Shoe of the Week: Chie Mihara Freshwater T-Straps

imageThese days, a shoe needs to have some pretty innovative design for me to take notice. The majority I’ve been seeing at department stores and online are the usual combination of black leather, studs or zippers. While I don’t mind the (certainly ubiquitous) rough and tumble look, I’ve been looking for something a little more… demure. Basically, I just want something ladylike that doesn’t remind me of my grandmother. That’s why the Freshwater T-Straps by Chie Mihara really caught my eye. They have a retro feel with their t-strap styling, but are thoroughly modern with their cutout leather circle pattern. Wear them with jeans and a leather jacket for an unexpected surprise, or pair with your favorite sundress. An added plus? The design has all of the charm of a strand of vintage pearls, without looking like you dove headfirst into grandma’s jewelry box.

What: the Chie Mihara Freshwater T-Straps
Price: $375
Where to Buy: Anthropologie
Who: facadeindreams was the first to add the Chie Mihara Freshwater T-Straps to the Hive.

Hot In The Hive: Tipsy Toes Ice Cubes

imageThe old adage, “a girl can never have enough shoes” is definitely one of my style mantras. I’m pretty sure I have over 20 pairs of shoes in my closet! So why shouldn’t I apply that motto to the rest of the house too? I could always use a cold drink, so a few of these frozen red heels from CB2 would go perfectly with any sophisticated beverage. The glam ice cubes are made of foodsafe polyethylene that you can freeze over and over again. So the next time you forget to make ice cubes, just throw in a pair of shoes instead. Your unsuspecting guests will surely get a kick out of finding them in their lemonade or gin & tonic!

Price: $5.95
Who Found It: facadeindreams was the first to add Tipsy Toes Ice Cubes to the Hive.

WhatsWear Unveils Zara’s 1000 Numbered Edition Sandal!

imageThe deconstructed, high-heeled black suede sandal with thick criss-crossing metal chains isn’t just your ordinary party shoe from Zara. This sandal is emblazoned with a serial number on its sole, arrives in a specially designed box and is currently sold in only 45 Zara boutiques, marking it a limited-edition Zara item. With only 1,000 made, the “1000 NUMBERED Edition” sandal, as the style is dubbed, is available for purchase now. However, shoe lovers everywhere will have to battle it out for a chance to own a pair, making it all the more enticing to compete. Those who come out victorious will walk away with their prize in the form of a black box, bronze on the inside, containing that very special pair of sandals. So, what are you waiting for? Find a store and purchase them before it’s too late, then visit our friends at WhatsWear for more fashion news!

Put Your Best Foot Forward This NYE In A Pair Of Satin Pumps!

imageNothing says end-of-year cocktail party like a dazzling minidress, a glass of champagne, and a gorgeous pair of satin pumps! Usually reserved for weddings and other rather stuffy formal occasions, satin heels are becoming more and more party-appropriate with the help of trendy updates like platform soles, pleated details, and flirty ruffles. While the material lends itself to fancier holiday get-togethers, satin pumps are the perfect way to get festive without looking like a Christmas card or a gaudy New Year’s Eve centerpiece. Just take caution when braving the elements on your way to the party — there’s nothing like soggy soiled satin to start off the new year on a sour note! View the slideshow for 10 satin shoes worth toasting to!

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Haute Deal: Balenciaga Platform Harness Boots For Less!

imageEver since these Sam Edelman “Zoe” boots hit the shelves (and have since been flying off them), I can’t help but think I’m seeing double. They’re almost exact replicas of the Balenciaga Harness Boots that stirred the style pot a few years ago from their Fall/Winter 2006 collection. However, in true bargain shopper style, instead of being annoyed that Mr. Edelman would dare duplicate such one-of-a-kind runway style, I’m stoked. Balenciaga lookalikes for $350 instead of a whopping $1795?! Sign me up! Actually, to tell you the truth, I’m not sure they’re really my style — but if you’re in the market for a chunky pair of platforms, I support your choice to save rather than splurge! Unfortunately for you label chasers, the authentic Balenciaga pair is practically nowhere to be sold, so if you’re stuck on the original you may just have to resort to eBay… or raid Mary-Kate Olsen’s closet.

Shoe Of The Week: Alexander Wang Natasha Pumps

imageNowadays when you have designers like Thakoon manufacturing mirror sandals and McQueen debuting claw-like hoof creations that only Lady GaGa can feasibly walk in, it’s difficult finding a shoe silhouette that’s both refreshingly unique and truly wearable. Enter the Natasha Pumps by Alexander Wang. An interesting cross-breed between a classic platform pump and a bootie, the pair is still edgy in its pebbled texture and sculpted 4.5-inch heel but won’t have conservative passers-by wondering which drag queen stage you jumped off of. Swap them with your normal black pumps and pair them with a cocktail dress (their height elongates legs more than ankle booties), or wear over a pair of textured tights!

What: the Alexander Wang Natasha Pumps
Price: $490
Where to Buy: Shopbop
Who: xgalexy was the first to add the Alexander Wang Natasha Pumps to the Hive.

Shoe Of The Week: Matiko Sudi Cut Out Boot

imageAs popular as cut-out booties are nowadays, I have to say they’re getting a little redundant. After all, there are only so many places you can strategically cut holes in a leather shoe before they start to look like sandals… and let’s face it — in these exponentially declining temperatures, there’s hardly any room left in your closet more sandals, of all things. But something about these tall Matiko Sudi Cut Out Boots is refreshingly unique — maybe it’s the cool mosaic cut-out design, or maybe it’s the fact that they’re still recognizably boots despite their aesthetic modifications. Show some skin (or skin-colored tights) through the peekaboo cut-outs or have a little fun with the design by wearing brightly-colored leggings underneath — or even sparkly tights for a sneak peek of shimmer.

What: the Matiko Sudi Cut Out Boot in Greystone
Price: $260
Where to Buy: Revolve Clothing
Who: xgalexy was the first to add the Matiko Sudi Cut Out Boot to the Hive.

WhatsWear Gives A Toast To The Louboutin Champagne Shoe

imageNo need to adjust your screens, you read it right: champagne in a shoe. Once upon a time, in a far more chivalrous day and age, a man used to show his affection for a woman with more than a pick-up line and a martini from the bar. In nineteenth century Europe, gentlemen used to celebrate the performance of an exquisite ballerina and pursue their favorite courtesan by taking the ultimate plunge, performing the “tournee des grands Ducs” — the act of drinking champagne from her shoe. In our modern times, when most relationships begin through a series of text messages, two idealists joined forces to create the rebirth of the genteel spirit that once was. The “Le Rituel” box set is the essence of class and style, with the utmost of quality from sip to sole. The drink is manufactured by Piper-Heidsick, who has been in the business of making quality champagne since 1785. Christian Louboutin, whose red sole has become symbolic of luxury and desire, worked his magic to create the couture glass stiletto fit for any Cinderella. Unfortunately, attaining recounted elegance doesn€™t come easy or cheap. Retailing at $500, “Le Rituel” is sold exclusively at select Neiman Marcus retailers and online at www.le-rituel.com and www.wine.com in extremely low quantities, so act now before the clock strikes midnight. Don’t forget to visit WhatsWear for more of their favorite “it” things!

LimeLife Reports: Stella McCartney and Morrissey Team Up For Shoes

imageThough we would be extremely excited about Paul McCartney and Morrissey teaming up, we’re still pretty psyched Stella McCartney and Morrissey are teaming up. Especially since they’re teaming up for shoes! Both Stella McCartney and Morrissey are vegetarians, and they’re about to create a line of shoes together that proves their love for animals. They’re in the early stages of a leather-free range of footwear. According to Stella, “I’m working with Morrissey on a line of leather-free shoes which I’m really excited about. We are still in the early stages, but the shoes could be launched next year.” We never really placed Morrissey as a shoe designer, but we think that’s pretty awesome. And we have a feeling the shoes will sell really well because there’s a huge population of people who don’t want leather on their shoes. Not to mention, we’re sure there are tons of Morrissey fans who would love a pair of his shoes. Check out our friends at LimeLife to read more!

Shoe Of The Week: Rosegold “Halle” Suede Stud Booties

imageI won’t lie — I’ve been known to kick-start the party on more than one previously-empty dance floor. And of course, I’m always down to incorporate some kind of eye-catching shine into my wardrobe, whether it’s in the form of sequins, studs, or a statement necklace. I would say that it’s this inner Beyonce in me that makes me attracted to these embellished booties, but realistically I think just about any fashionable gal could pull these off, whether or not you’re in love with the limelight. The Rosegold “Halle” Suede Stud Booties come in both black and gray suede — perfect for holiday parties and New Years’ festivities — and have the perfect amount of light-reflecting shimmer with its adjustable fold-over cuff without looking over-the-top biker babe or hardcore rocker chick like other stud-happy styles. If you’re looking for a shiny new pair of booties for the end-of-year, these are edgy yet wearable enough to carry you through the season and not just till the 2010 ball drops!

What: the Rosegold “Halle” Suede Stud Cuff Booties
Price: $295
Where to Buy: Bloomingdale’s
Who: xgalexy was the first to add the Rosegold “Halle” Suede Stud Cuff Booties to the Hive.