Zamara!

With her thigh-high height and unexpected peeptoe, Sam Edelman's Zamara is full of surprising details. For starters, the functional rear zipper runs the full length of the leg from the top to the ground, making it one of the longest zippers we've ever seen on a boot. 

Seamless suede panels attempt to conceal the platform and curved heel, but the sheer thickness of it paired with a shocker-of-a-peeptoe only highlight the remarkable height of both the base and leg shaft. With Fall 2010's over-the-knee trend, taller is always better. And you can't get much higher than Zamara.

Small pewter studs trim the top of the leg, with a peek of metallic lining adding a subtle punch of color for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. We love Zamara for those unexpected accents. Who would've thought that an open toe on an exceedingly tall suede boot would work? And who needs a full-length zipper that covers even the heel? Some details don't make sense until you see them put together. And we have to admit—those quirky details take this boot beyond ordinary and into the realm of must-have fashion. 


Wear over leggings or skinny jeans with an over-sized sweater or poncho for a casually fashionable fall look. For a night out, wear Zamara over brightly colored tights and pair with a mini-dress for a look that will have all eyes on you.

A Sunny Afternoon with Sam Edelman

Pierce OTK boots

We invited Valerie and Camilla of A Butterfly by Day to pick their fall favorite from our catalog and write about how they would style it. Their choice, the Pierce by Sam Edelman, was a big hit with this mother/daughter blogging team. They share their love of art, fashion and style across a generation, inspiring each other to write about what it means to be stylish.


“It’s a sunny afternoon, perfect for taking a walk down by the bay. The wind blows through my hair as I stroll the path, looking towards the horizon. I feel as if I am exploring a new land; I feel free. In these Sam Eldeman boots, I could walk for miles.” 

 

When we received our Sam Eldeman Pierce boots in the mail we were overjoyed! It was perfectly fitted to the leg and slimming which gave us a chic and lengthened look. The snaps up the side of the boot added military appeal, which we loved. For a little versatility, and to soften the look, we decided to style the boots by pairing them with a flowing chiffon dress belted with a long silk scarf and topped with a fitted army green shirt for a feminine twist on the military vibe. Not leaving anything to waver in detail, we softly braided the hair. Girly baubles were added on the wrist and fingers. We completed the feminine finery with beautiful floral tights. The perfect look for a romantic stroll.

These over-the-knee boots are perfect for long days on your feet or walking in the city, plus they look amazing with all our flirty dresses. We are sure we will get lots of wear out of our new Sam Edelman boots since they are extremely comfortable and very versatile.

Dress: Millau from LF Stores / Jewelry: J Crew / Tights: Anthropologie / Scarf: Vintage
Shoes: Sam Edelman Pierce from Lori's Shoes

—Valerie and Camilla of A Butterfly by Day

Jeffrey Campbell's Tabitha - Sweet and Sexy

Vintage, 1960s style has been brought to the forefront by shows like Mad Men, influencing Fall 2010's emphasis on classic feminine looks. Luxe materials like satin, lace and fur have been matched with perfectly tailored forms, making Jeffrey Campbell's Tabitha a new favorite. With Tabitha, Jeffrey Campbell joins the likes of Valentino and Christian Louboutin, stepping it up with breathtaking lace pumps. 

But this ain't your grandma's lace. Tabitha's lace is embroidered over sheer mesh for a very sultry show of skin. Super soft suede keeps it modest, cupping the heel and trimming the top. The suede-wrapped platform is squared under the peeptoe for an intriguing architectural accent, complimented by the five-and-one-half-inch suede-wrapped heel.

Sweet vintage style mixed with a contemporary silhouette makes Tabitha a very wearable, very fashionable girl. For a sophisticated day-wear look, pair with wide-leg trousers and a flirty blouse matched with a structured satchel. Slip on a mini-dress with or without some brightly colored leggings for a standout evening look. 

Lori At-Large: Milan Fall Trends

Twice a year Lori heads off to the land of culture, art, architecture, cuisine and world-renowned fashion to bring back the hottest shoe styles this side of the ocean. At least that is what she tells us whilst sipping Prosecco and eating authentic homemade pasta al fresco ... we are sure she is working hard. Here is what she reports from the city of fabulosity – Milan, Italy.

Currently in Milan, and I think in Italy there is, generally, an emphasis on comfort. Similar to the trend in the States, "toning" shoes seem to be a trend. (Sketchers are even here ... yikes!!!!!) The Italian women still wear Hogans and Tods—a look not truly understood by American women. The autumn fashion trends here are very similar to the stores in the U.S., such as over-the-knees, lace-ups and pumps. Mens tailoring, especially at Prada, seems strong as well. There is a lot of fur in all the stores here and lots of camel clothing! Max Mara has beautiful things right now. Seriously, and I am not just saying this, I think we are dead on with all our trends at Lori's.

 

As far as Spring trends go, I think it is all over the board. Sandals with ornaments, neutral colors, military and wedges are still important and also pretty, along with ladylike pumps in colors. Honestly, I did not see anything super fresh, super interesting—it updates Spring/Summer 2010. To confirm my staff's mention last week to the longevity of booties, here's a sneak peak at an ornately designed wedge bootie from Jeffrey Campbell's Spring/Summer 2011 line:

On another note, I am happy to report that the stores in Milan seem to be doing a lot of business. The show was well-attended and generally speaking the sentiment is positive. I am happy about that.

—Lori Andre reporting from Milan

Feeling Sultry in Fall

Apepazza over-the-knee boots
— by Kitty from Geisha Pearl



Sometimes Fall has a way of sneaking in before you are ready to give up bare legs and short skirts. My solution? Keep the hemlines short and add a pair of super-tall over-the-knee boots to keep those legs cozy.

Over-the-knee boots are a serious must-have for Fall. There are styles to fit every girl's look from black lace-up leather to chunky heeled gray suede. (Take a look at available styles.) And these Apepazza boots are to die for! The lace-up detail at the top of the boot is a perfect feminine compliment to the rugged and masculine sole. The material is softer than I can describe and, well, I just feel darn sexy in them. That's all that really matters, right?

Still a little chilly? Layer in a thigh-high, chunky knit sock so it just peeks over the top of the boot or throw on a pair of sheer black tights. Any way you decide to style these coveted boots, rock 'em with confidence and you'll turn heads!

The Shoes of New York Fashion Week

One thing agreed about New York Fashion week: EXHAUSTING. And we weren't even there (physically, at least). But between live streaming shows and conferences we were very much a part of the spirit of the madness. We felt for the tired tootsies aching for nail spas and foot massages today. We share your pain ... in spirit, that is.

As for Spring runways, we learned boho chic can be sexy and cool (Odd Molly); legs have it (Christian Siriano); and we are going back to basics (Michael Kors and Donna Karan). In many collections, we saw an influence of '70s inspirations (Tracey Reese hats), elegant silhouettes with lowered hemlines (Cynthia Rowley) and leather. Gone are the short-short skirts; hello, mid-calf to maxi dress and loose-fitting, high-waisted trousers. Ahh, a relief to those of us without the blessing of thin, long legs. 

But what about the shoes?? Not the typical topic of most fashion week chatter, but as shoe lovers our eyes were wide with endless possibilities. What did we see? A huge mash-up of chunky, low-heeled sandals, narrow pumps and sky-high heels with stacked fronts. However, one style reigned supreme—booties! Yep, they are here to stay. From peep-toes and sling backs to covered flats and kitten heels, the bootie is a versatile shoe indeed. This just gives us even more reason to shop booties until we drop.

If you missed the phenomenal madness of New York fashion week 2010 and would like to catch some of the highlights check out www.fashionologie.com.


—Photos courtesy of Fashionologie

Koolaburra - High Fashion, High Comfort

We're all familiar with UGG® Australia boots by now. Soft and comfy with the cushiest sheepskin and shearling. They're not exactly known for their sexy look, but they're so loved for their comfort that some girls practically live in them. Love 'em or hate 'em, they're on everyone from celebrities to soccer moms, teens and everyone in between. They're even on babies.

And then there is fringe. Boho-chic, classic Americana, cowgirl-hipster-cute. It has movement, personality and is seen year-round on everything from jackets, shirts, skirts, handbags ... and boots.

And that brings us to the Savannity by Koolaburra. Touting soft sheepskin, shearling lining and a comfy round toe, the Savannity also has a rubber wedge heel with long panels of fringe topped with brass grommets. Style and comfort may have made the ultimate union in this little boot. So is it fashion made comfortable? Comfort made fashionable? A little bit of both or none of the above?

Keep your eyes peeled for this emerging trend. Now that UGG® Australia has teamed up with Jimmy Choo to design a line of fashion boots, it seems that Koolaburra might really be on to something as well. And with celebrities like Cameron Diaz, Jessica Biel, and Kate Hudson seen wearing Koolaburras, what more can we say?

In case we haven't already persuaded you to try them out, here's a thought: when you put them on, do you look like the sultry model below with her matching fringed mini-dress ... or not?

A Day in the Life. And Natalie Portman

Whew! We sure are busy over here at Lori's Shoes. While Lori's on a buying trip to Italy, we actually held a real, live meeting in the conference room! (It was a "Big Deal.") Most people even came and sat down in chairs and stuff and acted all serious! Our creative director did not feel like bringing his laptop for the trip from the studio. Instead he went native (a.k.a., "offline") with filler paper and a pen. David, our intrepid photographer, didn't feel like bringing his consciousness and consequently spent most of the meeting semi-awake.

See Lori? We're working! While the cat's away, the mice take some notes and doodle obsessively.

Many important things were discussed (not like you'd know, David!). Our creative director diligently took notes as well as a few drawings of young, soporific David. While we've redacted most notes to protect our trade secrets, we did leave the reminder to post the Natalie Portman appearance wearing Charles David to the premier of "Black Swan." We have this shoe coming in black, black suede, champagne and grey suede. It shipped from Charles David on September 9th, so we expect them very soon! Check back periodically for availability or send us a note.

We're also going to be posting more regularly on new arrivals in the internally monickered "Jessie's Corner." Jessie probably doesn't appreciate that, but she's not writing this blog! Ha ha looks like you lose too, Jess! Now it's back to work for this busy little bee! 

The Jeffrey Campbell Lita is here!!

Lita's here ... and she won't be ignored! Couture-inspired design will draw you in—straight to the unbelievably thick platform and towering wood heel. You'll be walking tall and strong in this powerful combat-style lace-up. 

Go for the full effect by pairing with cargos or leggings with a tank or T-shirt on top. Don't forget the military jacket and chain accessories. For a softer retro-chic look, slip on some tights and a flirty floral-print skirt or dress.

On a side note, look what we discovered on the wall in Lori's office! It's a Lita lookalike wood cut-out made by one of her sons some ten-odd years ago. Seems like they were ahead of the times even then ...

Staff At Large: London

One of our team recently reported from her UK vacation, inspired by the fashion she found on the streets of London. Here is her post from abroad. If you have similar posts from afar, please send us an email!

One thing I love most about London is the personal style. These styles aren't right off the runway; the streets of London are a runway of their own. Goodbye fashion predictions and cheers to personal style! From brogues to boots, flats to soft wood heels, anything goes in London ... and it works. Of course, comfort is always a trend as it should be in a country where walking is not an option but a must. Comfortable footwear with style is always tricky, but the ladies of London know how to wear it well. Platforms and stilettos are left for club night, and even then eschewed for fashion flats or bare feet before the night ends.

One everyday look stood out amongst others. Chic grunge – city sophistication with hipster/rocker accents – was everywhere. I saw Hello, Kitty darlings in ripped jeans, tees and tortoise-shell glasses. I spied plenty of low-cut boots, tights, short skirts and leather jackets. Wooden heels were also a favorite amongst the stylish. Another comfortable shoe with style and flair, brogues, were everywhere with skirts, skinny jeans, and leggings.

Take a peek at a few British feet on the move in London. Many thanks to all the happy feet who posed for a shot from a shoe-blogging tourist!

A Little Lori's Love

Have you heard about this thing, Facebook? Roll your eyes all you want—if you're not a fan on FB, you obviously aren't going to be sending us an email like this:

"Dearest Lori's Shoes,

I was riding the train back from a long day of class, and I suddenly got a text from my best friend screaming "OMG YOU WON LORI'S SHOES WHAT'S ON YOUR FEET WEDNESDAY!!!!!" I was so surprised that I almost dropped my phone! Thank you very very much for picking my shoes and for leaving such a lovely comment about my toe-nails' color coordination! THAT just made my day :) I'm very happy to claim my prize, thank you again!

Your loyal customer,
T—"

 Get your act together and let's be friends: http://bit.ly/9Mji9Q

Delta Love Lori's Shoes

Delta Magazine recently included us in their fall trends roundup "Dressed to Kill," (September/October 2010: 32) featuring the Jeffrey Campbell camo lace-up boot next to Prada's Camo Riding Boot. (Such good company we keep!) Other favorite designers include Rag & Bone, Alice + Olivia, Smashbox and Sony. We're currently out of stock on that particular boot Delta featured, but check out our other camo options or heeled fall boots.

The lede reads in full: "Dressed to Kill: Delta dove hunts are the social events of the season. Delta Magazine editors style cutting-edge garb with the coolest gear to take you from the field to the afterparty."

Designer Interview: Tanise Hill of Restricted

Thanks for taking a moment to talk with us! How long have you been with Restricted?

I started about five and a half years ago—in 2005 almost immediately after the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, basically six months after graduating. It was my first real job. When I started I was working as assistant designer and learning the ropes. As the years went on I became senior designer.

The line has evolved a lot in that time. Tell us what that experience was like.

I take full responsibility! When I first started with the line Restricted was more of a beachy brand with a lot of focus on wedges and sandals and a Southern California lifestyle. As I learned more about the shoe industry, researching and traveling, I discovered there was a void. We still keep resort but we have expanded into more contemporary styles and fashion. I try to bring a lot of everyday styles into our collection—things women can wear to work. We’ve just constantly added on. And consumers have responded greatly.

And into what has that evolution culminated for Fall 2010?

Definitely we’ve developed a stronger fall influence in our collection. Fall just fits more trends like the over-the-knee boot trend. Five years ago boots were not as important and hot as they are now. Now it is all about boots for the last two fall seasons. We’ll never have a collection without boots now.

We can’t even imagine fall without boots. Why do you think they have become so important?

It’s part of the fashion shift. This decade has been a conglomeration of previous decades. I think of the ‘20s when girls wore boots and dresses a lot. I don’t necessarily think it’s going to change. At least for the season we’ll continue our boot focus.

Restricted hits a good pricepoint. "Get the look at a great price." It’s perfect: quality and trend. With your success do you find your competition increasing?

It’s helping us expand our business more. My personal style and feeling is that when I go out shopping I want something that’s on-trend, fits the times and isn’t going to break my bank ... and it’s going to last. I’m a stickler about quality. It’s important to the consumer so it’s a 1000 percent more important to me. Perception of value is a bonus because that’s what I do for myself anyway—offering really great value.

We’re launching Unrestricted in Spring 2011. The line, basically, is synthetics but the quality and value will be along same lines as Restricted. The look of Unrestricted will be edgier and younger, more for a brave and bold girl. The design is more contemporary and more details. It’s a lot louder. Restricted is more contemporary and everyday.
 
What is your favorite look for Fall 2010?

The lace-up trend. That’s been really strong. It’s my favorite because it’s such a fresh look for this season. This year everything been all about laces and that’s been exciting. I think OTK will be still strong for fall 2010, but I don’t think it will be a staple for years to come.

What will we see for Spring 2011?

Definitely a lot of wedges. Platforms continue but wedges have been stronger. The clog is going to continue and wood construction is an element that you’re going to see a lot in spring. 

My Ultimate Fall Trend: Poncho Cape with Lace-ups

If there's one thing I will be wearing a lot for fall, it would definitely be the poncho cape! I don't know if it's Chloe or Rumi, but I have fallen deeply in love with this piece. I own it in four different colors, with hood or without. It is seriously the coolest thing in my closet right now (besides, the shape is so forgiving).

Since the weather has completely forgotten that it's summer over here (Hello!), I can finally wear my lace-up booties which go perfect with poncho capes. These shoes are really the way to go!

Get this shoe look at Lori's. (These particular shoes not sold at Lori's)

If you are a BIG military trend fan like me you cannot go wrong with these shoes. The trend is timeless – a classic, really. Lace-ups can be casual, dressy or just plain chic. CLOOTS (my name for clogs + boots) go well with my leather shorts and nude cape. However, the black cape with Chloe-style boots is definitely one of my favorite looks for fall.

Get this shoe look at Lori's.

– Anjelica Lorenz Mode Junkie reporting from Germany.

Lori's Declared Best Shoe Store in Chicago by Time Out

We don't like to brag (well, maybe a little bit), but we were thrilled to be picked by Time Out as the best shoe store in Chicago. In a city with plenty of great selection (we beat out Akira, City Soles/Niche, House of Sole and St. Alfred), it's an especial honor to make the grade in the widely-read Time Out. Below is the review in full. Our blogging department blushes demurely.

Best Shoe Store
Lori's Shoes
Shoppers with a weakness for footwear find Lori's either a blessing or a curse—depending on the status of their bank account. The Lincoln Park emporium (there are two suburban locations in Highland Park and Northfield) stuffs a sizable space with American and European designer shoes, all marked 10 percent to 30 persent less than department-store prices. The selection includes everything from classics to trendy brands such as Jeffrey Campbell, Corso Como and Boutique 9, not to mention dozens of Italian exclusives. Better yet, you'd be hard pressed to find a physical shoe shop with a more complete e-commerce site, replete with weekly blog posts to keep you informed on the latest fashions.
824 W. Armitage Ave (773-281-5655, lorisshoes.com). —Jessica Herman

On Trend: Stepping Out in Grey Style

– Carrie Michael of barestyle

Photos from thefashionpot.com, fashiontoast.com, r-bilson.net

Grey has been around the block. It’s not a fashion breakthrough or anything, but it has shifted from a shade for tops and sweaters to a standard for shoes, handbags and other accessories. (I’m typing this with fingernails sporting a color accurately named “Wet Cement”.) I’m anxiously awaiting the availability of the Jeffery Campbell “Lita” at Lori’s, and I can honestly say I’m contemplating grey instead of black. It just feels more fresh, neutral and wearable than black this season. And trust me, I’m a huge fan of black.

Mixing black and brown is a current trend, but mixing grey with black or brown is an effortless combination, making it an ideal choice for handbags and shoes. Think about it: a grey handbag will look amazing with any outfit, no matter what other hues are involved. My personal favorite look for fall is the grey platform boot. Love, love, love it. The softer grey hue breaks up the traditional rocker look and adds a more feminine vibe. And of course, grey continues to make its mark on scarves and socks. Here are my favorites from Lori’s:

1) Ruffled Gauze Scarf
2) Bloom Boom Boom NOA
3) Christopher Kon 505
4) Sabina 4588
5) Jeffrey Campbell Mary Roks
6) Remi & Reid Loyola
7) Rocket Dog Memories - Grey Dazzle

Extra, Extra: Lori's in Women's Health Magazine!

The September issue of Women's Health magazine recently declared "Accessories Are the New Outfit," and, by dint of the amount of space given to our Hype Jane bag, that Lori's is the new source for accessories. For the cost-conscious and the cash-strapped, accessories are a smart way to keep current without turning over your whole wardrobe.

The Jane was considered a "wow-worthy statement piece" to spruce up fall wardrobes. Studies show women wear less than half the clothes already in their closets. (We mean, really – how many pairs of jeans does one need?) With the proper handbag or a fantastic pair of shoes any outfit can feel new and fresh.

Accessories give you a chance to reinvent your look using the wardrobe you already have. Too many skinny jeans and not enough accessories? Try these options for two fresh looks with the same denim.

Pair this multi-colored chain necklace with a pair of Nicole Mambo booties (above right in Tuscany), a simple tank, cropped jacket and the Hype bag for a urban-sophisticate look.

For date night: same jeans, same bag, now add the Nine West Rocha in Taupe, a sheer ruffled shirt and you will have his heart at first glance.

The Case of the Perfect Fall Shoe

Hello, Nancy Drew here!

You might remember me as the young crime-fighting darling with the ability to crack any mystery sent my way. 

Well, I have hung up my crime fighting ways in search of something a little more mysterious – finding the perfect fall shoe to compliment my style.

I have always been a girl with a love for flats. They are agile and quiet, perfect when sneaking around looking for clues. Oxfords and loafers are my favorite flats this season. They are the perfect blend between masculine and feminine (and oh so cute)! However, sometimes after a hard day's work solving mysteries, I could really use a night on the town with the girls. For this, I always grab my heels! I love Progetto heeled boots with clog bottoms.

Shoes not sold at Lori's

No matter what I do or where I go I must always remain low-key and inconspicuous. Therefore, I tend to shy away from bold looks like leopard print or fur. But there are those times when a girl must let loose and bring out the animal within. So a little fur handbag may be the perfect fit to the puzzle. Wouldn't you say? 

Your Friend,


Nancy

p.s. Don’t forget your fall shoes’ partner in crime: socks! Plush thigh-highs to sheer crew cuts, they are all a must-have this fall!

– by Kitty Cotten of Geisha Pearl

Is Comfort the new Cool?

Photo compliments of examiner.com

The chatter behind celebrity hipster Maggie Gyllenhaal in Worishofer sandals recently has sparked a frenzied 'granny sandal' trend (Ed. Note: their phrase, not ours). We were taken by surprise. This upstart summer/fall transition sandal has been quoted as "so uncool that it is cool." During Wednesday's Good Morning America Kate Dimmock, People magazine's StyleWatch fashion director, explained how this shoe could be easily worn with a summer dress and canvas bag and carry straight into autumn.



Lori, too, has fallen for this trend and picked up Worishofer whilst on another shoe show shopping tour in New York. Does this mean we are stilettoed out? Can our feet no longer take the pressure of platforms, high wedges, chunky-heels and spikes? Or do we shoe lovers like options? The Worishofer "granny sandal" isn't the sexiest option, but it can carry you throughout your last summer fiestas and hot, hot days without fuss. Sound off and let us know!

Lori's in the News: Footwear News

From WWD's Footwear News to Instyle Magazine's Makeover edition, Lori's Shoes is being painted a trendsetter and business leader. We are OK with this. We try to be more than a shoe boutique – more like an all-around lifestyle experience. We measure our success through Lori's superstar status in recent news.

In Footwear News, Lori elaborates on our long-time partnership with venerable shoe brand Via Spiga.

"We began with the brand in the late 1980s. What led me to [it] was that it had a very specific customer in mind. It created a strong niche for itself. When you looked at a pump, you recognized by the look that it was a Via Spiga pump. They definitely stepped away from who the customer was over the years [but] have come back with a better understanding of what customers want, [which is] wearable footwear with a fashion edge. We've been buying more from the brand in the last couple years. We don't by a ton of styles, but buy depth in [our] key stores and keep reordering."

 

Elsewhere, with the help of the beautiful Jennifer Hudson, InStyle showcases one of our fall favorites, Hype Handbags. The embellished metal clutch is sassy – a classic silhouette bedecked with extreme embellishment. We have a great lineup of Hype coming this fall. We know you will go crazy for them (hopefully not literally ... though we do anticipate possible heart palpitations).

Sam Edelman in Marie Claire ... and at Lori's!

The Sam Edelman Effie recently made an appearance in Marie Claire magazine credited to us! We currently have it in black. Take some style tips from MC and pair this easy wedge to broken-in crewneck sweaters and cropped trousers for a vintaged, timeless prep.

Our Seychelles Winners!

Our Seychelles giveaway was a rousing success. Thanks to everyone who participated! Congratulations to Debi C. of Belton, Texas who won our random drawing – the first time she's ever won a contest, according to her. Special congratulations also goes to Carol H. of San Francisco, California who is our style maven of the month with 33 referrals!

Both Debi and Carol are being shipped the Seychelles Hush-Hush clog in Mushroom. Also available in Whiskey and Black, this clog is a must-have for fall. Keep checking the site for more giveaway opportunities. Thanks again, everyone!