Lori on Lori's

Geniuses that we are, the Lori's Shoes creatives team conspired to do less work and still get paid. Our Tom Sawyer-like whitewashing paid off in spades when Lori agreed to do our job and write a post on how she wears fall styles. Muh-hoo-ha-ha-ha! Of course, after more than 25 years in the business, she knows more than all of us combined. We may have gotten off light, but you readers are the true winners. Enjoy!

If I had to define my style, I would describe myself as classic with an urban edge. Some of my favorite pieces are the simple black dress, the crisp white oxford shirt and the timeless button-down sweater. I make them look current with great accessories. I love to accessorize! I tend to wear pieces that are strong, current and bold (but never overpowering).

What I love about this season is the ease in pairing clothing and accessories. Just the other day I pulled out my brown Frye Veronica slouch boots, straight leg jeans and a classic, crisp white shirt. Then I layered in my favorite new La Vie Parisienne necklaces for a touch of the unexpected.

The military trend speaks to me this season. I'm putting this look together through Tipo's lace-up boots in brown leather and tight-fitting khaki cargo pants. Wear leg warmers over the khakis for a suped-up military look!

Another look I will be wearing is "vintage cozy": a plaid shirt with the ivory knit infinity scarf from Caroline Amato in ivory for $48.00. Did I mention that I love the leather fingerless gloves by also by Caroline Amato? Check out L770 for $64.00 The studs totally complete the look and add a bit of punch! (Heh.)

When I am feeling a little more grown up, a little more classic and a little less trendy, I
think Ralph Lauren. With romantic images of the Old West in mind, I'll wear a pair of my favorite classic riding boots—the Melissa by Frye. I love its cognac color. It is the perfect, denim-friendly neutral. Accessorize it with chunky gold jewelry; check out the above picture of me wearing the CCC bracelets with gold plates and saddle leather. The Hobo Touch Base cross-body bag completes the look.
 
I hope you enjoy some of my personal fashion statements for this season. Keep visiting our website to always get the most current, always interesting, always entertaining fashion news and ideas! And thanks for shopping at Loriʼs.

— Lori Andre

Lori's in the news: US Weekly + Hype Bag

The Hype Alex bag will add some shimmer to your shimmy.

If you so happened to pick up the US weekly last week and turned the pages to the US Style section, notice anything? Well not only was the CC Skye rhinestone and gold-plated bullet bracelet a stroke of genius, but did you see the Prada leather camo tote? OMG! 

Well amongst the fashion's best like Prada and Burberry sat Lori's Shoes—the preferred retailer of Hype bags. (Check the top right for the studded leather Alex shoulder bag just in case you missed it). Gor-geous! Obviously, this military trend is taking off. We're happy to have this and other hot items to fit your military style. Great trend pieces don't stay in stock at Lori's forever, so be quick on your toes this season. Feel free to shop it now!

The Style Journal: Sam Edelman’s Vancouver Bootie

Making the Military Trend Your Own

—April Francis of The Haute Closet

I am not one to shy away from super high heels. Brian Atwood’s original six-inch Maniacs are one of my basics. Given my penchant for high heels, I get more than my fair share of “How do you wear those?!” I always smile because I adore wearing heels.

I took the Vancouver by Sam Edelman out for a test run to see how they could amp up my wardrobe’s military flair one sunny, 80-degree Sunday. In the first look, I went with a gorgeous pair of Japanese-made L.G.B. camouflage leggings from Ikram. Awesomely, these didn’t break the bank and since I’ve worn them over and over again this season, their cost per wear (CPW) is at about $3 (and we’ve got months to go). Add in this season’s de rigueur super flirty circle skirt (ours by A.L.C.), an army green Alexander Wang tank and a super cozy cape from Hejfina. Covering just about every of-the-moment trend in one outfit without looking like a victim gives you a good look for going to a movie, drinks or dinner with girlfriends.

Quartermastering the Look: Ladies Night Out with Vancouver

Cadet Prep: Date Night with Vancouver

The second look brought out our inner West Point prep. When you’re going military, the easiest way to femme it up is by adding flirty colors. We got ours courtesy of Antipast knee socks from Robin Richman, a silk blouse from L’Agence and a sweet pink Chanel bag. I’m sure you’ve got most of these pieces in your closet so call up your favorite shorts, grab your boyfriend blazer, add some fun hosiery, rock these boots and boom—a fun, multi-textured look for fall. We would definitely wear this look on a date.

For the last wardrobe change I went for a comfy, everyday look. Pairing T by Alexander Wang sweatpants with a military-inspired chevron sweater by Marc by Marc Jacobs, I could work in this look all day and be happy about it. (Did I mention how comfortable these boots are?) And the bag, a little vintage beauty picked up from LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, is a force to be reckoned with. 

Reveille Revelry: Breakfast at Lori's with Vancouver

Verdict: these puppies are gorgeous in their neutral grey-green suede, grabbing tons of looks and compliments. Not to mention they are fantastically comfortable: I wore them for a full day of driving (stick-shift VW), Haute Closet-ing and city walking—all without the slightest bit of discomfort. These shoes rule.

The trick to super high heels is the height of the platform and how strapped in the tops of your feet are. The platform on these puppies is about two inches (making the stiletto that much shorter) with a great-for-winter-slush rubber tread sole. And not only can you tighten the laces for a snug fit, you can slip out quickly with Edelman’s super heavy-duty zipper on the inside of each foot. Translation: feels like heaven, makes you a blissful six inches taller.

The other half of the trick: you have a lot of clothes in your closet. I didn’t buy any of these pieces for the shoot. I just added the shoes and built looks around them with what I already had. When you add any new piece to your wardrobe, it’s worthwhile to play in your closet and try out new combinations.

Lastly, smart shoppers, at $212, these boots are a bargain and just as beautiful as the Chloe, Elizabeth and James and Rag & Bone versions that are out on all the shelves right now, for half the price.

Work the Sam Edelman Vancouver into your own wardrobe so that you are on top of the military trend but interpret that trend according to your own style.

P.S.: Notice that I’m wearing the same belt with each outfit? It’s amazing how a new accessory like these boots can breathe fresh life into things that have been languishing in your closet, unloved, for months. Also, I usually wear an 8.5; I sized down to an 8 in these, and still have plenty of room for cozy winter socks!

The Big Buddha handbag that could be yours!

Big Buddha - Jacqueline clutch bag giveaway with Geisha Pearl. Not sold in stores or online.

See it. Love it. Win it.

Big Buddha has sent us three special edition, style-it-the-way-you-want-it Jacqueline clutch bags. And we just happen to be giving them away with one of our fashionable guest bloggers: Kitty from Geisha Pearl. They are not sold online, so if you miss your chance, you've missed it. 

The bone and mushroom are for the taking. Kitty has styled the black clutch as she does best, with chic vintage glamour and grace. Here's how to ensure your name is tagged for one of these rocker-chic bags:

• Go to Geisha Pearl Vintage Facebook page, follow the instructions and you are on your way to fabulosity (in our Kimora Lee-Simmons voice). 
• The winners will be featured on our blog, along with Big Buddha's Style Star project blog.
• Entries accepted until Tuesday, November 2nd.

Good luck!

From Lori's Shoes, Big Buddha and Geisha Pearl

Lori's in the News: Marie Claire

 

Well kinda. Lori's isn't necessarily in this news, but we do have this hot wedge by Chinese Laundry! Listed in Marie Claire for $89, we've got this versatile shoe in black for $80. Shop it now for a great wardrobe basic.

Jeffrey Campbell All-Ruffles

We do love footwear with contradictions. It gets our attention ... and keeps it. It might take a minute. We might let out a giggle, maybe a grimace, but after some deep thought we usually fall in love.

First thought: who would think to make over-sized frilly ruffles from distressed army-green leather? Who would then take those ruffles and belt them around a rugged combat boot? The answer is only someone as clever and daring as Jeffrey Campbell. And that's why we love it. The more you look at it, the cuter it gets. And it's surprisingly easy and versatile to wear!

The obvious look, of course, is to go military. Slip on some skinny jeans, sweater tights or leggings and pair with a T-shirt or off-the-shoulder sweater. Top with a jean or bomber jacket (dark rocker-chic accessories optional).

But don't limit yourself. The name is "All-Ruffles" so we can dress her up a bit too. Wear her over tights or knee socks with a boho floral skirt. Keep it casual and simple on top and add a vintage blazer to complete the look. 

If we haven't already convinced you of the beauty of this boot, consider this: the ruffles can be slipped right off for an instant, classic combat look. And once you've worn out All-Ruffles you can always use it as, well, a planter. How's that for a contradiction?

Looking Fantastic this Fall: Check.

Photo courtesy of Fab Sugar

Autumn has finally come 'round the bend and we are elated. So much so that we have created a special Lori's checklist. We want you nothing less than the epitome of fabulosity this fall. Stop the presses, cause a traffic pile up or simply work it on your own personal runway with these simple must-haves.

Charles by Charles David - Model

Over-the-knee Boots
Admittedly this is not a new trend. OTK boots have been back in swing since Anne Hathaway strolled into the Vogue offices on The Devil Wears Prada in 2006. From that moment the previously cliché trashy turned classy in an instant. Over the years we have seen it grow into the most popular style of the season.

Shown in Grey. More colors available.

Fur
Faux has never been hotter. Whatever you buy this year, buy fur—really. You will be one of the square kids eating alone in the cafeteria if you don't. Fur is on EVERYTHING from hats to scarves to boot covers to bracelets. Not big on fur? No problem; any small accessory will keep you in the "in" crowd. And if you have a pact with PETA, faux fur is the new vegan leather. We wouldn't recommend you wearing it to a rally, but feel guilt free when you are making the purchase.

We love this rabbit fur headband by Martine et Bonal

Steve Madden - Cameronn

Lace-ups
Our guest blogger Anjelica put it best as she rocked this fabulous look in one of her posts, "the trend is timeless—a classic, really. Lace-ups can be casual, dressy or just plain chic." Enough said, thanks Anjelica; we think the same. 

 Wear short or tall; with flowy dresses or nothing at all.

Photo courtesy of Asos

Capes/Ponchos
Traditionally classy women never left this look. This über-comfortable and stylish outerwear has a little something for all this fall. Wear it with jeans, pant suit or as a simple one-piece garment accessorized to a T.

We're loving this exquisite Tweed Pocket cape from See by Chloe. It has a modern twist yet is very versatile.

Calvin Klein - Sallie

Peep Toe Booties
The re-emergence of legwear has made this one-time spring/summer shoe available for fall. The look is not for everyone (especially if you have sensitive toes), but worn with a pair of designer tights or girlie knee-high socks, this edgy, city-girl style will make the masses swoon.

Photo courtesy of Paige Denim

Denim Jackets
Revive this classic! If you have one hiding in your closet, dust it off, remove the band buttons and wear with pride. We suggest a dark, fitted denim as a classic long-lasting investment piece. This one by Paige Denim can be transformed from sporty to business-casual with a simple change of accessories. For the more forward, pair with jeans for a now-acceptable Canadian tuxedo!

High Fashion 5792

Classic Frame Bags
The obsession with Mad Men has inspired a generation of '50s-era conservative flair. The structured handbag must to be the bag of the year. Work it with casual, professional or evening looks.

Miz Mooz - Histeric

Loafers/Oxfords
Comfortable, stylish and just plain cute, the oxford look melts us. Our guest blogger, Kitty, (or should we say Nancy Drew) predicted this trend in August. And, well, she was right. You can't wear the plushest knitwear, curvaceous pencil skirt and classic bag without a pair of these, now could you?

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.