If you give a Mouse a Cookie…

Scratch that…make that peanut butter.  And how do I know this?  Because my house has been overrun by Mice!   (Perhaps 4 does not an overrun make, but to me, it’s 4 too many). And unfortunately, I am now a connoisseur of catching mice.   And, while my blog is typically about fashion and style and the Bears, since this has truly taken over my life, I thought I’d pen a quick blog about it. 

Here’s what I know about mice:

1.  They rarely come alone.  Unfortunately I know this first hand… 4 and counting!  Argh.

2.  You do not have to buy a standard mousetrap.  They have these new-fangled traps that look like hockey pucks, so you never had to see a dead mouse again.  My friend Kristy told me about a mouse repellent you plug into the wall, which is supposed to help…24 hours later, no mice.  I think she’s onto something.  I got mine at Ace Hardware.  And yes, I saw Bachelor #4 in my fitness center… this is not good news for trying to keep with my workout routine.

3.  You need peanut butter to catch them, not Cookies, and certainly Not cheese.  Ugh and Yuck! 

4.  Mer Mer, Paddy and I absolutely Loathe these rodents…We’ve thought of checking into a hotel.  Kevin will be pleased he has long-term guests at his hotel.   Dorm living is looking really great to Mer now…actually, it is anyway. 

5.  I hesitate to call an exterminator, because the last thing I want in my driveway is one of those trucks with a Huge Bug on top…talk about giving the neighbors ammunition about me (further ammunition).  Why can’t they disguise their trucks with something less taboo, like a high heel shoe?

6.  We do not have cats, which I know would help with this mouse problem, and thankfully, no snakes…although, the spring season is young,  sadly I am not.  Bring it on little rodents, you’ve met your match!

7.  God-willing, this will be the last blog, I ever write about rodents…I’m much happier blogging about shoes and handbags. 

Coming Friday…Accessories…Don’t leave home without ‘em!

xoxo

T.

The Lost Art of the Handwritten Note

The handwritten note… It’s a lost art, and such a treat to receive one.  Truly, with email, texts, instant messaging, Facebook, and cell phones, it’s a rare gift to receive a handwritten note.   My friend Stephanie sent me a beautiful note, hand-written, and it made such a lovely impression I decided to dedicate a blog to it!  I’ve kept her note in my purse (along with one from my Dad, that means the world to me), and it makes me smile each time I see it… Heck, I’ll probably ask that it be buried with me …but hopefully not for a very long time!

These are some notecards and stationery that I have either received, or own, and love them all… Pick note cards and stationary that reflect who you are, or chosen especially for the person you are writing the note to…not ones that are necessarily reflective of moi, as these denote. :)

Dempsey and Carroll:  The Simon Doonan Collection, with these snappy sayings:

$50 at TT Patton in Barrington (a truly Fabulous store specializing in the art of fine writing).

Dare to be Fabulous:

Shoe Girl: this was a poster, that I copied off the internet, and had note cards made from it:

Leopard Stationary – $10.95 – Papyrus

I received this in a birthday card, and was thrilled I found it in notecards, $16.95 at Papyrus

Simple with a twist…I love cupcakes, but hear ”cupcakes are sooooo 2010″.  I mean, who knew (unless you are a regular reader of this blog, then you already hear it)?  What I do know is I adore these note cards…and would adore them even more with a “T”!  www.myexpression.com 10/$10.95

Kate Spade Note set – $10 at TJ Maxx.  I find fantastic  notecards, invitations and stationary here, and always at great prices.

I remember reading that Princess Diana used to write personal notes to people, all the time.  In fact, when she would arrive home from a dinner or engagement, she used to pen a personal note that very evening.  What a lovely legacy to leave and hopefully the recipients kept them.   Priceless.

Trust me, a hand written note, even on a napkin, will make a lovely impression on the recipient.  My friend Kathy and I were at a bar (I know, shocking), and she wrote me a note on a napkin that said, “The first one is on the house”…and I did one for her as well, and we both have kept those napkins!  And don’t ask what it means, for I’m not sure we even remember…what I do remember, is I have a keepsake, from a wonderful afternoon with a dear friend.    So order some note cards, stationary, or post it notes, and keep a supply of stamps on hand…next time you think of someone, put pen to paper, (or stick to parchment as my Uncle used to say), and make someone’s day!  

Happy Writing,

xoxo,

T.

And for everyone who comments on this blog, I will send You a hand-written note.  The first one is on the house.   :)

PS – Many of my friends and family are great at writing beautiful hand-written notes.  Sadly, I lack in such social graces.  However, a new resolution for the year…let’s call it my post St. Patrick’s Day resolution, is to write more hand-written notes.  I will touch base mid year and let you know how it’s going.

86% of women lie about hiding their shoe purchases. :)

The headline read,  Breaking news…”14% of women hide their shoe purchases”… what is better than this is the comment from a reader that read,  Breaking news…”86% of women lie about hiding their shoe purchases”. 

I am reprinting this article from the Chicago Tribune, because it’s timely, it’s fashion-related, and it is so true.  I have edited a portion of it.  I am also concerned that not enough people read it, and since I now have over 5000 Lifetime Views on my blog (Yippee), I thought this was a great venue to get this fabulous article more exposure… well, at least 70 views today.   Plus, I agree…many more than 14% of women lie about this…And I must admit,  I am part of this crowd.  Having Kevin work in San Francisco does have its advantages.

Line up seven women, and at least one likely has a covert pair of shoes she bought but didn’t tell her significant other about because they cost so much. (Or if you are Terry O’Brien, perhaps 99 pairs)

But oh, shoe shopping certainly makes many women happier. The average American woman owns at least 17 pairs of shoes, though many women have three times that many. (Or if you are Terry O’Brien, perhaps 6x that amount).

Such are a few of the shoe insights that  ShopSmart  magazine found in their survey of 1,009 American women, offering something of a window into the female mind, or at least their credit card statements.

“Shoes are like boys and chocolate, you see a pair somewhere that you like, and you can’t stop thinking about them,” said Sharon Britton of Tampa, Fla., while opening her closet and guessing she may have three times the average of 17. That puts her in the top 13 percent of shoe fans.

“Shoes never make your butt look big, you don’t have to worry about squeezing into them if you’ve put on a couple of pounds, and they can instantly make you feel sexier,” said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart, published by the parent organization of Consumer Reports. “Maybe that’s why, despite the economy, we’re still buying shoes.”  (I do believe I blogged about this 2 weeks ago!  Perhaps I was the inspiration for this article! )

Some other shoe insights from ShopSmart:

– Over half of women own more than 10 pairs, and 13 percent have more than 30 pairs. That’s not including athletic shoes.  (I  must have 60 pairs of black shoes, alone…and I’m underestimating that, lest you judge me).

– Women typically buy three pairs a year, and on average spend $49 per pair, but, nearly one-third have spent more than $100 on a single pair. (I almost always buy my shoes on sale, and buy way more than 3 pairs annually…I mean, Really!)

– Almost unheard of even five years ago, online shoe shopping is now a “national obsession,” with a third of women regular online shoe buyers. Zappos.com, for instance, says some of their top customers “spend well over $10,000 annually.”  (I rarely go into a shoe store to buy shoes…almost all of it is online.  Ask nordstrom.com).

– About one in five women go shoe shopping just to cheer themselves up.  (And everyone asks why I’m always happy?)

–While 86 percent of women say they tell their significant other about shoe purchases, 14 percent admit to “hiding at least one purchase.” (Yes, Yes, and Yes…again, having Kevin work in San Francisco Does has its advantages).

As for the kinds of shoes women are buying, most prefer low-rises, but occasionally go for height. Almost 40 percent say flats are their favorite, 8 percent wear heels over 2 1/2 inch high on regular basis, and one-quarter of women wear 4-inch heels for a special occasion. (The older I get, the higher my heels).

About half of women bought an “ugly” pair for comfort, but more women lately are willing to withstand pain for fashion — 60 percent vs. 49 percent in 2007, and 6 in 10 women carry a backup pair to change into after a party or event. (I agree…fashion over function).

That fashion can inflict a physical price too.  (Moleskin and Footpetals are best sellers for a really good reason).

About half of women have shoe related blisters, sprains or even broken bones, and one in three had “an evening ruined by an uncomfortable pair of shoes” and one in four said they’ve had a fall.  (I’ve done all of the above).

Source:  Chicago Tribune

Shoes are the new cupcakes…very trendy, all the rage, very 2011 (unlike cupcakes which, according to Meredith, are very 2010).  The fact that the Chicago Tribune has articles about shoes makes me giddy.  I feel that Journalism is finally “getting it”…and we no longer have to read about Charlie Sheen and ‘Duh Winning’…but about Shoes!  And That’s what I call a good day.

I have a bet with my “boss”, and he will shortly be buying me these Christian Louboutin’s, Retail $750…but who cares, since I’m not paying…and don’t have to smuggle them in the house!  Oh Happy Day!

xoxo,

T.

Related Articles

• Women’s Love Affair with Shoes (dressedtoat.wordpress.com)

Whiskers on Kittens…2nd edition my Favorite Things

Since I am recovering from celebrating St. Paddy’s Day, I thought I’d draft up a quick Friday blog, so I present to you…The 2nd edition of my favorite things, hence, whiskers on kittens…:)  Of course, I still think it’s a mighty fine blog!  And, I’m really not in recovery mode, either.

1.  Make it Work – a Fashion Lover’s Journal!  I received this fabulous journal from my friend Colleen.  “This is Your book and it’s time to make fashion work your way.  Express yourself; Document Idea’s and Be inspired”.  It’s chock full of fashion quotes, room for fashion journaling, and motivation for design…Also will prove inspirational for future blogs.

2.  My Black Knit Uggs!  I wear them round the clock, in and out of the house, as boots and slippers.  My uniform for winter, when I’m just hanging low is black knit Uggs, jeans rolled up, and black turtleneck…And as much as I’m looking forward to spring, I’m going to be sad to put away my Uggs!  You can find these Uggs anywhere, but I got them at nordstrom.com (and did it via the ebates portal, and received 5% cash back).

3.  Dr. Scholl’s Fast Flats – I received these from my friend Laura, and they are a godsend, after a long day (or evening) wearing high heels.  They are in a small gold bag, which fits in a purse, and when you are at the point where you cannot walk another foot (or dance another minute), you can put these on, and you are good to go.  My friend Janet’s daughter got married, and she had a 100 pair of flip-flops at the wedding for people to use while dancing.  There’s nothing like hurting feet to put a quick stop to a fabulous evening or event…so happy feet make happy guests.

4.  Tide with Spring Fresh Febreeze – ok, I really mean this, my clothes smell Fabulous!  My sheets and towels smell fantastic and stay that way.  Not sure if it’s because we are on well water, but there isn’t always the freshest smelling water in South Barrington, especially when clothes come out of the washer.  My laundry room is on the 2nd floor, right off the master bedroom, and the fresh smell permeates into my bedroom, and I love it!  Try it…it’s great.

5.  My christmas gift from Kevin and the kids…Tiffany diamond bangle bracelet.  Light, delegate, and I don’t think Kevin broke the bank with it.  And I receive compliments all the time.  Truly I can wear it daily, and I do.  I absolutely love it!

6.  Brussel Sprouts!  Yes, I love these, and eat them at least 5x/week.  I mention these, because No One believes me… I wash them, cut off the stems, cut them in half, toss them lightly with EVOO in a ziplock bag, toss in some sea salt, and put them in a roasting pan.  Sprinkle with chopped prosciutto (you can buy the chopped in the deli area), and  roast for 25 minutes at 350.  You can also saute them in a pan, sprayed with non-stick spray, and a small amt of EVOO.   You will think differently about Brussel Sprouts, and that is no BS.

7.  Bose noise-cancelling headphones.  I use these when I fly, and you really cannot hear what is going on around you.  Those who know me, understand I am the most chatty person you will ever meet…but when I fly, it’s “my time”…I like to work on my computer, do Sudoku’s, read People magazine, and be left alone (unless I have Mer Mer and Paddy with me)…and when I’m wearing these headphones, people “get it”, and don’t expect to chit-chat.

8.  Echo Touchscreen Gloves – I can wear gloves and still type on my iPhone.  Of course, I still make typing mistakes, but I do that without gloves.  And thanks Donna for this great gift!

9.  Neutrogena Body Oil – Sesame formula.  I started using this when I was in the hospital after Meredith was born.  It must have come in a sample bag.  You can buy it at any drug store, it’s affordable, and is the Only lotion that solves my dry body skin problem in the winter.  I cannot even tell you how dry my legs are in the winter…but without this lotion, they truly bleed…(I know horribly visual, but I needed to make my point).  Not sure if it’s my irish skin, but I really suffer from dry skin, especially on legs and arms, and this never fails me!

10.  Kate Spade plates and serving platter…received these from my friend Nancy.  I love them so much, that I don’t just use them for serving guests (as they truly are perfect for when the girls come over)…I use the platter to hold my jewelry on my dresser, and use a plate by the sink to hold my rings when I wash my hands.  That way I always use them.  And these plates make me happy!

“photographs and movies have always been my inspiration”.  Kate Spade

And, since we are on the subject of favs, some of my all time favorite bluntcards!

Disclaimer…Blunt Cards posted are not the views of this blogger…but she does find them really funny.

xoxo,

T.

Who’s your Paddy?

 

Green is not a color I gravitate towards in my daily wardrobe…that’s because I angle towards black!  I was curious as to the origin of wearing of the green, and went to my trusty source, Google!  There are many different answers, but my favorite was:  Because it’s fun to wear Green and you don’t get pinched.

 However, since I do desire that my blogs be not only witty, but  useful, this is the answer I feel best works for “why we wear green” on St. Paddy’s Day….and let’s face it, the World is Irish on March 17th.

The Origin of Wearing of the Green

Originally, the colour associated with Saint Patrick was blue. Over the years the colour green and its association with Saint Patrick’s day grew. Green ribbons and shamrocks were worn in celebration of St Patrick’s Day as early as the 17th century. He is said to have used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish, and the wearing and display of shamrocks and shamrock-inspired designs have become a ubiquitous feature of the day. In the 1798 rebellion, in hopes of making a political statement, Irish soldiers wore full green uniforms on 17 March in hopes of catching public attention. The phrase “the wearing of the green”, meaning to wear a shamrock on one’s clothing, derives from a song of the same name.  (source..Wikipedia!)

The origin of getting pinched if you don’t wear green:

It’s thought that the pinching started in the early 1700s, about the time that awareness of St. Patrick’s as a holiday came to  Boston, in the Massachusetts colony. They thought if you wore green, it made you invisible to the leprechaun’s, which was good because they would pinch anyone they could see. So the pinching is to warn and remind you about the leprechaun’s.

Pinching those not wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is an American tradition, having really nothing to do with Ireland or St. Patrick Wrong.  The truth is,” Irish people think Americans are crazy”. St. Patrick’s Day is not even remotely celebrated over there as heavily as it is in the US.  God bless the USA!

And in keeping with my “style theme”, and I again use this term loosely, I thought I’d offer up some ideas so you too can be a “wearer of the Green” on St. Patrick’s Day.  Truly, you can get in the spirit of the Irish, and wear green without looking like a leprechaun!

Green Watch – I own one  from  Anne Klein, and since I don’t always wear green, I wear it on St. Paddy’s Day…of course, with my standard costume of black and white, green can be the accessory color

Emeralds!  I have an emerald tennis bracelet that I rarely wear.  Love it, and note to file…I can wear it on days other than St. Paddy’s day!  Also, any other type of green costume jewelery or a green tie clip!

Green Tie!

Green Sweater Set

Green Shoes…High Heels would be quite festive and put you in the party spirit.    These are Christian Louboutin and they are ultra fabulous…and will set you back about 8 hundo!

A Green Sport Coat – my brother-in-law, Bruce, my first male blog follower used to wear one on this special holiday.  Actually, it’s been brought to my attention that he still does…anywho…This little number is from Ralph Lauren and rings in at $1999.  Not sure this is the one Bruce wears:

Truly any green will do, any with the exception of the Green Eyed Monster…don’t look longingly at those celebrating St. Patrick’s Day…join in the Fun.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all…and I am so happy that I not only have my own Patrick to celebrate with, but Mer Mer is on spring break, so all 4 of us will be together…and I may partake in a few libations to toast the day.  I will skip the chard and indulge in some Stella Artois!  I know my brother-in-law, Bruce will be enjoying some Guiness..as he refers to it as “mothers milk” …like an angel crying on your tongue”.  I feel that way about Far Niente Chardonnay!

xoxo,

T.

An Old Irish Blessing

May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home. May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours!

 

And a few Irish Toasts!

May God grant you many years to live, for sure he must be knowing, the earth has angels all too few and heaven is overflowing…

Always remember to forget
The troubles that passed away.
But never forget to remember
The blessings that come each day.

May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been,
The foresight to know where you are going,
And the insight to know when you have gone too far.

May the saddest day of your future be no worse than the happiest day of your past.

Celebrate responsibly!

Spring Forward and Plan for Spring Break!

Spring break, also known as March break, Study Week or Reading Week in some parts of Canada, is a week-long recess from studying in early spring at universities and schools.  Before you hit the beach or the mountains, be sure you’re prepared–you don’t want to waste a single moment  waiting in line at the drug store because you forgot something important.  And because this is a family friendly, G-rated blog (‘cept for some of the bluntcards), I shall refrain from Any discussion about alcohol!

1.  Think about your destination first.  Sure, there are some items you’ll need whether you’re going to be digging in the sand or the snow, but every spring break destination has its own special needs.  If you’re going on a ski trip, make sure you have all your equipment and that it’s in good working order.  I would gravitate towards renting the equipment so I wouldn’t have to worry about checking it, but that’s just me.  I don’t like to carry things that are heavy.  Next, think warm and think layers.  Long underwear (the pros say synthetics are better than cotton), ski socks, turtlenecks, a couple of sweaters, gloves, hat, goggles, parka and ski pants. ( And, it’s perfectly acceptable on your Facebook posts, to remind people that you are wearing lots of layers! )And, just because your destination isn’t tropical, don’t forget lip balm and some sun protection for your face.  For the beach, don’t forget a few swimsuits,  swim goggles, flip-flops and a little something to throw over your suit when you come in for lunch or a drink.  And plenty of sunscreen, chapstick…and aloe vera in case you overindulge…and I’m speaking about the Sun (remember, family friendly blog) !  And that great beach book!  This is when you can get away reading those trashy novels…John Grisham or James Patterson, my personal favs.

2.  Less is more.  With airlines charging a premium for baggage, packing as lightly as possible can save you big. Try to fit all of your things into a carry-on bag and pack your smaller purses into an oversized purse for your “personal item.” With some careful packing, you’d be surprised how much you can stuff into your luggage!   Try to pack basic wardrobe pieces that all work together.  If you start planning outfits with shoes and accessories, you’re going to need a U-Haul just to get to the airport.  Think jeans and/or shorts, white shirts go with everything (especially a tan), at least one pair of shoes you know you can wear all day or all night.  If you’ll have access to laundry facilities, so much the better.  Leave the good jewelry home.   And that applies to me as well.

Quick Tips:

• Roll your clothes, rather than folding them; they’ll take up less room and won’t get as wrinkled.
• Use clear plastic storage bags for your toiletries. If a something spills, the mess will be contained.
• Wear your heaviest/bulkiest items on the flight to save precious cargo space.
• If your family is each bringing their own electronics, they need to be responsible for their own chargers!

3.  Cleanliness counts.  Try to streamline your personal hygiene routine.  Deodorant, soap and shampoo are must-haves, but you can probably do without a complicated skin care regimen or a ton of hair styling products for the week.  Travel-sized toiletries have their names for a reason!  Check with your hotel or condo and see what toiletries they provide.   It’s fine to go without your Aveda Mint Shampoo or L’Occitane Soap during spring break.

4.  An ounce of prevention.  Pick up travel size  remedies as well to cover pain, stomach upset and cold or allergy symptoms.  Too much fun or unusual food and drinks can mean any or all of these, and you want to be ready to nip them in the bud.  Aleve, Tums, Benadryl, bandaids…don’t leave home without em.  Carry any prescriptions in the original package and if you wear glasses or contacts, get an extra copy of your prescription in case they get broken or lost.  If you’re flying, though, be sure to check your airline’s website for restrictions on carrying OTC or prescription meds.

5.  Stash some cash.  You wouldn’t be the first spring breaker to have their wallet lifted.  Travel with only one credit or debit card, and hide some cash in your luggage to get you through in the event your card is stolen and you need to wait for a replacement.  Use the lockers at the beach or mountain for any valuables you must bring with you.

6.  Control the Electronics.  My kids like to travel with their laptops…and I’m not willing to pay $14.95 per laptop when we travel.  With the 4 of us, that ends up being $60/day.  Many hotels have free wi-fi in the lobby, or you can search out areas that offer free wi-fi.  Check with your hotel to see if the resort fee covers everyone’s laptops.  If not, and they don’t have complimentary wi-fi, you may want to suggest that laptops stay at home.  And while we are on the subject of electronics, make sure everyone has their cell-phone chargers, iPod chargers, laptop chargers, etc… It’s an expensive lesson to learn if the chargers are forgotten.

7.  Stop your papers, your mail, and notify your police department that you are travelling, along with your neighbors.  In my area it’s like a ghost town, as everyone seems to travel.  It’s easier to relax on your trip, when you don’t have to worry about things at home.

 8.  And most of all, pack a good attitude and plan on being flexible.  For example, you never know when that beachfront condo will turn out to be a shoddy flea-bag motel (pictures on the internet have been known to be embellished)  surrounded by asphalt, but don’t let unexpected bumps in the road ruin your trip.  One of our best family trips was hiking down the ski mountain (it was summer in Lake Tahoe, and we took the ski lift up, so there was no snow, and it was 80 degrees) because we thought it would be a quick 20 minute hike…took us 3+ hours and lots of snarky comments.   We had a  blast, a few new blisters and a lot of laughs!

Bon Voyage!

xoxo,

T. (and P)

and p.s. – when I was in high school and college, I was lucky, very lucky, to go to Daytona and South Padre Island for spring break…those destinations apparently no longer hold the same cache to the young folk.  Now its South Beach (actually Kevin’s favorite, typical), Cabo, Paris, or the Dominican Republic…How did this happen?

Next Blog:  Monday, March 14th:  Who’s Your Paddy?

There was an old man who lived in a shoe

He had so many options, he didn’t know what to do…until now.

A few basic refresher points for my “male fan base”.

Shoes

Buy some new shoes. Don’t let your work shoes be your weekend wear shoes, your dressy casual shoes, or “you’re doing the lawn” shoes. Brown and tan shoes are a must and should show up in both your work and dressy casual wardrobe.  Sneakers or tennis shoes should never be worn with anything except a work out outfit.
Lace up shoes are preferred with Suits.

Belts must match the shoe – Remember that one of the oldest fashion rules is the matching of shoes and belts. Try to select these accessories in matching colors. Such choices will add completeness to your outfit and will demonstrate that you are aware of fashion trends.

 

See how this does not captivate the look you want?

100% leather - invest in good shoes.  Your feet will thank you.  I will thank you.

Formal is always Black - think George Clooney.  Always black shoes at the Academy Awards.

Typically, any shoe color goes with any suit color.  and while lace-up is preferred, there are also great other options out there, if you choose to gravitate away from laced-up shoes.

Colors

 

Brown

Black

English Tan

Flip Flops

For reasons that shall remain to myself, I am OFTEN asked about my thought on men wearing flip-flops or “Mandals”  as Mer Mer refers to them, with pants.  I, personally, am not a fan. Especially for business.   But again…if it makes you happy, and you are comfortable, go for it.   Some of my favorite people gravitate towards this look.   If the weather is warm, “mandals” may be the only option.  I only ask that you do not wear socks with the flip-flops or  ”mandals”.   I only provide guidelines and tips, and may occasionally snicker behind one’s back (Kidding)… It’s all about what makes you feel good.   Or what makes your feet feel good.  Happy feet make for happy people.    If you do choose to show some skin (on your feet), just make sure to treat yourself to a little foot-freshening session — clipping, scrubbing or for those completely secure with their masculinity, a professional pedicure.

It can be downright difficult to find a men’s sandal that is both simple and stylish if you want something other than flip-flops. The solution: a cross-strap sandal. There are no bells and whistles here; just two uncomplicated straps to hold your foot in place. It’s also the perfect sandal if you find a traditional flip-flop that slips on between your toes to be uncomfortable. Just be careful not to go with certain faux-leather types or you could risk looking like grandpa at the retirement home.  And leave the socks at home!

Mandals – man sandal-a men’s summer shoe, that consists of black or brown leather that covers more than 50% of the foot, buckles and a thick sole. ”His mandals match his man purse”.   (Urban Dictionary).  Here is a picture of a perfectly fine mandal.  I just happen to think it can look silly wearing it with dress pants, khaki’s , or jeans.

Socks

* Over the calf is preferred with suits

* A shade darker than trouser for work

* A shade lighter than trouser for casual

* Black is always acceptable

Socks should match or complement the Shoe

And to further drive my point home, I would appreciate it if you chose Not to  wear socks with sandals…Ever.  But that’s just me…and here is how a picture is worth a 1000-words.

xoxo

T.

PS – Truly, you will save yourself many , many hours over your lifetime, if you safety-pin your socks together when washing and drying them.  And I have often been asked if I , indeed do this, and the answer is an overwhelming YES.

Women’s Love Affair with Shoes

She said “that’s a lot of money to spend on a pair of shoes”…and I knew we couldn’t be friends.

(Thanks Kim!)

High heels were invented by a woman who had been kissed on the forehead.  ~Christopher Morley

It all started with Cinderella and her glass slipper…Women, especially this woman, are obsessed with shoes.  Let’s face it, we never have a Fat day with shoes…and No woman has ever said to a man, “Do my feet look fat in these shoes”?   ( I heard that on TV, so will give credit where credit is due)

During the recession shoe sales were at an all time high!  Shoes make women happy (oh, and Men as well and MANic Monday’s March blog is all about Men’s shoes).  Women are always on a never-ending search to find the perfect shoe.  One that makes us look as great as we want to feel!  And it’s been said that the higher the heel, the closer to God.

I did not have three thousand pairs of shoes, I had one thousand and sixty.
Imelda Marcos

I have a lot, but not nearly as many as Imelda… If I could wear one shoe, one fancy shoe, it wold be a black patent leather peep toe pump.  They can be 1″ heels, 3″ heels or 4.5″ heels!  The first pair is Cole Haan Nike Air.  I have worn these shoes to death.  You can find these , and many times on Sale, at Nordstrom.

Here are some tips when shoe shopping:

1.  the #1 tip…if the shoes don’t feel great in the store, they will NEVER feel good. 

2.  The internet is a most cost efficient place to shop for shoes.  If you know your size and are comfortable with the fit of a specific brand, buy online.  The internet is a great place for buying shoes. The price of shoes is lower online,  because a pair of shoes will be more expensive in a shop than the same pair would be online. The main reason for this, is that retailers are able to offer better prices because the costs of running an online business are lower, the money saved is then passed on to the customer.

a.  Nordstrom.com

b.  Zappos.com

c.  shoes.com

d.  DSW.com

3.  If you are not aware of your shoe size, and face it ladies, our feet can grow, especially after pregnancy, go and have them measured.  Nordstrom is happy to do it.  They also want you to have happy feet.

4.  Although everyone loves a bargain, when it comes to shoes, scrimping is a bad idea. Shoes must be of the highest quality that your budget can stretch to. Quality is important in terms of foot health, but also, because shoes tend to last longer. It is false economy to purchase cheap, low-quality, shoes, firstly because in the long run you will spend more money replacing them, but also, because in the short-term they are not conducive to foot health.

5.  If I’m going to be on my feet for an extended period of time, I always opt for a chunkier heel.  Makes a world of difference.

6.  My friend Laura gave me the Dr. Scholl’s Fast Flats…they are in a cute gold pouch, and will fit inside a purse.  After a long night wearing heels, and you have had “Just about enough”, you slip off your heels, and slip these on.  I love them so much, and have used them often, I will be posting a future blog based solely on this great new foot saver.

7.  Inserts made for high heels will save your feet.  Dr. Scholls; Foot Petals and Insolia are 3 brands that any girl who loves high heels, needs to check out.

Here are some shoes which I find to be fabulous!

 

 

 

 

xoxo,

T.

Win or lose, we go shopping after the election.
Imelda Marcos