and practiced until I got my own seal.

I regret to say that due to all the moves I had growing up, my seal was lost.  Even though the one above is a replica, what it represented inspired me to create this collection.  

Like the meditational way of practicing Chinese calligraphy, it takes a while to really become authentically New York.  The seal to me represents and identifies my appreciation of all the good, bad, and ugly sides of this city.  I hope you’ll like it and wear it proudly too!  Thanks for reading!

How was everyone's Thanksgiving Weekend?  Hope everyone had a great time with family and friends and squeezed in a bit of holiday shopping too!

I have news this Monday!  I am excited to share an awesome review by Little Mise of The Little Palace blog!  Like me, she has always struggled with getting clothes and shoes/heels that fit.  So she started her blog with a goal to share her style tips and to find petite resources for those in the same situation.

Head on over to her blog to read her review and find out more about this petite blogger!

Last week, I wrote about some of the tools that I keep in my shoe caring kit.  So for this week, I would like to continue but also show you how to recognize that your shoe is ready for some serious TLC that only a professional can provide. For those of you who have just tuned it, you can read the first part here.

4) Keep your shoes and bags in its intended shape even if you are not wearing them.   Leather will wrinkle with age.  If you wear your shoes a lot; you will see crease lines that form where your feet bend. Hopefully, you have conditioned the leather of your shoes often enough that the creases will not crack easily.  In addition to conditioning, I recommend using an extra tool to help the shoes keep their shape.  I highly recommend investing in a cedar shoe tree as it wicks away moisture and prevents odors from building up.  I prefer ones that have a split toe because let’s face it, shoes are not made perfectly for your feet off the rack.  The split toe mechanism will slowly stretch the toe box of the shoe so that in time it will fit a slightly wider feet.  You may not see the immediate results but with a bit of patience you will feel the difference on your feet.

(Photo: Woodlore)

(Photo: Shoe Care Supplies)

Another inexpensive preventative measure of crease lines can be found in your local party store: long balloons.  Balloons will not let your boots breath as the cedar ones would, but they do the job.  Some reviewers online find it easier to manage as they have more give than the stiffer cedar ones, especially around the calf area.  So if you choose this option, just remember to air out your boots once in awhile.

(Photo: Amazon)

5) Become best friends with a cobbler! There will come a time when you just cannot prevent or fix the wear and tear on your shoes and this is when you take them to a good cobbler and let the master work the magic.  It is important to never over wear your shoes to the point of no return because there are things that even the most skilled cobbler cannot fix.  Most people know that a cobbler can buff out scratches and dress the edges of a shoe but here’s a few ways to tell that you should immediately go to the cobbler.

• When you are walking and the sound of your heels are like metal scraping the ground.  This is usually a sign that you have killed your heel caps.  No fret, this is actually one of the most common things a cobbler fix for women shoes.  Changing it out is easy and it will feel like new once again.

• When you see stitching coming apart on your loafers or flats.  Traditionally, a loafer’s upper, insole, and outsoles are all stitched together.  While there are a few ways in how the stitchings can be performed, one of their common benefits is to prevent water from getting into the shoe.  If the shoe’s stitching and soles are coming apart, the next time you wear it in the rain, you might have wet socks.  A good cobbler can completely replace the sole or restitch it together depending on the method the shoe was constructed, price will vary accordingly as well.

• When you feel every single pebble you walk on.  This usually means you’ve worn out your outsole. Luckily this is an easy fix for the cobbler.  Typically what is left of your outsole will be peeled off and be replaced.  You can have either rubber or leather on any shoe.  What is great about rubber is that it is shock absorbent and great for rainy weather. Rubber soles at ⅛ of an inch will absorb better shock than a leather sole would.  However, leather generally has more of a sophisticated look and a softer bend, so a leather-soled shoe is aesthetically pleasing and will feel less chunky on the feet like the ones from our current collection. You can decide what type of sole you want, just don’t forget to tell the cobbler.

So there you have it, all of my recommendation on how to extend the life of your shoes.  What do you think?  Share your comments on my Facebook page.

Also, we currently have a subscribers only Holiday Pre-Sale Event going on.  Subscribe below to get a 20% discount code and first dibs on our current collection of shoes!

Have you ever owned a pair of shoes that you wore to its death and wondered to yourself “Geez, I sure did a number on that one?”  Well, I have and it was not pretty.  After departing with a few favorite pairs, I’ve finally learned techniques that make my shoes last longer.

1) Make it a habit to clean and moisturize your leather shoes every season.  Over time, leather shoes left untreated will become dry and brittle with wear.  If you live in cold climate regions where the heat is on constantly in the winter; your leather shoes will dry out even faster.  So as you take out your sweaters for the season, take the time to clean and moisturize your shoes too.  Coach leather cleaner and moisturizer has been in my closet for years and they have kept my bags and shoes in mint condition.  Just dab a little of the cleaner on a lint-free cloth, gently wipe your leather goods, let the shoes dry (I usually leave them alone for a day), then repeat with the conditioner and then let dry.  It may seem like a lot of work, but at $10 each, your shoes and bags will thank you.  Please read the instructions though, there are fabrics that these are not recommended to be used on.

(Photo: Coach)

2) Spray your leather and suedes with a leather protector.  Nothing ruins the look of leather or suede than the damage done to them by the elements. You know what I mean, those very visible rain droplets, the scruff lines, and the nasty melted snow lines on those cute UGGs.  If you spray on a protectant like the one below from The Solemates periodically, your shoes won’t look like they’ve been dragged through the garbage and you will always look put together from head to toe.  I spray my shoes before I even wear them, yes, as in right out of the box because when I do decide to wear them, they are ready to go.  Remember to spray it from far enough away so that you are not soaking the shoe with the solution and most importantly let dry before you wear the shoe.

3) Invest in a good suede brush.  I once had melted glue fallen on my suede pumps and this brush by Shacke was able to clean it out in seconds.  All you need to do is just gently brush it with the bristle and viola!  There are instructions on the package that describes the functions of the other parts of the brush but the bristles are good enough for me.  At $6.99, this should be part of every girl’s shoe kit. What more do I have to say?

(Photo: Amazon)

Stay tune for part 2 coming soon!  And let us know what you think on Facebook!

I love the look of my old-school heater in my apartment building.  But with the intense heat it gives off and the cold air this time of year, my skin is definitely taking a beating.  If I don’t take the necessary precautions, my skin pays the price; especially the heels on my feet will crack and it is not the most attractive thing.  So today I would like to share with you my winter foot care routine and hope to see if any of you have your own routines to share.

1) Drink lots of water.  It’s a cliche but there is no amount of magic lotion that will replenish the moisture your body needs from drinking water.  There are numerous studies on the internet about exactly how much you are suppose to drink daily, but I find it difficult to remember the amount as the day passes.  So my rule of thumb is, if you are asking if you have drank enough, the answer is to drink some more.

2) Use alcohol-free and scent-free lotion or cream.  Most scents in skincare products are derived from alcohols in the formulation and they are very drying on your skin, so I make it a rule to stay away from them.  Essential oils are a better option, but I do not like how some might stain my pajamas.  The holy grail of creams in my opinion is from CeraVe.  It has no scents and contains a lot of skin imitating ingredients that create a barrier over the skin to prevent moisture loss. After application, the skin is not sticky, it has almost a matte finish and I had never had a skin tightening feeling as it would with lotions with alcohol added.  CeraVe is available on Amazon and local drug stores and it is not expensive at all.

(Photo Credit: Amazon)

 (Photo Credit: Presadee)

As the temperature drops here in NYC, I felt it was about time to switch out my summer wardrobe to my fall/winter wardrobe.  If you have read my recent blog about the reality of a NYC closet, you would understand why this is a necessary act one must do semi-annually.  With the limited space, one must invest in the best storage ideas.

I like to start planning my outfit of the day with shoes first.  Being that I am not a morning person, you can imagine the mess if I didn’t have my shoes displayed in plain sight.  Besides my shoes are beautiful.  There are a ton of solutions out there, I’ve looked at a few solutions when I moved a few years ago and I’d like to share ones that I really liked.

1. Clear Shoe Drawer or the Drop-Front Shoe Box from The Container Store

These two solutions are both stackable, which means you can create any combination that will suit your needs.  They are both easy to clean and also give a good view of your shoes; making morning decisions quick and easy.  I am partial to the Clear Shoe Drawer because the lower height allows you to stack them higher and I love the glass look.  I own about 50 myself =].  

2. Muji’s storage boxes

(Photo Credit: Muji Germany)

Another great storage option is from a Japanese minimalist themed store that I love.  Not only do they offer great construction and durability in their storage units, but I feel they offer such a vast option in sizes for all your organizing needs. I am sure you’ll love all the goodies you find there!

Do you guys have your own storage solutions?  Love to hear all your genius solutions on our Facebook!  And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for upcoming events and offers!

My weakness has always been shoes.  For other people, they can walk away from an outfit to “think about it”, but for me it is “could I put my size 4 feet in this size 6 shoes without looking like I wore my mother’s shoes.”  After an un-encouraging amount of ill-fitting shoes I’ve purchased in my teenage years, the lesson to be learned boils down to this: if the shoe fits, buy the pair that accentuates the most outfits where one is at least work appropriate.  Why? Because a real NYC apartment closet can not accommodate all the shoes Carrie Bradshaw owned.

Carrie Bradshaw's Closet in Sex and the City (Photo Credit: The Coveteur)

In the city that never sleeps, there’s always something to do; getting things done at work, networking over happy hour, discovering new eats at fresh restaurants and meeting with friends to catch up.  A girl needs versatility in her wardrobe to keep up.

Being in the financial industry for some years has taught me to dress smartly.  I start my outfit planning with my shoes, because packing a 2nd pair of shoes in your bag leaves less room for other important things.  Selecting heels that are appropriate for work, but can also be transitioned for a nighttime event is the key to all this.  Take the Beverly; the front is a classic round toe pump with a minimal platform in an eye-catching blue, but the details on the back is what will get the “oh! where did she get those shoes” double take.  I pair the shoes with a stylish sheath dress, some modest jewelry and a structured bag for the professional look.

In a small clutch, one that could fit into my work bag, I would pack a set of earrings, necklaces or bracelets that are a bit more dramatic. Et Voila! You are ready for that happy hour, date night, fancy restaurant without having to run back to your apartment to change in rush hour.  Saving lots of time and money, a major win.

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Happy Friday!!! :)

Growing up with a mother who was a leather saleswoman has made me careful about the quality of shoes I buy for myself.  Everytime I shop for a pair -even before trying them on; is a chance to study the parts and identify the leathers they are made of.  My mother always says “A good quality leather will age really well; the creases won’t break apart easily and good leather will develop a patina or a vintage look over time.”

I hope you enjoy the shoes we have picked for you at our shop as we are very proud to be supporting the artistry from these storied brands.  Know that when you are wearing these shoes, they are made with love and the quality is mother approved!  

It has been a long journey, but I am excited to announce the launch of TwoPerfectSouls.com.

My name is Evelyn and I live in New York City with my husband Alex and our American shorthair mix cat named Latte (yes I love coffee).  

As a petite girl (5'0") with size 3.5-4 feet, I hope to share with you exciting new shoes, style tips and personal tidbits of being a petite girl in the city that never sleeps. 

Welcome to the site, please enjoy and happy shopping! :D