trends, trends..they come and go….

and there is one big trend from 2009 that i hope dies a quick and sudden death.  the Gladiator Shoe/Sandal/Boot.  i know, i know….loads of people bought and wore these  – including a mass number of celebrities.  but to me, these shoes just looked prehistoric. 

wouldn't these be cute with a loin cloth?

of course, the very definition of  gladiator is a a person (usually a slave, captive or professional combatant) who entertains the public by engaging in mortal combat.  isn’t that the height of femininity?  actually, the definition works on a small scale:  for those who hold their feet captive in these abundance of straps, the pubic gets to watch your feet die of discomfort.

how about a nice brown platform pump instead?

i mean really.  is there a single pair of gladiators that can be called comfortable?  my motto used to be “style before comfort” but that has changed drastically since i became a mom of a mischievous toddler. 

nice tan lines!

however, regardless of my personal shoe wardrobe, i think the primary reason i hope this trend dies is that i think the majority of shoes that fall into this category are simply unattractive.

wow! these look extra comfy!

i would place a strong bet that most gladiator shoes will be lined up on the  Goodwill show racks by summer.

next up:  trends i hope stay for the long haul….

what trends do you hope will disappear this year?

happy October!!

usually at this time of the year, i’m thinking deep oranges, golden yellows, reds – the colors that burst from the trees in Fall.  but now i’m into a cooler palette.  feels almost wintry – but so chic and modern.

it was all inspired by a sweater i purchased on a recent visit to St. Louis.  and now i’m diggin the deep grey, bright chartreuse and lilac palette.

Enjoy~

items featured in this months color story include:

paint:  sherwin-williams

fainting lounge:  urban outfitters

rug: the Rugstore NE

shoes:  J. crew

mirror:  target

urns:  Carolyn Roehm

pouf:  Graham & Green

as the name implies – Absolutely Audrey – these lovely shoe clips are inspired by Audrey Hepburn and the era of ladylike style and debonair fellows.  where gloved hands danced and feet were adorned in classic pumps with pretty sparkles.

 

i think these shoe clips, designed by the lovely Crisa, are utterly genius.  it’s like getting a whole new wardrobe of shoes for around $20.  add to your plain ballet flat, your pumps, even the top of a boot!  whether the look is mod, glam or fun – it’s a great way to bring a dose of style to your feet without spending a fortune.

a great seller in both shoe stores and stores that carry apparel and/or accessories.  they are a no-brainer purchase  – and easy to display.  whether an everyday client, a prom-dress shopper, a bride….the shoe clips work with a variety of customers.  they also make great girlfriend holiday gifts (retail for only $12 – 30!).

and now the good part:  make a comment here with the name of your favorite shoe clip from Absolultey Audrey’s website and you’ll be eligible for a FREE shoe clip set (designers choice!) when you place a wholesale order with Crisa (one lucky winner).   PLUS – she has offered free shipping with orders placed through August (just mention the Proprietress).

i was in one of my favorite consignment stores today and was talking to the owner about how to display shoes.  when you’re not a shoe store – it’s not always easy to find the space.  so the shoes typically end up on the floor (which is a dusting/sweeping/mopping nightmare!).  i’ve decided to do a little sleuthing to see if i can find some helpful solutions for apparel stores which carry a selection of shoes to supplement their inventory.

1.  closet shoe rack (expandable):  a little utilitarian – but would look nice under a rack that sits high above the ground.  add some shelves on top – and you’ll have a nice little display.  it’s quite affordable – less than $25. 

2.  Portis shoe rack (Ikea):  this is a nice looking metal rack with a little feminine flair.  reminds me of the Aaron Contemporary fixtures – so if you use them, this would be a nice complement (also less than $25)

 

3.  Bamboo stackable shoe rack:  i like this because the shoes are at a slight angle -and it’s just a wee step up from the floor – so doesn’t take up much extra space.  plus, you can paint it to match your decor (only $15.99 each).

4. raw steel shoe displays (singles):  for really special shoes – you may want to invest in some displays that set them off.  these are among the few i could find.  they’re not cheap!

now….what to do about the boxes!  if you’re short on storage and are unable to store them off the sales floor (it’s hard to run back and get shoes if you’re the only one on the floor!) – try this little tip.  i bought the IKEA curtain wire & clips and then sewed a simple little “curtain” to hide the boxes under my garment rods.  it’s a simple and inexpensive solution.  i didn’t use any racks – but i only carried a handful of styles.  i simply merchandised them on shelves and tables with other items.

how do you display shoes in an apparel store?  would love to hear your ideas and see pics.