Soled Mate

Spring has Sprung

2011-03-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

Spring is just around the corner, and I have to say, I can not wait! It has been a long and cold winter. One other thing I can't wait for...to be employed! I just accepted an internship for the spring/summer so I will be a temporary part of the workforce. I have shared before that I actually like dressing up for work and I like the idea of wearing a suit every now and then. But mostly I just miss the pay checks that come along with employment. So since I will be going back to work in a few short weeks, here is what my ideal Spring work outfit would look like.

Spring by soledmate on Polyvore.com

What would you do?

2011-03-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

So I just bought these wedges at DSW.

I had 3 gift/reward/birthday certificates that I needed to use ASAP and I am going to an outdoor wedding back home this weekend where wedges would be perfect. These instantly stood out to me, and I love stand out shoes. The problem is, I don't think I have anything to wear with them. Here is basically what I am working with.

Something like this:

Something like this:

And, something like this:

Yes, I have other dresses, but either their color or their shape have completely disqualified them from consideration.

I think the khaki Safari dress would be perfect with the shoes, but probably not for the wedding. The black dress might also work well, except that its black and the shoes have brown in them. Part of me finds that so wrong. And the navy dress probably wont work at all. So, I guess if I want to wear these shoes, I am going to have to buy a new dress. Not what I want to do. Or I could wear my original dress (not even in the above group) and wear heels that will sink into the grass. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

The shoes were made for...driving?

2011-03-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

If you had $6500 and needed a new vehicle, would this be on your list?

According to Splash:

Drivers can really put their foot down driving this electric “shoe car”. The car was designed by a major Chinese shoe-making company, which invited workers to take it for a spin. The shoe car is three meters long and is made from 200ft of of bull leather. It has a top speed of 30km/h and can carry two people. The battery-powered car can run for up to 400km on one charge. A spokesman for the Ao Kang company in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, said the car cost around $6,500 (USD) to make. The company is planning to make 40 shoe cars for its large chain stores around China.

Oscar Favorites (Finally)

2011-03-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

So I have finally found the time to post my Oscar favorites from Sunday. Better late than never, right? Well, I guess I was pretty harsh with my judgment because I only had eight.

Mila Kunis, Sandra Bullock, Mandy Moore, Camilla Alves, Jennifer Lawrence, Hailee Steinfeld, Reece Witherspoon, Hilary Swank

Who was your best dressed?

Oscar Host, Anne Hathaway's Brian Atwood pumps

2011-02-28T16:49:00.000-08:00

So, unlike some other award shows, shoes rarely get to see the light of day at the Oscars. Long, floor length ball gowns, are typical thus the gorgeous pumps we all know are underneath never get shown. However there were one pair of shoes that did stand out to me during the show, and its probably because she wasn't wearing a gown with them.

About a third of the way through the show, Anne Hathaway took the stage for a humorous solo to poke fun at Hugh Jackman. She was wearing a form-fitting tux and some super sparkly pumps.

Anne Hathaway hosting 2011 Oscars in Swarovski Crystal Brian Atwood pumps

Well, the fine ladies over at FabSugar have identified those fabulous shoes to be Swarovski Crystal covered Brian Atwood pumps. And before you ask, no you can't find them anywhere. They are custom made for Anne herself. But maybe you could take your own Atwoods and crystals and make your very own pair....yeah, probably not.

Cute from Faraway but Faraway from Cute

2011-02-26T21:24:00.000-08:00

So I saw this picture of Eva Mendes at the Independent Spirit Awards and I immidieatly noticed her shoes! Here is the thumbnail I saw first:

All I really see is the light tourquise shoes on her tan skin, and I think it's going to be good. Then I get a little closer.

Still not bad, but I could do without the extra strap thing around her ankle. Then I get way up close.

Ugh, so disappointing! They had so much potential! They compliment her dress well and the color looks good against her skin, but somehow up close they just lose all appeal.

Update: These shoes are all over the place!

Trend: Hardware

2011-02-24T07:01:00.000-08:00

Are you a little bit rock n' roll? If so, this trend may be for you. Whether its just some subtle studs or some major spikes, these shoes will instantly give you some edge.

Hardware by soledmate on Polyvore.com

What is your Dream Shoe?

2011-02-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

So I have been a bad little blogger and have not been doing my job very well the past few days. This week has been crazy as I try to finish up some papers and prepare for some exams.

So, since I'm a little crunched for time, I want you to tell me what your DREAM shoe is. If money were no object, what shoes would you go out and buy yourself?

Mine:

Christian Louboutin Patent Rolando

Kinda boring, I know? But, the way I see it, I will get to wear them all the time because they are such a classic style and color. But since money is no object, I will buy two pairs!

Leave your dream shoe in the comments!

Kate Spade: Fall 2011

2011-02-19T10:39:00.000-08:00

With just a glimpse of Kate Spade's newest collection, its easy to see her inspiration. I see a little Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie-O. I love this classic take on her dresses, bags, and especially the shoes. What do you think?

via @ FabSugar

Trend: Lace

2011-02-18T05:58:00.000-08:00

What is more romantic and sexy than lace? I sure can't think of anything. Lately, many designers have been adding the delicate textile to their shoes. It makes sense, when you think about it: what part of your body needs the most help being romantic and sexy more than your feet. I kid, I kid, but these really are lovely shoes.

Lace by soledmate

Alexander McQueen Lace-covered satin pumps, $995
Black/Nude Lace Peep Toe Pumps, $780
GIANMARCO LORENZI P1D1H0172 BLACK&WHITE LACE 3214601, 349 GBP
Valentino Lace-effect patent-leather ballerina flats, $595
CASADEI 4141CZ BLACK LACE 3104601, 279 GBP
DOLCE & GABBANA C11533A9N08 BEIGE LACE 3182001, 489 GBP
Christian Louboutin Fifi Stiletto Shoes, 455 GBP
Lace Pretty Ballerina, 119 GBP
Paris Hilton Senorita - Grey Lace, $95

Hot Shoes Under $50

2011-02-17T16:52:00.000-08:00

I don't know anyone who doesn't like to save money, but when it comes to shoes, sometimes my eyes are a little bigger than my wallet. Good thing I have some self control (and no money), or else I would be swimming in shoes I don't really need. Example below:

Ok, maybe I would like that...

Anyways, my point is, you don't have to go broke buying shoes. Here are some hot shoes that all cost under $50.

Michael Antonio Tonell at DSW for $39.95

Dolce Vita for Target Rope Wedges for $29.99

Unisa Brindy Flats at Macys for $48.30

Miss Me Jocelyn-12 at Endless.com for $19.95

Call It Spring Dajani at JC Penny for $49.99

Now there are no excuses when trying to keep to your budget and stay looking fabulous. Happy Shopping!

Beyonce in Christian Louboutin Daffodile Pumps

2011-02-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

Holy Mother of God. My jaw dropped when I saw these gorgeous tourquiose platforms that Beyonce is sporting. I mean...WOW. Those are some serious heels.

via JustJared.com

These must be the suede version of Louboutin's Daffodile pumps (of course not available to the general public as of yet). Look at how high the platform is - 2.5 inches. So, all you vertically challenged women out there, if you save up $995 you can add 5 inches to your height! What a deal!

Leighton Meester

2011-02-16T10:37:00.000-08:00

Check out Leighton's shoes from the Marc Jacobs show.

via JustJared.com

I am going to assume they are by Marc Jacobs, but you know what assuming does. I think they are incredibly fun, but maybe would be better paired with a simple dress instead of the patterned one she has on.

Correction: Those are Christian Louboutin shoes she has on.

Wedding Flats

2011-02-16T05:59:00.000-08:00

I have the privilege of serving as the Maid of Honor for one of my best friend's wedding this summer. While she has had this wedding planning thing down pat, I did have the chance to help her pick out her attire for the big day. I'd say I have been a pretty good wedding stylist so far, but my next task is to find some flats for her to wear for her reception. Obviously they need to be comfortable, but also something that she will be able to wear again. Here is what I found:

No, that is not her dress, but the Badgley Mischka pumps you see there are the ones she will be wearing when she says, "I Do." Aren't they lovely?

Wedding Flats by soledmate

Juicy Couture Studded Ballerina Flat, $101
Badgley Mischka Women's Xolani Pump, $120
Kate Spade - Flash - Gold Sequin Ballet Flat at Footnotesonline..., $125
Steve Madden Kinnetic - Gold Fabric, $60
Steve Madden Women's Kobbe Ballet Flat, $38
Unlisted Women's Hello Hello Flat, $49
JCrew Factory rainy day ballet flats in metallic silver, $40

Shoe of the Day: Rainbows

2011-02-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

The weather has rebounded from ice and snow to sunny and warm! Like the good California girl I am, that means breaking about the sandals. In my professional (aka non-professional) opinion, the best sandals anyone could ever own are Rainbow Sandals.

Yes, they may not be "fashionable" (unless you live in So. Cal.), they may not be pretty, but they are comfortable and they will literally last you forever. If they don't send them back to the Rainbow factory and they will send you a new pair.

And yes, I am wearing my Rainbows today!

BAFTA Best Dressed

2011-02-15T06:50:00.000-08:00

Who knew that the BAFTAs (British Academy of Film and Theatre Awards) were this weekend? Yeah, me neither. But there were some beautiful dresses in attendance.

Jessica Alba

Amy Adams

Ema Stone

Annette Bening

All You Need is Love: Day 8

2011-02-14T16:23:00.000-08:00

Whether in love or out, on Valentine's Day I {LOVE} to...

1. Snuggle with my sweetie

2. Watch How I Met Your Mother w/ aforementioned sweetie

3. Eat Chocolate

4. ...and shop for shoes!!!

Prada @ Saks

What I will actually be doing for Valentine's day...going to class until 10pm.

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T13:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to all those who have read, stumbled upon, liked, commented on, or accidentally clicked on this site! I love you all!

Grammys 2011: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

2011-02-14T13:19:00.000-08:00

What I love about the Grammy's is that there are so many different personality types of the artists that is directly expressed in the fashion choices. It can be summed up perfectly by Jason Segel's quote from last night:

"If you are successful enough and entertain enough people, you can wear whatever you want."

Unlike actors/actresses, musical artists are a little more willing to take some fashion risks and think outside the box. Some, like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Rihanna, and Nikki Minaj, take it to a whole new level. I have left those fine ladies out of this critique for obvious reasons. I have, however, broken it down between my favorites (the good), those that fell a little short (the bad), and my least favorites (the ugly).

Who was your good, bad, and ugly?

The Good

Julianne Hough, Selena Gomez, Jewel, Kings of Leon, Jennifer Lopez, Heidi Klum, Sarah Barellis, Kelly Osborne, Bruno Mars, Keri Hilson

The Bad

Jennifer Hudson, LeAnn Rymes, Eva Longoria, Mya, Jenna Ushkowitz, Ciara, Miley Cyrus, Kim Kardashian, Matthew Morrison, Diddy

The Ugly

Natasha Beddingfield, Justin Bieber, Snooki, Nicole Kidman, Jordan Sparks, Leah Michele, Naya Rivera, Hayley Williams, Adam Levine, Pauley Pellette

Shoe of the Day: Christian Louboutin Futura

2011-02-14T06:09:00.000-08:00

If you watched the Grammy's last night, I am sure you didn't miss Cee-Lo Green and Gwyneth Paltrow's performance of "F*** You". It was fun, colorful, and involved muppets! While Gwyneth's outfit was a little more subdued than Cee-Lo's, her shoes definitely stood out.

via Faded Youth

All You Need is Love: Day 7

2011-02-13T09:26:00.000-08:00

I {LOVE} when I feel beautiful/sexy/pretty! This happens when I...

...get dressed up. This is the obvious & superficial answer. These days, I don't get "dressed up" too often. My life is pretty casual, so when I get the chance to go out and do my hair & makeup, put on a dress & heels, it's just gives me an air of confidence.

I also feel beautiful/sexy, oddly enough, after a run or equally hard workout. That runners high is no joke. Knowing that you I pushed the limits of my body, tested my endurance, just makes me feel powerful and that makes me feel beautiful. I also heard one time, that when you are criticizing your body, think about what that particular area does for you. For me, my legs are my "trouble area". But when I run, I am thankful for my muscular legs that carried me for those 3, 4, 5, 6, etc miles.

...but I feel the best after a shower after that run. :)

Happy Valentines Day!

All You Need is Love: Day 5&6

2011-02-12T16:21:00.000-08:00

Woops, I missed day 5 since I was actually working all day. I forget how nice it is to be a student some times. Anyways, here we go!

Day 5

What I {LOVE} about my friends is...

...they put up with me! Ha..you think I am kidding, but I am not. As an only child, my girl-friends are about as close as I will get to having sisters, and many of us have known each other long enough and have gone through enough sh*t together that we are as close as sisters. They make me laugh, tell me when I am being a bitch, ignore me if I don't listen to them, cheer me up when I am sad, make great shopping partners, listen to my boy problems, etc. I love them all dearly!

Day 6

I {LOVE} to blog because....

I do a lot of random internet browsing so this gives me an avenue to share what I find with other people. When I was working, I would read tons of blogs and fashion websites to find shoes that I loved just to pass the time when I got bored. Now that I am a poor grad student, I will browse stores online as almost a stress reliever. Also, it gives me some motivation to do well in school so I can get a good job and then get paid enough money that I can justify buying these:

Christian Louboutin Balota Glitter Strappy Sandals, $1095 from Saks

Or these:

Edmundo Castillo Open Front D'Orsay Pumps - $650 at Saks

Or these:

Gucci Inga Leather T-Strap Sandal - $895 at Saks

Holy Crap- It's a Transforming Dress

2011-02-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

So this has nothing to do with shoes, but I just saw this video and I can't believe my eyes. Clothing designer Hussein Chalayan has created clothing that can transform right in front of your eyes.

This video is pretty old, from 2007, but to me that just makes it more impressive. I can't believe we have the technology to do something like this now, let alone 4 years ago.

Guess Who: Platform Combat Boots

2011-02-12T15:16:00.000-08:00

Can you guess who is wearing these platform, high-heeled combat boots?

Hint: This multi-talented entertainer is known for setting her own style and pushing the limits.

Leave your guesses in the comments!

Christian Siriano for Payless Collection Fall 2011

2011-02-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

Christian Siriano showed he new collection at Fashion Week, and, as always, he didn't disappoint. He collaborated again this year with Payless for a shoe collection that was all about sky high platforms, alligator skin, and hardware. I would have liked to see some more color from him, but over all it was very much his aesthetic.

What do you think?

Pictures from FabSugar