S-E-X is Spelled S-H-O-E

Glenys Python Sandal, $1,550.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Cannes wearing Balmains back in May.

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld at a Cinema Society Screening this month, wearing Givenchy heels.

Bebe Venetian Zipper Strappy Sandal, $169.

Steve Madden Ginn ($199.95) and Maddiee ($109.95) styles.

Nine West Dasolina, $99.
Jeffrey Campbell Lala Heels, $94 (available at Lori's Shoes).

Analisa Heel by Marciano, $189.99 (available at Heels.com).

There is something seriously sexy going on south of the ankle this season. Equipped with the highest of high heels and zippers, straps, fringe, twists and ties, the best footwear out there right now has more than a little cheek--it's downright naughty.

Whether you can afford to splurge on skin and zipper Choos or your budget only allows Jeffrey Campbell's seriously fringed numbers to come home with you, let your shoes show off that dirty, dirty mind all their own.

Gwyneth photo courtesy of StyleItLess. Julia photo courtesy of From the Desk of Phyllis.

Can You Keep a Secret?

Ethched Locket $34 from Urban Outfitters

Don't tell anyone, but I am currently obsessed with MySpace. I have found that I can save a few dollars here and there by listening to MySpace all day instead of downloading songs to iTunes......I know, I know this is a horrible habit, but I can't help it!

If you want to get in on my dirty little secret, check out some of my favorite new profiles that I have been listening to lately

Sister duo The Pierces - http://www.myspace.com/thepierces
Soulful Bon Iver - http://www.myspace.com/boniver
New Wave-ish VHS or BETA - http://www.myspace.com/vhsorbeta
Crazy mixers Girl Talk - http://www.myspace.com/girltalk
Denmark pop group Alphabeat - http://www.myspace.com/thisisalphabeat
Folk singer Meander - http://www.myspace.com/meandermeander

Do you Dare?

The now-famous Balenciaga black and white, knee-high gladiators.

MK and Ashley in knee-high styles, ready for battle the red carpet.

Clockwise from top left: Fierro High Leg Sandal, approx. $99; Hackle High Leg Fringe, approx. $49.54; Frisky Link Chain Sandal, approx. $81.16; Frisky Link Chain Sandal, approx. $81.16; Hackle High Leg Fringe, approx. $49.54.

Now that Topshop is offering knee-grazing gladiator styles that are more in the FB&F girls' (ahem) modest price range, will you dare to wear your sandals up the there? Strap up the ankles and calves in braided, woven leather and fringe? This look is certainly not for the faint of heart (or large of calf, for that matter), but is one that has carried on for almost a year at this point. One can argue that it is a trend that certainly has legs (sorry, I had to do it)...

Will you be giving this look a whirl? Or did you take the plunge already with designer versions?

Photos courtesy of Style.com and People.com.

Paper or Plastic?

Neither. The latest in reusable, eco-chic bags are these brightly colored styles by What's Ur Bag. Called its-LaS-tik, thanks to their stretchy, shiny and bouncy material, these bags actually move and conform to practically anything you try to shove into them. For groceries and day-to-day, go for The Bag style ($12.99) and for toting smaller items or for a night out, try The Pouch ($11.99). Things get a little tougher when it comes to choosing color. There are plain solids in bright, summery shades, patterns (swirls, stripes and florals) and glittering metallics (my personal favorites--I just ordered The Bag in Midnight and Shiny Penny). One for nearly every outfit and every mood. I opted for The Bag in Midnight and in Shiny Penny--the metallics make me feel slightly 80s yet also like an American Apparel model. Two things I like.

These eco-friendly bags don't just give back to the environment through furthering the movement to forgo landfill-cramming plastic bags. Made in New Orleans, the company works to provide jobs for the city's residents and put desperately needed money into its economy. Its-LaS-tik bags are even made in a factory destroyed by Katrina, then rebuilt by the hurricane's survivors. Better yet? 5% of sales proceeds are donated to Hope House in New Orleans, a local charity dedicated to providing youth programs, adult learning programs and emergency rent, food and shelter.

Truly stylish and truly inspirational.

The Pouch in Bullion, Tinsel and Shiny Penny; The Bag in Bullion and Shiny Penny; The Bag in Tie Dye; The Bag in Midnight, Skyline, Tinsel and Midnight; The Bag in Salt & Pepper.

The Perfect Summer Tote - B. seems to think so, too

Tory Burch Lovebird Tote, $175 (available at Saks).

She wasn't named Accessories Designer of the Year for nothin'. Tory Burch's Lovebird tote is so far my favorite bag of the summer. Available in a multitude of colors, though I love the classic navy, and fabricated out of durable canvas, this is the perfect beach bag. Just the right height to stuff in an unnecessary amount of magazines, sunblock, water, the new David Sedaris (although in my case, something decidedly more low brow...or fashion-related), sunglasses (I seem to travel with two pairs these days-for what reason, I do not know) and whatever else you may need as you relax on the sand, by the pool or just walking around running errands.

The stylists on Gossip Girl and Miss Waldorf herself (well, Leighton Meester) seem to agree on the virtues of this simple tote. The actress has been spotted on set with this very model last Thursday and Friday, June 2nd and 3rd, respectively.

Apparently it also works well to ward off prying paparazzi...quite a multitasker!


Photos courtesy of GossipGirlFan.org.

An All Star Lineup

I've never been much of a Converse girl (I think they make my feet look like long, narrow boats), but I have always loved the look...on other people, that is. I must say, however, that my curiosity was piqued upon discovering the new Converse All Star Light, part of the brand's Fall 2008 lineup. This line celebrates 100 years of the label's now iconic footwear and its "indelible connection to music and culture."

This just released style, designed specifically for women, is described as "a new, clean, simple take on the Chuck Taylor All Star Shoe" featuring a "chic, slimmer construction with minimal detailing." In high top form, these shoes take on the appearance of old fashioned wrestling sneakers (in a good way). As low tops, they look like a traditional pair of Ked's hip younger sister - the one who moved to New York and dates mostly musicians.


The All Star Light is available in gold, silver, bright pink (not shown), black and milk, but I think it will be the metallics that I will be sporting come fall.

Available at converse.com or shoes.com. Only black and milk are on sale at the moment, but stay tuned this month and next for the unveiling of the other three shades. Retail price: around $40-62.

Photos courtesy of Complex.com, Shoes.com and mnr.onthescene.com/converse/fall2008.html.

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star...

I am obsessed with accessories. This should be clear by now. The latest on my radar? Baubles by Twinkle by Wenlan. Since 2000, designer Wenlan Chai has built up a virtual empire that includes everything from ready to wear, interior items such as throw pillows, bedding and uber-cool hand-tufted wool rugs, jewelry and even yarn. Not to mention the two (soon to be three--the next knitting tome is out this September) books she has penned on how to create your very own knits after her own whimsical, feminine designs.

There is so much to discuss. But my current focus and object of my affection is Twinkle's brilliant collection of necklaces and pins fashioned out of mostly metal and plastic beads of all shapes and sizes. Some creations are comprised solely of a subtle and delicate pendant dangling on a superlong chain, while others are large, colorful and slightly madcap, writhing and twisting around each other. This fall I will be centering all outfits around these inventive and stylish creations.

Another gem? Basically all of TbW's delectable costume jewelry rings in at under $200. No longer do we have to wish upon a star for gorgeous, statement making jewelry that doesn't take up an entire paycheck.

Clockwise from top right: Lumber Jack Pin, $108; Starry Night Necklace, $123; Constellation Necklace, $99; Fox Pin, $108; Heavy Metal Necklace, $136; Rock Candy Necklace, $194 (as seen in August's Teen Vogue).

I Can See Clearly Now...

From WWD:

PARIS — See by Chloé has created a bag line to be presented to buyers here starting today. Geared to the 18-to-30 age group, the line will hit stores at the end of May. Executives said the line will be distinctive for its graphic plays on the See by Chloé logo and quirky fabric and color combinations, with a strong focus on fabrics rather than only leather. "It's more playful, young and sporty — more cool," said Myriam Serrano, manager of accessories for Chloé and See by Chloé. Often playing on matte and shiny contrasts, coated cotton gabardine, nylon and plastic are among the fabrics in the collection, and leathers include calfskin and sheepskin. Styles from the eclectic line include shoulder bags that echo sports bags from the Seventies and glittery, soft clutches, as well as a range of vibrant, logo-splashed cotton canvas shoppers. Certain styles feature detachable straps, and highlights from the small leather goods include a dinky mouse purse and animal key chains. Prices range from around $300 to $470 at retail for fabric bags to $500 to $700 for leather styles. Small leather goods sell for $40 to $120.

UPDATE: Will now hit stores this August. Not too much longer, girls!

Photo courtesy of Style.com.

Bag Lady

I love me some Urban Outfitters, don't get me wrong. But while they are a go-to for sunglasses, hats and the occasional skinny jean (and yes, I'll admit, I definitely bought ironic t-shirts there during high school and college), they aren't my first or favorite destination for bags. I certainly own baubles, scarves and every other accessory under the sun from there, but never bags.

Visiting their website today, however, I received a pleasant surprise. They have some great bags! That aren't all made out of PVC!!! Standouts include the Folio Briefcase bag, that has a very vintage/Lanvin feel to it, the slouchy Sabina Leather Convertible satchel and the obsession-worthy Leather Tooled Doctor bag. These are definitely on my radar for fall, with their rich color palette and easy, throw-on-with-jeans-and-a-sweater shapes.

Clockwise from top left: Leather Tooled Doctor Bag, $98; Sabina Leather Convertible Satchel, $245; Folio Briefcase Bag, $58; Suede Tassel Hobo, $68; Coast to Coast Camera Bag, $34; Sabina Convertible Leather Bag, $245.

Sun Block

Urban Outfitters Sweet Heart Sunglasses, $16.

Ray-Ban 'New Small Wayfarer' Sunglasses in blue/taupe, $109 (available at Nordstrom).

Ray-Ban 'Classic Wayfarer' Sunglasses in pink, $139 (available at Nordstrom).

This summer, its all in the eyes. Channel your inner-Lolita with these heart-shaped shades from Urban Outfitters. Ray-Bans are still h-o-t, but ditch the heavy black or stark white. Instead, try a soft shade of pink or go for a blue and beige two-toned pair. These will go better with S/S 2008's soft, dreamy patterns than last year's more graphic versions (and look less like a little-too-late Sienna Miller impression). Another major trend in sunglasses? Transparent. Splurge on Chloe's oversized Myrte style, or check out Forever 21 or Fred Flare for less expensive versions. Like a retro look? Cat-eye styles, popular in the 1950s and 60s, are back. Derek Lam favored this style for the season.

This season, the eye's have it.

Chloe Myrte Crystal Sunglasses, $290 (available at Net-a-Porter).

Forever 21 Cat-Eye Sunglasses (Style F0021), $5.80.

Gone Native

Now, I'm not normally one for major beading, but I am embarking on a serious relationship with all things beaded this season. Well, not all things. I am loving the look of Native American beading on any and all accessories, from necklaces and bracelets to stylish and simple loafers.

There is something slightly boho, one part summer camp and somehow a perfect balance between tough and delicate in these tribally-inspired pieces. Whether it is a campy classic moccasin or a shoulder grazing earring, these little touches of interest and color will add that much-needed something extra to your summer look.

It's time to go native!

Seed Beaded Leather Belt, $34 (available at Urban Outfitters).

Minnetonka Thunderbird Smooth Leather Boat Sole Moccasin, $40.95 (available at The Moccasin Shop).

Left to right: Morningstar Fringe Necklace, $38; Pyramid Lake Earrings, $18; Indian Summer Chandeliers, $28 (all available at Urban Outfitters).

Abaete for Payless Yative Sandal, $30 (available at Payless).

Chan Luu Indian Bead Stretch Bracelet, $45 (available at Intermix).

Is there an Echo in here?

For a long time, I have been trying to figure out how to make silk scarves work for me. I've long loved an Hermes silk and other various incarnations, but have been frankly bewildered how to incorporate them naturally and skillfully into my own wardrobe. The headscarf look made famous by Jackie O and denizens of St. Tropez decades ago and then once again by It Girls such as Nicole Richie in recent years has never looked right on me. Try and try again, I always looked more cleaning lady than jetsetter.

Silk scarf around the neck? I always felt way too Diane Keaton in the remake of Father of the Bride. So, for the past seven years or so I have been doing the cop out way: tying the silk square onto my tote or whatever handbag I was carrying when the mood struck me. Nothing daring there.

Recently, I decided to buck up and just give the old nautical themed Hermes I've had for years a try casually strewn around my neck. The result? I loved it. With a little courage I have sneaked this timeless accessory into my look and around my neck and am now completely hooked. Since this watershed fashion moment for me, I have my eye on nearly every scarf currently on the market.

Carrying the best designs for the best prices by far is Echo. Seriously, there is a scarf to match every recent [great] fashion trend--stars, ikat, modern art. These scarves are an easy way to add color and a little bit of Grace Kelly into your wardrobe, which let's face it, we all need.

STARS


Echo "Star Spangled" - available in fresh lime, pucci pink and white, $48

BALENCIAGA/IKAT

Echo Ikat with Metallic Square, $78

PAINTERLY

Echo "Paint Stroke Stripes," $48

Echo "Crossroads," $78 and Animal Spectator Neckerchief, $25

The Jelly's Jam

One of my favorite looks from growing up is having a major comeback this spring. Though this trend has been popping up here and there for the past few years, it is back in a bag way for 2008. The trend I am speaking of? Why, jellies of course! Those lovely, brightly colored gummy rubber shoes we all loved as little girls.

Setting these latest incarnations apart? Major labels, first off. Both Givenchy and Marc Jacobs currently have styles on the market, each retailing for under $200. This makes jellies a great way to afford shoes by your favorite designers, when their wares usually carry price tags closer to $700. Nearly $200 still sounding cheap? Below find some options for nearly half the price!

The most popular styles this season are the gladiator, both flat and with a slight wedge, the ballet flat and even slingback kitten heels! Whether you need a sandal for trekking through the city or a heel for a beach party, jellies can take you there.

Another plus? These little numbers are totally weatherproof, making them chic warm-weather rain gear. We love our wellies, but when it gets hot, just think jellies!

Givenchy Jelly Gladiator, $165--in white (not shown), pink or black (available at Barney's).

Old Navy Ankle-Strap Gladiator Jelly Sandals, $19.50.

Marc Jacobs Jelly Mouse Shoes, $160 (available at Net-a-Porter).

J. Crew Jelly Ballet Flats, $45--in deep yellow, alpine green, bright red and black (not shown).

J. Crew Jeweled Jelly Ballet Flats, $59.50.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Glitter Slingbacks, $149--in copper (not shown), red, transparent (not shown) and grey (available at Zappos).

Dreaming of Deco

I am a sucker for all things Deco and these clutches are no exception. I love the combination of the linear stitching with the lush curvy shapes of these Nine West bags. The pewter and gold will both pair perfectly with a great pair of white jeans or some of the season's bright, Crayola colored dresses. This will quickly become your go-to bag for everything evening (or even a brunch or two during the day).

Nine West Deco Quilted Clutch, $59; Deco Quilt Small Frame, $35.

Great Find: YSL Jewelry

The words inexpensive and Yves Saint Laurent don't often go together in the same sentence. So imagine my surprise when I stumbled onto the jewelry page on the YSL website, while I was pretending to shop for various shoes and bags. Every piece in the current jewelry range is interesting, some large, some delicate, and all surprisingly affordable. Here are some of my favorites.

First is the Art Deco-inspired Muse Collection, with earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings based on the hardware on the now uber-famous YSL Muse bags. Every piece is fashioned out of sterling silver and black enamel, with several adorned in fine Swarovski crystals.

Clockwise from top left: Muse Earrings ($240); Muse Ring ($225); Muse Earrings ($245); Muse Bracelet ($240).

The Opium Collection is just like the label's signature fragrance: dark and dramatic. My favorite items from this line are the Opium Bracelet ($150), Opium Ring ($110) and Opium Necklace ($190), all in gold with black agate.


The Croc Collection is a study on the heavy and the light, the positive and the negative space. Try it out with the Croc Bangle ($390) or the safari-sexy Croc Earrings ($320).


A total standout? The Arty Ring ($195) is totally major and would look right at home on the bottom of the ocean, which makes it so unusual and just so cool.

Headgear.

No, not the type sported by the nerds and geeks (dweebs?) in 1980s high school movies featuring Molly Ringwald. I'm talking about hats, headbands, barrettes...you name it. Any kind of adornment north of the neck and I am on board.

I find this picture particularly inspiring (Sujean Rim illustration courtesy of the Los Angeles Times).

Whether it is a large, floppy number like the styles seen everywhere from Urban Oufitters to Jovovich-Hawk for Target or a bright, statement-making headband, it is easy to jump on board this major trend. Here are a couple of my favorite ways to get this look.

Urban Outfitters Setting Sun Hat, $34

Rachel Weissman Braided Headbands, $52 (available at Art Effect).

Five Under Two Hundred

Pucci, Gucci and Fendi for less than $200? Yes, it can be done. I've put together five great accessories from five big names all for $200 and less. From brightly colored cuffs to party-perfect wristlets, these little pieces will not only help move your wardrobe into spring, but won't break the bank either.

Gucci 'Etretat' Rubber Flat, $150 (exclusive to Gucci.com)

Fendi Project Plexi Logo Cuff in Lemon Yellow and Apple Green, $200 each (available at eLuxury).

Miu Miu St. Cocco Lux Wristlet, $190 (available at Saks)

Marc by Marc Jacobs Skinny Leather Belt, $128 (available at Shopbop).

Emilio Pucci Silk Diamond Scarf, $160 (available at Intermix).

I Finally Figured Out What BOGO Means...

While everyone focuses on who's coming to H&M and what's next at Target (Case in point, I was not the only one wearing her new Jovovich-Hawk for Target floral chiffon top on Friday-- my coworker donned the exact same floaty blouse), no one is paying attention to the great things happening at Payless.

Why Payless, you ask? The self-described Shoe Source has been ushering in established and up-and-coming designers to guest design for them for the past year or so, often to great results. Current players: Abaete, Lela Rose and alice + olivia. The alice + olivia styles are a little girly for my tastes and maybe a little young, but the Lela Rose and Abaete looks are right up my alley. My top two (pictured below) are the 'Anatole' and 'Hayworth' styles, by Rose and Abaete, respectively. The subdued tones of the 'Anatole' make the polka dots seem less whimsical and more wearable and the 'Hayworth' is the perfect shoe for work when temperatures begin to rise and closed toes seem like torture.

Lela Rose for Payless 'Anatole' Pump, $35.

Abaete for Payless 'Hayworth' Flat, $30.

A Butcher, a Baker, a Candlestick Maker

I know I have been shoe-heavy the past couple of weeks, but I am very excited about my new, uber-inexpensive find: Bakers Shoes. Now that a lot of my lower price range go-to shoe stores and designers have upped their prices by mind-blowing amounts (I'm looking at you, J. Crew, Charles David and Aldo), I have been on the prowl for some cheap but chic footwear. I also didn't want to stoop to the level of shoes so cheap they only come in whole sizes...fine for winter boots, not so fine for a peep toe.

In comes Bakers Shoes. Cute, on-trend styles that actually use leather and wood, not PVC and plastic (like certain companies I have come across). I love the double strap Mary Jane in a perfect shade somewhere between silver and gunmetal and the Prada S/S 2008-esque 'Reese' sandals, in dreamy purples, blues and greens.

Clockwise from top left: Mollie, $69.95; Beckie, $79.95; Savanna, $69.95; Fleur, now $49.99

Marissa, $79.95; Reese, $39.95

Make Time

Though I always forget to wear a watch and just find it too cumbersome in the winter (layers, coats, gloves...too much to deal with), I find myself intrigued and inspired by delicate vintage bracelet watches.

I'd love to wear this style, pictured below, from Satine with a simple black turtleneck and jeans for just a touch of subtle sparkle on the wrist. $300 seem a little steep? There are multiple versions on eBay selling for much less or you can try hoofing it to a local vintage store that carries a selection of jewelry--they always have at least one in the case. Telling time is beside the point, so if it's gorgeous but doesn't tick, I say not a problem!

Vintage Victorian Watch Bracelet by Lulu Frost, $300 (available at Satine).