Budget Footwear

Thanks to a column on The Fashion-y Blog, we became reacquainted with the irresistible style of Anita Loos, who is perhaps best known for having penned Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Loos (1888-1981) was one of Hollywood's most respected and prolific screenwriters, as well as an acclaimed novelist and playwright. She also had a fierce style—just look at those pouting lips and cropped coif! Here's an outfit we put together that was inspired by one of her looks...



[1] Libertine Crepe Dress for Target $39.99
[2] Dominique Cohen Knotted Pearl Necklace for Target $24.99
[3] Steve Madden 'Loucee' Pump at Nordstrom $69.95 $45.90

Ok, let's get this over with.

Crocs are the shoes that fashionistas everywhere love to hate. They're clunky, funky and all-around offensive to our sense of aesthetics...and yet, people seem to love 'em.

It was only after we actually held said Crocs in our own two hands that we understood their appeal: They are quite literally as light as a feather. We're talking marshmallow light, no joke. In case you've never picked one up, give it a try. You'll be shocked.

So this makes Crocs comfortable, and the same special substance that makes the shoes featherlight (it's not quite foam, not quite plastic) also wicks away sweat and resists odors.

Crocs are so popular that they've even inspired some to create accessories specifically designed for adorning your crocs, with a brand called Jibbitz taking the lead. They're basically small charms that fit into the holes on Crocs. Kudos to the mom who invented these things and then sold her company to Crocs, but these trinkets should really be reserved for kids.

Which brings us to our conclusion: Crocs are super cute on young children and toddlers, but ridiculous on grownups. We don't begrudge those who choose to wear them—on the contrary, we kind of admire their chutzpah.

But personally, we did enough damage when we bought Birks, and we're not about to make another fugly shoe mistake with Crocs.

What do you think about Crocs? Love 'em or leave 'em?

Whether you're shopping for end-of-summer sandals or getting a head start on your fall wardrobe, use promotion code FS28X7 at checkout to receive FREE SHIPPING at Aerosoles.com.

Offer expires 8/20/07.

Happy shopping!

There seems to be no shortage of Christian Louboutin knockoffs for fall—or are these copycats merely inspired by the most coveted shoe creations today? You be the judge...

LUXE VS. LESS

Luxe: Christian Louboutin "Iowa" Mary Jane Pumps, $590 at Saks
Less: Steve Madden "Tinah" Patent Pump, $79.95 at Nordstrom


Luxe: Christian Louboutin "Caracolo" Patent Zip Pump, $910.00 at Bergdorf Goodman
Less: Steve by Steve Madden "Larrk" Pump, $129.95 at SteveMadden.com


Luxe: Christian Louboutin Metallic Platform Pump, $785.00 at Bergdorf Goodman
Less: Oh Deer! "Ella" Metallic Platform Pump with Red Sole, $78.95 at Zappos.com

Find more designer looks for less here. >>

They're heeee-eeere...

We warned you about those fugly lace-up flats that top designers such as Christian Louboutin, Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui and Jill Sander are unveiling for fall—and now, we regret to inform you, they've arrived at Urban Outfitters.

Sure, we know people who could pull these off, but those people are special. Much more special than we will ever be. So no. No, we will not let these shoes touch our toes.

We advise you do the same...or, if you think you can rock this look, send us a pic and prove it! (We won't hold our breath.)

End-of-summer shoe sales are the best time to get incredible deals on all those shoes you've been holding out for, with prices marked down 50-75% at many retailers. For some of the best deals, go directly to your fave brand's site (as opposed to one-stop shops like Zappos.com). Check out the bargains we scooped up...

These black leather wedges have become our wardrobe staple. The low heel and flat sole makes them perfect for walking, and the knotted strap across the toe keeps them snugly in place and prevents the heel from shifting. Perfect with skinny jeans and above-the-knee frocks. We picked these up at an Aldo store for $39.99; save up to 70% off their shoes online.

We purchased these gems for an all-day wedding in September. We needed something that would carry us through the entire day of festivities in comfort, so Aerosoles was our brand of choice. Find styles marked down up to 65% during their summer clearance sale. These strappy leather heels were only $19.99!


Okay, trust us when we say these look way better in real-life. They have an Anthropologie vibe we just love—funky Nana chic. Can't wait to pair them with colored tights in the fall, although since they're real leather, they're quite comfortable barefoot, too, so we can start wearing them now. Also just $19.99 from Aerosoles.com!


Check out our other posts on budget-friendly shoes here. >>