I am absolutely loving these pointy-toe flats from DV by Dolce Vita.

Dolce Vita has long been one of my lust-after shoe brands, but is a bit on the pricey side.

DV by Dolce Vita is much more affordable and has some adorable shoe options, like this!

Every woman should own a great pair of pointy-toe flats, as they look amazing with many different outfits. My favorite pairing? Slightly slouchy skinny jeans and a faux-fur vest.

Do you have any pointy-toe flat favs?

He has a couple of great flats in his line — feminine and stylish with great, luxe details. Isn’t the turquoise a great color?

I’m a fan of tough-looking shoes, and Christian’s heels and boots don’t disappoint. Hardware and zippers on shiny, leather-like material — I love it!

The best part? You can snatch these up for no more than $50. Now that’s fierce!

Have you heard of Modcloth? If not, it’s one of my new favorite online retailers. The prices can be a bit pricey, but there is no better place to find vintage-inspired clothing and accessories. Just look at those shoes! They are to die for, no?

Modcloth is perfect if you like feminine, vintage clothing, and if you need a cocktail or party dress, you should definitely check them out.

Items above: Chamomile yellow dress ; Tavern on the Green dress ; Potpourri blue print dress ; Violet bow blouse ; Carriage Ride blue wedges ; Poker Face green heels ; Cocoa Beach yellow wedges

My favorite new summer shoes include a bevy of adorable, colorful sandals; platform heels and bright-colored flats. All–yes all–of these shoes are under $60 and all are available to purchase online.

A few surefire picks: the gray Havaianas slingbacks, which are perfect for vacation if you are going to be doing a lot of walking or shopping. Also, these $20 Ecote triple-button t-strap sandals from Urban Outfitters are a no-brainer steal.

What are your favorite shoes for summer?

Shoes above: Target blue print platforms, Target pewter ruffle wedge sandals, Target blue pointed flats, Forever 21 brown platforms, NYLA beaded medallion sandals, Urban Outfitters ecote triple-button sandals, Havaianas slingback sandals, Urban Outfitters Kimchi & Blue mint flats, Pierre Dumas beaded sandals, Pierre Dumas white t-strap sandals, Aerosoles gray and brown wedges

Buying a pair of Jimmy Choos can easily set you back more than $600, but Jimmy Choo’s new line for H&M will be sure to please shoe addicts with its cheaper prices (most of the shoes will range in price from $99 to $129). The collaboration will not only feature women’s shoes, but also handbags and a men’s collection of shoes and accessories. This is the first time H&M is collaborating with an accessories brand, and with a brand like Jimmy Choo, I’m sure we’re in for a treat. You’ll have to wait a little longer to get your hands on these items, though — the collection’s slated for release on November 14.

Photo credit: H&M

One of my favorite style blogs is Sea of Shoes, where seventeen-year-old Jane Aldridge showcases her outfits, fashion inspiration and, of course, her amazing shoe collection. By day, she’s a uniform-wearing student at a high school with a 1 1/2 inch heel limit, but after school, she’s a fashionista in her own right! 

 Photo credit: Jane Aldridge at Sea of Shoes

Now, in addition to being a popular style blogger, she can add “designer” to her resume. In July, Urban Outfitters will be releasing J. Aldridge by Sea of Shoes, a capsule collection of three shoes she’s designed, inspired by “some of the elements of [her] favorite pairs.”  The black studded gladiator heels will be $98, the knee-high peep-toe boots $178 and the lace-up flats $58.

 Photo credit: Urban Outfitters

These are certainly exciting collaborations, but will I be buying anything? Probably not. While the prices are cheaper than that of a regular designer shoe, I just can’t justify spending $100 on a pair of shoes in my post-grad status.

I suspect a lot of women (post-grad or not) are in the same boat. What about you? It’s fun to window shop, but at these prices, will you be taking anything home?

Yes, I graduated from college! Here are the shoes I wore on my graduation day:

I bought these a year ago for $16 at Ross and had never worn them. Notice the picture on the left of me trying to discreetly massage my feet with a smile on my face!

Graduation means freedom and an entrance into the “real world” (which, in the current economy, is a bit scary for the class of 2009), but on a more materialistic note, it also means graduation presents. I’ve been blessed to have a loving and generous family, and I received a lot of great gifts — most of which went straight into my savings account, as it should be with any grad.

Anyway, with a $20 Victoria’s Secret gift card (and a very well-timed 25%-off-a-single-item special), I was able to score these 4-inch Colin Stuart heels for under $30 — and the original price was $88!

What do you think? What shoes do you have your eye on this summer?

They come in many different styles:

Above: Jshoes Sorrento in Black at Revolve Clothing

Above: Hi There Sussannas in Black by Irregular Choice

Above: Warm Leatherette Sandals at Modcloth

And even in boot version:

Above: Figaro Boots at Modcloth

I wasn’t sure about these styles when I first saw them but I have to say, the ”sandal bootie” is growing on me. I haven’t bought a pair yet bu, I am seriously considering it.

How about all you fashionistas?

Loving or hating the “sandal bootie”?

Still, I have found there are things I am willing to spend more money on. For me it is shoes and handbags though I am a lot more careful in choosing styles that will last more than one season.

Shoes like these by Report Signature:

Which are very “of the moment” but can be potentially worn for more than one season.

Or handbags like this one by Fendi:

A bag that can easily be used year after year until it wears out due to it’s classic style.

I am going for the more expensive shoes and handbags despite the economy situation because they are items of clothing that get a lot of wear and it is better to have quality bags and shoes that will hold up to this wear. It’s much better than constantly having to replace shoes that fall apart after a few wears or handbags that just don’t last because the shoulder strap broke on the third use.  At least that is how I think on the subject.

How about all you fashionistas? What do you still spend more money on when it comes to fashion in these economically shaky times? What do you find worth the money spent when adding to your wardrobe?

It points to the arrival of spring, hopefully, just around the corner. So many different styles of sandals and I just have to share some of the styles I am seeing with all the StyleFeeder fashionistas.

There is a huge amount of “gladiator on steroids” style sandals out this spring. Like this pair by Dolce Vita:

I love buckles on sandals and the more the better. 

I am seeing a lot of braiding in sandals as well. Sometimes combined with interesting colours and buckles like these by Modern Vintage Shoes:

The purple leather and the braiding just catch the eye. They would look great on the foot.

There are a lot of 1970s inspired sandals out this spring as well like these by Azzedine Alaia:

I love the cut-outs in the sandals, the rich colour of the leather, and the black design along the heels. A fun mixture of retro and funky up-to-date.

Then there is Marc Jacobs design for the wrap/tie sandal:

I love them but have always struggled to keep wrap/tie sandals tied without cutting off my circulation. I really love the crocheted look they have and they look airy enough for very warm days.

These sandals by ld tuttle are they style I am looking all over for:

The style is so popular right now and versions of this design come in many colours, including these coral colour ones by Report Footwear:

So pretty and coralis very of the moment when it comes to spring colours. I am seeing so many items of clothing in coral. It makes me wish I could rock that colour myself but, it does not go well with my skintone. The sandals are really cool though.

If you love strappy sandals you will love these sandals by Report Footwear:

They are metallic black, have studded side hardware at the closure, and are just so strappy. They would look great with jeans or a dress.

These sandals are classic yet funky looking and by Forever 21:

I love the cut out in the wedge of the sandals and the fact that they are only $24.80. Funky, cool, and affordable.

There are so many styles, colours, and price ranges for the sandals out this spring. Just pick a style that appeals to you and track down the version/designer you want. Your feet have been hidden in shoes for too long. They long to be free, and pretty, in a great pair of sandals.

Lately, I’ve been seen lots of fuchsia and purple-colored confections show up on my Watchlist, so obviously someone out there is loving the combo. But are they actually wearing them? I want to hear from you fashion-forward ladies….would you sport these stunners? And if so, what are you pairing them with?

Luckily, you’re not restricted to buying just one patterned piece, but I’m curious…If you could only buy one printed item for spring, what would it be?

A fabulous floral?

A wearable watercolor?

Modern graphic?

Or classic black and white?

SpareSoles are perfect for fashionistas who forgo comfort for style and sport killer heels (emphasis on “killer”) on party nights. (We all do it!) Light and portable, they’re easy to tuck away into an evening bag or clutch. While they don’t provide much support, they’re sure to relieve achy feet from four and five-inch heels during formal events and functions.

Help your pal make the most of the shoe collection she already has by giving her a pair of shoe clips. Shoe clips are an easy way to add new life and flair to a plain pair of shoes. Try Absolutely Audrey or Shoeworthy – some are even made out of vintage brooches and pendants!

You can also think beyond the shoes and about what will make her comfortable — what does she want after a night on her feet? Maybe this Davies Gate Seeds & Grains Best Foot Forward Super Luxe Foot Set will do the trick! It includes a Buckwheat Buffing Soap, a warming Mustard Seed Foot Serum, and a hydrating Cardamom Foot Butter. And, of course, comfy terry slippers are always a winner — and these are even monogrammable.

For a bit of humor, give her something fun but useful like a high heel cake server or stiletto letter opener.

Stiletto by Caroline Cox is a historical analysis about how the stiletto heel has been perceived since its invention (elegant or vulgar?). And if your friend is concerned with keeping up with the trends, sign her up for a subscription to Lucky magazine — each issue displays practical translations of runway couture to real world style.

None of these options quite right for your shoe addict friend? Send a Piperlime gift card her way and let her choose her gift — shipping is free, it never expires, and with their wide selection, she’ll definitely find a pair of shoes she loves!

I’ve been working like crazy to plan, organize and pull the event together, but one detail that seems to be difficult to wrap up is what shoes the bridesmaids will wear with their dress. I have five of my best friends and family serving as bridesmaids, and I’m so excited to see them in their vintage-inspired dresses with retro headbands/hair pieces.

But what shoes should they wear?

Here’s the bridesmaid dress:

It’s from David’s Bridal, and is fairly affordable, which is good since several of my bridesmaids are still in college. I love the retro styling. If you are interested in this bridesmaid dress, order it soon! According to a salesperson at my local David’s Bridal store, they are discontinuing this dress momentarily because it was a “trend piece,” the likes of which they bring in seasonally.

The bridesmaids are going to wear a navy ribbon around their waist, tied into a bow in the back.

I’m not going to go all bridezilla and tell them how to do their hair, but I do want vintage headbands and hair pieces (jeweled, perhaps) to give more of a retro flair.

Here are some shoes I’ve considered thus far:

Which ones do you like? Do you have any suggestions?

I’m looking for retro-inspired cream heels, but I’m open to gray, bone or off-white colored shoes as well. It’s March, so closed-toe or peep-toe is preferable.

Thanks for the help!

Until now.

Behold my new smokin’ hot pair of pewter peep-toe booties! I saw them on Forever 21’s website and instantly fell in love with their rock-star fashionista vibe. And at $24.80, I’m able to try out the trend without too much of a commitment.

Check out some pricier alternatives: one by Steven by Steve Madden and another by Moschino.

Moral of the story: Step outside of your box once in awhile. Buy something that you wouldn’t normally wear but still appeals to you. Chances are, you’ll freshen up your wardrobe — and build a style that’s a little more you!

There’s something really romantic and pretty about 70’s-inspired looks. Just check out how hot the cast of the original Charlie’s Angels looked.

Ready to travel back in time? Try these looks on for size.

1. This loose chiffon blouse brings to mind the easy-breezy looks of the 70’s.
2. I adore these wide-leg, high-waisted jeans. Perfect vintage style at a great price.
3. Bangles add a bit of rock-and-roll.
4. Sky-high green wedges add a modern color to a decades-old style.

1. Plaid has a girl-next-door look on the hanger, but is surprisingly sexy on.
2. A belt ties the look together and gives a good proportion overall.
3. I like the dark wash of these wide-leg jeans, and the large cuffs help the jeans dress up a bit easier.
4. Blue wedges equal a down-home, patriotic color scheme without looking hokey or cutesy.

1. Embroidery was a huge 70’s trend. Pick up a modern version from Urban Outfitters.
2. These jeans still have a wide-leg look, but aren’t too trendy or over-the-top.
3. Subdued colors on these wedges lets your shirt stand out.

1. I like the vivid colors (love navy) and flower pattern on this blouse from Forever 21.
2. Gold bangles give an outfit a good vibe: really fun and flirty.
3. I like the vintage-looking pattern on these red wedges.
4. Light-colored denim is more true to the 70’s. This pair doesn’t have an overwhelmingly high-waist or big flare, so they’re more versatile in your everyday wardrobe.

What’s your favorite decade for vintage fashion?

I have always loved Christian Louboutin shoes but am not a huge fan of pink. But there is just something about these shoes that pop out at me, maybe it’s the HOT pink colour or the big bow on the toe. Whatever it is, I wish I had the cash in my bank account for them.

Then I thought, “Even if I had the cash what would I wear them with?”

Then I happened across this photo on the same site:

It answered my question. How genius of the site, Browns, to pair up the hot pink silk shoes with the green, floral print, silk, Marc Jacobs dress! I love the way the 1940s cut still manages to look modern.

Team the dress and the shoes with a black clutch:

And maybe a necklace like this one:

And you have a complete outfit that incorporates those beautiful, hot pink, shoes that are to die for!

• Etsy.com

Etsy.com is addictive. With hundreds of thousands of items, you are literally guaranteed to find multiple things you absolutely musthave. Luckily, almost everything on etsy.com is quite affordable.

My favorite things to buy on Etsy include jewelry, vintage clothing and paper-related products. Most of these things are either re-worked new pieces (like American Apparel shirts with appliques) or created from scratch/by hand.

When buying jewelry from Etsy, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you are buying a genuine pearl necklace for around $20, contact the seller for a guarantee. Although it may be vintage and being re-sold for a steal, you want to make sure you aren’t buying something cheap or poorly made. There are so many quality sellers on Etsy that there’s no excuse for something that may fall apart or not live up to your expectations.

Keep an eye out for really unique items. One of my favorite things I’ve found on Etsy were bracelets with letters all over them made with different fonts…sort of an jewelry-themed ode to typography, if you will. The seller is taking a hiatus right now, but keep an eye on her shop space. You’ll want to pick one of these up when she starts producing them again!

Vintage clothing/items are another good thing to look for. There are plenty of home items and trinkets to be found at a steal of a price, and there is some very good vintage clothing. Just keep digging until you find a seller you like and then bookmark it!

The great thing about Etsy is that you are dealing with real people, not a large corporation. If you become a regular buyer, you can start a dialogue with the seller and maybe get alerts to new items before anyone else.

• Alloy.com

Don’t be put off by appearances: Alloy may seem like your average teeny-bopper clothing site, but it’s actually a fantastic resource for reasonably-priced cute clothing and has an amazing denim selection that every woman should look at.

I always give Alloy a rave review when people ask me where I got my pants or jeans. They carry every size imaginable. Many of their pants go up into the high-20’s plus sizes — and they also carry petite and long inseams. We’re talking long, long inseams: up to 37”, which happens to be the inseam I buy.

Some tips: look for stylish, fashion-forward clothing, not necessarily the stuff that’s marketed directly at the teen audience. Stay away from anything too cheap-looking.

As far as jeans are concerned, make sure you consult the size guide, because Alloy primarily goes by Juniors sizing, which means you may have to buy up a couple sizes from what you normally wear.

The shoes are another good section on Alloy. They copy designer looks at a really great price (usually less than $30), so give that a look.

Any question about jeans or pants? Let me know…I’m a veritable expert by now.

Check back next time to see my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE online shopping site. See ya!

How do you find your own sweet deals and which online shopping destinations will give you the most bang for your buck?

Here are a few of my favorite sites and a few of the best items from them that I’ve added to my StyleFeed over time.

• Forever 21

Forever 21 has incredible selection and style and the prices are outrageous, especially if you do a bit of digging. I’ve unearthed fabulous dresses for less than $20 and great costume jewelry pieces for around $5. The shipping from the site is painless and quick and they have easy return policies should something not fit.

Here are my tips for shopping online at Forever 21:

Visit the store before you shop the website so you know what fits you and what you’re looking for. Often, the actual clothing looks different in person than it does on their website, especially in the dress length area. Some “dresses” Forever 21 sells are more tunic-lengthed, meaning you’d have to wear them as shirts or with leggings in order to make them street-appropriate.

Don’t expect pristine quality. Forever 21 keeps their prices low by mass-producing huge quantities of clothing that aren’t meticulously made. Don’t expect your clothing to hold up for years-or sometimes weeks-on end.

Beware of dresses or shirts you need to zip. Forever 21 has fairly cheap zippers that often break.

If in doubt, go up a size. Their clothing runs tiny–truly tiny. If you have a wide rib-cage, like I do, you may need to go up two sizes if something is really fitted around that area.

• Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters is a true fashionista’s paradise. Chock full of interesting bohemian pieces, you can find some great clothing for less than $50. Often Urban also carries more expensive lines (upwards of $200), so make sure you don’t fall in love with something before checking the price.

Some things to buy from Urban:

Accessories are always a great bet. They have tons of belts, handbags, scarves, etc. Their shoe selection is also enviable. Check out their flats and sandals, especially now. They have lots of cute new things.

When cold weather is once again upon us, Urban carries a wide-range of outerwear which is all pretty affordable and cute, without being cutesy.

Urban always carries Converse All-Star sneakers in hard-to-find colors and patterns. Check the men’s shoe section for more.

• Cutesygirl.com

Cutesygirl.com has shoes for unbelievable prices. Truly unbelievable. I tell people I got boots or heels for $12 and they don’t believe me until I show them the webpage.

The thing about Cutesygirl.com is that they mix some really awful, ugly shoes in with adorable and stylish ones. You’re going to have to be willing to put in some search time.

The quality is fairly good, about what you’d expect from Target or Payless shoes. Not great, but they’ll do. Some of the brands (like Steve Madden) that Cutesygirl.com has are obviously better quality than others. Just be choosy and you’ll be okay.

Watch for these styles from Cutesygirl.com:

Flats or pumps are always a good pick. Search by “Price- Low to High” to find the best deals. If you see something you like and they have your size, snatch it up quick. The cheaper shoes go fast, and they often run out of the most popular sizes quickly, leaving only 6’s to be had.

There are some great boot offerings from Cutesygirl.com, but once again, search carefully. Avoid stiletto, pointy-toed boots at all cost. You can get those almost anywhere now, but they really aren’t tremendously popular anyway. Don’t fall into the trap of buying something just because it’s cheap: there are lots of inexpensive shoes on Cutesygirl, but don’t sacrifice style just because something is $10.

Next time I’ll reveal even more of secret sources for great deals. Check back!

I’ve never been really big on flip-flops. Sure, there were those uber-Californians in my high school who wore their battered flip-flops faithfully through the dead of winter (60 degree weather, oh my!), but that was never me. The ones I had were never that comfortable, plus they always ended up breaking somehow — not good for frequent beach trips, let me tell you!

Then, on a music trip to Brazil two summers ago, I discovered Havaianas. Since then, Havaianas have become my favorite brand of basic rubber flip-flops, hands down — I refuse to wear anything else. Made from Brazilian rubber, they’re durable, come in a rainbow of colors and prints, are extremely inexpensive, easy to clean sand off of, and most importantly, they are incredibly comfortable. It sounds gimmicky, I know, but I swear they add a spring to my step!

The basic pair of Havaianas. I own this style in both black and white, and it comes in so many colors, even metallics (I especially like the pretty fuschia ‘Acai’ color).

They’re also made with slimmer straps for those who want a lighter pair of flip-flops with a sleeker look. This style, like the basic style, comes in a rainbow of colors — the metallic nude color is shown above, along with one with a pretty gold design.

Looking for a little height with a whole lot of comfort? This style adds a wedge to the basic style, which is quite helpful to the vertically challenged such as I.

And, of course, the Brazil-representing style! Although I’m not Brazilian, I have a pair of these, and I justified my purchase using the fact that I’ve been to Brazil. Of course, no such justification is needed to own such a cute pair of flip-flops — plus, they were fun to wear while the World Cup was going on!

So, Havaianas = the best flip-flops ever. Seriously. Go out and try a pair — hopefully you’ll love yours as much as I love mine!

The perfect shoes to wear during fickle weather? Flats and skimmers, of course! Unlike sandals that might give your feet a little too much exposure during the low temperatures of the day, and unlike boots that scream “winter!”, flats and skimmers give you comfort, keep your toes warm, and many are cheap enough to snap up a good number to give you different looks (most of those I’ve included here are from Payless or Target).

Flats and skimmers for the spring should be freshly light-colored and made of material that can weather the occasional rainfall (meaning no suede or velvet — those are materials for the holiday season!).

I’ve never had a reason to wear boat moccasins (seeing as a trip to the water to me means a beach trip rather than a trip to the lake), but I still find this twist on the traditional boat moccasin incredibly cute. Obviously these would be worn on a casual (or whimsical!) day.

Pewter flats are incredibly versatile and can be worn during any season for nearly any look — with black tights and a mini in the winter, with a pair of jeans in the spring, with a dress or skirt in the summer. And because of the neutral color and metallic sheen, you can also match them with any color you choose to wear.

I know I said that skimmers keep your toes warm, but I couldn’t resist including these adorable peep-toe skimmers! The gray-blue color is perfect for spring, but the faux-crocodile print keeps them from being too sweet.

The faux-leather weaving on these flats provides unique, luxe, and classically ladylike details for an incredibly cheap price.

I like buckle details on shoes — it’s a very simple way to take a shoe from plain to sophisticated (or dominatrix, depending on how the buckles are placed!).

Other places to look for skimmers and flats? H&M and Steve & Barry’s. H&M has a great selection of both casual and more dressy skimmers for relatively cheap prices, and I bought a pair of gold and black clover print ballet flats from Sarah Jessica Park’s Bitten line at Steve & Barry’s for $8.98. Unfortunately, neither one of these websites have online stores, but that just gives me an excuse to make a trip to the mall!

Ombre items are making an appearance on StyleFeeder’s wishlists, however, so it’s quite possible that I’m wrong about the wearability of this trend. Let’s take a look at some of the options people have bookmarked recently:

StyleFeeder leanneshain was the first to add this sherbet-hued confection by Michael Kors. I can definitely see the appeal of ombre for a special occasion; graduated gowns are both glam and flattering. And since you’re only likely to wear a gown like this once or twice, you’ll seem entirely of the moment.

But when it comes to high-end accessories, is ombre a good investment? Will you possibly be able to get away with wearing an ombre heel or handbag next season?

These Charles David Beatriz pumps are stunning, but I don’t know if I could bring myself to part with $195 unless I had the perfect outfit in mind for these beauties.

And I definitely wouldn’t part with several C-Notes for either of these options, by Prada and Cynthia Vincent, respectively.

Leave it to our own Shoe Addict, Megan, to find some budget versions that nicely fit the bill if you do want to try on this trend for size.

These pumps by Wanted are a near-perfect facsimile of the Prada version, and at $50, you won’t feel too much regret if you only get a season’s wear out of them. I actually prefer the shading on this pair, as it’s more gradual and not so stark.

These Bandolino flats don’t have quite the same impact as the Cynthia Vincent version, but they feature the same unusual color palette at a fraction of the price.

If you really want to try out ombre on a budget, these flats from Ami Clubwear are just $17.99!

As for me, maybe I just need to admit that ombre isn’t my thing. Though I was able to dig up one ombre item I might, possibly, consider splurging on.

I LOVE cowboy boots, and I’ve always wanted a pair in red, but living in Boston, it’s hard enough to get away with wearing my much-loved, battered and beat-up brown Justins. But this Gucci Western-style boot so stylishly blends red and black, the graduated shade is subtle enough for the East Coast, but would still let me have my pop of red.

Do you actually own an ombre item, or is it a trend you’re admiring from afar?

Color, color, and more color! After the drab and dark days of winter, I am so happy to see bright, fun colors taking over my favorite shopping spots.

I wear a LOT of monochromatic colors like black, gray and white, with the occasional pop of navy or taupe, but I am determined to wear a lot of fun colors this spring and summer. And why not? Just looking at the page above from People Style Watch makes me feel better about my day. Imagine a double-page spread of black clothes? Not nearly as exciting.

Check out some of my favorite (and, as always, affordable) finds for spring.

Blue

My favorite spring shade is an eye-popping cobalt blue. Blue with black is no longer taboo, so feel free to match these separates with black accessories or other items at your heart’s content.

Jackie’s Favorite Blue Picks: These deep blue Forever21 slingback platforms are super-inexpensive and have a great glossy patent finish. These could be worn with jeans, pencil skirts, dresses…they’ve got a really versatile quality. I also love this cobalt blue peacoat. Since it’s still a little cold in DC, I’m still gravitating towards warmer clothing!

Turquoise

I must be honest: I’ve not always been a fan of turquoise. Because I’m drawn to “boring” colored clothing, turquoise was–and still is–a little bit “out there” for me. However, I’m going to try my very hardest to circulate a few of the jewel-colored items into my wardrobe.

Jackie’s Favorite Turquoise Picks: A tunic is an easy, casual way to mix in a bright color. Worn with jeans, neutral flats and a spring scarf, this Forever 21 turquoise version is surprisingly wearable. This Victoria’s Secret maxi dress is so stunningly pretty on the model (unsurprisingly) that I feel an urge to try out the style myself.

Red

Red is the color of passion, love, and apparently, springtime. Bright reds, dark reds, wines…every shade of red is in play for spring. Luckily, red is a great color on lots of women, regardless of race or skin tone. Dark skin tones should try a darker, merlot color, while women with a yellow-undertone in their skin should aim for jewel-toned shades. Pale women can wear lighter shades of red, as well as dark shades, but be aware that the brighter your clothing, the more pale you’ll look.

Jackie’s Favorite Red Picks: Forever 21 is really stealing the show where my favorites are concerned! This bright-red, embellished shirt is great. I love the price and the effortless style. This turtleneck dress from Nordstrom is another good piece. It’s a good style to wear year-round, and it has such a good, rich red color.

Pink & Yellow

Pink & yellow bring to mind a certain holiday, that of course, being Easter. But worn separately, each color brings an unexpected, cheery element to an outfit. I’m definitely feeling a mustard-y shade of yellow for spring. Plus, mustard really compliments gray…and I have a lot of gray clothing!

Jackie’s Favorite Pink & Yellow Picks: These mustard heels from CutesyShoes are a no-brainer. They’re inexpensive, patent and have a nifty retro appeal. Would you believe this yellow blouse is from Charlotte Russe? I fell in love with it when I saw it. It’s got a studious vibe going on, making it work-appropriate, but with the right jeans and heels, you could transform this into a pretty great going-out shirt.

Purple

I’ve fallen in love with the color purple. I used to loathe it–I refused to wear it, even try something on if it hinted at “indigo.” But, I’ve come around, and the virtues of purple are many. It’s flattering, easy to pull off and quite the versatile shade. Also, since I was engaged wearing a purple dress, there’s a bit of sentimental feeling left for all purple clothing as a result.

Jackie’s Favorite Purple Picks: BCBG is one of my favorite designers, as you’ll know if you read my Stylefeeder or Tastemaker posts regularly. These BCBGirl heels are a good example of why I dote so on their designs. It’s got a super-chunky heel–always a plus, as they’re easy to walk in. The buckle adds a professional touch, and the darker purple color makes them suitable for work without being loud. I’m also a sucker for anything romantic and ruffle-y, so this indigo dress really caught my eye.

Green & Orange

I’ve grouped these colors together because each one is difficult for a different reason. Orange is not flattering as a general rule. Pumpkin orange, that is. It can wash you out, clash with your coloring…orange is quite problematic. However, I’ve selected some orange items that tend to run more in the direction of coral-y orange, instead of Halloween-orange. Now, green is difficult, because it’s got a bit of a preppy vibe going on at times, and at other times, somewhat of a vintage air that you may not always want to give off. Hopefully I’ve selected enough different shades that you can make up your mind with ease!

Jackie’s Favorite Green & Orange Picks: Tunic shirts are so nice for summer: not too clingy, usually made of light fabrics and, as always, featuring a body-flattering cut. The orange-y/coral shade of this one from Forever 21 would be complimentary to brown leather sandals and skinny jeans. At first, I wasn’t too impressed with this bright green dress from Charlotte Russe, but once I enlarged the photo, I fell in love. It looks like a vintage find, and has a naughty-nurse styling that would look good paired against with demure flats, long, loose hair and minimal jewelry. Another favorite, which is more pricey, is this dress from J. Crew. It’s loose, breezy, wearable and easy to dress up or down.

Technically Terra Plana means flat land, but you’ll be hardpressed to find much flatness with this shoe manufacturing anomaly. Inspired by a deep desire for longterm ecological survival, Terra Plana publishes the life cycle assessment for every pair of shoes they produce. They design their shoes with reparability, lightness (to reduce shipping impact), anatomic design, and durability in mind. According to Terra Plana, they “minimize waste and toxin use and maximize product use and love.” They produce their line using chrome-free and vegetable tanned leathers, recycled materials of all sorts (from rubber to old quilts and parachutes), and pure latex soling materials. Not to mention, they merchandise their products with an arresting, out-there aesthetic (check out the product shots above).

Terra Plana has also debuted a more eco-conscious leather product called E-leather. It’s a ‘re-woven’ blend of leather and textile fibers practically indistinguishable from good quality leather. E-Leather is produced with closed loop water usage and best practice pollution prevention methods. These people clearly care about crafting beautiful fashion statements using only the most modern and sustainable methods possible.

And how do they look? So, so hot! Whether you’re in Milano, Madrid, or the Mid-West, these unique sneaks and heels will be turning heads. Priced from $50-300, a pair of Terra Plana’s is a worthwhile investment in a company that’s setting the bar for eco-conscious manufacturing, as well as your wardrobe.

If you want to check out a sneak peak of Terra Plana 2008, go to smartplanet.com for a look at the super-sexy strappy heels for Spring.

That makes buying accessories difficult. I always want the latest “It” bag or shoes (who doesn’t?), but I absolutely do not have the budget to buy them. I find interesting ways to compensate, though, namely what I like to call “designer-inspired goods”.

Designer-inspired has a much better ring to it than the more common “knock-off,” and really, they’re nearly as fun as the real thing. As long as they come from reputable sources…NOT street vendors. You can rest more easily knowing that your designer-inspired look came from Steve Madden, not a street vendor in Mexico selling goods stolen from unsuspecting tourists.

Want a piece of the action? Check out the following:

These YSL tribute pumps are actually being sold from Bluefly, which makes them marginally less expensive than buying straight from the source. But, sadly, marginally less expensive still means you’ll need to pay $528. Sigh.

BUT: do not despair that you cannot own one of the most sought-after shoes of the past year or two or three. because you can own something inspired.

Starting from the left, these Steve Madden Laveda’s are a pretty good inspired look. I love the sexy stiletto heel. The Xhilaration Sveta pumps from Target are only $19.99 and come in four different colors. I liked the red and brown, but not the black: it looked a little cheaper than the other shades. BCBG is one of my favorite designers, and their BCBGirls line is less expensive and much more accessible. These white and black platforms also come in a sexy, vampy red. My favorite pair of YSL-inspired pumps are Nine West’s electric blue version. Steve Madden also makes a pair of pumps called the Reede, and this version has a more classic styling/vintage feel than the Laveda’s. But, the most true-to-Tribute pair you can buy? Jessica Simpson’s Miami Maryjanes. They are nearly an exact “inspired” match for the YSL Tributes…and such a great deal, too, at $50.

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Lanvin flats are a celebrity/rich people favorite. You see celebrities wearing them constantly and I don’t blame them. They come in all sorts of colors, some patent, some suede, some with mary jane straps. I prefer the classic, elastic style like the ones pictured above. But, come on…$600 for flats? Ha. Whatever.

I can vouch for the first pair pictured here on the left. They are by Charles Albert, and apparently he thought they looked so much like genuine Lanvin flats, that he named them “Lanvin flats.” I own two pairs (in nude pink and gray). They are a crazy deal (only $9) and extremely comfortable. The TopShop pair has a great elastic band making for a comfy–not tight–fit. The Xhilaration flats from Target are also a complete steal at less than $13 per pair. They come in lots of different colors, but I like the black and red best. And, for the deal of the day, Piperlime is offering their Unlisted by Kenneth Cole flats on sale for $19.99 in two great shades.

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Christian Louboutin makes me angry. His shoes are SO beautiful, the curves SO amazing, that for one split second, I can justify spending $900 on shoes. Then, in the next second, I can see the look on THF’s face as he wonders how any shoes can be worth $900. Fortunately, because there are so many similar styles to this classic platform pump, I tend to agree with THF’s shoe theory: if it looks good, who cares how little you paid?

You may not be a fan of Jessica Simpson herself, but you must admit that her shoe line is fairly genius. The first pair pictured here (starting from the left…hopefully you’ve gotten the idea by now!) are Simpson’s Josette pumps. They come in black and white and have a sexy d’Orsay cut-out on the side. I like the wider peeptoe on these, too: sometimes small peeptoes can cramp your toes all together. Once again, BCBG proves why I love them with these sky-high platform slingbacks. If you can’t handle all that height, this Naturalizer pair is slightly less high, and probably more comfortable since it’s well, Naturalizer. Nordstrom also offers a pair of slingbacks at a pretty decent price and with a sexy patent finish. My favorite pair of this set is Nine West’s offering. It’s cut well, got a great high heel and has all the necessary curves to pull off a Louboutin-inspired look with flair.

Which designer “It” accessory would YOU rob a bank for?

I’d buy a Chloe purse, like this one.

Exciting. Yes. Stressful? Certainly. It’s a three hour concert with three major works (including Mozart’s Requiem!) — and we will be standing for the whole duration. Meaning that I’m going to need shoes that I can actually stand in for three hours straight.

As comfortable as they are, flats are out of the question. I’m short, and I need some added height. Spice Girls platform shoes won’t suffice in the style department. And as visually appealing as a stiletto heel is, let’s face it — they’re just not that comfortable, at least for standing stationary for a prolonged amount of time. All my weight on a square inch heel for three hours? No thanks!

This is where the wedge comes in. Spreading your weight over a larger area equals more comfort, which is what I’m mainly concerned about. And with the added height, I’ll be able to comfortably see the conductor over everyone’s heads — allowing me to focus completely on singing the right notes!

Admittedly, wedges aren’t exactly worn a lot in the winter — it’s challenging to find a warm, closed-toe, dressy pair of wedges. But when comfort is a priority, a good pair of winter wedges is a necessary component of a well-rounded shoe collection.

While these black suede Steve Madden wedges fulfill the concert hall requirements (closed-toe, black shoes), they are also available in brown, grey, and purple for after-concert activities.

A really fashionable pair of dressy wedges is so hard to find, but these Seychelles fit the bill — they’re comfortable without sacrificing style.

The combination of faux patent leather and faux suede on these shoes makes for an edgier, younger vibe.

Shiny and sleek, these wedges are classic and timeless. Think pearls and champagne.

And now for a couple of winter wedges in a color other than basic black! These wedges also come in black, white, and fuschia, but I prefer the punchy turquoise/teal color.

Feeling bold? Check out these patent platform wedges. They’re available in ten colors, including sapphire, royal purple, and dark red.

Although I was extremely tempted to order the black suede Seychelles, one look at my bank account balance quickly put that thought to rest. Therefore, I think I’ll just be pulling out an old pair of Payless wedges I purchased two years ago for this weekend’s concert. Maybe after payday?…

Enjoy the long weekend, everyone! (And wish me luck!)

While it’s a little typical for the holiday, the color red is extremely appropriate — it’s attention-getting, powerful, and passionate. And red shoes are just the thing to channel your inner “smoldering temptress”, as Satine says in Moulin Rouge. Here are just a few I’ve found:

This strappy, suede and patent leather pair of evening shoes just screams vixen. They’re definitely not for the faint of heart!

If you’re vertically-challenged like me (or even if you’re not!), wear these glossy peep-toe platform heels. The platform is actually metallic — something different to catch the light while you’re strutting around!

Want a more classic option? Try these peep-toe pumps, both in faux suede and faux patent leather. ($14.99 and $24.99, respectively — not bad!)

And, of course, my favorite kind of shoe: the classic and versatile pointy-toed heel.

I hope all you StyleFeeders have the perfect Valentine’s Day you’ve always dreamed of! Stay safe, stay comfortable (by carrying a pair of spare ballet flats…or by asking for a foot massage!), and most importantly, have fun!

“I used to wear heels because I wanted to show people I wasn’t ashamed of being tall. But I don’t wear them any more because you don’t have to wear heels to be beautiful. I can’t even remember the last time I wore heels.”

I was 5′11” by the time I was 15, and ever since then I’ve dodged questions about my basketball playing, volleyball playing or modeling ability (or lack thereof.) To clear things up: I played basketball in junior high, never cared for volleyball and the only time I model is for THF.

Nearly every tall woman has similar problems. Finding pants is impossible. Every knee-length skirt looks mini on you. You may have long legs, but you can’t find pajama bottoms to cover your ankles. Being tall as a woman is simultaneously the best and worst thing in the world. You feel empowered when you walk down the street, but end up in tears in the dressing room because pants just don’t fit.

I harbor such a hatred of changing rooms from all the disappointment of never finding pants that, to this day, I’ll rarely try anything on. I’d rather buy it and take it home and return it, than stand in a barren, too-bright changing room trying to pull pants down on my hips so they fit my 37-inch inseam (35 inches, plus two extra inches to allow for heels).

So, to save you the toil and trouble of searching for pants long enough to fit your legs, I’ve picked out some of my favorite styles in denim and trousers for spring…along with complimentary shoes.

Alloy.com is a tall girl’s fantasy. Pants and jeans come readily in 37” inseams, running all the way down to the petite 32”. Skinny jeans are perfect for tall women, too. They compliment your long legs, and you don’t have to worry as much about length, since skinny jeans look fine hitting you at the ankle, or slightly above, depending on what shoes you want to wear with them. This black pair is super-flattering in cut and wash, since everyone looks good in black pants.

Try skinny jeans with a punchy colored shoe for spring. It will update the look and bring it out of the dark winter doldrums.

Tall women can get away with wearing trendy jeans a lot easier than most petite women. Wide-leg jeans, trouser jeans and skinny jeans all look equally good on a tall woman. The proportions work great — just look at supermodels! Having height on your frame gives you more liberty with how “fashion-y” you want to dress. For petite women reading this: check out my posts on Rachel Bilson and Ashley Olsen for good ideas on dressing to fit your height. Once again, these wide-leg jeans are from Alloy.com, which (and I can’t say this enough) is an unbelievable source for denim.

Wide-leg denim looks good with a substantial shoe. Think square or round toe pumps with a thick heel, oxford booties or, my personal spring favorite, wedges. These are from Old Navy and are such a steal.

Every girl needs a pair of go-to jeans that work for every occasion. I like the sophisticated cut and fit of this pair, but the rips in the front keep the look more casual and appropriate for my age. Sometimes I like to dress more casually like this for weekends or on excursions downtown in DC. Being over-dressed all the time can get really old: these jeans keep the look fresh.

Mix more casual denim with more casual shoes, like these red flats. They also come in a metallic color, as well as black. I have to give these flats props: they are some of the most comfortable shoes I own. The leather molds right to your foot, and you feel like you’re walking on air. Great if you have to do a lot of walking…plus, they’re really cute and quite inexpensive at $35.

Finding good trousers with long inseams is hard, but Alloy.com really changed all that. Although they don’t offer a huge selection of dress pants, the ones they do have are quite nice. These come in a few colors and are really versatile for work.

Peep-toe heels like this would dress-up trousers for a more stuffy workplace.

Delias.com, tween-clothing haven, has grown up a lot since I first started receiving their catalogs. These skinny jeans have a great wash, but I must warn you tall women out there: Delias only makes denim up to 36” inseams, so if you’re taller, beware and stick with Alloy.com instead!

Skinny jeans tucked into boots with a tunic and jacket is a foolproof outfit idea that I wear all the time. By the way, how great are these Steve Madden boots?! Love the gray color.

The Gap has a “tall” section on their website now, so if you’re blessed with extra height, be sure to check it out. My only gripe with Gap denim is that there can be variations of fit within each size. For instance, you may try on three pairs of size 4’s in the Long & Lean style, and they will all fit differently and have slightly different lengths. Be cautious when purchasing their jeans online since you can’t try them on. But, if you are tall and need long inseams, online from the Gap is the only way to go: their in-store longs are often not quite long enough.

Since Gap denim is so classic and preppy, shake things up with your

Now for the big leagues: Tall Couture is an invaluable website for tall women, offering links to other sites with clothing for tall women as well as offering a huge selection of their own. If you prefer higher-end brands for your lower half, Tall Couture is the site for you. These Hudson trouser jeans come in long inseams, and you can’t argue with the fit.

These mod wedges would really compliment the flare of the Hudson jeans.

These trousers are a little more trendy than the other pants I’ve shown, but if you don’t want to look like a clone at the office, why not go for it?

Because the trousers above are so trendy, go for a more simple shoe.

Sailor pants always strike me as a little flirty and mischievous. I’d wear this Banana Republic pair to work with a button-down tucked into them. Subtle sexiness at its best!

And my favorite shoe of the moment: these color-blocked Steve Maddens. They come in three color combos and look a lot more expensive than they are. I’ll be watching for them to go on sale–effects of the student budget, you know.

What kind of clothing is hard to shop for when it comes to fitting your body type? Are you petite? Tall? In-between? No waist? Too much waist? Tell me about it!

The sale section of Steve Madden’s website is like a candy store where the really yummy items are mostly $34.99 and under. Here are some of my favorites in that price range (just in time for to indulge yourself for Valentine’s Day!):

I have a ton of black dresses — I brought seven with me when I went home during the holiday season! However, I’m getting tired of the whole black dress/black shoes combo, and that’s where these python-print shoes would come in. Neutral but noticeably different, they’re a classy but not tacky way to channel the animal-print trend.

I fell in love with the following shoes as soon as the graphic loaded on my browser. Not only is this pair unlike any of the shoes I own, but I really like the criss-crossing details — and for $27.99, it’s definitely a bargain!

Brown leather peep-toe pumps make a great everyday shoe for an office environment.

I actually own this pair in black. Not only are they classic (meaning I’ll be wearing them for years), but the pointed toe elongates my legs, making me look a bit taller — which is always appreciated, considering I’m 5′2″!

Black suede shoes are always classy and elegant, but the gold heel on this pair gives it a little more of a sexy vixen feel.

Want a bold, fun color? Try these pretty teal evening shoes.

And now for something completely different: these floral-print d’Orsay-style peep-toe pumps would go great with a white sundress (when it gets considerably warmer, of course!).

Many of these styles are available in other colors, so if you see something you like but aren’t too crazy about the color, go ahead and click — chances are it’s available in one you do fancy! Act quickly, though — sizes are selling out!

Then I encountered temperatures below 50 degrees and this thing called snow, and the need for boots became apparent to me. (Plus, I realized that I was missing out on a whole aspect of seasonal dressing!)

So, join me on my quest for the perfect collection of boots, won’t you?

These calf-high pewter leather boots look comfy and stylish — and they’re actually from Crocs’ new line, You by Crocs! Quite a deviation from their earlier work, no? (They’re also available in black and chocolate lambswool.)

A pair of cognac slouchy boots are a must for fall/winter dressing, and I bought these brown double buckle boots over the holidays — at a very affordable $39.50!

Want a different and more fashion-forward option? Try these unique buckle fabric boots — plus, they’re on sale for $9.99, meaning this risk won’t set you back too much.

If you’re like me, you have tons of light day dresses you love, but are forced to put them away during the chillier winter months. Problem solved — depending on the type of dress, you could wear it with black tights and a pair of flat slouchy boots like these, completing the effortlessly cool look with a scarf, sweater, and a pair of great sunglasses.

I’ve always been a little wary of ankle boots, but I’ve found three that seem to be a little less predictable and more interesting than the ones I’ve seen before.

The details on these Seychelles make them a little less abrupt and much more stylish than the standard visible zipper. The slightly metallic sheen also makes it look a little rugged yet still decidedly feminine.

I love the scalloped edge on these soft and luxe-looking booties.

Looking to add some color to your boot collection? Try these blue ankle boots — not too bright but still different enough to punch up your outfit.

What about you? What boots are you longing for this winter?

I’ve taken three of Rachel’s distinctive looks and come up with affordable, look-a-like pieces you can buy and wear without maxing out multiple credit cards.

The LBD (”little black dress”) is something that every woman—no matter what she tells you—has at her disposal, awaiting a chubby day, a bad day, a rainy day or the ever-popular, “I’ve got nothing to wear day,” which is exceedingly common in my own home.

A LBD can be elegant, but can also translate just as fast to plain-old boring. How many times have you put on a black dress and added accessories or sweaters or switched up your handbag to try (try so hard!) to look different?

The best mode of action, as Rachel displays effortlessly here, is to pair your LBD with flowing hair, minimal jewelry and standout shoes. Yellow, red, purple or perhaps a color-blocked pair of pumps, but whatever you do, don’t wear black shoes with a black dress to any sort of fun party, because really, it’s not a funeral. It’s not.

Copy Rachel’s LBD look with the following (inexpensive) items:

Or, if you want to add a shoe that’s a bit more expensive:

If a LBD really isn’t your thing, nothing will do but a shocking color. Although Vogue and all the rest suggest adding bits of neon to your everyday wardrobe this season, I say to be a bit more cautious and try a color that stops just short of highlighter-esque.

The great thing about a colored dress is that, one, you won’t need to wear much jewelry, and two, your shoes don’t need to be spectacularly amazing, because really, who will be looking at your feet in a dress like Rachel’s? Color also works great because it’s nearly seasonless: pink looks just as great in the winter as it does in the spring, because whereas the former promises of spring-like colors to come, the latter seems a reflection of the current seasonal change. Genius!

Copy Rachel’s look this way:

Or, for the more daring:

And, don’t forget shoes!

Rachel demonstrates below how fashionable, sexy and party-ready does not always have to equal a dress. On the contrary, I believe that there are many party occasions where trousers should be worn in lieu of dresses. In a post-ice/snow storm world, perhaps. Or during the longest and most rainy downpour of the year.

In cases such as that, pants are a fantastic solution. I love how Rachel has mixed up casual pieces with more dressy ones, making this outfit suitable for a date, visit to a museum, art gallery, theatre, restaurant…this outfit could, quite literally, go anywhere. It’s youthful, but not too young, and still elegant enough to get you into the most snobbish of restaurants (provided you flash a lovely smile at the door).

Here are some inexpensive ways to get this outfit right:

The hat is a crucial element:

As are the shoes (please make sure they are at least complimentary to the hat in some fashion):

And to finish it off, wide-leg trousers and a little cashmere cardigan:

Happy shopping!

That kind of denial only gets me into trouble. Instead of going to buy a gift for my mother, I’ll procrastinate and stay home, curled up in my warm bed reading a good book. My justification? “But it’s been such a long day!”

But, shopping online for gifts instead is a great alternative. I can stay in my PJ’s, and it’s basically killing two birds with one stone–shopping and wrapping done at once (most online retailers offer free gift wrapping near the holidays).

The Mark by Avon Little Black Box can be customized with whatever combinations of makeup you desire. There are some pre-selected options, but it’s more fun to create a unique combo, don’t you think? It’s a great deal (about $6) and perfect for stocking stuffers for friends/cousins/nieces/etc.

My best friend Lisa is a make-up fiend. She adores Eyes Lips Face (E.L.F.), as do I, for their unbelievably inexpensive make-up. This “Ultimate Kit” is only–wait for it–$15. I know Lisa would just love this…and because she lives on the other side of the country, this kit would be easy to ship, as it isn’t perishable or a weird-shaped item.

My mom is simultaneously the easiest and most difficult person to shop for. She’d be happy with anything. THF (”the handsome fiance”), on the other hand, has a family that provides specific wish lists at the holidays. If only my family did that! My mom gives me the standard, “I’ll love whatever you get me. But, don’t feel pressured to get me anything.”

Right! Like I wouldn’t buy my mother a Christmas present. Since she had foot surgery recently, she’s been on the lookout for comfortable shoes, but as you know, comfortable rarely ever equals stylish. That’s why these Aerosoles are the perfect solution: they are so cute and really versatile (can’t go wrong with black).

My sister loves perfume. Her huge collection–she’s definitely not a signature scent kind of girl–encompasses everything from expensive brands to Victoria’s Secret body sprays. She doesn’t own anything from this new Bath & Body Works Velvet Tuberose line yet, but she always compliments me when I wear the lotion. Another plus: the design of the bottle is so pretty.

My poor father owns more ties, cologne bottles and cuff links than he could ever use in one lifetime. I’m sick of getting him the standard “dad” gifts.

He travels a lot for business–think Africa to India to New York City. He doesn’t own a business card holder, and that would be an ideal gift for him, as he passes out business cards often when he’s working. In my personal opinion, pulling a business card out from a smart leather case wins a lot more points than digging it out from a wallet.

Last, but certainly not least, there’s always one sister or friend that you must embarrass with a slightly inappropriate yet still useful Christmas present. That’s why this bra, from Forever21, is great. Not only is it festively colored, but it’s a steal at under $10. Can’t wait to subversively stick this in my sister’s stocking and mark the gift tag from “anonymous.” I’m a great sister, right?

Anyone in your family that’s impossible to shop for?