A Grand Petite August

As per the recent request of an illustrious, little-footed icon (who happens to wear a size 4.5), the Grand Mademoiselle has decided not only to add a special section of her blog devoted to the plight of Petite M's in their search for fashionable, fitting footwear, but will use this post to highlight a few options for her tiny-toed friends. In truth, finding gorgeous shoes at both extremes of the size spectrum proves difficult, and the Grand M will do everything in her power to include small sizes in her search for the perfect shoe (insofar as this is a quest which we hold in common!). To that end, the Grand M has selected some of her favorite shoes, both big and small, to pair with gorgeous, exotic summer dresses, laden with tribal and floral prints to bid adieu to August's heat.

Just as large shoes tend toward the work horse aesthetic, small shoes favor little-girl styles, and neither impetus suits the adult Grand or Petite Mademoiselle. That said, there are ways to bend every rule, and the Grand M has stumbled upon several styles that will put the old aesthetics to rest. The 'Gladio' sandal by Stuart Weitzman is a perfect blend of gilded uptown chic with playful summer sandal, and what's more, it comes in a size 4.5. This is a lovely gladiator with a glamorous makeover, replete with a lush Specchio calf leather upper in sumptuous gold. The 'Gladio' is perfectly paired with an offbeat bohemian dress in a modern cut to offset the twist on a traditional gladiator. Wear Matthew Williamson's incredible 'Ballerina Bustier' dress with the 'Gladio' for a hodge-podge ensemble worthy of any fashion mag. Williamson's navy silk chiffon bustier dress is artfully adorned with a whimsical print of dancing ballerinas and crystal embellishments. The sculpted neckline, boned bust, and layered silk makes this dress a nouveau twist on an old gypsy classic, and will take your summer look to the next level in a pinch.



If the 'Gladio' does too little for your stature, opt for a pair of towering heels in a punchy, stand-out color, such as the 'Cali' by Taryn Rose in vibrant yellow patent. The patent leather 3.5" heel, bright hue, and asymmetrical silhouette pack a lot of sexy punch in one fabulous little shoe, also available in size 4.5. The padded foot bed ensures that you'll be feeling as good as you look when you pair the 'Cali' with Roberto Cavalli's 'Multi-Print Dress', with its happy colors and outlandish mishmash of drop-dead prints. The retro print exudes modern elegance on this multi-colored silk cap-sleeve dress, and the pleated front panel, empire waist, and subtle V-neck all add more interest to an already over-caffeinated little number - perfect for an August evening out on the town.

If something a little larger is your MO, you can never go wrong with All Black, and the 'Granada' flat, with its fun snub ballerina toe fits the bill. Available in a multitude of shiny colors, the Grand M prefers the white patent, which highlights the luxe leather ruching across the vamp and comfy elastic heel. Step out in your All Black's with Sienna Miller's go-to August slip-on by designer Yoana Baraschi. Baraschi's celebrity coveted dresses are truly all the rage, and with good reason. One peek at the rich tones, intricate patterns, and flattering cuts and the Grand M is already hooked. Opt for Baraschi's 'Red Embroidered' cotton voile dress to complete the gypsy-boho hodge-podge look with a pair of patent 'Granada' flats for an evening affair, or the more casual 'Athens' Grecian sandal by Dolce Vita. The easy silver leather straps and Spartan design ensure style continuity with Baraschi's dress if you're opting for an easy day out with friends. Any way you go, it's always best to leave the prints to the dress and save simplicity for the shoes.