stacked and wrapped

okay, maybe i'm on a bit of a valentino and shoe fix. then again, i'm always on a valentino and shoe fix. when it comes to high end, coveted designer merchandise, a lot of it is extremely difficult to wear. how do you justify a $10,000 statement cocktail dress or a $5000 pair of neon harem pants? in most cases, you can't. however, these shoes will become a staple in your wardrobe for life. and when i say staple, i mean staple. this demure gray can be worn with anything. and it'll camouflage with your skin tone regardless of your shade and your current tanned state. the heel is not ridiculously high and you have the platform to give you cushion and comfort (yes, platform high heels are comfortable!). the black embroidery around the ankle is true craftsmanship and its detailing can instantly punch up any outfit. the shoe is dramatic yet kept under control. i would wear these until the last thread on the embroidery is falling off. but these are valentinos- they will last with you to the grave.

Valentino
embroidered flower sandal
$895
saks.com

more exaggerated sleeves

leave it to valentino to inspire me again. you wouldn't be able to wear a shirt like this often. nor would i recommend you trying to stand out so much. but when you do wear it, be prepared to draw a lot of attention. is wearing a bell sleeve like this in or out? to be honest, as of right now in spring 2010, it's probably out. but this kind of style is right up my alley: crisp white shirt, romantic bell sleeves, ruffled cuffs around the biceps, and an interesting spin on the collar. it's kind of typical to wardrobe a shirt like this a basic black pencil skirt. but to make it interesting, i would wear this paired with an beige or silver pair of tuxedo pants to a black tie occasion. how's that for unconventional? but valentino makes it happen.

Valentino
white bell sleeve blouse
ruelala.com
$1380