My Shoe Shoppe

October Shoe Sales: Fiona-1 50% off!!

2010-09-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

June Promotion

2010-06-02T15:12:00.000-07:00

FootPetals: Why they win over Gel ... EVERY time

2010-06-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

May New Arrivals

2010-06-02T15:10:00.001-07:00

Make over this Mommy!

2010-04-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

You've heard the one about the "old woman who lived in her shoe," right? Well, we're looking for those shoes ... and those women, young or old.

Mother's Day is right around the corner, and this year we want to find moms in need of a shoe makeover. We know you're out there.

So help us out. Gather those pics, post them on our Facebook page and on Mother's Day one luck mom is gonna win some free shoes and Foot Petals accessories.

We're looking for moms who are stuck. We're looking for women who, for whatever reason (No haters here. We don't judge), wear shoes that are old, outdated, or just plain ugly. We're looking for women who wear these:Me-OW. Or these:

Or bless her heart these:

Or ... gulp ... these:
Here's your chance, cuz we're gonna help a Mom out. Do it for the children.

Who wants to wear a reptile?!

2010-04-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't? Reptile patterns are sleek and sexy, they give a little attitude, and you can wear them everything -- jeans, skirts, slacks, dresses.
Paola $24.99 Yellow (above), Beige, Turquoise, Orange.

Noodle $19.99 Brown

Simmer-5 $24.99 Purple, Black, Brown

Siam-1 $24.99 Black

Siam-1 $24.99 Beige

Spring Boots

2010-04-09T12:41:00.001-07:00

Spring Favorites

2010-04-09T10:27:00.001-07:00

New Arrivals!

2010-04-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

Freaky Friday ... and super cute new shoes

2010-03-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

This week has me reeling. It went from 59 and sunny to this:

See how dark? And dreary? See all the freaking snow?!? Can you feel the cold creeping right into your monitor?! I was most irritated. I wanted to wear these this morning:
Cute right? They are our newest sandal. (Waltz-149A. $14.99 ... contact your rep to place the order.) Part of me thought, "Eh, wear them anyway." But then the sane part got the better of me and I wore these instead:Also supremely cute (the Simmer-5. $24.99 Black, Brown and PUR-PLE!), but they are not NEW! What is it about new shoes. Anyway, I needed to make a trip to the store and it got me thinking about boots again, sigh. I really didn't want to be. And then I found this:
What? What is she wearing? Yes, her dress/skirt whatever is a little short and has a weird side pocket thing happening, but I was referring to her feet. The purpley things on her shoes.

They are galoshes, my friends. Galoshes. For her pumps! Here's a closer look:
They fit OVER your shoes and protect them from the elements. Crazy weird, but also a little genius, aye?

Stilettos = better recreational bedroom activities.

2010-03-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read that correctly. We're totally PG-13 around these parts.

OK, so this really should have been our Valentine's blog. I'm a little slow, but we're totally early for St. Patrick's Day blog, and that's practically V-day's 1 month anniversary. So, see ... we're just checking in, making sure your "love department" is in "full bloom" for Spring, which also starts this month! I'm on fire, people.

But, let's get down to business. I hear women all the time talk about how they "feel" sexier when they wear heels. And guess what ... it's more than a feeling!

I digress again. Stilettos. Sexy. Yes, it's now a scientific fact ... unless you don't think chiropractors qualify. But I do. Take it away Stan:

"Heels accentuate the buttocks, the walking posture and the female anatomy," says Stan Gorchynski, chair of the board of the Ontario Chiropractic Association. "More attention is drawn to a woman in heels because her whole carriage changes."

We know men are visual creatures, that is no secret. So we've taken care of him, but it takes two. Now, on to you.

Doctor Maria Cerruto, a urologist in Italy (land of the lovers!), found high heels not only tone leg muscles, but "improve a woman's pelvic floor muscles, thereby boosting her sex life."

Taduh.

Say what? You don't wear heels? Well, we've got a little something for you too. Stiletto School.

Make a better first impression ... with the right shoes.

2010-02-25T20:03:00.000-08:00

We all do it.

OK, maybe we don't all stand in the street dressed in ponchos and mickey gloves, but we all make judgments. Admit it, you judged her. Come on, you did. You saw that picture and thought: Crazy Lady, with a capital C.

And what about him?Or him?

More than 50% of a first impression is based on non-verbal communication: Appearance, tone of voice, even posture. And if you make a bad impression, it takes an average of 22 additional encounters with that person to change it. Yikes!

So what am I getting at ... this is a fashion blog for goodness sakes. Shoes, people. Shoes. They matter. Did you see Crazy Lady's pink sneaks up there? Don't go there. It's not a good look.

But what you're wearing on your feet say a lot about you. Hopefully good things.

Here are some helpful hints for improving first impressions, with your shoes:

Show some creativity without going overboard. Wear a burst of color in your shoes, or a bold pattern. Take notice of people around you who you think look "put together" and check out their shoes. They'll be rockin'. Guaranteed.

See? Rockin with those shoes ... and it's a really basic outfit.

Improve your posture -- wear a pump with a 2-3 inch heel. This height is ideal for creating a 15 degree incline, which naturally improves posture (and your calves ... and butts)
Clean 'em up. I know that old pair you've had around for YEARS that has completely molded to your foot is so comfortable, but it looks sloppy. Ditch them for those "first impression" days, and wear them around the house ... or to get the mail.

It'll make a difference.

March is almost here ...

2010-02-23T14:44:00.000-08:00

... satisfy your leprechauns with GREEN shoes!

Spring sales starting early ...

2010-02-23T14:37:00.000-08:00

November Promotion

2009-11-03T11:34:00.001-08:00

Here a few more kids shoe styles ...

Catalog sneak peek!

2009-10-23T15:02:00.001-07:00

We're getting ready for our Winter Catalog and we've got some great pictures ... here's some we loved that didn't quite the make the cut.

This Alison, our hottie patottie model. She's featuring the Elsa in this picture. Super cute. Roomy enough to tuck in your jeans.

The Moda. FUN heel, so much great color.

The Organa. Flat boot, great for Moms on the Go who need something that looks great and they can chase kids in!

The Brand. Asymetrical top line that really catches the eye.

More to come in our catalog!! :)

September: Summer Clearance Blowout ...

2009-09-04T08:58:00.001-07:00

This month, we have more than 50 styles on sale -- summer clearance as low as $4.99!!

Here's a small sample of some of the great selections we're featuring.

August Promotion!!

2009-08-18T11:03:00.000-07:00

It's August. Time for a little back-to-school sale. OK, a BIG sale.

It's not a typo. All those shoes. $9.99. Great deal, huh? We even shocked ourselves a little.

New arrivals!

2009-08-07T12:08:00.000-07:00

So, August has only just begun, but we're already getting our Fall shoes. Too early? No way I say.

LOVE fall shoes. And sweaters, and scarves and leaves and ... Fall. It's coming and we're really excited for what we're seeing this year. Here are some of our new arrivals:

Welcome Heather!

2009-07-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

We are excited to welcome our newest representative, Heather Bertagnolli.

She is our first representative in Idaho, which is exciting. Heather is introducting shoe parties to the Idaho Falls/Rexburg area.

Check out her website to contact her, see what she has on her display and look at her party calendar.

Party on in Idaho. :)

Welcome Jessica!

2009-07-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

We are excited to welcome our newest representative, Jessica Christensen-Armijo.

She will be partying in Magna, Utah area ... traveling throughout Salt Lake and Tooele counties.

Check out her website to contact her and see what she has on her display!

What Women Want -- St. George

2009-05-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

Join us at the What Women Want Expo in St. George this weekend, May 15-16th.

We'll have our entire Spring Line available. Stop by to meet our representatives, try on shoes, book a party, or browse our catalog.

Watch for our coupon in The Spectrum. We'll also have some Expo Sales you won't want to miss.

More fun styles

2009-05-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

Paola -- In Black, Beige, Orange, Yellow and Turquoise (shown). $24.99

Input: In White (Pink, Green, Yellow, and Orange flowers) and Beige (shown). $24.99

Athena: Black, Cognac (shown) and Fushcia. $14.99

Amar: In Mustard (shown), Mauve, and Bronze. $19.99

Creating The Look

2009-05-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

One of the questions we get ALL the time is ...

"What would I wear this with?"

So, I experimented a bit today on Polyvore.com
First with the Owena-19 in Taupe

Spring taupes and gold by Sarathered featuring By Malene Birger blouses

And then with the Venuss in Olive.

Three for Venus by Sarathered featuring Hollister Co. t-shirts

Mother's Day Sale!

2009-05-04T13:12:00.001-07:00

April Party Sale

2009-04-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

It's Spring, finally. :) And it's time to make way for new spring shoes.

Our Clearance Collection is 30% off when you purchase online, but when you place an order with a representative at any of their parties:

Shoes on Good Things Utah today ...

2009-03-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

Emily from Give Away Today featured some of our shoes today on Good Things Utah!

Check out her blog next week to win some of our shoes and for a discount code to get 30% your order!

Ask your rep about our March Sales!

2009-03-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

We're celebrating ... good luck style. All green shoes are 30% off for the month of March.

Mother's Day Boutique Friday!

2009-03-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

ONE STOP MOTHERS DAY SHOP

When: Friday March 6th
from 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Where: 1961 W. Morton Dr.
SLC, UT. 84116

Featuring Lia Sophia, Pampered Chef, and our shoes of course!

Come join us for an evening of shopping for you and the mothers on your list! There will be great deals and a gift basket drawing with items from all vendors.

Safe Kids Fair -- Feb. 27 and 28th

2009-02-26T18:52:00.000-08:00

Come see Marika and her new line of shoes at the Safe Kids Fair on Feb. 27th and 28th. We'll be at:

The Southtowne Expo Center
Friday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Admission is FREE!!!

We'll be part of the Tinker Bear Boutique / Simply Chic Boutique for Moms. So when you need a break, come see us and all the other great vendors!!

Shoe Parties -- How do they work?

2009-02-20T12:17:00.001-08:00

Want to know how a shoe party works? You've come to the right place. Follow along below and you'll be well on your way to earning FREE shoes!!

1. Contact your rep and book a show. Don't know who your rep is? Email info@myshoeshoppe.com

2. Get ready to party. You'll get a hostess packet prior to your party and then it's time to get the word out: send invites and emails, post flyers ... whatever works for you. Your postcard invites will look something like this:

3. Party Set up. About 30 minutes prior to your start time, your representative will show and the fun will begin. She'll have shoes to set up for your guests try on, as well as samples from our accessory line of designer footpads, by Footpetals. Check out our Spring Preview.

4. Party Time. Now, you wait for your guests to arrive and have fun trying everything on. Great friends and great shoes make for a great girls' night out, or in.

5. Place Orders. Once your guests find the shoes they can't live without, they place orders with your representative.

6. Get your FREE stuff!! Once the party winds down, you place your order of stuff you can't live without and redeem your hostess benefits, which are awesome!

7. Go shopping and get a pedicure! OK, this one is totally optional (and is the step that gets us in trouble with husbands) but we can't help it. Our customers tend to buy new outfits to go with their new shoes, and make sure their toes are just as cute!

8. Make a date. You'd think this step would also get us in trouble with husbands, but no. Once your shoes arrive (policy is 10-14 business days, but most arrive within a week), and you strut your stuff (and receive lots of compliments) while delivering shoes to your friends (and see all the cute shoes THEY got), he'll want to show you off. Date time!!

That's it! You're done ... unless of course, you're already looking forward to your NEXT shoe party, in which case you can add:

9. Repeat!

Spring Preview!!

2009-02-19T16:25:00.001-08:00

Well, spring is just around the corner, and we've already had a flood of requests for a sneak peek at what's coming. So, here are some of our favorite spring styles --

Intro: This one is sure to get attention ... platform, open side, and a fun patterned wedge to boot, er ... wedge. Also available in white.Nearly: You can't beat a comfortable flip flop. This year's winner comes to us from Soda.

Amar: This multi-colored sandal is great for jeans, skirts, shorts, capris ... casual or dressy. It's 2-inch heel is a great height and makes it an "all-day shoe." Also available in yellow-orange multi.

Talent: Back by popular demand ... this spring wedge will continue to have everyone talking. And if you wore yours out last year, come get a new pair. Also available in brown and orange.

Cold-9: Not everything has to be open toe. Have a toe aversion? This wedge is for you.

Abox: Can't get enough animal print? Try it in pink. It's a great way to get the print, and wear it with your favorite spring look

Michelle-3: A great platform wedge is a must have! This one has a classic shape with a twist and looks great on everyone.

Spring boots: Watch for a fun, fashionable trend ... spring boots. These boots will look great and keep your warm and dry on those drizzly days.

There's more to come ... comfortable and colorful flats, more spring sandals, wedges, peep toes, pumps, sneakers, even more spring boots. Watch for our spring line in March and April.

Shop Online!!

2008-10-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

Our online sales are up and running on our sister site, My Shoe Shoppe.

We've got a great selection and the option to search by size, as well as a Wish List and two checkout options -- regular checkout or Express through Paypal -- and our shipping is $2.99 per order!!

The best part is you can do it from home, in your pajamas if you want. (I'm still in mine, but don't tell anyone that!)

A case of the wumps?

2008-10-13T18:05:00.000-07:00

Do you prefer pumps or wedges? Can't decide? Now you can have both! These chunky heels are a hybrid of a pump and a wedge - AKA “wumps," from Missoni, as seen on shoeblog.com.

Tailored with croc print, open toe, ankle strap and some bling these shoes are nothing if not creative. Another idea for the avid shoe collector!

Ankle Boots: What works and what doesn't

2008-10-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

We have been seeing lots of ankle boots this year, we'll even be selling some of them this winter. They range from flats to heels, chunky or stiletto, snug or slouchy. Some end below the ankle, some above the ankle or all in between. They can be cuffed, bowed, buckled or even fringed as an accent.

But the biggest issue is not what they look like or the kind of heel they have, but rather how to wear them at all. Does anything look good with them?! Let's face it, ankle boots don't flatter most women, especially those that aren't skyscraper tall and pencil thin. But, there ARE ways to wear an ankle boot without looking really wide or super short:

Ankle boots with skirts - Go for the extreme: Keep the skirts long or above the knee, like these sugar boots (below). For a more fashion forward look, wear opaque tights the same color as the boot to give the illusion of long legs.
Ankle boots with pants - A fantastic option with ankle boots, you get the look of a full-height boot without the bulk. But you'll want to avoid tucking, it doesn't really work, and it isn't very flattering.
Have great legs, but lack height? Wear ankle boots with heels, fun details or cuffed ankle boots. They'll keep your legs looking great, without adding width, like this pic of Rhianna from instyle.com.
Have the height but don't love your legs? Steer clear of embellished and cuffed ankle boots, they will only make you hate your legs even more. Try ankle boots with jeans or a tunic with footless tights.

Have the height AND good legs? We all hate you. OK, no we don't, but you are lucky! Just about anything goes. Flaunt what ya got and have fun with ankle boots.

Do you feel doomed? If you're like me, you are short and need help elongating your legs. We get to wear boots with a pointed toe (see example below), creating the illusion of length. Go for ankle boots paired with a great jean or a an A line with some volume.

Trend Alert: Return of the Chunky Heel

2008-10-03T10:02:00.000-07:00

The chunky heel is back, and we can't be more excited. Fashionising.com featured some of the more extreme examples (above), but we like ours better. :) Our chunky heels, like those on the Moda (left) and Presley are more streamlined. They are hot shoes and going fast.

Trend alert: Rain boots

2008-09-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

Fashionable rain boots?! Yep thats right- the rubber rain boot meets the stylish designers. The one you wore as a child is trendy once again. Although, now they are making a comeback with a lot more styles to chose from -- animal print to retro and still your basic yellow to bright fuchsia.

The rain boot is being sold in all price ranges- the Tokidoki Japanese brand (below) is selling their boots at $120 for womens and $60 for children's. But ... you don't have to pay that price. We are selling fashionable rain boots too, in fun patterns and for a fraction of that price -- $30. Watch for them, they are coming soon!

Here come boots!

2008-09-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

Boots, Boots Boots! You're going to see all styles this season: Comfy – sexy – casual – stiletto – biker – stylish – flat – heeled – buckled – ankle – zipped! Here are a couple "stand out" styles.

Crochet/sweater boot- from the mid-calf to the knee these boots are great! What we love about them- they will fit any size leg and they come in so many styles and colors. Excellent for a casual look this fall- alternative to leg warmers? Check out these great boots from thefashionablehousewife.com
Biker Boot- Popular this year, you'll be able to identify them by the buckle and low heel, like these from makeupbag.com. Great for canyon riding if you have a bike or a casual evening on the town.
Fringe - It's back! These are sure to make a statement in wardrobe this year. Granted they are Gucci, from style.com, but fringe will definitely get you noticed.
RED (wow)- We were sure excited to snatch us up some red boots (so watch for those next month)! Hot Hot Hot! These great boots from fabsugar.com are are one many you'll see this year.

Change is afoot ...

2008-09-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

We're implementing some big changes on Oct. 20th.

Same fun people. Same cute shoes. Same great shoe parties. Same excellent prices.

So what's changing?

1. Our name. I know, it's a big change. We like "4theloveofshoes", but apparently other people do too. And originally we weren't planning on having a strong online presence, or branching out of state. But ... the word is out, and women want to buy shoes all over, not just in Utah. So, we'll soon be known as:

But don't worry, you don't have to go changing your bookmarks just yet. Both http://www.4theloveofshoes.com/ and http://www.myshoeshoppe.com/ will get you to the same place. And you'll know you've found it, because the My Shoe Shoppe website will look like the site when we were 4theloveofshoes. But it is a fresh start, so we're taking the opportunity to make a few more changes ...

2. Availability. We'll be launching online sales, so expect to see some changes in the Shoe Gallery section of the website.

3. Our boundaries. We're expanding. We have our first representative, Ann Schelin, hard at work in Southern Utah. She's quick on the draw and already booking parties, so email her at ann@myshoeshoppe.com to get on her calendar.

One is a lonely number and we plan to add to it. If you're interested in getting information about becoming a representative or finding out when a representative comes to your area, let us know: info@4theloveofshoes.com

4. Hostess Benefits. They will be almost identical to what we did as 4theloveofshoes:

One free pair for having 10 or more guests attend
One free pair for every $200 in sales
30% off all purchases made the day of your party
One coupon for 50% off a pair of shoes for each new referral booked at your party

5. Return Policy. We'll be implementing a 14-day exchange policy.

It's a lot of change, but we're still committed to providing excellent customer service, and bringing you a great shopping experience in the comfort of your home.

A steal of a deal!!

2008-09-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

One of our most popular shoes this fall is the Unique (above) -- A comfort wedge that's not too tall, great colors (Black, Brown and Mustard) and fun rouche detail on the toe. What's even better is the price ($19.99), especially when compared to Report's Calico (below) ... which is basically the same shoe but a lot more spendy. $67.50 and that's on sale!

Fall Preview!!!

2008-09-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

This Fall we have some hot shoes! Everything from stylish flats to fun patterns to classic heels. We love them all.

FLATS -- Classics in the shoe world. This year we've got flats with fashionable toe accents, new patterns and fun textures! Some of the flats we're most excited about are:

1. Celin. This classic comes in Blue (shown), Olive and Mustard with a stylish sole, and a little bow for feminine flair. This shoe is universal -- it will go great with a cute pair of Capri's, knee length skirts, or slacks.

2. Ticket. It comes in Black (shown), Brown and Blonde. With it's rubber sole, ribbon ruffles and tweed fabric body, it's sure to be a best seller.

3. Venuss. If you're looking for something fun and adding some fun color to your fall/winter wardrobe, look no further. A throw back from the 70s, this shoe in Olive (shown), Brown and Black compliment any color palette and gives a retro feel.

HEELS -- Sidewalks will get slippery at times, but with the return of the chunky heel, you won't have to worry about falling this winter!

4. Presley. A dual-tone Mary Jane style classic in Brown/Orange (shown), Navy/Grey, and Olive/Mustard, this shoe is featuring all the fashionable colors this fall. Great color combinations make this a great addition to your fall wardrobe, for both casual outfits and nights out on the town.

5. Moda. Sure to make a statement with its chunky buckle and saturated Grey (shown), Orange and Red colors. This solid heel is a fantastic fit for suits, slacks or sexy skirts. One of our favorites this fall.

6. Cop. Want a heel without the height? The happy medium between a heel and a flat, the Cop is a classic Black staple, but anything but boring with its bow and accent stitching.

Want to stand out in a crowd?

2008-09-09T16:28:00.001-07:00

Fashion tis a wondrous thing...no? Unique and paired with a stylish tote, even if it's on the ankle, these shoes are creative. The little ankle purse is intriguing as it is red, and the sweater boot makes one think about sweaters differently. The black and white boot with a low heel stands out in the classic colors. Fun to look at, but only a few would enjoy wearing these heels.

What a Deal!

2008-09-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Stuart Weitzman 'Chitchat' flat is everything our XinXin is, except OUR awesome price! This name brand retails for a whopping $143.90. Makes you feel great knowing you got the better deal right? This super cute flat allows your feet to breathe. It's great for late summer nights and fall weather just around the corner. Enjoy the satisfaction in knowing that your shoe collection just became a little more stylish with out the steep price tag.

White: Yay or Nay after Labor Day

2008-09-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

As the cooler months approach, so does the early 19th century faux paux -- "Never wear white shoes after Labor Day." I never really understood what it was all about, why not wear white? Maybe because during Autumn, fashion trends lead more towards warmer tones, or maybe it's because white reflects the heat and sun, which keeps you cooler.

It's never made a whole lot of sense, and runs along the lines of some other "fashion rules" --Never wear an open toe shoe to a funeral, only trampy women wear red nail polish, safety pins only belong on diapers. Who thought up all these crazy things anyway!?

I was curious to know more. I searched for an explanation and apparently, when it comes to wearing white it originated in the South in the 1950's, with the rising of "middle class." They were big on creating rules that dictated how to be fashionable.

Now, jump forward to 2008 and white is making a break through to ALL seasons and not worrying about the 'after memorial day and before labor day' thing. Some still say it's a firm "NO" when it comes to white shoes after Labor day, but more and more of us are branching out.

If you are looking for a safe way to wear white these days, go for a look Rachel Bilson rocked last fall -- white pants, light brown jacket with black buttons and knee high brown boots. Super Cute!

When it comes to Winter- the cream white colored coats, scarves, purses, boots are all pleasing to the eye. It's a glorious time of year to bring out the crisp look of white.

World Shoe Association

2008-09-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Every year we travel to WSA to pick out our new line for the upcoming seasons. Here are some pics of our latest trip in July. We worked, played and laughed.

With over a million square feet of exhibitor space, it can get a little crazy: there are walls and walls of shoes. Over 12 feet high!

Trend Alert: Cuffed Boot

2007-09-13T15:59:00.001-07:00

This fall we're seeing a lot of new trends in boots. Some are not so great ... the oxford ankle bootie for example. But others are old friends and the updated look is fabulous.

One trend that is sure to be a winner from celebrities to stay-at-home moms is the cuffed boot. Cuffed boots, once vintage and retro, are showing up looking long and sleek this year. They look great with skirts of all lengths, and you can wear them with or without leggings ... which Natasha Beddingfield's choice:

Cuffed boots also look great over leggings, but be careful when you wear them with jeans. If you have shorter legs, or you're curvacious, you should avoid wearing jeans with cuffed boots that hit around the knee. Look for a cuff that hits lower on the leg, as seen on Mischa Barton, it adds a little punch, and is sure to get noticed.

As seen on ...

2007-09-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

Good Things Utah!

4theloveofshoes.com was featured with Alicia (from Chic on a Shoestring), showing some of our new fall fashions on Thursday, Sept. 6th.

If you missed it ... click here to watch the TV feed.

Gray: The new neutral

2007-08-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

First it was black. Then navy. Then brown took over. On to red. Some dared to say pink! Well, the next big neutral to hit fashion is neither black nor white: it's gray.

This hot new color has had a presence in the fashion industry for awhile now -- slacks, suits, etc. But now? Gray is the hot new color to wear on your feet! Sneakers, pumps, flats, boots ... watch for them in gray.

And being neutral you see it with all sorts of color combinations. This fall you'll see gray with cinnamon, pumpkin, mustard, olive green, eggplant, maroon, ... the list goes on and on.

Watch and wait for it ladies. Gray: it's the new black.

Can You Spot the Croc?

2007-08-04T11:52:00.000-07:00

Four different styles, one obvious Croc, right? Not quite.

The truth is all four shoes are made by Crocs, or one of their sister companies -- YOU by Crocs, Ocean Minded, Bite Shoes.

Maybe they paid attention to the outcries about their "ugly" shoe, maybe they got bored, but whatever the reason, Crocs are releasing a whole new line of shoes using the same "Croc" technology, without the ugliness we're used to seeing.

Boots, Mary Janes, Flip flops, Wedges ... they're doing it all. Look out world.

Back-to-school: Canvas flats galore!!

2007-08-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Children, teenagers, college students ... this fall back-to-school shoppers will have one thing in common, regardless of age: the canvas flat.

Socks. No Socks. Athletic. Casual. Dressy Casual. The versatility of the style combined with the comfort of a flat makes it a winner. And the affordability is the icing on the cake! Take a look at some popular looks, all starting below 19.99!

Sugar's Mary Jane canvas flat features a classic style with a new print.

Soda's athletic flat capitalizes on the ever popular camo print, with a retro flair, bringing Velcro back.

Bumper's yellow flat dresses it up a bit with the flower and ribbon details.

Wild Diva features a classic shape and style, but punches it up with an oversized floral print, replacing the bright colors of spring with more saturated reds, mauves, blues and greens.
Charles Albert's ballet canvas flat goes mod with a graphic print in edgy colors.
Qupid's flat is on the athletic side, playing to a younger (or young at heart) audience by adding the shredded edges. Red hot.

Grrr Baby: Animal Prints for Fall

2007-08-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

Ah. Fall. Cold air brings sweaters, hot cocoa and all new shoe styles! So ... before you get all your back-to-school shopping done, consider getting a new animal print to spice up your wardrobe.

Animal prints can be bold, so if you're worried about going overboard, ditch the print on the skirt or blouse and look for it in your accessories. Namely shoes.

Leopard prints will make a strong stand this fall, but they are on their way out, according to Ellen Campuzano. Fancy name, but the woman knows her stuff. She is the founder and president of the Committee for Colour & Trends, the only color forecasting, trend tracking and consulting service in the United States for the footwear and accessories industry.

Look for animal prints to be updated and fresh -- darker orange, rust and brown leopard prints, buckles, bows and lots of peep toes, both round and square as seen in this Dolce & Gabbana Cavallino slingback, retails for $695.

Square toes are shaping up as the new look for Spring/Summer 08. If you hate it, the good news is that open toes, straps and even sandals are now acceptable 12 months a year, so if you can handle cold toes, shoe 'em off all year long and avoid squares altogether.

Crocodile will undoubtedly be the hottest animal print this fall, gaining more momentum from the early fall preview. Sleek and shiny, it is the perfect compliment to patent leather, another fabric going strong in shoes.

The subtle print of croc, and the "wet" look of both crocodile and patent leather kick up your basic black pump, adding new interest to a classic look. The crocodile pump (in black, brown, or even rust or gray) is a must have for women in the board room -- conservative yet fashion forward; confident without being overly flashy.

Croc will also be a major player in handbags this season, so if you're into matching your shoes to your bag? Croc is for you. Watch for it in red, green, and gray.

Zebra continues to be a great print this fall, with basics (black, white and red) dominating the fashion world in Europe and New York.

Look for patent embellishments (like the trim in the Delicious pump to the left, starting at 19.99), bows, even wedges and espadrilles to keep Zebra prints company. Always eye catching, this print works well for women in sales, fashion, even trendy moms looking to add some pizzazz to denim.

Standard black and white will get a new twist: brown and white/cream, even metallic washes.