I need some advice on shoe choice for a tourist's trip to NYC. I am going in early February and the forecast should be cold and rainy. I plan to do a lot of walking and would like to find a shoe that is comfortable enough to walk in, durable enough to withstand any rainy conditions, yet stylish enough to go from day to night (nothing dressy, but possibly a Broadway show). Any advice? —Melissa

It might sound boring, but I think a classic black boot by a reputable brand is your best bet. Something classic yet modern will keep your feet comfy and cozy for a full day of walking, climbing subway stairs and trudging through rain puddles, possibly even slush and snow. And you'll look stylish and put together whether you're going to an art museum, shopping in trendy boutiques or catching a show in the evening. There are lots of options out there, but here are 3 picks under $50:




Aerosoles Archive Stretch Boot, $39.99 at amazon.com

I have always had luck with Aerosoles. Their shoes are super comfy and durable, and you can wear them for 8 to 10 hours at a time. These boots got great reviews, and it's easy to see why: Classic, versatile, tasteful. Check the Aerosoles.com outlet section for even more fab deals.




Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Women's 'Saddle Up' Tall Riding Boots, $47.99 at overstock.com

For something with less heel and more edge, these riding boots from Kenneth Cole's more affordable line, Unlisted, will keep feet happy for hours. Again, Kenneth Cole is another brand I've had excellent luck with, so you can shop with some certainty that you will not be disappointed by your purchase.




Bandolino Neeko, $47.37 at 6pm.com

I've owned a couple pairs of Bandolinos over the years and they have never failed me. If tall boots aren't your thing, a low black ankle boot like the ones shown here are another fab option. You can wear them with dark bootcut jeans and a cute top and blazer for a stylish day to night look. Feet will be dry and pain-free, which means you will be a happy traveler.

Dear Readers: What are some versatile, comfortable shoes YOU would recommend that would work for winter in New York City?

Would you please suggest an outfit for a long weekend getaway in Orlando, Florida? Something to explore Universal theme park in? I believe it's a bit chilly in Florida at the moment. —M

Parts of Florida have been experiencing unseasonably cold weather this winter, so I'd wear a trench and cardigan on the plane. These will keep you comfy should the sun decide to hide on your vacation.

Theme parks are notoriously casual but that doesn't mean you can't look cute. And there are plenty of nice restaurants, bars and nightclubs to entertain grownups in the evenings, so if you plan on going out, pack a cute top and dark jeans or black pants for such occasions.

Here's some inspiration, click any outfit for details on the items shown:

Outfit 1

Classic: A classic trench is a travel must-have that goes from day to night, sunny skies to thunderstorms. Red leather flats from the Gap are a comfy yet chic way to get around.

Outfit 2

Casual Cool: I can't wear Converse sneaks myself (not enough arch support), but thousands (perhaps millions?) of people swear by them for comfort and hipster style. Add a boyfriend blazer to cover up if it gets cold.

Outfit 3

Going Out: There's tons of nightlife in Orlando, both around the theme parks and even downtown. A pretty top and black pants is laid back yet still fun enough for partying.

Florida readers/travelers: What did I miss??

The Fendi Boudoir Sandal featuring mesh straps and sky-high heels has been spotted on celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Vanessa Minnillo and Lindsay Lohan. I love how each of them styled these shoes in completely different ways.




Here's a close up of the shoe in question. I couldn't find the exact price for these but Fendi heels at Net-A-Porter.com typically retail for approximately $700-900.


Here's the knockoff from Forever 21 which they call the Posh Stiletto Heel, $20.80. Aren't they gorgeous?! I think I've found my Valentine's Day shoes. Click the image to purchase this look for less.

Here's me wearing two coats of polish on an overcast day, photographed outdoors without the flash.

Chanel's new spring nail colors—specifically Chanel Particuliere Le Vernis Nail Colour—has everyone scrambling to find the perfect mushroom, taupe or putty nail polish for less, which led me to test out Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Commander in Chic by Sally Hansen ($7.99 at Ulta.com). I purchased mine for $6.99 at Target.

I definitely agree with readers who tried this polish before me—the brush is fantastic because it's a little wider and flatter than most brushes, allowing for smooth, even and easy application. But the color is rather sheer, so three coats are required for full coverage. I get really impatient with nail polish, so I just applied 2 coats (3 on my thumbs, haha).

The subtle, sophisticated color is flattering and looks best on shorter nails. It looks different in different lighting situations, of course, but overall it has that slightly purplish-grey-taupe look I was going for. I would like to try something that's a little less glossy, and a little more creamy, though shine is good for hiding imperfections. I feel like I have to be super careful when applying matte colors as these tend to show every flaw.

Here are some more Chanel-inspired colors to choose from, recommended by your fellow readers!

Perfect Putty Polish Colors for Spring 2010

• 
  OPI Fiji Weejee Fawn
  


• 
  Rimmel London Lasting Finish Pro Nail Enamel in Steel Grey
  


• 
  OPI The Classics You Don't Know Jacques!
  


• 
  SEPHORA by OPI Matte Nail Colour Matte Metro Chic
  


• 
  essie Chinchilly
  


• 
  SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour Under My Trench Coat
  


• 
  Opi Brights Over the Taupe
  


• 
  butter LONDON Fash Pack (saw this in the ASOS e-newsletter)
  

Photographed with camera flash OFF, indoors

Photographed with camera flash ON

Sometimes the styling and photography can be a dead giveaway with these, but see if you can spot the splurge among these four oversized python-print handbags. Would you carry one?