Posts Tagged ‘Miu Miu’

Trending: Heeled Penny Loafers

Monday, October 4th, 2010

Penny loafers first emerged in the 1930s as an interpretation of the moccasin, and this season they’re making yet another comeback. Both flat and heeled, these causal slip-ons are turning their preppy sentiment into a trend du force. The heeled version—today’s footwear subject—gives the collegiate loafer a tinge of sexiness and formality that makes them versatile enough for the office and an evening out. From Balenciaga’s mirage of graphic colors to Prada’s classic style with a modern twist, heeled loafers are taking style to a new level of sophistication, class and edginess. A complement to menswear, ladylike separates and structural dresses, this versatile revival shines up like a brand new penny.

Clockwise from far left:

1. Alexander Wang “Hannah Velvet Loafer Boot” ($745; Alexander Wang)
2. Balenciaga by Nicholas Ghesquière crocodile moccasin pump (price available upon request; Balenciaga)
3. Prada patent loafer pump ($850; Bergdorf Goodman)
4. Stuart Weitzman ($385; Stuart Weitzman boutiques)
5. Miu Miu red platform loafer pump ($690; Neiman Marcus)

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Bergdorf Goodman, Stuart Weitzman and Neiman Marcus

Tags: Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Balenciaga by Nicholas Ghesquière, Bergdorf Goodman, Heels, Miu Miu, Neiman Marcus, Prada, Shoes, Stuart Weitzman, Trends
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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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What a Stud

Monday, October 12th, 2009

Biker chic is in full throttle this fall. It’s a dynamic duo of punk and glam that makes getting dressed an event fit for a rock star. While there is much that can be said about this trend, I’m honing in on one teeny, tiny detail: studded embellishments. This season, the hardware can be found on every imaginable accessory and garment, from gloves to the must-have leather jacket, so I compiled a select few of my bedazzeled favorites found online and around Chicago.

Fashion is meant to be fun, and it was a blast sifting through the bevy of oh-so-studdly items. Handbags were the first stop, and I fell in love with Miu Miu’s studded leather tote ($1,465; mytheresa.com). With its irresistible fusion of classic form and edgy detail, it’s great for day or night. Be & D’s “Studded Garbo Convertible Clutch” ($695; saksfifthavenue.com) packs glamour and attitude like few can, but the versatility to wear it as a clutch or shoulder bag puts this accessory over the top.

If you want to work studs into your ensemble but in smaller doses, there are infinite possibilities. Belts are a go-to statement maker, and Linea Pelle’s black skinny belt at Perchance ($98; 3512 N Southport Ave; perchanceboutique.com) looks great with nearly anything. When it comes to jewelry, what girl doesn’t love a little bling? CC Skye’s “Pave Pyramid Stud Earrings” at Krista K ($150; 3458 N Southport Ave; kristak.com) is an unexpected substitute for your everyday diamond (or cubic zirconia!) studs. If you want to amp up the attitude, the “Hematite Cuff” by Rachel Rachel Roy ($75; macys.com) demands attention with its punk, urban vibe, while Coach’s “sterling pyramid stud” ring ($98; coach.com) says “I’m a rebel” with ladylike sensibility.

For clothing, I went with softer pieces that are just plain wearable. If you maxed out your interest in vests last fall, this one by 3.1 Phillip Lim ($450; net-a-porter.com) is sure to rekindle your interest. Easily dressed up or down, this vest’s gorgeous cream wool-blend strikes a perfect balance between the masculine and the feminine. For those days when you want comfort and style, LaROK’s “Studded Pocket Cardigan” ($328; nordstrom.com) is cozy enough to sleep in. Paired with leggings and flat booties, you’ve got a look that’s effortlessly chic.

When it comes to shoes, it’s a wonder I was able to narrow down my selection to only two pairs. I’m fixated on booties this season, so I went with one closed-toe and one open-toe. The Jeffrey Campbell booties at Lori’s Shoes ($154; 824 W Armitage Ave; lorisshoes.com) are loaded with hardware. The chrome studs and buckle and the wedge heel have a toughness that can vamp up a floral print or top off a leather bomber. The “Wrappp” [sic] suede open-toed bootie ($160; stevemadden.com) has studded straps that wrap around the ankle and drape over the heel, like a necklace for your shoe! For a fearless get-up, wear these heels with a leather skirt, boyfriend blazer and textured tights. Harley optional.

Images courtesy of mytheresa.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Perchance, Krista K, Macy’s, net-a-porter.com, Nordstrom, Lori’s Shoes, and Steve Madden.

By Meghan Turner

Tags: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Accessories, Be & D, Boutiques, Coach, Krista K, LaRok, Lori's Shoes, Macy's, Miu Miu, Perchance, Steve Madden, Trends
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