I've been a sucker for embellished shoes for years. Since I have a love for tailored, monochromatic outfits, I'm always looking for a way to add just a touch of texture and color to what I'm wearing. Shoes can be crazy, but when paired with a basic outfit, they don't look so over-the-top while at the same time they are adding some personality and character to what you are wearing.
These embroidered Alexander McQueen booties are definitely eye-catching, but at $1,138 on sale, so is their price. The delicate embroidery and beading on the suede are perfect to pair with an evening look, but the round toe and laces make them perfect for pairing with jeans just as nicely.
I have to admit that these were not an easy match for a dupe even though I thought they would be. Before I started looking for a pair close to the McQueen's, it seemed like I had seen similar pairs everywhere. Maybe I waited too long to look into the season, but I did finally find this pair from Shellys London at Forever 21. These are not an extreme budget catch at $74, which does surprise me from Forever 21. Does anyone know if they are trying to change their footprint and offer higher end products? The booties do have a more casual feel with the platform and wedge heel. However, the embroidery is beautiful, and the hidden back zipper adds a tailored touch. The chunky heel is more practical for extended wear times, too.
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Blouse: Alexander McQueen
Skirt: Loro Piana
Belt: Revolve
Earrings: Forever21
Nailpolish: H&M in Bordeaux
Yes, I am going to post an all-white outfit after Labor Day. Let’s be honest, that’s just a guideline, and if you live in the West like I do, we are still pulling triple-digit temperature days. The weather drives my wardrobe choices much more than the date on the calendar does. And what better time to pull together an all-white ensemble than at the end of summer when we all still have some color and rosy glow left in our cheeks.
The Alexander McQueen blouse is classic yet has a sleeve that fits right in with this year’s exaggerated bell and ruffle options, but you’ll get the last laugh because you’ll still be wearing your new blouse next year. The buttons are concealed which is a huge help in getting rid of the dreaded gape for those of us who are a little more well endowed.
Take the classic, tailored blouse and pair it with a flowy maxi skirt for date night. All right, I will. This skirt is actually a light-weight knit, so you can pair it with the blouse now or with a heavier, shruggy sweater when it finally does cool down. I see it in my future with a pair of tennis shoes and a cross body bag when I’m out running errands.
Tying the blouse and skirt together is another piece that takes a trend and makes it more wearable and realistic for women over 40. Instead of a corset, this wide-laced belt will give the look without the discomfort. The back zips so you don’t have to worry about lacing it on and off. Wear it over the untucked blouse to add some waist definition, and you get to widen the laces after dinner to give yourself a little breathing room.
Adding the date night glitz to the outfit are these inexpensive drops from Forever 21, and for a spot of dramatic color, you can’t go wrong with this deep wine polish from H&M. Your nails can lead the way into fall with this one-coat wonder.
Jacket: McQ
Jeans: J Brand
Pumps: Proenza Schouler
Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
This is one of those outfits I've had in the back of my mind forever, but I never seem to put it together. It's just so easy but so classic. What could be more simple and comfortable? A khaki jacket with the sleeves rolled up. A slouchy tee and boyfriend jeans. But then you get to those shoes, and what even compares? They knock this outfit up into something unique and keep it from being sloppy. And the aviators are just cool. Wear jewelry or don't. It doesn't matter because it's all about the shoes.
Dress: Malene Birger
Bag: Dolce & Gabbana
Pumps: Shutz
Lip Crayons: Bite Beauty
Necklace: Alexander McQueen
I'm seeing lace dresses everywhere for holiday parties, but if you have a few excess pounds to hide away like I do this season, I think this option is much more flattering while still getting in the look off lace. The bag is a total splurge/dream purchase, but isn't it just beautiful? The Shutz shoes are a more affordable but still luxury version of the stud trend, and of course you need a happy and bright lip for all your holiday parties.
I admit it; I've been lusting after this Alexander McQueen Knuckle Box Clutch for at least a year, but since I'll never have a justification for spending this much on a bag, I went in search of a substitute. Lucky for all of us, ASOS has a version by Aldo that is fit for any occasion. You do the math, but I think this one is a clear no-brainer even if the McQueen is leather and the Aldo is man-made. For this much of a savings, I'm willing to compromise.
