Mid Height Boots

We already covered booties (remember? here!), so now it's time to look at mid-height boots.

Tahari Foster Boot, $139.95 from DSW

Mid-height boots are so versatile; you will wonder what you ever did without them. These boots can be worn with skinny pants or denim, jeggings or leggings, dresses and skirts. The same boots you wear to hang out with friends (say, paired with distressed skinny jeans and an oversized sweater) and be worn with a knee length dress or skirt to work. Be sure your dress or skirt is at least knee length- boots can make shorter skirts and dresses look more party ready than office wear.

Seychelles Riding Boot, $139 from Neiman Marcus Last Call

If you want your boots to go from work to play, make sure your boots aren't too casual. Casual and nighttime boots have buckles, studs, laces, spikes and other detailing that make them less appropriate for the office. Sleek, simple boots, with a not-too-tall heel are perfect for the workplace.

Plenty by Tracy Reese Banjo Boot, $149.99 from Endless

Skinny jeans and pants are essential when wearing boots. You want your pants to tuck into your boots without bulky bulges that even straight leg pants can create. If you have the perfect pant on, slipping on your boots without the pants riding up or creating bulges, should be a simple task. If you are really having problems in this area, you might want to try jeggings or jeans with stirrup bottoms.

Dirk Boot, $119.99 from Anne Klein

If you are worried your calves are too large for mid-length boots, you just aren't looking at the right pair. Boots with side zippers will make putting on/taking off boots much easier. There are also boots that are stretchy from the ankle up, and boots that have a sliver of stretch material in the back between the leather.

Franco Sarto Guilty Stretch Boot, $99 from Nordstrom

Mid-length boots create a sleek, long leg line that flatters most people. If you have been hesitant about wearing mid-length boots, or worried they won't suit your body type, give them another try. Boots are versatile, fun to wear, warm, sexy and more comfortable than most heels- so don't miss out!

Poetic Licence Toughen Up Boot, $149 from Lori's Shoes

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website

For more information, online consultations or to schedule an appointment, contact me.

Photos from ShopStyle

My Favorites Lines Series: Loeffler Randall

Loeffler Randall is a line created by Jessie Randall when she faced a problem that many of us can empathize with: she couldn't find the perfect shoe. Jessie was searching for a well-made, feminine, yet understated shoe, and just couldn't find the perfect pair.

Loeffler Randall Oxford Dress, $139.99 from Blue Fly

So, in 2005, Jessie launched Loeffler Randall as a shoe line. Just two years later, in 2007, she received the prestigious CFDA award for accessories (fellow winners include Devi Kroel, Eugenia Kim, Kate Spade just to name a few). With success of the shoe line, Jessie ventured into clothing, launching the Loeffler Randall clothing line in fall 2007.

Loeffler Randal Military Jacket, $525 from Piperlime

I love Loeffler Randall, not only for the shoes, but the clothes are so simple and easy to wear, yet chic at the same time. When you wear a piece of Loeffler Randall, you will feel feminine, stylish, polished and put together. The clothes are sexy without showing too much, which makes them great for so many occasions: work, dates, shopping, hanging out, nights, weekends, vacations.

Loeffler Randall Faran Flat, $325 from Barney's

The tailoring makes each piece fit perfectly and you will be delighted with the detailing: pleats, draping, beading and more.

Loeffler Randall Mallory, $895 from Zappos Couture

You can shop for Loeffler Randal through their website, Blue Fly, ShopBop, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomindale's and many more upscale retailers.

Loeffler Randall Strappy Sandal, $162.50 from Footcandy.com

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website

For more information, online consulting or to schedule an appointment, contact me.

Photos from Blue Fly, Shop Style

A Penny for Your Loafers

Oxford-style shoes are in this season (see my post on them here), but so are penny loafers. You know, those preppy shoes that you probably wore in elementary school and maybe even put a penny in the slot in front.

Prada Loafer, $316 from Blue Fly

Well, they're back and you can forget about the dorky shoes of yore- there are some chic options for your preppy feet.

YSL Penny Loafer, $369.99 from Blue Fly

Wear your loafers to work with trousers or casually with jeans. Your feet are sure to welcome these comfortable shoes this fall. They are easy to wear and make any casual outfit more interesting than slipping on the standard ballet flat. Skinny, straight, slouchy, cropped or any other jean work well with this shoe style.

Marc Joseph Union Loafer, $125 from The Shoe Box

If you dare, wear loafers with knee high or ankle socks and a knee length skirt. Top off the look with a boyfriend blazer and you're ready to go!

Bass Bookfield Loafer, $69 from Zappos

Not only are loafers great for work or play, but they are also the perfect travel shoe. You can walk quickly through airports, take them off easily for security, slip them on and off on the plane and be ready for whatever activity comes your way at your destination- even if that includes walking several blocks to the subway with your suitcase!

Bertie Suzi Loafer, $143.23 from Asos

Even after all of this, you are still wary of the loafer, you can try a heeled loafer for a preppy, yet sophisticated look. Wear these with standard work wear, including dresses and skirts.

Dune Tickle Loafer, $126.38 from Asos

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from ShopStyle, Blue Fly

Bootie, Bootie, Bootie Rockin' Everywhere!

Not the song- the shoe! Booties are mini-boots that are versatile, easy to wear and fun. Wear your booties with trousers, skinny jeans or pants, cropped jeans or pants, dresses, skirts, leggings, jeggings, tights...anything! The great thing about booties, versus boots, is that you can wear them in the fall, winter and spring. Booties are a must for people that live in a climate with mild winters.

Guess by Marciano Arnelle Bootie, $135.86 from Endless

MIA Motif Bootie, $54.95 from DSW

You definitely need a pair of brown and black booties. Ankle booties are pairs that are a bit higher are both great choices; go with the one you like the most. Once you get the basics covered, start looking for colored booties, like purple, blue, gray and more.

Via Spiga Suri Bootie, $119.95 from DSW

Poetic Licence Encoure Bootie, $139.95 from Nordstrom

Simple booties are extremely versatile, but there are pairs available with embellishments and details that will take you to the next level. You can find zippers, chains, buttons, spikes, mesh and anything else that makes a shoe extreme. Booties also come in peep toe and wedge styles, which can be a new, fun option.

Mitzy Akemi Bootie, $39.95 from Endless

Seychelles Mamie Bootie, $80.51 from Endless

Wear you simple booties to work, happy hour, hanging out with friends, sporting events and casual places. You can really go all out with cutouts, laces, flowers and leopard print at night.

Zigo Soho Miranda Bootie, $79.95 from DSW

Pink Studio Daily Bootie, $73.37 from Endless

Challenge yourself to wear booties with an outfit you normally wouldn't pair them with- I bet you'll be surprised by how chic you look.

Audrey Brooke Giselle Bootie, $69.95 from DSW

Max Studio Ikram Bootie, $99.28 from Endless

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter and join me on Facebook.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from ShopStyle

Men's Fall Shoe Trends

Men seem to wear their standard look day after day. But, guys, you can follow the trends too! Shoes are good way to change up your look because it is subtle, but still noticeable. And, ladies always say they notice a guy's shoes to help them formulate their first impression. So, trendy, nice shoes will get you a few points with the opposite sex.

Sea Vees Suede Wallabee Eye Oxfords, $69 from Gilt

Just like with women, oxford shoes are becoming the "it" shoe for men this fall/winter. Blue loafers and gray oxfords are what you need this year to be on top of the fashion heap.

Moreschi Player Leather Loafer, $129 from Rue Lala

Now, I know blue suede shoes sound trés scary to most fellows, but they really aren't! Keep the rest of your outfit simple, like jeans or black pants with a solid black, white, gray or camel colored shirt or sweater. And since blue is a bright color, blue shoes will be more informal or for nights out. To avoid Elvis territory, look for blue shoes with details that make them modern.

Moreschi Twist Loafers, $129 from Rue Lala

Gray is a neutral color, and with all the various shades, it is easy to incorporate gray loafers or oxfords into your wardrobe. With gray you don't have to worry as much about your shoes taking over your entire outfit, so wear these more liberally.

Dolce and Gabbana Grey Suede Oxfords, $379.99 from Blue Fly

Oxfords are easy to wear since they are a classic shoe that hasn't changed much. The color will simply update them and make the oxford modern- don't worry, you can still wear them to work.

Gucci Gravel Suede Oxfords, $344 from Blue Fly

Gentlemen, be brave and try a new trend this fall/winter. Trying new shoes is a great way to incorporate current trends and styles into your wardrobe without doing an entire style overhaul!

Follow me on Twitter, follow the Stylista File Blog and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from Rue Lala, Blue Fly

My Favorite Lines Series: United Nude

United Nude is one of the most buzzed about shoe lines. People are talking about United Nude because the shoes look futuristic, artistic and high fashion, but still wearable and even comfortable.

United Nude Mobius Sandal, $116.93 from Endless

How did the, usually opposed, worlds of fashion and art meet accessible and wearable in a shoe?

United Nude Elastic Mid Pump, $82.47 from Endless

Rem D. Koolhaas designed the Möbius shoe in an attempt to impress and ex-girlfriend. The girl moved on, but Galahad Clark saw the shoe Rem designed and knew this was the beginning of their own story together.

United Nude Block High Pump, $142.97 from Endless

United Nude was founded in 2003 by Koolhaas and Clark to sell the original Möbius shoe. The concept was an instant success, and now United Nude has seasonal collections and stores all over the world.

United Nude Cosmo Snake Sandals, $505.50 from Asos

United Nude's designs include heels that are horizontal, chunky rectangle heels, looped heels on boots, puffy boots, elastic booties and more. These shoes can provide a focal point to a simple outfit, or compliment your best fashion finds.

United Nude Fold Hi Boot, $85.22 from Endless

No matter which shoe or style you pick, you will undoubtedly feel fabulous wearing United Nude shoes and receive countless compliments. Shop for United Nude online at Endless and Asos, find a United Nude store near you and see their designs online.

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter, follow the Stylista File Blog and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from Shop Style

Cage Your Feet

Keep your feet in line with a cage...cage sandals, booties and boots, that is. These shoes that are slightly dominatrix-ish are still popular this fall and winter, as they were last year.

Two Lips Ego Platform, $71.17 from Endless

The cage shoe seems like a progression of the gladiator sandal. Think about it: the gladiator sandal is a flat, strappy shoe with numerous ties and buckles, while the cage shoe is a more refined version.

NYLA Megu Bootie, $89.95 from DSW

Chinese Laundry Lucky Strike Shoe, $64 from Endless

Cage shoes vary from slightly "caged" with just a few criss crosses of leather to very "caged" where you foot is encapsulated by the design.

Rosegold Marni Pump, $158 from National Jean Co.

Of course, black is the obvious color choice for a cage shoe since they are tough looking (see my post Tough Chic). But, look for nude, gray and brown as well.

LAMB Quest Shoe, $149 from Rue Lala

Charles by Charles David Caged Shoe, $124.95 from Nordstrom

These shoes are more versatile that you would think. You can wear them to work with trousers since only the peep toe area will be showing. If your office is creative or more casual, wear cage shoes with skinny pants, skirts and dresses. Of course, these shoes are perfect for happy hour, date night and going out with friends.

Metallic Cuba Heel, $245 from Troy Burch

Also, look for caged shoes that resemble a more traditional pump; this is actually unique for this style of shoe. It may also give you more versatility.

Serina Pump, $26.96 from Asos

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorites pieces and my lookbook.

Follow me on Twitter, follow the Stylista File Blog and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from Rue Lala, Shop Style

Meow! Kitten Heels

Looking through magazines, shoe stores and online it doesn't seem like there is anything in between sky high heels and platforms and sweet ballet flats. But, there is the kitten heel; a low, slim heel that works on everyone.

Cole Haan Ceci Air Low Sling, $199.99

The kitten heel is a great choice for people that cannot wear high heels, tall women that don't want to add too much height (my tall friend call them "tall bitch shoes"), or those that just want something different. Kitten heels are great for city dwellers that do a lot of walking, or vacationers that know their destination will require traipsing through cities. Plus, they are perfect for work when high heels could look too sexy.

Bandolino Berry, $29.97-69.00 depending on color from Piperlime

Audrey Hepburn was a fan of this style of shoe, therefore making it an instant classic. But, kitten heels don't have to be boring or dowdy. Go for a classic pair, or look for fun colors, details and embellishments.

Miu Miu T-Strap Sandals, $476 from Blue Fly

Kitten heel styles range from sandals, to peep toe, to pumps. Get several pairs and wear them with shorts, skirts, pants and dresses. These shoes are so versatile, and comfortable to boot.

Aura Lace Up Kitten Heeled Boots, $135 from Top Shop

Follow me on Twitter, follow the Stylista File Blog and join me on Facebook®

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and my lookbook.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from Blue Fly, Piperlime, Cole Haan, Top Shop

Fabric of Your Sole

Take a look in your closet. Most of your shoes are probably leather, suede or faux leather. But, there are other options- like fabric! Fabric is great because it gives you a variety of textures, colors and patterns to chose from.

Fendi Taupe Ruched Tulle Sandals, $796 from Blue Fly

Most people are familiar with the logo canvas shoes that Coach, Fendi, Gucci and other designer brands offer. Also, you know the dreaded silk dyeable shoe that bridezillas foist upon their poor bridesmaids. But, there are more options in fabric shoes than logo gear or bright white satin ready for that perfect raspberry tint demanded by the bride.

Prada Red Matte Fabric and Rattan Wedge, $520 from Blue Fly

Louboutin Parisienne 120 Chiffon Pumps, $716 from Blue Fly

You will get a multitude of compliments on your unique shoes. The good thing? Just because you shoes are unique, doesn't mean they are not versatile. Pair colorful shoes with the obvious neutrals, but also try contrasting colors or wearing a color in the fabric pattern to make it pop (like teal or yellow with the Louboutin above).

Report Signature Watts Satin Pumps, $119 rom Blue Fly

No one will mistake you for a bridesmaid in stain shoes with tough, yet chic, details like zippers, spikes or studs.

Dolce & Gabbana Grosgrain Strappy Peep Toe Pumps, $440 from Blue Fly

Lanvin Wool Bow Tie Platform Sandal, $716 from Blue Fly

Tulle and chiffon are too light for the colder months, so, try a heavier fabric, like wool.

Leather is tried and true, but give fabric a chance!

Follow me on Twitter, follow the Stylista File Blog and join me on Facebook®

For wardrobe & image consulting visit The Stylista Website.

Photos from Blue Fly