summer shoes...

Giving up shopping for lent has been a tough venture, but I'm still hanging in strong 13 days in. Naturally, just because I cannot shop, doesn't mean my wish list has stopped growing...

In the last year or two, I remember flipping through a copy of Harper's Bazaar to see that espadrilles were being delcared "out" in the world of fashion. But we're all aware of how cyclic fashion really is. Re-invent the wheel: make it a edgier, colour it a new hue, give it a new angle. I remember being more or less indifferent to the passing of the woven wedge sandal at the time,  but like some styles, this is one that grew on me this time around. Partically with my developed interest in chunky shoes, platforms, and wedges.

Friday afternoon, I made a visit to The Urban Shoe Myth to scope out Shelley's latest selection. I fell in love with these Steve Madden espadrilles, now officially on my list of must-haves following my shopping fast!

From what I can see online, in-store, and in magazines, espadrilles didn't make it far out of reach before they came back in full force! I forsee them being a huge summer trend and I'm wanting to wear those Steve Maddens despite the fact that the ground is still frozen! Most popular footwear labels have been adding the woven wedge espadrilles to their spring/summer lines. Sam Edelman, Nine West, and Dolce Vita are just a few to embrace the traditionally Spanish shoe that dates back to at least the 16th century. Mind you, the originated as a flat shoe with a rope sole and canvas covering over the feet, worn by men and women. Here's a few picks of the modern, bohemian wedge version that I am loving:

Espadrilles by MaritimeShopaholic

What is the shoe type that you look forward to wearing this summer?

to the max...

One thing that is on my list of must-haves for this summer is the maxi dress. I've admired other bloggers who have fashionably styled elogated skirts and dresses, but never thought it was a look I could neccessarily pull off. Sometimes I find it can take some trends a little longer to grow on me or I warm up to them once I figure out how to incorporate them into my own look. Here's some of the pieces and looks I'm coveting right now:    

Yumi swallow print maxi dress

Diane von Furstenberg dress

All Saints maxi dress

Joseph M blue floral dress

TopShop long chiffon dress

Michael Kors gathered skirt

Preen tulle maxi skirt

Rag & Bone maxi skirt

Click here for prices and links to online shops

I'd love to pair any of the above pieces with a jean jacket for that casual-cool look. However, I won't be adding any maxis to my closet until my shopping freeze thaws...in 32 days!

So what's your opinion on the maxi dress or maxi skirt? Is it a style you plan to incorporate into your wardrobe? Is it not for you? Or perhaps you already have a couple hanging in your closet?

P.S. Happy St. Patty's Day!

Chanel Nails: Spring 2011

Ok, so I know this nail polish trio isn't particularly new to stores, but I finally had the opportunity to hold the bottles in my hands last weekend! I had a manicure lined up at Perfumes Plus and was torn on which Chanel shade I should have my nails panted. (I know, such a crisis.)

Photo: Fashion, Beauty & Everything Glamour

I'll say this: I've already been in a spring state of mind. I am loving and craving to new spring products and trends. More or less, I'm gravating to want to dress for the weather I want, not the weather (aka snow) that we are faced with! So pinks being on the rise for this spring, I decided to go with Peche Nacree for my nails. I loved it's peach, almost nude appearance.

My manicure was done by Stefanie at Perfumes Plus while we chatted about our upcoming weddings. (She's much more on the ball than I am!) I asked her for a little advice on preserving a manicure. We always want to make the most of it. So here is her advice on the important things to know and how to avoiding early chipping of your polish: 

"Well, to help it last longer you want to start by making sure before you do the polish application to wipe your nails clean of any oils. You can use polish remover or rubbing alcohol. Next, we use a product called chip skip, what it does is dehydrates your nail temporarily so that when you get the base coat on it bonds really well. Then after your manicure make sure your wearing gloves if your cleaning or doing dishes. After a day or two apply another clear coat and it will help keep it even longer."

Ever wonder why in Canada we don't get the same variety of Chanel products they do in the US? I remember the difficulty of getting my hands on a bottle from the Khaki Collection. Well, here's a little something I learned from Laura (make-up artist at Perfumes Plus): in Canada we actually get our Chanel products from France. Chanel's cosmetics in the US are a thing of their own: they are produced and sold there. Well, didn't my nails did feel a little more European after that!