Statement Shoes!

Hi Divas,

I know many of you with the proverbial 9 to 5 jobs (like me) are now starting to ponder on what to wear to your holiday parties. I was contemplating this dilemma today at an event when a fab-Diva walked into the room with a white shirt - puff sleeves; black pencil skirt and fuscia shoes; minimal jewelry - the shoes had already made the statement! Divine!

I loved and appreciated the simplicity and fabulousness that was her assemble because it defied my image of the statement shoe.

Prada - Spring '08

Now, when I and more than likely you visualize the statement shoe we think of the non-traditional and unconventionally constructed show piece ( See above). Another example are the latest from Marc Jacobs as since in the Spring shows. But the budget fashionista without Prada or Fendi funds can always find ways to improvise.

Here are some examples:

1.) Bows are always a good way to go. The more extraordinary the better. They add flare to ordinary pumps and are a simple accent that lends flexibility in use. From Piperlime you can find this Ninewest offering ($90).

2.) Metal and high and funky heels are another way to go. Check out these Shelly platforms at Bakers Shoes for ($79.95). Note the braided portion of the shoe.

3.) Embellishments like flowers always add that extra pizzaz to even the basic colors. You can even attach a brooch to your shoes for the extra, unique statement for a truly Diva Divine experience! Look at these ABS by Allen Schwartz "Benefit" sandals on Nordstrom for ($164.95)

And for the Fashionista willing to spend a little more but not willing to go the route of the Prada show piece above there are always Pucci, Pedro Garcia and Alessandro Dell'Acqua - see Shop Bop (~$325-$800)

Ciao Bellas!

Minx Nails

Diva Claire asks:

Hi Diva Bugs. While watching the AMAs this year I was admiring Beyonce's nails and wondered how her stylist was able to get her nails to match her golden dress.

Diva Bugs says: Hi Claire. I was admiring her nails too! For awhile there I thought they were two-toned. But now I realize she used Minx Nail Coverings and at an angle the metal glowed from the reflection of the lightbulbs. Interesting.... These nail coverings are supposed to simplify and speed up the process of getting a manicure. However, the coverings are available in limited high-end salons.

The Joys and Aches of Fall

Hi Divas:

I've been so busy that last few weeks catching up at work and entertaining visitors. Well I finally have time to write.

One of my favorite time of the year is the middle of Fall. I can't resist the yellowing leaves. They provide the most spectacular show. Purely divine. All the trees right outside my office at work are yellowing and everyday they cause me to take a deep breath and just wallow in their beauty.

Not so much of a favorite is the dry skin I have to endure during this time of the year! I have found surprisingly that my favorite product this year is Eucerin Aquaphor (original ointment). (could only find pic of healing ointment) It is the best and there are so many uses for this product.

Carrie Bradshaw-like thoughts: "In life there are two types of people, those who make time to smell the roses and those who can't see the importance. Maybe sometimes we are all one of those people on different days or at different circumstances. Does it take a special person in our life to point out the roses to us enabling us to stop and take a look? Do we just have to be in the right mood to enjoy what's around us? Overall 5 minutes can cause a world of joy and is barely unnoticeable in the greater scheme of things."

J'aime Paris - Days 5, 6 and 7

Days 5 and 6:

The last two days I take it easy. This post will be short since these 2 days merely entail sightseeing, ambling through the city and eating ... ummm and shopping.

In Paris it is easy to just walk from place to place. I find myself at the Notre Dame which was a great and spiritual experience. There is also lots to see for architectural art history appreciators and like myself. From there the Latin Quarter is within walking reach. The Sunday bazaar at the Latin Quarter is worth a second look. There are lots of old books, pictures and old lithographs. Lots to see and buy if you want gifts that aren't the cheesy Eiffel Tower statuettes. I next walk through Marais on my way to the Picasso museum.

On a fashion note, I still observe that for Parisiens the bell sleeved look has either come and gone or never really arrived. All the jackets or caplets are straight sleeves with empire waist lines. I think I counted two women with bell sleeves in a highly tourist area - so not sure if they lived in Paris. For certain, eyeware is most definitely a fashion statement. If you have to wear them here you most definitely most make a statement. The different or brighter the better. Wide legged pants on women is not a popular look at all. All jeans and slacks are form fitted.

Marais on a Sunday is great for people watching since its bohemian and all the stores are practically open.

Later that night on the 6th day, the final dinner in Paris was at La Cagouille. The best seafood ever. The meal started with mini courtesy clams. Then we had sardine sashimi and mini fishettes (my word) for appetizers. Red snapper and sea bass - rounded out the meal. The restaurant came highly recommended and the experience was purely divine. It was a satisfying 2.5 hour dinning experience.

Day 7:

Au revoir Paris