Posts Tagged ‘Giuseppe Zanotti’

Trending: Wedges

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

As Chicago finally heats up, I can’t wait to show off a fresh pedicure in spring’s biggest footwear trend: wedges. Though the wedge has cycled on and off the “must have” list for decades, it got its start in 1935 when Salvatore Ferragamo created the first pair. Since then, these chunky shoes have resurfaced in the ‘70s, the early ‘90s, and are now making another appearance for spring ‘10.

The wedge has an undeniable ability to lengthen and slim bare legs, and offer a relaxed alternative to heels. After all, sometimes in the laid-back days of spring and summer, heels can feel a bit too contrived. With the wedge, you can have height, comfort, and an attitude that won’t scream, “I’m trying too hard.” This season, choose a pair (or two!) that is daring and versatile.

As if it isn’t hard enough to make that choice, a wedge can range in height from one to five inches and are found in a multitude of materials (cork, leather, rope, wood) and forms (boot, strappy, mule, clog). The options really go on and on. Alexander Wang supplies his “it girl” cult following with the coveted animal print wedge. For a casual but über sexy style, Cynthia Vincent’s zip-up gladiator is made for day-to-night wear. Boho chic? Joie’s unique fringe version will look amazing with a tunic and cut-off shorts. This season, welcome the wedge back into your wardrobe with one of these styles:

1. Giuseppe Zanotti black suede star wedges ($639; Bluefly.com)
2. Cynthia Vincent “Luella” wedge ($355; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue)
3. MIA “Maiden” in “Sand” ($68; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue)
4. Alexander Wang “Alla” wedge mule in leopard ($650; Alexander Wang)
5. Miu Miu leather espadrilles ($585; net-a-porter.com)
6. Guess “Kinai” wedge ($99; Guess)
7. Joie “Rock Steady Fringe Wedge” ($345; Cusp)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Bluefly.com, Niche, Lori’s Shoes, Alexander Wang, Net-a-Porter, Guess, and Cusp

Tags: Alexander Wang, Bluefly.com, Cusp, Cynthia Vincent, Giuseppe Zanotti, Guess, Lori's Shoes, MIA, Miu Miu, Net-a-Porter, Niche
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Where the Wild Things Are

Friday, January 15th, 2010

It’s no secret that bold prints are one of the season’s biggest trends. From geometrics to florals, the variety is extensive, but today it’s the leopard print that’s driving us wild! Such patterns can be an intimidating addition to your wardrobe, but when done right, you can look impeccably fearless and chic. To harness your inner tigress, we went on the prowl for some statement-making leopard prints that are as fierce as they are easy-to-wear. Take a look at these pieces and discover how surprisingly simple it is to master this trend!

1. Throwing on an amazing winter coat is one of the easiest ways to add serious style in mere seconds. Rebecca Taylor’s “Runway Ruffle Coat” ($495) is discretely dramatic, with its dark hues and girly ruffles.

2. What fashionista doesn’t want a handbag that attracts a little attention? This leopard bag by Karen Millen ($199) has a sassy print and edgy hardware, but it won’t overwhelm your look.

3. We love tights and cherish the opportunity to go all out with this accessory. Pair these leopard tights ($20; Dillards) with a LBD and neutral heels for a polished look with lots of attitude.

4. A pencil skirt is one item every woman needs in her closet. Step away from the classic black and venture into new territory with this “Ocelot Pencil Skirt” by MICHAEL Michael Kors ($80; zappos.com).

5. Hello, Lover! Giuseppe Zanotti’s leopard slingback pumps ($635; Saks Fifth Avenue) have us dizzy with delight. At first glance, you may think you’ll only wear these with a few cocktail dresses, but this heel is totally versatile. Try a casual twist by pairing them with skinnies and a fitted tee or boyfriend chinos and an oversized sweater.

6. We have a pretty deep affinity for belts, whether they’re barely noticeable or outfit-completing accents. This one ($40; J.Crew) will play up neutrals or add an interesting contrast to other prints.

7. The thought of these gloves ($150; Tory Burch) with a solid-colored wool coat is truly exciting. It’s one of the little ways you can add an unexpected edge to your outerwear.

8. Shorts in fresh prints will be a major player this spring, and these cuffed ones by Peter Som ($680; Saks Fifth Avenue) boast the neutral hues necessary to create a bevy of looks. Pair these shorts with a simple tank or even a vibrant floral top.

9. If you ask us, this is the perfect leopard flat ($40; Steve Madden)—no bows, frills, etc. Just a classic, delicate shape in an intriguing print.

If wearing leopard prints, remember to use discretion when pulling your look together. These prints can hold their own, so don’t layer these pieces with competing garments and accessories and other animal prints. Sometimes too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing.

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Rebecca Taylor, Karen Millen, Dillards, zappos.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, J.Crew, Tory Burch, and Steve Madden

Tags: Dillards, Giuseppe Zanotti, J.Crew, Karen Millen, Leopard Prints, Michael Michael Kors, Rebecca Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Steve Madden, Tory Burch, Trends, zappos.com
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