9.26.2013

foundations // the chic strappy sandal heels

variations on the style uniform lately…
trio crossbody bag // object + totem necklace 

fact: i think everyone needs a pair of chic strappy stilettos for nights out and special events. these fall into the 'wildcard' category: shoes that add that little extra to whatever you're wearing.

as fun as they sound, wildcard heels are annoyingly difficult to shop for. i think in recent years the over-platformed, over-embellished 'statement shoe' trend so eagerly fêted in fashion magazines has gotten a bit out of hand. give me single sole and a reasonable stiletto any day. and speaking as a real person, i'm always loathe to spend that much on something that isn't part of my everyday uniform.

my interest was piqued when i spotted these Jeffrey Campbells on sale. (for the nights when you're feeling a bit Bowie, these hologram versions are pretty rad too.) JC shoes tend to be trendy, at times over-the-top fetishistic, but these remind me of a more classic mainline Marant or Givenchy. i like that they're versatile enough to go with tees and cuffed jeans or add a little edge to a classic sheath dress. 

so, wildcard purchase for fall wardrobe planning crossed off my list. 


my review: they're true to size, the leather feels substantial (not flimsy like many other brands at this price point), and they're comfy right out of the box, no breaking in needed. the heel is just high enough to be chic without sacrificing walkability, and the insole is nicely padded. the two ankle straps on top have a velcro closure. as someone who generally detests velcro on footwear, i actually didn't mind and don't think it detracts from the luxe vibe of the shoes. the straps provide a secure and comfy fit, so a nice mix of form and function there. overall, thumbs up!

do you have any wildcard shoes? 

13 comments:

  1. These remind of the Alexander Wang sandals that were popular a year or two ago...and that I almost considered before realizing I would never wear them. The JCs look great on you though!

    Quick question: what size is the Madewell denim boyshirt that you have? Not the chambray one, but the one in a darker denim wash?

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    1. yeah i finally got these after i realized i kept looking for a similar version of the same shoe (strappy, black, with a 'dressy' heel etc) every season. my MW shirt is the XS. love it!

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  2. I have the Alexander Wang versions (in a citron yellow), but these are fab too! The look amazing with what you're wearing, but they'll look equally great with a LBD or cropped pants.

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  3. They look great - my own version is a little more pared back, less straps, but still just as fun!

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  4. You look fabulous! These are perfect and I so agree with you about getting these kinds of wildcard styles. I have several pairs which may not get as much wear but they make up for it with the 'ooomph' factor when they do have an outing :-)

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  5. You look amazing! Hot damn! I don't think I could pull those off but you totally are, and so effortlessly at that. I think it's the sweatshirt-shaped tee and the easy-fitting cutoffs, it's just perfectly balanced. Rockin'!

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  6. you look great! switch them out for a pair of saltwater sandals, and well, that's me on a not so fancy outing. i can't put in the time to learn to walk in heels. what kind of flats would you recommend to fancy up a comfy outfit?

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    1. that's a great question - i think i'll do a post on that! i am a big fan of the EF slingbacks on major major sale in my sale gem sisdebar :)

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    2. ooh yes, those are nice and would avoid my issues with the sides digging into my ankle.

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  7. You look great - i can't do heels like that much anymore but love the shoes, especially with the rest of the outfit. i also had another random question if you don't mind answering; i recently bought a drapey black, thin wool sweater that looks a lot like the one in this post: http://www.lesantimodernes.com/2012/10/review-marant-ish-sneaker-wedges.html
    ....and i am on the fence about keeping it largely because i live in a chillier climate where i would need to wear a jacket or lightweight coat of some sort over it. The coats i've tried are all shorter so the drapey bits in front hang below the hem of the coat and i'm not sure it looks good. did you ever wear this piece with a jacket layered over it and if so, what do you recommend? thanks!!!

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  8. SEXY! I love those! I was looking for a simpler heeled sandal lately, but those are so sexy I might just have to get them too.

    http://www.erindepew.com/blog

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