Valentino Peep-Toe Lace Couture d’Orsay Pumps

Valentino Peep-Toe Lace Couture d'Orsay Pumps

There’s something about d’Orsay pumps that I really, really love, and I think Valentino does the style beautifully. I think I may have mentioned before that I’m on a mission to find some stellar heels fit for holiday parties, and that includes browsing my favorite labels. Valentino is way up there on my list, and with shoes like these drop dead gorgeous Peep-Toe Lace Couture d’Orsay Pumps ($885 at Saks), it’s easy to see why.

I have a thing for lace shoes anyway. There’s something so fanciful about them; they are so delicate, so feminine and dainty, that they make me feel that way by association. I always feel more elegant myself when I’m wearing lace pumps, and these are just such a gorgeous example of the style.

The lace is Italian, just to tempt you a little more, (more…)

Valentino Bow-Topped Over-the-Knee Boots

Valentino Bow-Topped Over-the-Knee Boots

I love the Valentino brand. I love everything from the label, and have especially loved what I’ve seen since Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri were named as creative directors. However, in addition to loving this particular shoe, there’s another reason I chose to showcase Valentino’s Bow-Topped Over-the-Knee Boots ($1,595 at Neiman Marcus). That reason is (drum roll, please): the color.

The boot is typically available in black as well, but Neiman Marcus is currently sold out. That’s all right, because my interest resides solely around this plush, rich blush shade. You don’t normally see knee high boots in anything but black – or if a certain style has a color like this available, it is rarely ever the focus in the advertisement. That’s what first caught my eye, along with the fact that, even in the picture, the napa leather looks as soft as butter. (more…)

Valentino Lace-Effect Wellington Boots

Valentino Lace Wellingtons

I don’t know what it is about Wellies, but I love them to death and I am dying to own a pair. My one problem is that most Wellingtons look a little too clunky, chunky, and masculine. I’m all for androgyny, and love tailored men’s clothing. I frequently wear ties and prefer cologne to perfume. When it comes to shoes, however, I prefer something with a feminine edge. Nobody knows how to take the masculine and make it feminine like Valentino, and a perfect example of that gift can be seen in these absolutely adorable Lace-Effect Wellington Boots ($295 at Net-a-Porter).

I want these boots. Like, I want to start saving up right this second. (more…)

Valentino SS 2011 Shoes

The designers of Valentino have some difficult shoes to fill.  With each line, they listen to the criticism and adjust.  Something I have noticed is the finishing touches of their ready to wear are high quality - sort of a blend of the Couture and Ready to Wear. Unfortunately, they haven’t given up on the ruffles and fringe, and the red isn’t Valentino red but it is a nice collection that should sell quite well.

They have partnered with the Gap and the collaboration will be available in the Milan Gap in November.  Unfortunately, this is only available in Europe.  So, if you are planning a Milan trip over the holidays you might be able to score a few Valentino pieces.

The shoes featured in the fall 2010 collection were nice, classic shoes, but nothing new, nothing amazing.  Maybe I am expecting too much from Valentino.  Let’s look at was offered.

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It’s Summer, Put On Your Flip Flops

For me, summer means lots of time at the beach. Although I no longer live on California’s Central Coast, I still spend every moment I can in the sand, or at least dressing like I’m headed to the beach. While in Santa Cruz for the 4th of July I realized I need new flip flops! There are some great new designer sandals available this summer that are rather stylish. Pure luxury at the beach – I love it!

Valentino Couture Bow Jelly Sandals for $275 at Saks

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