My Designer Wish List

I love shoes.

It's as simple as that.

They make me happy, they are reliable and they don't break your heart.

It's true love.

And, one of my favourite shoe designer has me crushing...hard, every season.

Christian Louboutin is a legend and a fashion god. He creates beautiful, sexy, unique and super stylish stilettos, that would make any shoe lover swoon. I spend my free time, browsing and coveting his latest collections. Dreaming about when I would have money to be able to afford his beautiful designs.

So, I thought I would compile a list of my dream shoes.

1. Coming in at number one is the beautiful and amazing 'Hot Chick' black patent pump. Everyone needs a black patent pump in their life, and the 13cm stiletto heel is sexy and feminine. A definite must. Words by the fashion god himself, "high heels are pleasure with pain."

2. Everyone needs nude sandals in their collection. What I love about these shoes, is the two-tone colour, with the spike detail and not to mention, the alluring 12cm stiletto heel. It is pure lust at it's best and simply perfect for the Spring/Summer season.

3. There is not much I can say about these Mrs Bouglione shoes. They make a statement, draw attention to your shoes and are just flat out gorgeous. These are the perfect trans-seasonal shoe.

4. What can I say but Oh. My. God! Statement shoes are a must have in everyone's wardrobe. I first fell in love with these shoes, when I watched the 2nd Sex and the City movie. Since then, I have been dreaming of how I would feel, once I could finally step my feet into these gorgeous and flattering pumps. They had me at crystals.

5. Classic pumps are a necessity in every girl's wardrobe. So it's no surprise that another one of my wish list items is a pointed toe pump. But, what makes this pair amazing, is the 12cm heel and the cut outs on the side. This makes them super flattering, feminine and sexy as anything. I need these in my life.

The Iriza 120mm nude pump... Perfection

6. And finally, my last, Christian Louboutin wish list item, is his 'Rouge' nail polish. I've always had a love affair for red nail polish. It is always my colour of choice when it comes to pedicures! So, when Louboutin released his new nail polish line, it became more of a need then a want. It's the unique glass bottle and tall, stiletto inspired cap, that had me swooning.

Christian Louboutin designs are timeless and classic. They can change any simple outfit, into a sexy and stylish ensemble.

Read all about my only two pairs of Christian Louboutin shoes here and here.

What are your dream Christian Louboutin shoes?

Wardrobe Inspiration!

Do you ever have that dilemma, where you are staring at your wardrobe, thinking "I have nothing to wear"?

That is my dilemma, every, single day.

I have so many shoes that I have now, forgotten half of my collection. I have a very small wardrobe and have no where to store my ever growing shoe wardrobe. I have wanted to create an amazing shoe wardrobe for a long time now, as I feel like, I have to showcase my large collection.

So, I have been perusing the internet, coveting celebrity wardrobes and seeking wardrobe inspiration. I thought I would share with you, some of my favourite wardrobes that I have come across, on my search for the perfect wardrobe.

I've had people ask to share my shoe wardrobe with them, so here is my messy, unorganised shoe chaos. And mountain of shoe boxes. I like my shoes, stored in their shoe boxes as it makes them easier to stack, and it protects them from dust and other elements. My collection, is nothing fancy, but I do hope one day, I can build a beautiful wardrobe that will showcase my wonderful shoe collection.

This is all the shoes, that I have in my very small room. I have also taken over two other wardrobes and I have some shoes hidden under my bed!

How do display your amazing shoe collection?

Currently Trending: White Out

There is one fashion trend that took me a while to get used to. And now, I cannot get enough of it.

White shoes

We have seen glimpses of white shoes over the passed few season. I think the fashion industry was trying to get a 'feel' for how people would react to the fad. And, apparently people were loving them because we now have an abundance of white shoes to choose from.

And I have to say, I am loving them. I just knew, I had to add them to my ever growing shoe collection.

White shoes are so bright and refreshing. They are the perfect addition to everyone's Spring/Summer shoe collection. They are extremely versatile. They go well with brights, pastels, prints and other neutrals. They are a definite must have.

So, how can you say no, to such a versatile shoes?

Well, white shoes are one of the well known, fashion rules. People say, white shoes should not be worn after Labour Day.

And all I can say ladies, is rules were made to be broken.

Not only are white shoes, great for the Spring/Summer season, they are great all year round. If you find the perfect style, they will be the perfect trans-seasonal shoe for you.

So here are my tips for styling white shoes.

1. White on white is such a popular trend at the moment. It is fabulous and feminine on everyone. You should definitely pair your white shoes, with an all white ensemble. It makes such a bold statement and will be sure to turn heads.

2. Style your white shoes with other neutrals. Grey and white is such a refreshing combination. Perfect for spring. And monochrome is such a popular trend this season, so add your bright white shoes with your little black dress.

3. White shoes look amazing with faded blue jeans. So throw on your favourite jeans and step into a pair of white summer sandals and you are good to go for Sunday lunch with the girls.

Now, the only downside to white shoes, is they will definitely show up a few unwanted marks, so do make sure you look after them correctly. Remember to waterproof your white shoes (anything other than patent leather) before heading out. And if you do happen to get some marks or scuffs on them, use a leather conditioner to clean them up. After leather conditioning your shoes, make sure to re spray them, with your waterproofer again. Just remember to use silicone free and neutral base products, so you wont discolour the white.

Happy shopping!

Currently Trending: Sports Luxe

I have to confess my love for the latest Spring/Summer trend.

Sports Luxe.

The sports luxe trend has been around for a few seasons now, but it does seem like more emphasis has been made on it, this Spring/Summer season. More designers are embracing it and more celebrities are seen sporting this trend during their downtime.

I think it's time, for you to get your hands, on some amazing sports luxe shoes, to complete the look.

My current favourite pair of slip on trainers are these beauties, from Witchery.

My favourite pair of sports luxe shoes, is definitely, a slip on trainer. They are super comfortable, incredibly versatile and come in an array of colours, prints and materials. I can guarantee, you'll find one, that suits your style. And you cannot forget the fashionable, wedge sneaker, which I also adore.

As per the Wittner Australia website, sports luxe shoes can be defined as anything from chunky heels and slides, to mules and slip on trainers.

Donna Player, the Group Executive Merchandiser of David Jones says, "Sports luxe is not about mixing two classic trends, it is about two very different aesthetics coming together to create something wonderful and new...Beautiful things often come to fruition when opposites attract - embrace it."

So why is the trend so popular?

Sports luxe, takes fashion to a whole new level. For once, people are opting for comfort over fashion. People are being more relaxed. And it's now, more acceptable. I never thought I would admit to it, but the sports luxe trend, is surprisingly flattering, when done correctly.

So how should you style your sports luxe shoes?

1. When it comes to styling your sports luxe shoes, make sure you get the correct ratio, when it comes to sports and luxury. Do not get too relaxed. Inject the correct amount of glamour and even throw in some leather too.

2. Style them with feminine silhouettes and elegant ensembles. They look fabulous with A-line and pencil skirts.

3. Sports luxe shoes are great to accompany your jeans and cotton t-shirts during the trans-seasonal weather.

4. Slip on trainers are a must have for the festival season. Style them with denim shorts or playsuits for an effortless, trendy (and comfortable) look.

Not everyone loves the sports luxe trend and it is one, that has caused a bit of controversy in the fashion industry. What's your opinion on the trend, do you think it is fashionable or are people just being lazy in their fashion choices?

How to Wear Pointed Toe Shoes

Straight to the Point...

I was starting to stress out...

Panic was setting in...

My pile of discarded clothes was increasing, leaving me, with very few options.

And then, I had an idea.

I threw on my black tapered pants, white silk blouse and stepped into my favourite black, pointed toe shoes. I finished off with my red Chanel lipstick and black mascara, before rushing out the door.

Working in a shoe shop, I am surrounded by beautiful shoes, all day, everyday. And, I can't help but notice the latest trend.

Pointed toe shoes.

And, we are seeing an abundance of them. Pointed toe flats, boots and pumps, all in an array of colours, cuts and prints. And, I am in love with them all.

So, what's the point?

Pointed toe shoes can transform a basic look, into an instantly chic and stylish ensemble.

Pointed toe shoes are a 'must have' for every shoe wardrobe. They are classic, sophisticated, feminine and fun to wear. Not to mention, they are extremely versatile.

You can style them with dresses and skirts for an elegant occasion or wear them under trousers for corporate attire. They are also perfect to 'glam up' your jeans for fun.

This is usually 'the point of no return' for most.

So, why would you say no, to instant glamourfication?

You may be one of the lucky women, who have been graced with long legs and above average height. Which means, you will probably be well balanced and have slightly larger feet than average. Which means, pointed toe shoes, may not be your friend. They do elongate your feet and unfortunately, do make your feet look bigger.

My tip to you... Find a pointed toe shoe, with a slightly rounded tip, or a pointed toe shoe, with a shorter toe box. This will help reduce the length of the shoe, which will make your feet look smaller.

If you are the lucky percentage of women who have small to average size feet, you can wear whatever pointed toe shoes, your heart desires! So, wear them constantly, they are fantastic.

There is one major fault with pointed toe shoes, that most women complain about. They hurt. It is true. They can hurt, but only if you buy the wrong size shoe. If you have a slightly wider foot, opt for a pointed toe shoe, half a size bigger than your average size. Having the extra half size, will give you extra width and more room for your toes. You can always add a heel grip or gel cushion to take up any excess space in the shoe.

Also remember, as Christian Louboutin once said, "a woman carries her clothes. But the shoe carries the woman,"so be confident when you step out in your pointed toe shoes, they are fabulous!

My First High Heels

"Shoes are the first adult machines we are given to master" Nicholas Baker.

These were the first shoes I bought my little niece... These mini Melissa shoes are adorable!

I was fourteen, when I first wore high heel shoes...

I was a bridesmaid for my cousin's wedding many years ago. I wore a pair of gold, strappy Misano heels with a beautiful peach gown. 

The heels would have been no more than three centimetres in height, but I thought I was the coolest chick ever!

I felt like a princess in a beautiful dress, make up and high heel shoes.

The first moment I slipped my feet into the heels... I felt like an adult. I felt confident, feminine and mature. I felt like I could conquer the world!

The feeling I get now when I step my feet into high heels, is much the same. I don't know what it is about high heel shoes, but they are a great introduction into adulthood. High heels are incredibly feminine, flattering and fun to wear!

As my sole obsession began to deepen and my wardrobe became overflowing with shoe boxes, I decided to rid of some of the shoes I would never wear again. Sadly these shoes did not make the cut. Instead I donated them, along with many other shoes, to charity. I hope someone out there loves these shoes as much as I did.

What were your first pair of high heel shoes?

The Essentials in Every Wardrobe

Shoes are an essential accessory for all women. They can instantly transform and complete any outfit. They are also incredible for boosting your confidence and self esteem.

However, shoes now come in an array of colours, cuts, styles and materials. So many, that it can be overwhelming, when it comes to choosing the right shoes. So, how do you know which shoes to buy?

I have compiled a list of shoes which I believe should make an appearance in any wardrobe. 

The below are my top seven "must haves" for every wardrobe.

1. A Classic Pump - A pump is a shoe with a low cut front and has no fastenings or straps. A traditional pump has a small, kitten heel but over the course of history, they are now available in many heights and heel types. The post popular pump is with a stiletto heel. This style is extremely versatile. It makes a great work shoe but also can be dressed up and worn at night.

2. An Evening Heel - Everyone must have a style which can be worn for those fancy occasions, preferably in a neutral colour so it can be worn with multiple outfits. There are many types of evening shoes available, some are more minimal with simple straps, while others are decorated in crystals, beads or embellishments. 

3. A Statement Heel - This style will be extremely over-the-top, will turn heads and definitely get people talking. This style will probably never be worn more than once and will make more of an art piece than pair of heels. 

4. A Versatile Long Boot - Preferably in a black or neutral shade. This is a great style to have, as it will keep you warm and dry during winter. They can also be worn with dresses, skirts, pants and tights. If you pick a style with a kitten heel, they can also be worn casually during the day or you can dress them up for a more fancy occasion. 

5. A Classic Ankle Boot - This is a guaranteed must have (see my Ankle Boots post for more wonderful reasons why!). Ankle boots are very feminine and extremely versatile. They are great to wear in Winter with dresses, skirts, tights and under pants or trousers but they can also be worn in Summer with shorts, dresses or skirts.

6. A Comfortable Flat - Everyone needs a stylish walking shoe. A ballet shoe is a popular style as they come in many, cute, funky colours, materials and can compliment any outfit.

7. An Exercise Shoe - Exercise is important and your feet take a huge beating whilst doing vigorous exercise. It is important to get a good quality and good fitting exercise shoe, so your feet are well supported.

If you are just starting to build your shoe collection, these essentials are a great place to start. If you happen to be obsessed with shoes like me... One can never have too many shoes!

Shoe of the Week

Dreaming of Paris...

I was walking down the cobble streets of Avignon. It had been a long and busy day, filled with sight seeing and exploring the history of the town. I was on my way back to the hotel, weaving through little alley ways, admiring the architecture of the town.

Somehow, I had managed to stumble upon a beautiful street, lined with fashion boutiques and beautiful cafes. Even when I am not trying, I can always find hidden fashion treasures.

Wearing: Cue Peplum Dress / Mimco pouch / Dotti Hat / CosmoParis high heels / Chanel lipstick

It was then, that I spotted them. They were sitting in the window of a beautiful boutique and I instantly fell in love. For a while, I had been on the hunt, to find the perfect pair of red, high heel shoes. I always thought they were feminine, flirty and fun and I really wanted to buy a pair for myself. But, finding the perfect red shoe, is much harder than it sounds.

I wanted a classic style, that was simple and elegant but did not look cheap and nasty. And these were it. Unfortunately, I hesitated. I continued down the street to the hotel. Leaving my shoes behind.

Once upon a time, I would hesitate to buy shoes. I would consider the cost of them. And, I would consider my need for them. How different I am now!

A few days later, I was shopping at Au Printemps in Paris, and I spotted them... Again. This time, I knew, it was meant to be.

I tried them on, and instantly wanted them. I love the vibrant red colour of them. They are a great accessory to brighten any outfit!

I love the patent leather as it makes them more elegant and feminine.

The heel is my idea of perfect. They are wonderfully thin and a comfortable height, ideal for all day wear. These shoes are hand made in Italy. Does it get any better than that?

I love these shoes and have worn them so many times. They are extremely versatile and go well with absolutely everything. The classic style means they go great with dresses, skirts and trousers for work, but they also look great under jeans for a more casual look.

These shoes are very special to me and have travelled all the way from Paris. Whenever I step my feet into these shoes, I instantly think of Paris. I start day dreaming about shopping on the Champs Elysees, climbing the Eiffel Tower and cruising down the Seine.

It is amazing how one pair of shoes, can evoke so much emotion and instantly transport me back to Paris :P

Have I mentioned that I love these shoes?

A Shoeaholic

My name is Fiona and I have a major sole obsession. I've had many people ask me what my shoe number is... and I can confess... I own 126 pairs of shoes.

Yes, it's true... Most of them, are high heel shoes.

This number does increase... frequently.

My shoe collection is constantly growing and I cannot seem to stop. I find shoes I love and I have to have them. I have so many shoes now, that I only wear them once or twice at the most. I even have some shoes, that have never been worn.

People always ask me,

"Why shoes?"

My response to those people is always the same,

"Because they make me happy!"

Shoes are the perfect accessory for me. They dress up my casual outfits, they made me feel confident and they make me stand tall and walk with such grace. The feeling I get, when I step my feet into a pair of shoes, is a difficult one to describe. But, that feeling never gets old. I think I buy shoes, just to chase that rush.

I am extremely lucky (or unlucky?) that I have the perfect feet for all shoes, especially high heel shoes. A lot of people I know, have one foot bigger than the other, which makes buying shoes extremely difficult. I am lucky as both my feet seem to fit all shoes, like a glove (or sock? :P).

My biggest dilemma now, I no longer have any room, to store my amazing and crazy shoe collection. All of my shoes are in their original shoe boxes, except one :( I had to leave it in Paris as it couldn't fit in my suitcase.

I have shoes stored in every possible corner and space in my room and it's official... I am out of space.

I am sure there are other people out there with a major sole obsession, like me, who have more shoes then sense! I am reaching out to all of you, how can I store all my shoes in such a small room?

Has anyone got any space saving tips or secrets they can provide?

What's your shoe number? Snap some pictures of your amazing shoe collection and send them to howdoestheshoefit@gmail.com. I look forward to admiring them!

Shoe of the Week

Have you ever found a pair of shoes that you absolutely love, but no matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to get them?

Well, that happened to me... Twice.

Two weeks ago, I talked about the recent a pair and a spare and Tony Bianco collaboration. Well, the whole collection, I absolutely adore, so I couldn't resist another pair.

But, unfortunately they sold out of my size, not once, but twice. So, you can only imagine my excitement when they released, a third shipment of the shoes.

I can honestly say, I squealed with excitement.... I was on the Tony Bianco website.... on the train... it was a little bit embarrassing! I got a few strange looks from fellow commuters :) but, I also got the shoes!!!

My Shoe of the Week is 'Kasandra' by a pair and a spare for Tony Bianco.

What can I say about them, except love, love, love!

I love the colour of them. The perfect neutral shade for both Winter and Summer months.

I love the full lace up front. They are extremely feminine and can 'glam' up any outfit.

I love the height of the heel. 11cm is the perfect height for me as they elongate my silhouette and are extremely comfortable and easy to walk in.

And I love how versatile they are! A great style for Summer dresses and skirts but they also look amazing under jeans during Winter.

I am extremely happy that I finally got these shoes. Did I need them? Probably not, but, I do love them... :P

Sole Searching...

I have decided to get a little personal today...

I was recently made redundant, along with many of my fellow team members. 

I was made redundant from a job that I did not love. I worked hard at it and met some wonderful people during my time, but it never felt 'right' to me. 

In saying that, getting told I was being made redundant, scared me. 

During the transition period, I think I felt, every possible emotion known to man...grief, sadness, confusion even a bit of self loathing... you name it, I have probably felt it. 

After months of going on an emotional roller coaster ride, I have finally come to accepting my fate.

I have accepted the inevitable. Change is a good thing (not to mention scary and daunting!).
I have accepted that I'm the only one who can make choices regarding my future.
I have accepted that I should do something that I am passionate about.

After a bit of soul searching and many stress headaches to follow, I have put together a list of things that make me happy (and narrowed it down).

1. Writing. I've had a passion for writing, for a very long time. I don't know why it took many years for me to find this out. I have started writing my very own fiction novel! Yes, it is definitely a work in progress but I am 2 chapters down...only 19 to go... :) I have also decided to follow my University degree and pursue a career in Journalism. I have been out of the game for a little while now but I am willing to work hard.

2. Yes, you guessed it... Shoes. I love shoes and everything about them. I have decided to work part time selling shoes (bills need to be paid some how!). I really enjoy the one on one interaction with my customers. It gives me pleasure helping them find the perfect shoe for them. Not to mention, I get to be surrounded by shoes all day (and the staff discount doesn't hurt either!). My customers also give me inspiration for new blog ideas so stay tuned!

3. I have a real love of fashion and would like to further my knowledge and experience within the fashion industry. There are a few fashion courses that I have been investigating and I am really excited about expanding my knowledge in the world of fashion.

The goal for my future, is to be doing something that I love. Whatever it may be, I am determined to find it.

Redundancy is a scary word for some and I was extremely lucky to have great support from my family and the managers. 

Change is definitely a scary thing, but if you let it, it can be a good thing for you.

Shoe of the Week

Sometimes you may not be looking for shoes, or even in the mood for shoe shopping (which doesn't happen often!) and they just catch your eye. Even in the unlikely event, you can find shoes you love.

My Shoe of the Week is 'Prelude' by Siren shoes.

I bought these shoes on my recent trip to Adelaide. I was walking through Rundle Mall with my family, when I discovered them. It was love at first sight.

It was a cold and rainy day in Rundle Mall and it was the bright yellow, patent that caught my attention. It was nice to see something colourful and bright for the Winter season.

I love shoe shopping. If I am having a bad day, I know shoe shopping will always cheer me up. When I stepped my feet into these shoe, I felt happy... I felt confident, excited, feminine and stylish. That feeling, never gets old!

Wearing: Sass and Bide singlet / Country Road Jeans and Tony Bianco sunglasses

I love the 11cm metallic heel. It's a great height for elongating my silhouette without being too high. They are extremely comfortable and easy to walk in. 

These shoes are a great style for dressing up, any Autumn/Winter outfit. 

I love the contrast between the materials and colours on the shoes. I love the black suede pointed toe, fading into off white mesh and settling on yellow patent leather. It is definitely a style that will turn heads this Winter season.

These shoes are a classic style and shape, which means they will be extremely versatile. They look great with skinny jeans for a more casual look, but they can also be dressed up with skirts and dresses.

I am head over heels in love with these shoes. 

Shoe of the Week

Shoe of the Week has moved to a new day! Every Monday I will let you inside my wardrobe and show you some of my new and favourite shoe purchases.

I spend a lot of my spare time (when I'm not shopping) in the blogosphere. I have a number of favourite fashion blogs that I like to follow and keep up to date with.

One day, I discovered a recent collaboration between one of my favourite bloggers and one of my favourite Australian shoe brands. It is safe to say, I was intrigued.

My Shoe of the Week is 'Arla' from the recent a pair and a spare and Tony Bianco collaboration. 

I was giddy with excitement when the courier knocked on my door. I couldn't wait to open my gift to myself and try on my new shoes. When I saw the shoes nestled in the tissue paper, I had a smile on my face like a kid at Christmas time. I love everything about this shoe. It's as simple as that! 

Wearing: Cue dress / Samantha Wills ring / Tony Bianco heels

I love how classic and elegant they are, with the pointed toe and thin ankle strap, but how modern and trendy they are with the gold chain t-bar strap. It is such a unique combination. The delicate t-bar strap makes the style extremely feminine. 

This style is also extremely versatile. It's a great style that can be dressed up with dresses or skirts for a formal occasion or worn casually with jeans or shorts.

I don't own very many white shoes. Mainly because I don't want to get them dirty but I think a white shoe is simple, elegant and classic. It is a nice alternative to always wearing black! 

Images by Jessica Pavalech

Shoe of the Week

My major Winter crush right now, is anything burgundy, marone and everything in between.

This is what drew my attention to Kookai's 'City Chic' Boots in deep red. 

I bought these shoes while I was shooting a previous Shoe of the Week on King Street in Perth. I spend a lot of my spare time browsing online shoe stores and social media platforms. It's great for keeping up to date with the latest fashion trends.

One day I was browsing through all the pictures on Instagram, when I noticed these boots. As soon as I saw them, I loved them and I knew I had to try them on!

I love everything about these boots. The colour is amazing and sure to turn heads this Winter season. These boots are the perfect accessory for adding a splash of colour to your dark, Winter ensembles. 

And who could look passed the stiletto heel? The heels are a sure "ankle breaker" but they look amazing and gives my calf muscles a great workout! These ankle boots are a great accessory, to dress up any outfit.

Wearing: Kookai jacket / Kookai tights / Kookai boots 

The hidden platform is a great addition to the shoe. It helps reduce the height of the heel, making them more comfortable to wear and easier to walk in. 

I love the contrast of the gold zip details against the deep red suede. It is a great combination and makes them appear dressier. Despite the colour, the shoes are incredibly versatile. They go great with jeans for a more casual look and they also go great with dresses and tights. 

These are one of my favourite ankle boots, this Winter season. They are a simple, classic style, which means they will go with absolutely everything. 

Images by Jessica Pavalech

I am looking forward to putting my best foot forward in the show stopping heels!