Five Favorites: Wedge Espadrille Sandals

The wedge espadrille is the perfect compliment to summer. Comfortable and versatile, these sandals provide the hight needed paired with comfort. The rope detailing couples well with casual and dressy styles and remains durable year after year. Available in different styles and colors, the platform wedges will flatter all summer long. Here are a five favorites for summer:

Topshop: Whispered Sandal – $84.00

Michael Kors: Giovanna Wedge Sandal – $134.95

Jimmy Choo: Pallis Wedge Sandal – $450.00

Delman: Trish Sandal– $250.00

Dolce Vita (DV): Tarry Sandal – $59.60

Four Favorites: Athletic Shoe

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Whether you are running, walking, inside or out, a great pair of athletic shoes is a must. How to choose the right shoe for you? Go with comfort.

There are so many new technologies and varieties of the athletic shoe to choose from. Some are built for speed, while others are built for support and comfort. Unless you are training for a marathon, tri-athalon or hiking, don’t waste your money on purchasing different pairs for different activites. If you find a pair that feels amazing on your foot… Buy them!

If they are comfortable… you will wear them… if you wear them… you will get sweaty more often. It is that simple.

Here are four of my favorites:

Adidas: Adizero Adios 2.0: $115.00

Nike: Free Run 3: $100.00

Asics: Gel-FujiRacer: $110.00

Saucony: Hurricane 14: $105.00

Moisture Surge: Clark’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask

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Fall is here. Along with the crisp mornings and turning leaves, you may have also noticed your skin feeling a little chapped and dry. When the season changes, so does your skin. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of the colder weather and ease your skin into the winter months gracefully.

Now is the time to seal in the hydration. Clarks’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask is designed to hydrate, nourish and comfort dry, aging, environmentally damaged and dehydrated complexions. Natural ingredients work together to deeply moisturize and replenish the complexion, allowing it to regain radiance and suppleness over time. With regular use, fine lines and wrinkles will be diminished and a youthful glow will take their place.

The mask hydrates and soothes skin quickly, and can be used year-round to nourish the skin and restore the natural glow. The high concentrations of algae extract, coupled with comfrey root, Jasmine Absolute, and Japanese Green Tea, make this mask a potent anti-oxidant treatment. It is thick and rich and instantly quenches the skin. It can be used as a weekly treatment or as a daily moisturizer. If used daily, only the smallest amount is needed. Skin will be noticeably plumper and hydrated.

Make a few tweaks in your seasonal skin care to ensure healthy, glowing skin all-year-round.

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ABOUT CLARK’S BOTANICALS

Some skincare lines come and go. This year’s miracle ingredient is often next year’s outdated science.Then there are those exceptional lines that not only deliver results, but are truly compelling because they are based on real human experience and a brand narrative not created by a corporate marketing team, but by a personal history.

Clark’s Botanicals was born out of tragedy when company founder Francesco Clark, who then worked at Harper’s Bazaar, suffered a crippling spinal cord injury in a swimming pool diving accident on June 1, 2002.

With his central nervous system impaired, Francesco lost the ability not only to walk, but even to sweat. This led to clogged pores and chronic breakouts. When neither over-the-counter nor prescriptive remedies worked, he turned to his father, Dr. Harold Clark, a physician trained in both traditional Western medicine and homeopathy.

Together they developed botanically-based formulas that effectively rebalanced Francesco’s skin, clearing it up entirely. Through word-of-mouth, other people discovered and fell in love with these products, and in 2005, Francesco began selling Clark’s Botanicals on his website: http://www.clarksbotanicals.com

Even as the collection grows into a full-fledged skincare system, rebalancing skin remains its overarching objective. That’s why all Clark’s Botanicals products today feature Jasmine Absolute, a precious essential oil that naturally rebalances skin. Derived from nocturnally-blooming flowers, this extract is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immuno-stimulating. It works to calm and heal a broad spectrum of skin types, from young to mature, oily to dry, and normal to sensitive.

With a passionate consumer following, Clark’s Botanicals is pleased to announce its latest move into select, prestige retail distribution with updated packaging and a launch family of thirteen paraben-free treatment products.

“Clark’s Botanicals is an organic part of me and my recovery,” says Francesco. “Everything about this line has a purpose and reason for being, from the ingredients to the packaging. It’s an expression of who I am in its purest form.”

Francesco Clark serves as a National Ambassador for the Christopher Reeve Foundation, which is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy.

A percentage of profits from the sale of Clark’s Botanicals go to The Christopher Reeve Foundation.

 

Western Style: H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot

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Saddle-up in style with a Western-inspired boot. H by Hudson’s Riley Mid Boot is that perfect mix of rugged utility and sophistication.

The perfect kickstart to your Fall wardrobe, this boot provides comfort and relaxed style with gently-worn leather and chunky Cuban heel.

The H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot has the ability to dress things up or work as a chic but casual option. Pair with your favorite designer jeans or feminine floral dress. No matter what you choose you will add a bit of style to your stride.

About Hudson:

Born in 1990, Hudson has been putting their best foot forward for more than two decades with its high quality, affordable shoes. Acknowledging trends and giving them our own idiosyncratic twist is the cornerstone of the Hudson philosophy. Whether it’s music, art, style icons or film, there is always inspiration to be found. Often imitated, never rivalled, Hudson will always strive to innovate, surprise and push boundaries in footwear design.

Fall Flat: Loeffler Randall Natalie Studded Toe Flats

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The cap toe trend is evolving this Fall with a little texture. From shiny gold caps to spikes, studs and rhinestones, the simple flat is getting interesting.

A great pair of flats that can be worn with both workplace-appropriate attire and casual weekend pieces is a worthy investment. Loeffler Randall’s Natalie Studded Toe Flats fit the bill – a sleek cap toe keeps the look on-trend but still polished, while the gold studs add texture and whimsy.

The Natalie Studded Toe Flats are the perfect hybrid of comfort and style. Traverse around the city or trek to work in shoes that won’t ‘fall’ flat.

Sporty Girl: Hurley Phantom Kini

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Sporty Girl: The girl who doesn’t want to go to the beach or pool to lay there and bronze all day. The girl who wants to be active in the sun. The girl who wants to be in the water, swimming, surfing, paddle boarding. The girl (like every girl) who still wants to look good doing it. Enter: Hurley Phantom Kini.

Phantom Technology:

Blessed with the Phantom Fabric (compressed micro fibers woven with spandex to create unparalleled 140% stretch). Infused with ground breaking nano technology and water repellent fabric to absorb less water with the finest quality micro yarns which produce a soft and silky touch to skin. Designed with no inseam, leaving zero restriction in performance while maximizing comfort.

The Hurley Phantom Kini is made with this Phantom Technology. Stretch woven to hug the body and provide support, lightweight and designed to dry quickly. The suits are also finished with bonded seams that lay flat on the skin, which means you won’t have to worry about chafing and constantly having to pull your suit into place.

Whether you are a sporty girl, a mother chasing after your kids or you just want to be more active on the beach – try on a little style with comfort and have more fun in the sun!

Four Favorites: Flip-Flops

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Flip-flops are not only a staple in my summer uniform, but year-round. I own way too many to admit to. I have also tried too many to admit to.

My two basic needs when choosing a flip-flop: comfort and style. I do not like a lot of bells and whistles or intricate design. I stay simple and natural in color and design. These shoes should last forever and never compete with seasonal trends. Here are my four forever favorites:

J.Crew ~Vineyard Leather Flip-Flops: $49.50

Rainbow ~ Black Leather Narrow Strap: $49.00

TKEES ~ Flip-Flop: $47.95

Havaianas ~ SLIM: $26.00

Flat Frenzy: J.Crew Ballet Boutique

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J.Crew Spring/Summer 2012 launched an exquisite ballet collection “The Ballet Boutique.” The collection is filled with suede, leather and raffia designs, available in a variety of colors, textures and adorable embellishments.

The Cece design is handmade in Italy and constructed for comfort and style. Dubbed as their official “commuting shoe,” these flats have added padding, an elastic top, a shock-absorbing rubber sole and an interior wedge design for additional comfort and control. Fabric swatches, Pantone cards, art books even candy was used as inspiration to create one-of-a-kind colors.

Embrace this hot season trend without sacrificing comfort. With multiple styles and colors, and a price range of $58-$250, everyone is able to join the flat frenzy.

Tech-Savvy Fashion: DVF Harper Connect Daybag

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Fashion meets function with Diane Von Furstenberg’s Harper Connect Daybag. Perfect for the tech-savvy fashionista, this leather bag has a special built-in compartment that keeps your Tablet or IPad secure.

Harper’s geometric structure and decorative details feels luxurious and professional. Bold brushed-gold hardware, signature turn-lock closure and removable leather tassel makes me weak at the knees. Wear however you like, Harper comes adorned with both a chain shoulder strap with leather links and an optional cross-body strap for style and comfort.

The ultimate designer bag for the girl on-the-go.

Classic Wedge: STEVEN by Steve Madden Banndo

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STEVEN by Steven Madden Banndo is the perfect wedge to have in your collection. This shoe will pair perfectly with any color, pattern or style it is coupled with. The sandy suede texture has a soft, comfortable feel while the lightweight synthetic wedge adds support.

Pair these shoes with Spring florals and pastels. They are the perfect height for flared denim as well as a flattering shape for cropped. Available in leather or suede, black or tan, this classic wedge will wear perfectly all spring and summer long.

Back to Basics: Layering Favorites

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Layering articles of clothing is not only practical but stylish. The art of layering will create insulation to keep you warm but will also lay the foundation for a very versatile wardrobe.

Start with your favorite basics. When shopping for basics, buy for comfort and quality. This will ensure getting the most wear out of the article of clothing. Then… buy in quantity. If you love a particular piece – purchase in different colors, patterns or styles.

For instance,  H&M tanks and camis are great – they are cheap, come in an array of colors/patterns and are made long in length. It is quite difficult to find a good tank, long enough to cover the bum when wearing leggings or tights. These tanks will also layer beautifully under just about anything, without any added bulk.

Old Navy is another great place to find layering basics. I love the light-weight v-necks and crew-necks. They are soft, comfortable, inexpensive and come in great basic colors. I wear them everywhere from the gym to work. On their own, accessorized with a great scarf or layered under a sequin/leather/boyfriend blazer to create a textured-casual look.

When it comes to quality, Splendid and KAIN Label, are unbeatable. They both provide silk blend basics that are extraordinarily comfortable and styles that are continuously on trend each season. These are the best basic pieces to collect each season, that will last a lifetime.

What are your favorite basics?

Boot Week: Cole Haan Air Whitley Knit Boot

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Cole Haan Air Whitley Boot

Boot Week ends with a fun lace-up boot.

The Air Whitley Knit Boot by Cole Haan provides both comfort and style. Supported with Nike Air technology, these boots feel like running sneakers. The classic lace-up style is detailed with a stretch knit sock that lines the entire boot. The cap-toe detail provides a military twist and the over-lapping sock screams cold winter days. Pair these boots with black leggings and winter coat for a warm and comfy elegance.

Choose a boot this season that suits your needs and taste. With so many different styles and designs available, you don’t have to pick just one…

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ashling

Boot Week: Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot

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Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot

Boot Week continues with the wearable wedge boot.

The Eldora Suede Wedge Boot from Vera Wang Lavender Label has a wedge heel to give you a sturdier stance when standing out in the crowd. The classic suede silhouette features a full-length exposed zipper on the inner lining. The chocolate brown suede is incredibly soft and couples beautifully with fall and winter colors.

The wedge boot offers stylish poise. Providing comfort and stability, this is a great boot to have in bad weather or running around town. Wear these boots over your tightest denim, add a chunky knit sweater and floppy hat and you are all set.

With this wearable wedge from Vera Wang Lavender Label, standing tall is a little easier.

Boot Week: Pour La Victoire Bardot Ankle Boot

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Pour La Victoire Bardot

Boot Week continues with the versatile ankle boot.

The Bardot Ankle Boot by Pour La Victoire is a simple ankle boot with sex-appeal. The sky-high heel and hidden platform accentuate and elongate the leg. The suede is soft and easy to maneuver in and the side zipper provides comfort and flexibility.

This ankle boot pairs perfectly with just about anything; tights, leggings, pants, denim, skirts, dresses. Available in many colors and textures the ankle boot can be the focal point of an outfit or accentuate it.

Though they can easily be concealed under a pant hem, take advantage of the ability to add a chic edge to an otherwise ordinary outfit.

Boot Week: J Crew Billie Buckle Boot

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J Crew Billie Buckle Boot

Boot Week starts with a great flat boot.

The Billie Buckle Boot from J Crew is a classic equestrian-inspired style with rugged detailing. The boots are made of an incredibly supple Italian leather that is soft and flexible. The flat-heeled design and leather sole ensures luxurious comfort and the decorative straps, finished in antique gold, can be used to loosen or tighten the calf of the boot.

The Billie Buckle Boot pictured here are the extended calf version. Available in a shorter version and an array of colors and finishes, these boots are extremely versatile.

Style these basic boots with slim skinny pants, a romantic dress or the new, elegant “midi” skirts. The Billie Buckle Boot is a perfect addition to any wardrobe with a classic style that will last for years.

Denim Expedition: Seven For All Mankind

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California Coast Classic Straight Leg Jeans

Shopping for jeans is an exhausting experience. Hauling 15 pairs of denim into the dressing room, hoping that at least one is the perfect fit, style and color.

Seven For All Mankind Classic Straight Leg in California Coast is my current blue ribbon-winner. Wanting to test-drive a new style and vear away from the skinny jean, I went looking for a pair of jeans I could live-in. Don’t get me wrong I do love the skinny, however, sometimes I want jeans to look like jeans and not second skin.

The Classic Straight Leg is exactly that…classic. Form-fitting in all the right areas to accentuate the body, but leaves room for comfort, detail and style. These jeans are soft and comfortable and have an amazing stretch. The dark inky-blue wash is my favorite for everyday jeans, polished and perfectly worn-in.

Weekend Ensemble: Splendid

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This weekend make the transition from day-to-night simple with Splendid’s Maxi Tube Skirt/Dress.

This basic piece is multi-functional and essential for summer-wear. The jersey material provides comfort and stretch and will maintain it’s shape for either skirt or dress-wear.

For daytime, wear as a skirt over a swimsuit or simple tank. At night, pair with bright espadrilles and textured baubles. Add a belt to both the skirt or dress for an added embellishment.

Splendid’s Maxi Tube Skirt/Dress is available in an array of bright colors as well as black and heather grey. Choose your favorite and seamlessly create an entire weekend ensemble with just one piece.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ashling

Shoe Symmetry: DVF Olivia

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DVF Olivia

There must be some sort of inertia that pulls me towards Diane Von Furstenberg’s new shoe creation each season. The Olivia wedge sandal is my latest obsession.

The architecture of this shoe is crisp and perfectly symmetrical. The wedge design adds comfort and stability. The two-tone feature is subtle and polished and the suede trim provides texture and refinement.

The Olivia is extremely flattering on. The porportions hit just right to lengthen the leg and slim the ankles.

This is a great addition to anyone’s collection, as it can be worn in any season. Paired with a sundress or wide-leg pants, the Olivia will ornament any ensemble.