Grand Mademoiselle Shoe Blog

Petallurgy

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:17:00 +0000

Petallurgy is the Grand Mademoiselle's term for the science, nay the art, of adorning shoes with lovely, feminine details. Fall/Winter fashion abounds with such gorgeous spectacles, and the Grand M delights in ruffles, bows, pleats, and other deliciously decadent components composed of chiffon, satin, and leather. Petallurgy is uniquely concerned with the properties of these details, and their perfect production and purest form. In that sense, decline flats brimming with bows (too much for too little shoe) in favor of elegant T-strap heels. Opt for stark colors like black and gray instead of pastels (too cutesy). Steer clear of all-over adornment (too...much) and pick a pair with one centralized and exciting decoration. The Grand M has selected her three favorite examples of petallurgical design this season, each a successful representation of the coveted (and newly coined) art.

Loeffler Randall always astounds the Grand M for impeccable construction, inspiring design, and a perfect color palette. The 'Colette' is no exception, and thrills with its sleek dual side ankle buckles in tiny scale, beautifully brushed black satin, and unfussy cascade of gently pleated ruffles. The toe is nicely pointed (not too round, not too triangular) and the 3.5" heel is sinfully womanish. Loeffler Randall manages to perfect the art of petallurgy with the 'Colette' and Grand M's are happy to reap the reward! For the little (foot) minded, choose this delightful confection from MAXSTUDIO. The 'Salsa' is another 3.5" wonder, constructed of a lovely, muted gray satin and cut in that old-fashioned favorite T-strap style, decorated with petallurgical restraint in gray chiffon and teensy crystal beads. Anything more would be garish, and the Grand M is beside herself to have found this beautiful number in sizes that ladies with tiny feet will find amenable.

To add the final bloom to this adventure, my budding petallurgists, don the 'Punch', Natalie Portman's wonderful creation for Te Casan this season. All of Portman's designs are vegan, which is mere icing on an already delicious bit of shoe heaven. Another 3.5" black T-strap, the Grand M knows, but a real standout for its fun chiffon toe pompom (yes, pompom!). Who would have guessed that a cheerleader staple could be so chic? Only the petallurgically inclined...

Balmorals Lament

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 23:09:00 +0000

The Oxford is a tricky shoe, at once elegant and playful while retaining an air of sad, Scottish mystery. Enhance the elegance and risk losing the baleful woe; enhance the misty, noir aura and risk losing the upbeat energy. Worn by businessmen and schoolgirls alike, the Oxford is a veritable panoply of footwear confusion. If you don a flat Oxford, you may inadvertently end up looking too masculine and too juvenile in the same stroke. What to do? Use history as your guide and select a pair of high-heeled, black bootie Oxfords that will simultaneously represent modern femininity while paying homage to the style's wistful, chilly Balmoral origin.

Take a page from the Fall/Winter 2008 Collection of venerable design house Ports 1961, who always manages to churn out gorgeous, eerie clothing collages depicting a specific mood or era. While many designers attempt to represent themes, few are as successful as Ports 1961, who offers luscious, tale-telling garments without feeling silly. The Fall/Winter 2008 Collection is a throwback to the odd beauty of Gaelic mythology, offering a romantic and earthy portrait of the Scottish highlands, as viewed through a fashionable lens. Highlighting the dark mood and supernatural whimsy of Scotland, the Ports collection is enchanting, and impossible to deny for its rich, heady elegance and stark sculpturalism. Rustic tweeds and wool gauze replace heavy knits and boiled overcoats, creating a sinfully decadent yet minimal aesthetic. The harshly muted grey backdrop presents a beautiful vista for the Grand M's favorite Ports look, and the monochromatic tone of the garments imparts a masculine edge layered upon feminine twists. The Grand M will use this look as her Oxford inspiration.

In keeping with the offbeat tone of Ports' collection, opt for edgy quirks when selecting an Oxford. Odd and unexpected cutouts are key, as are strange twists, epitomized by the Dolce Vita Marlo, which manages to capture the masculine surge of the Balmoral in a wooden ombre chunky heel that is tempered by a delightful lack of laces, saving the Marlo from that staid, formal Oxford tendency. Most importantly, the Marlo is available in large sizes. If you're searching for something a bit more elegant (and you have a small foot), choose the Coventry heel, by Stuart Weitzman. The Coventry is an avant garde Oxford, with its open toe and side quarter cutouts, made in combination patent leather and sumptuous satin. The towering 4" heel is simply sinful when worn with the laces undone. Slip into either of these nouveau Oxfords and witness the power of history when paired with modern fashion!

All Tucked In

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 02:08:00 +0000

The onset of winter has the Grand Mademoiselle itching for a brand new pair of boots. In style seasons past, the fabulous fervor leading up to designers' boot debuts fizzled fast as fashionistas chose pants that covered up the intricate details that distinguish one pair from another. With nothing showing but the toe, all the Grand M saw was tonal variations of a pointy tip, leaving much to the imagination and masking some pretty magnificent creations. This year, the Grand M looks forward to boot season with renewed vigor and sense of purpose, determined to showcase her gorgeous finds with low-key pants tucked in, so as not to steal the show.

What makes a great boot? The options seem endlessly combined and complicated, but this season, there are key elements that the Grand M is looking for, namely, clean lines, soft leathers, easy construction, and simple sophistication. It's all too easy to mess up even the simplest boot, but little variations on a classic theme give the best results. Two options come to mind at the moment: a classic high-heeled boot, and a funky high-heeled boot, both based on the idea of a functional yet stylish shape without giving it all away for a silly trend. Pick one boot for substance, and one for individual style expression, both of which can exhibit trendy know-how without sacrificing taste. For substance, the Grand M has selected the Bally Balnerina in a classic, chocolate brown leather. The sumptuous, cognac hue and daringly modest three inch heel are a study in perfection, capped off by a delicately rounded toe and stunningly chic tunnel knee-high shaft. This is the boot of yore, that gorgeous, softly feminine shape that at once screams sexy without saying too much. The shape has often been attempted, but has not always been met with wild success, and all too easily a classic boot has fallen prey to cliche without realizing its full potential. Simple is best, but luxurious is essential.

For individual style expression, the Grand M is wild about the Chie Mihara Cunsi, a gorgeous knee-high boot, again in a lovely brown leather. The Cunsi is unlike any boot the Grand M has seen before, and the eclectic rum hue, tall slouchy shape, and indie-chic button-down top all demand exhibition, making these the perfect boots to mix and match with your winter wardrobe. Tuck a pair of skinny grey-washed jeans into these boots, and don a pin-striped tuxedo jacket over a thinly knit cashmere top and strut your way into winter fashion nirvana!

High Art

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:49:00 +0000

The Grand Mademoiselle is tired. Tired of the tried-and-true, cookie cutter, been there done that attitude infecting fashion this fall. Where is the drama, the sex appeal, the art, the magic and mystery, the innovation, the lust, the new? Enter shoe designer turned art world maverick Mark Schwartz to the rescue, who has managed to bring the Grand M back from the depths of design despair with an invigorating dose of gorgeous paintings to remind her of the fun that fashion is intended to embody. Schwartz is no rookie, and his impressive portfolio includes work with Roger Vivier and inspiration from cultural icon Andy Warhol. Certainly, Schwartz's own shoes are unbelievably gorgeous, hence having garnered the attention of the Oprah crowd and beyond. However, his soulful, sexy paintings of shoes are what make the Grand M all atwitter. Schwartz has a singular way of infusing real interest back into a lackluster season, with his tantalizing and downright haunting paint-and-paper depictions of that holy of holies: ladies footwear. Above all, what makes his work so wonderful is his obvious commitment to an often overlooked side of shoes, namely, the movement and spontaneity captured by the shape and construction of a beautiful pair. Schwartz's paintings are heady with the rich sense of newness, of individuality, all with a strict attention to paying due reverance to the artistic shape that women's shoes exhibit.

With this in mind, the Grand M is armed and ready to embark on her own renewed shoe sojourn, and the latest creations from Marni and Faryl Robin provide her with a reason to believe that shoes are every bit as fantastic, whimsical, and imaginative as Schwartz's paintings represent them to be. This season, the Grand M will strive to celebrate the beauty of shoes with every tippy-tap upon the earth, reveling in the glory captured by an avant garde outlook with a bit of fairy tale magic. Look for pieces with an unexpected shape, a unique twist on an old classic, or perhaps even a bold new color to revive the interest that a good shoe always arouses. Marni's peep-toe ankle boots are a perfect example, not only for their towering platform, but for their marvelous reworking of traditional taupe and the sweet surprise of an open toe on an ankle bootie. What's more, the imaginative tweed trim between the wood and leather is remarkly chic and refreshingly new. For something a little more down to earth, opt for Faryl Robin's electic 'Doobie' heel, with its quirky, off kilter charm and cheeky zebra stripe printed suede lining. The marvelous mixture of rich textures, combined with an asymetrical T-strap and fabulously unusual cone heel add layer upon layer of celebratory rapture to the 'Doobie', capturing the slightly left of center sex appeal that Schwartz's paintings strive to portray. Find all of Schwartz's work at http://www.highheeledart.com and let the celebration begin!

Trend: Soft Rock

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 23:03:00 +0000

As the summer months dwindle to a quiet close, the Grand Mademoiselle is itching to don something ... naughty, and head out on the town for a night of debauchery and mayhem. The fashion history annals offer much in the way of going-out-gear, ranging from the glitz and glamor of Studio 54 to the raucous, in-your-face chutzpah of the Bowery Ballroom. However, taking these styles and downplaying them to fit your life can be tricky, easily degenerating into cheap knock-0ffs and costume-y wannabes. The best way to ensure that you stay one step ahead of the style pack is to pick fabulous separates, mixing and matching demure pieces with wild ones to keep the interest without compromising good taste.

To avoid being the joke of Great Jones Street, steer clear of black leather biker jackets and torn jeans by throwing together an uptown, bad-girl ensemble from Olsen Twin brainchild Elizabeth & James. Their designs are, quite simply, thrilling, comprised of a surprising panoply of delectable pieces to choose from. The Grand M is wild about the golden fringe jacket, replete with oodles of glittering strands of fabulous fringe (a great disco throwback) without looking silly. The simple hook-and-eye closure, rounded neckline, and easy 3/4 sleeves ensure style success and are the epitome of modern soft rock dressing. To up the oomph factor, wear the fringe jacket over a gorgeous pair of slinky back stirrup leggings, the latest incarnation of an 80's icon. The new leggings are impossibly chic and look incredible when paired with pumps or boots.

Keep the motif alive and be the talk of Mulberry Street by slipping into a luscious pair of studded, knee-high, flat black leather boots. With great designers churning out gorgeous variations for the fall, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, and the Grand M suggests going for a soft rock aura by donning flats, since nothing screams vamp tramp louder than a pair of high-heeled black leather boots. Opt for the 'Ivy' by Loeffler Randall, with it's easy, demure low-wedge heel, golden snap details, and sumptuous Vachetta leather upper. The 'Ivy' is the pinnacle of soft rock style know-how, simultaneously conveying good sense and wild times in the same gesture. Go a little bolder with a good 'ol Sigerson Morrison concoction, always guaranteed to turn heads with great design and gorgeous details. The classic 'Studded Leather' boots are a true soft rock dream, made of luscious black leather stripes and adorned with studs that run to the knees. These boots would look wonderful when paired with leggings, keeping a rein on the rock-and-roll gesture and transcending cliches with fabulous style.

Be the toast of Canal Street with a great accessory to top off the look and prepare yourself for a night on the underground town. Load up on hardcore, overly-embellished rings with dangerous adornments juxtaposed with lady-like materials. Think bats and diamonds, lions and crystals, or skulls and pearls, as accomplished by this gorgeous 'Skull Charm' ring from Rachel Leigh. A good statement ring will take you far, and the cluster of shiny, multi-colored pastel freshwater pearls look decadently sinful against a pewter skull charm.

Feel Good Fashion

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:36:00 +0000

While we all gain a tremendous burst of excitement from donning new garments, the recent trend toward feel-good fashion focuses on outpourings of charity and goodwill, with designers turning to everything from eco-friendly fabrics to charitable donations. The Grand Mademoiselle has selected a few of the best recent efforts that are sure to make you feel good, inside and out. Truly, you don't have to be a vegan to slip into organic shoes, and you needn't be a wealthy philanthropist to enjoy the thrill of monetary donation.

Design company TOMS began with a truly magnificent mission: to make life more comfortable, and the Grand M can attest to the fact that TOMS has succeeded brilliantly. Self-labeled as "Shoes for Tomorrow", TOMS is dedicated to improving the lives of children in need, and does so to the tenth degree by donating a pair for every one purchased. With a glorious give and take like this, not to mention a fantastic price and ultra-lightweight construction, Grand M's everywhere should feel free to enjoy as many pairs of TOMS as suit their fancy. Recently, the designs have taken a super-cute turn, with TOMS utilizing everything from bright colored canvas to silver sequins adorning their superb flats. The Grand M is simply wild about the 'Twain', with its sumptuous leather sock liner, navy canvas upper and cream text relaying feel-good messages. At the end of the day, it's really all about looking down at one's shoes and feeling fabulous!

If you're searching for fashionable shoes in eco-friendly, luxe fabrics, turn to the Grand M's recent British style find, Beyond Skin. Their fantastically gorgeous collection labeled Sui Generis features stunning shoes ranging from demure daytime flats to sky-high evening pumps, all crafted from organic materials. Each pair is hand made to order, lending the entire collection a singular luxury, enhanced by tastefully subtle colors and simple shapes. What's more, Beyond Skin adheres to an ethically-sound work practice, uses no animal products, and follows the philosophy of creating gorgeous, ethical footwear for discerning style-led women. The Grand Mademoiselle is absolutely drooling over the 'Grace' heel, with its beautifully luxurious lavender upper and delightfully sensuous cut (not the mention the ridiculously towering heel!).

When in search of a feel-good handbag to go with all these charming shoes, look no further than venerable up-and-comer Vegan Queen, whose whimsical, nuanced designs are destined to delight even the most stringent vegan style maven. The self-proclaimed leader of "Eco-Luxury", Vegan Queen is committed to the mission of promoting a luxurious, healthy lifestyle while insuring a sustainable future, and to that end all of VQ's designs are organic, cruelty-free, non-toxic, and recyclable. This is truly where ethics and aesthetics meet, and VQ is ecstatic about bringing gorgeous designs to fashion-conscious women who demand high-quality, stylish bags without having to sacrifice their social or environmental beliefs. The Grand M suggests picking up the crave-worthy 'VQ Clutch Wallet' to stash in any of the gorgeous bags crafted by Vegan Queen. In fact, the Clutch is so adorable, the Grand M intends to tote it solo, basking in the glow that only comes from having done something ... worthy.

Animal Crackers

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:52:00 +0000

Fashion has an undeniably appealing element of play, as if we're perpetually locked in some fabulous childhood game of dress-up. Without this aspect, the game loses much of its fun, and style lacks an integral channel of imagination. This lovely facet in mind, picture a whimsical school play, with children dressed as lions, antelopes, and zebras to depict some magnificent, folksy scene. Fall fashion is much the same, the key terms being imitation, proportion, material, color, shape, and craft. Take your favorite animal and seek to emulate its constitution through clothing! For this post, the Grand Mademoiselle has selected the buffalo, as depicted in Mamie Deschillie's darling work at the Smithsonian. This piece embodies a personal charm, reflected in the furry beast's quizzical stare and woolly mane, and the best way to carry bits of this fabulous work through in your ensemble is to define your theme, then select colors, shapes, and materials that successfully relate your message. A stylish response to the buffalo suggests larger proportions on top, tapering down to shiny, black heels that peek out beneath cigarette pants.

To achieve those billowy top-side angles, look no further than venerable fashion house Ports 1961, whose impeccable tailoring ensures a highly intriguing creation crafted of sumptuous materials in captivating colors. The Blouson sleeve cotton top fits the bill perfectly, with its dramatic sleeves, pullover style, inverted pleat details, and aptly titled gazelle hue. The rich golden tone, faintly reminiscent of the buffalo's softly gilded fur, is a delightful way to bring play back to your style lexicon. For a bold look, opt for a lusciously gathered Ports 1961 muslin shrug in a delicious hand-dyed safari hue that evokes barley fields and matted animal hair. The tight, unbounded dried coils are deep enough to sink your fists into, recalling the graceful mash of silk adorning the buffalo's back. Slip into this wild little shrug and you're bound to feel like loping across the grasslands ...

On your feet, slide into something hoof-ish, that is, with a compact heel shape to give you the illusion of teetering atop shiny black hooves, much like our buffalo buddy. The Grand M adores the Zara heel from Corso Como, with its black patent pearlized leather upper, slightly angular square toe, and chunky 3" banana heel. The charming bend gives the Zara a unique shape, that when worn with straight leg trousers imparts a devilish twist on an old-school classic. For something a bit more traditional, go with Burberry's patent leather high heel Mary Jane. An embossed logo plate adorns the low Mary Jane vamp strap, resting across a high-shine black pump. The 4" heel is no laughing matter, but if you've got the skills, definitely go for it. This delightful pump has an aggressively small, rounded toe ... very hoof-ish. For those with smaller feet, stick with a trendy Giuseppe Zanotti peep toe. This particular heel, crafted of sinfully reflective black patent leather, has a high-gloss tortoise shell 3.5" heel and a cheeky hidden platform design to give you even more oomph. Take whatever animal inspiration you need, my dear Grand M's, and play a little dress-up!

A Grand Petite August

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:01:00 +0000

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 Bust ier' 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.

Tru Bleu

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 23:49:00 +0000

The magic and mystery of Truman Capote's ubiquitous Black & White Ball is best captured by the glitz and glamor of fabulous evening footwear, crafted of satin and laden with opulent embellishments. The Ball was a masked affair, so one's ensemble had to do the talking, and nothing speaks louder than beautiful shoes, my dear Grand M's. In truth, good evening collections are difficult to find, with most tending toward backyard bridal or sequined sweet sixteens. To sidestep this conundrum, the Grand Mademoiselle suggests sticking to clean lines and tried-and-true satin when selecting solid colors, or simple adornments in elegant materials like pearls or crystals.

When opting for a white shoe, it's easy to slide too far toward the bridal side of the spectrum, so your best bet is to go simple. In the Grand M's experience, Solestruck has a wonderful selection of Nina pumps that are classy enough to fit the bill without breaking the bank (and available in larger sizes). What's more, they have a remarkable customer service program, and in today's online world of shoe shopping, this is quite a feat. Nina's 'Sorbet' satin pump is lovely and will work well for any evening affair that requires black and white attire. The heel is a staggering height at just under four inches, and the sumptuous white satin with delightful ruching across the vamp adds just enough interest to keep the 'Sorbet' current without being precocious. If you're searching for something with a little more pizazz, the Grand M suggests turning to none other than Christian Louboutin, who is destined to please with that signature red sole alone. The crystal S-shaped sandal is designed to be a show-stopper, and can find no home more apt than Capote's world of romantic decadence and solemn affection for fashion. There is a singular, dazzling solemnity to the Black & White Ball that is wonderfully captured in the old-fashioned S-curve of Louboutin's heel, paved with clear crystals beset in gold, which the Grand M finds absolutely captivating. This evening shoe is the pinnacle of Capote style and the highest point in chic footwear, leaving the Grand M drooling in its gorgeous wake.

Finding a fabulous black shoe is considerably easier, with more designers turning out black pumps and sandals each season. With such a high concentration already saturating the footwear market, it's a cinch to find beautiful, elegant black evening shoes. Still, selecting a properly dressy black It shoe comes with its own challenges, as one traverses the world of pompous straps and overly embellished peep-toes. The idea is to make 'ole Tru proud without being redundant or showy. To that end, follow the same rules when searching for a black shoe as when searching for a white pair. When opting for a solid colored heel, stick with a traditional satin upper and use vamp ruching as your detail. Designer Something Bleu has a gorgeous collection of evening footwear in Grand M friendly sizes, and the 'Claudia' (available in both black and white) is a perfect fit, with its delicate origami fan of pleats and cheeky peep-toe. If you're looking for something with a bit more flair, go bold with a retro-feel Valentino, whose stylish lines always please. The Grand M is mad about these satin pearl sandals, with their smooth black satin straps, glossy ivory pearls, and chic bow detail. Truly, these beauties are one of a kind and you'll storm any evening event with panache and gusto, leaving other dames in your Hepburn-esque wake as you chat up a roomful of tuxedoed gents!

Que Syrah, Syrah

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 02:05:00 +0000

Wine is undoubtedly the premiere symbol of seduction, relaxation, and all things classy. Nothing seems to let the world know that you're, well, wordly better than spewing forth tidbits of obscure wine trivia. If you prefer to refrain from indulging in either the drink or its associated hoity-toity behavior, the Grand Mademoiselle suggests retaining an element of its elegance by donning similarly tinted shoes. Running the gamut from glossy, ruby-colored pomegranate to blushing, blooming rose, a little vino goes a long way toward providing a veritable cornucopia of lovely purples, pinks, and reds. The Grand M is wild about wine-hued flats in all styles, and the rich tones lend an air of sophistication and style sensitivity to even the most casual ensembles.

The Crosstoe flat, by designer All Black, is the perfect Cabernet color to kick off this trend (aptly dubbed Wine), and its luscious combination of snakeskin and eel is playfully enhanced by a reflective strip of golden patent leather. The Grand M could swim in the Crosstoe's deep Merlot upper for days, the rich hue a delightful commingling of tart cherry tones with vibrant burgundy notes. This is vino luxury at its finest, and All Black has created a timeless pointed toe flat, made even more elegant by the gathered elastic heel to ensure a proper fit.

If you're looking for something a little lighter, try Miu Miu's playful Scrunchy Oxford, fashioned of sumptuous leather in a remarkably original blush tone with a heady mauve bouquet. The Oxford is classic Miu Miu, made of ingenuity, risk, and ritz to combine in a delightful twist on a tasteful gentleman's staple. This is vino swagger at its finest, and Miu Miu dials up the It factor with an unsuspected scrunchy elastic shape.

Pair Miu Miu's deliciously ostentatious jeweled ballerina flats with anything and witness the power of wine, which transforms by virtue of its deeply seductive, intriguing composition. These Miu Miu flats may not run to size 14, but they manage to pack a lot of punch in a little bit of shoe! The Grand M simply cannot ignore them, and the metallic grape leather upper, offset by large blue jewels, is vino decadence at its finest. You can practically smell the vineyard soil ...

Easy Does It

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:37:00 +0000

The end of July makes the Grand Mademoiselle feel, well, slow. Oppressive heat, combined with the heady gloom of East Coast humidity makes every surface sticky, and one regards any article of clothing as far too much for comfort. However, a plain white ribbed cotton T can only take you so far, and my best advice, dear Grand M's is to keep it simple, searching out easy, forgiving cuts, loose designs, light fabrics, and gentle flats to offset summer's angry glare. Dressing up for even a casual dinner date seems downright cruel in the dog days, but the chore can be made enjoyable by sticking to simple pieces and selecting punchy colored accessories to add a bit of fun back to the lethargic atmosphere.

Instead of skinny jeans, which turn to glue in the summer sun, opt for breezy, unlined trouser jeans in a dark rinse to maximize elegance while dialing down 90 degree temperatures. The Grand M loves trouser jeans in all seasons, but the decidedly laid back style is especially suited to the languid summer months when the body feels a bit out of sorts. J.Crew is wonderfully chic when it comes to all things denim, and they don't disappoint with their latest incarnation of the trouser jean. The lightweight stretch cotton denim is endlessly forgiving and wildly classy, providing an easy-does-it style with no fuss. These trouser jeans are the perfect way to wear denim without being bogged down by too many buttons or too heavy a fabric. Pair your trousers with an easy shirt and let your accessories do the talking, donning happy-go-lucky tones and comfortable flats that impart interest to your otherwise lackadaisical ensemble. The Grand M adores all things Botkier, and the teensy-tiny little Lita Lambskin Clutch is a no-muss-no-fuss way to carry only the essentials because let's face it, in July less really is more. The delightful turn-lock hardware with logo and gently gathered front folds scream slow down, while the bright fuchsia leather is a flirty little pick me up for the lazy days of summer.
To keep your tired, hot tootsies from turning on you, stick with flats in forgiving fabrics like cotton for day and satin for night, keeping in mind that summer weather does not demand an open toe - comfort is key. To sidestep the risk of alienating her small-footed friends, and at her readers request, the Grand M has decided to include all shoes in her search for the perfect pair, while keeping in mind that the larger sizes are her true niche. As such, the first pair to make the cut are the Zoe satin flats by Maloles. The adorable lilac bow and center vamp cut add girlish interest to an already feminine shoe, made unique and fun by a cheeky purple satin upper and gathered toe. What's more, the bright satin is unbelievably comfortable while retaining an easy, uptown elegance that gives any lazy summer ensemble an extra dose of oomph that is unforgettable. If sandals are really your cup of tea for this time of year, stick with something design-conscious in a gorgeous, punchy color, like Matt Bernson's classic Love sandal in yellow leather. The beautifully criss-crossed leather straps and deeply oiled leather foot-bed are insanely forgiving and allow in what breeze there might be.

Fire And Rain

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 18:31:00 +0000

Contrasts are always strangely compelling, holding the fashion critics hostage as they attempt to decide which mismatches are allowed and how far they can go. Sporting uniform duds is certainly for the birds, but going out on a limb by pairing articles that bear no resemblance is not for the faint of heart, nor is it as easy as throwing on two tank tops. Successfully styling a contrasting ensemble requires patience, daring, and a little dash of bravado to steel yourself against the hard looks that you will undoubtedly garner from fashion traditionalists. The Grand Mademoiselle adores translating contrasts into entire style genres, rather than merely wearing a piece from each end of the color spectrum or lazily donning multiple layers. The point is not to look like a rebel or garbage lady, the point, my dear Grand M's, is to achieve the height of current trend awareness-ness. To this end, the best approach is to select your favorite trend, be it bohemian or buttoned-down, and pair it with an opposing trend that also defines your style and interests. The Grand M suggests reserving this approach for accessories only, letting contrasting shoes and handbags do the talking to avoid looking like an old Halloween costume, unless that's what you're going for.

For example, take a gorgeous, ladylike kitten heel and pair it with an outrageously wild clutch to pay homage to the likes of Jackie O and Jerry Hall in one fell swoop, indicating that you dislike being restricted to only one fashion point of view. You'd make dear Jackie awfully proud by slipping into Butter's delectable 'Gardenia' heel, with its cheeky peep-toe cutouts and playful violet hue. As the name suggests, Butter's shoes are impossibly comfortable, crafted of sumptuous Italian leather as soft as cream and enhanced by their signature cushioning. The Grand M is delighted to find them in larger sizes and she'll do 'ole Butter a good turn by letting the world know. Given the prim yet chic look conveyed by the 'Gardenia', be bold and carry Carlos Falchi's serpentine Python Gathered Clutch in bad girl black metallic. The gathered pleating on this oversize envelope clutch exaggerates the snaky scales, fanning them out in a suggestively scary spray. The marriage between these mismatching accessories represents the most prominent trends that fashion has to offer, as uptown meets downtown in a titanic pairing of style greats.

If neither Jackie O nor Jerry Hall light your fashion fire, choose entirely different themes by donning Butter's prom Queen perky 'Flamingo' sling backs with Kate Spade's bohemian south-of-the-border raffia flat tote. Butter's open-toe heels are classic pent-up, well-coiffed, fifties teenager, reveling in the pink light by the punch bowl that catches the glitter suede silver uppers. The Grand M loves a good retro revival, and the 'Flamingo' manages to capture the best parts of a motif while leaving the cheese puffs behind. Show off the depth of your fashion personality by letting the 'Oaxaca-Reyna' tote dangle lazily from your elbow, stuffed to the brim with Joan Baez lyrics written on torn scraps of paper. Kate Spade's lovely creation ensures that you will indeed be a Mexican Queen, albeit of a different kind. The simple shape and orange embroidered bird details epitomize carefree boho style, providing a perfect contrast to the priss and girlish dreams evoked by Butter's sparkle-spangle heels. Mix and match to your heart's content!

Wanted: Fabulous Flats

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:36:00 +0000

The Grand Mademoiselle is far from alone in her search for the perfect pair of flats. A great set of ballet flats are versatile, chic, and most importantly, easy to wear with everything from mini's to skinny jeans. Sadly, most flats are either poorly designed, uncomfortable, or quite simply ... uninspired. Lanvin's iconic creation comes as close to flat heaven as earthly possible, but carries with it a tremendous price tag and lack of options in larger sizes. What's a girl to do? Enter the 2008 private label collection from Barefoot Tess to solve the mystery of the ages by creating two flats that are not only impossibly stylish, but perfectly cut in sizes 7-15, accommodating every girl's needs. What's more, the collection was designed by uber-trendy, fashion wonder, media darling Matt Bernson, whose popular sandals are a Grand M must-have. These gorgeous goodies have Bernson's trademark whimsy and panache written all over, and the luxurious leathers translate to serious style.

The delectable 'Tess Classic Scrunch' is fairly guaranteed to become an It flat overnight, with its timeless elastic top line that ensures a snug fit, simple construction, rich leather upper, and full metallic lining. The wide variety of colors, ranging from Blueberry and Black to shiny metallics, offers a plethora of options, and the Grand M imagines herself with a different flat for each day of the week. The Rum tone is particularly gorgeous, with a depth and hue that inspires without being unwearable or difficult to match. Bernson's collaboration serves Barefoot Tess well, and the Scrunch captures the elements of comfort and chic with an effortless ease that makes this flat absolutely fabulous. The private label collection also boasts the more modest 'Tess Classic', which feigns simplicity while moonlighting as a seriously well-designed masterpiece. Its cheeky crinkle patent leather upper, gently gathered elastic heel, and perfectly shaped toe (neither too pointy, nor too round) ensure that the Classic is poised to live up to its name, securing a spot in the Flat Hall of Fame. Like the Scrunch, the Classic is available in a rainbow of lovely leathers, the candy-apple Red being the Grand M's personal favorite. With these flats, my dear Grand M's, flat heaven is indeed possible to attain, and both Bernson and Barefoot Tess can rest assured that great minds really do think alike.

It's Academic

grand.mademoiselle@gmail.com (J Abbott) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:32:00 +0000

Beneath the sandy glitz of summer style, a gentle undercurrent of delicious autumn tones streams almost imperceptibly, noticed as if by accident in broadly cut designs and romantically austere patterns. The Grand Mademoiselle, always a sucker for the fall season, is thrilled with this turn of events although disheartened by the oppressive heat wave which dutifully reminds her that this is not the time for wool and plaid. Still, she wonders aloud, might there be a way to evoke the feeling of fall despite the meteorological necessity of scant summer garb? The faithful allegiance of accessories comes to the Grand M's aid in the creations of three glorious designers: Nest, Love Rocks NY, and Corso Como, all of which collectively represent the mood of autumn and round out any summer ensemble by adding depth of spirit and warmth of heart. In drawing inspiration for these seasonal obscurities, think of a high brow New England institution in the mid 20th century, complete with a campus of mossy stone outbuildings amid gently rolling hills covered in golden deciduous trees, with lonely conifers standing guard at the base of an old chapel. The schools and universities of the eastern United States are truly glorious in the fall, and no other image better captures the eerily silent, serious, and romantic autumnal attitude better. Glen plaid blazers, tweed day skirts, Oxford blouses, Kelly-striped ties and letterman jackets all serve as wonderful examples of this style, which, although closely allied with fall, is easily translated to the warmer months in chic handbags, jewelry, and shoes.

The Grand M is wild about Nest Handbags, which is a demure collection in scholarly prints and textiles, constructed of simple shapes and timeless colors that reflect the School Ties motif which is so classically autumnal in spirit. The Large Satchel in Sweater Brown has ample room for notebooks, pencils, and a cardigan to keep you warm in the reality of an over air-conditioned office while you daydream of chilly nights spent with school mates in a Chevy Bel Air, speeding towards town along leafy, darkened streets. Easy fabrics and solid design add more heft to this gloriously sizable bag, and even the item name and color evoke images of this optimistic though chilly autumn gesture. Furthermore, the satchel's down to earth handbag straps, practical brass button details, and liberally proportioned exterior pockets represent the stoic attitude of 1950's eastern seaboard college life without losing any of the warmth, all seamlessly blended with a dash of modern style. The functional and generous size will ensure that the Large Satchel becomes a wardrobe staple in any season, bringing with it a heady dose of hopeful fall spirit and youthful exuberance. The Colorblock Clutch in Rust Ultrasuede is another beautiful example of autumn winds in summer heat, reinforcing the Grand M's belief that Nest is really onto something here. The rich auburn Ultrasuede is flanked by lovely blocks of paisley textiles in a perfect fall palette, replete with quiet taupes and ecrus, made bold by deep accents of burgundy and mauve. Nest's attention to detail and subtly deferential posture ensures a successful way to add autumn accents to summer attire, evoking the spirit of literary behemoth A Separate Peace without the discomfort of wearing suede or corduroy in July.

If carrying a seasonally disparate bag goes against your fashion grain, think of realizing this idealized autumn outlook in less obvious ways, for example, monogrammed jewelry in classic gold with romantic block lettering. Think of the first gift given to you by a youthful lover, hair silhouetted against a muted blue sky, still ablaze with the icy sunshine closing out another day on campus. These moments of hopeful sentiment and Emersonian quietude are given modern expression in Love Rocks NY latest collection of charming pendants, rings, and earrings, all of which inspire flashes of starry-eyed love on hallowed Hopkins grounds. The School Ring, with its cheeky oval face, 14K gold luster, and tasteful micro pave white diamonds has a delightfully autumnal point of view that represents a gorgeous throwback to the mid-century Princeton university experience. There is nothing more romantic than the giving of rings, and Love Rocks' School Ring embodies the bold gesture of a head-strong and hopeful lad sending an engraved ring to his lady love at Wellesley in October. The Grand M loves letter jewelry year round, and Love Rocks' Love Letter earrings, each adorned with a hefty length of gold caviar ball chain, are a heavenly depiction of Dead Poets Society aesthetic.
Finding the proper shoes to carry this aesthetic along proved challenging for the Grand M, and her best advice is to look for off-white or beige solid tones in light but luxurious leathers, choosing flats and low heels, and resisting the urge to go full fall-frontal with riding boots or other seasonally charged options. The trick is to stay away from the heaviness of autumn footwear in the hot summer months while retaining the spirit of this admittedly warm gesture. The Grand M has always loved Corso Como, with their sumptuous leathers, richly vibrant colors, and sinfully comfortable designs. Choosing from within their latest collection, the Grand M recommends the Posy ballet flat and the Cameo heel, both in Bone. The Posy is as classic a flat as you are likely to find, constructed of supple leather Butterskin with a snug elastic fit and adorned with a playfully romantic gunmetal heart charm on the toe. The baroque style detailing on the charm makes the Posy a wonderful compliment to this fall theme without being too much shoe for a lighter season. Additionally, the cutesy bow detail adds just enough feminine touch to make the Posy a perky showpiece, calling to mind college coeds skipping along the chilly paths of Brown as fiery-tipped maple leaves scatter in whirling dervishes. If you prefer a little more ... oomph, then pick the Cameo, which captures the mood of carefree collegiate life in whimsical toe-cap top-stitching, reminding the Grand M of sitting in the bleachers, popcorn in hand, sweater about the shoulders, taking in a Harvard versus Yale baseball match. There's nothing silly about the Cameo, but far from being overly staid or frumpy, its delightful design evokes daydreams of sneaking beer (or boys, or both) into the Gothic-columned halls of an old school campus, then retiring to a dorm lit by firelight to giggle with friends beneath a green Tartan throw. Who cares if it's really just the summer of 2008 ...