Photo by PRPhotos.com

I finally got to see The Twilight Saga: Eclipse over the Fourth of July weekend.  I have to say, I was a little disappointed by the movie.  Once I finally agreed to start reading the Twilight books, I was hooked. I definitely love the characters and the stories, but they don’t seem to translate well to the big screen.  In fact, the only movie I’ve really liked so far has been New Moon. After watching it this past fall, I assumed that the movies would only get better – most likely because the studio would have reason to increase their budget each time!

I know not many people might agree with me, but the movie wouldn’t make much sense to people who haven’t read the books.  Sure – it hit the big, important parts but there were too many missing details.  It felt like a book report made into a movie.  I would have loved to see some of the history the third book delved into.  The Jasper and Rosalie scenes were good, but too brief in my opinion.  I guess I just wanted more throughout the film!

Bandolino Once Again Pump

Maybe I’m expecting too much.  After all, with books this gripping it’s going to be tough for any movie to live up to everyone’s expectations.  What did you think?  Was the third movie the best so far, as my friends seem to think?  Or was it a let-down for you as well? Do you think the movie(s) based on the fourth book will be any better? (I’m in the middle of this book right now – can’t wait to see how it ends but I don’t want to be done with the Twilight series!)

Michael Antonio Kalo Pump

Let’s turn to something a little less deep – fashion!  Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner are pictured above at an Eclipse press event in Rome.  I wonder if they get to have a say in their own clothing for events like this, or if they have to wear what they’re told?  Whoever dressed them, they fit well with the beautiful garden they were photographed in.  (Although I have to admit I would love to see Kristen Stewart in something brightly colored someday!)

etnies Wraith Skate Shoe

If you’re comfortable taking fashion cues from a young werewolf and his unrequited crush, I’ve got some great suggestions for you!  Kristin has a classic pair of peep-toe black heels on. A great, inexpensive option if you’re looking for something similar is the Bandolino Once Again Pump. Personally, I think the Michael Antonio Kalo Pump is more her style.  If you like your shoes with a bit of an edge, I would suggest taking a chance on this heel.  It looks really high fashion and is still a steal at $67.95.  Taylor is sporting a pair of casual black lace-ups.  I would recommend the etnies Wraith Skate Shoe, especially for younger men looking for a pair of comfy kicks to go with a dress-casual look.

What to Read Next On The Shoe Diaries:

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Twilight Wins Again

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Many of us know all too well that “little black dress” hanging up in our closets that we resort to oh so many times for weddings, parties, girls night out, or any other event you want to be looking your best! This post we are going to discuss the latest trends and what shoes to wear with that dress this season.

This new “what to wear” series will continue season after season covering what to wear to weddings, job interviews, first dates, you name it we will cover it! We are open to suggestions if you have a particular idea in mind. 

These five beautiful ladies featured on today’s post are The Saturdays, a famous pop group formed in London in 2007. These young ladies have a lot going on, and are set to have their 3rd album released later this year! See a recent video from The Saturdays featuring their hit single “Ego” They were chosen for this post since they all had their little black dresses on, and cute style with their own shoe picks. Here is my ”what to wear” picks for that little black dress of yours this season…

What to Wear: Little Black Dress

Shop: Report Signature Vandalia

These covered pumps are very hot this season, and this one closely resembles the hit Saturday diva 2nd from the left. The peek-a-boo holes and peep toe add style and trend to this already happening shoe!

Shop: Naughty Monkey Panic

This leather sandal is perfect to wear with that dress of yours. Its black studded detailing and stiletto heel are a great combination to keep you in style.

Shop: Not Rated Tough Cookie

Believe it or not, taupe is a great color to wear with black, and this style will look great with a simple black dress. At only $54.95, this is a true bargain for those of us on a budget! If you aren’t ready yet to take the plunge into taupe, this shoe also comes in black.

Shop: Rampage Kassidy

This black patent pump is for you traditional gals that like comfort and class. You will never go wrong with a basic pump as these heels will go with many different outfits from the workplace to that special cocktail party.

Shop: Report Signature Elinor

This high fashion sandal is right for you if you like to live on the edge or enjoy taking risks! Made of all leather, a back adjustable heel, and a 1-inch platform will make them more comfortable than your average 4-inch heel. Try them if your up for the dare.

Have any other “what to wear” ideas for us? Feel free to leave them in the comments below and we will do our best to write about them!

Photo by PRPhotos.com

One of the most classic sandal styles out there has got to be the espadrille. This style has been around practically since footwear was invented and offers a fresh and flirty look for summer dress-up days. Ginnifer Goodwin is pictured rocking a pair while filming the movie Something Borrowed, due out June 2011. I hadn’t heard of this movie (or accompanying book) before putting this post together, but it looks like it’s going to be super cute! It also stars Kate Hudson who will be taking on her first villainous film role. Toss in John Krasinski as the romantic male lead, and I’m convinced this is a movie I need to see! 

If you need more convincing that espadrilles are here to stay, take a look at our top 10 picks for 2010 courtesy of our own shoe expert Rachel. This really goes to show that even a staple such as the espadrille can come in a huge range of styles. With this many options to choose from, there is sure to be a great pair available for just about everyone’s personal style! 

Volatile Carmen Floral Sandal

First up is the Volatile Carmen Floral Sandal. My favorite part about this shoe is definitely the flirty, floral ankle wrap which gives this style a little added flair! Not only will it help to stabilize the shoe on your foot, but it will also draw attention to your sexy summer legs. As with all espadrilles, the wedge heel will make it easier to add height to your look, especially for those not as used to wearing higher heels. 

Roxy Hi Strung Sandal

Our next pick is the Roxy Hi Strung Sandal. If this looks familiar to you that’s not much of a surprise! It was also selected by Anna – another shoe expert here – as a top pick for Roxy Sandals for Summer 2010. I suppose if it’s made two of our top ten lists so far that’s a pretty good sign that this is a must-have shoe this year! Rachel suggests you use this style to update your neutral look with a splash of color. 

Steve Madden Fauntain Sandal

If you’re looking to add animal print to your style this summer than the Steve Madden Fauntain Sandal just might be for you! If you’re not quite that yet adventurous, don’t worry. This shoe also comes in six basic solid colors as well, including a very safe beige/natural color. I must say that I really think the adorable flower on the toe is a great final touch to this summer ready shoe!

Color me coral! Rachel’s next suggestion, the Madden Girl Huntter Sandal, offers an updated color and very ‘now’ strappy, cage/gladiator type upper. This shoe is also a steal at $42.95. At that price, it would be easy to justify getting it in the tan or blue versions too!	Madden Girl Huntter Sandal
Volatile Physical Sandal	Next up is a nod to nautical – the Volatile Physical Sandal. Rachel thinks the red, white and blue on this shoe make it the perfect choice to celebrate summer – especially with a pair of white shorts! Personally, I have to agree. This shoe reminds me of a Fourth of July parade, followed by an outdoor barbeque or picnic!
If you’re into pink (like me), this espadrille might be the choice for you! The Chinese Laundry Dilly Dally Sandal offers elastic straps that provides you with comfort, while the splash of color that screams fashion. I’m picturing this worn with a flirty, loose skirt or dressed down a bit with jean capris. I also really like this style in the basic Ecru/Beige option.	Chinese Laundry Dilly Dally Sandal
BCBGeneration Hyla Sandal	Slide into style! This BCBGeneration Hyla Sandal shows that you can update your slip on sandal with a fun summer print and espadrille wedge. This style also includes a slight platform, which works with the wedge heel for added comfort. The heavier stitching around the footbed offers a cute contrast to the lighter floral fabric.
Rachel’s next selection is the Life Stride Sunny Sandal. I’m sensing a strong floral trend here, and I have to say I’m all for it! This style may be a good started piece for someone just getting into espadrilles. It offers a lower heel at the low price point of $44.95. It’s also available in five great colors, including a more neutral black and beige.	Life Stride Sunny Sandal
Clarks Jewel Sandal	Speaking of neutral, Rachel recommended her next choice specifically for people looking for this type of coloring! The Clarks Jewel Sandal is a great option, especially when paired with outfits with a pop of color. Clarks shoes is a brand known for the comfort technology it builds into each shoe – a plus for anyone out there new to higher heels! The raffia-wrapping on this wedge heel adds a special touch I don’t see on many other espadrilles out there.

Dereon Shell Sandal

Wow – what an example of saving the best for last! With its metallic shell ornamentation, the Dereon Shell Sandal is a show-stopper! This pair of shoe is almost like art to me. They would obviously look beautiful with a (navy?) dress, but I really think they could look just as good with a pair of dark capris or boyfriend jeans – provided they’re paired with the right shirt. 

Hopefully you’re enjoying our newest blog series. If you have any suggestions for us don’t be shy! Use the comment section below to let us know your thoughts. 

What to Read Next on The Shoe Diaries: 

Style Guide: It’s All About the Wedge

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Photo by PRPhotos.com

In honor of our first 80 degree day, we’re kicking off another new series here at The Shoe Diaries! Now that summer is officially making an appearance, we’re here to help you choose the best sandals for 2010. Keep an eye out for our top choices in many trendy styles – from Toning to Espadrilles to Wedges. We will also be taking a look at some of the hottest colors and brands of the season. Let’s hop right in and take a look at our 10 Must-Have Roxy Sandals, compliments of our very own shoe expert Anna.

Roxy Twilight Sandal	I came across this picture of Audrina Patridge in Las Vegas and had to include it. She’s wearing a flip flop that closely matches the Roxy Twilight Sandal. This sandal includes Roxy’s standard EVA sole, which really boosts the comfort level of any shoe. I’m also liking the rhinestone accents on this shoe – it really helps to make this style stand out! If you’re looking for more of a color pop, don’t despair! It’s also available in purple or silver.
Anna’s second selection is another Roxy sandal featuring an EVA sole. The Roxy Juanita Sandal offers a casual, fun look that I’m told is a perfect match for your favorite pair of jeans. I don’t know about you, but the cork sole on this wedge really makes it a standout for me. I especially like the slight retro look of this type of heel.	Roxy Juanita Sandal
Roxy Hi Light Sandal	Next up is the Roxy Hi Light Sandal. This versatile nautical style sandal would go well with the sundresses, skirts and shorts that are sure to start popping up as the temperature rises. Don’t let the height of this 3 inch heel scare you off! The wedge heel and ankle wrap provide extra support, while the EVA sole adds comfort.
I love pink, especially the shade on this Roxy Tahiti Sandal. As a bonus, this shoe is only $13.95! That’s one of the things I like best about the Roxy brand – their shoes are not only casually fashionable, but affordable as well. This particular flip flop would look great paired with your swimsuit for a day at the beach.	Roxy Tahiti Sandal - Pink
Roxy Amaya Sandal	Anna’s next choice is the Roxy Amaya Sandal. This shoe can be dressed up or down, depending on your outfit. She suggests showing this sandal off on a shopping trip with friends. As with all of the Roxy sandals on this list, the EVA sole will help keep you on your feet all day long. This sandal also offers arch support, with a backstrap for added stability. Plus, my personal favorite touch, a textured finish in one of this year’s hot colors – gray!
If you’re looking for a shoe with a pop of color, this next selection just might be the shoe for you! The Roxy Hi Strung Sandal offers a rainbow of colors on its 3 inch wedge heel. Anna recommends pairing this with a sundress or skirt for one of my favorite summertime events – a barbeque!
Roxy Tahiti Sandal - Black	Up next is another version of the Roxy Tahiti Sandal – this time in black! Anna wanted me to be sure to call out the edgier look brought out by the print on the sole of this shoe. I can’t resist calling attention to the low price of this sandal again. At $13.95, this is a great style to buy in multiple colors. If you have children, you may be interested in the Roxy Tahiti Sandal in kid’s sizes!
I’m excited to see a second pink selection this list! The Roxy Jett Sandal offers another trend for Summer 2010 – metallic studding and details. Anna recommends this as a great go-to sandal for many popular summer activities, from shopping, to a night on the town, to simply hanging out with friends.	Roxy Jett Sandal
Roxy Pagoda Sandal	The next recommendation from Anna is the Roxy Pagoda Sandal. This basic wedge is a fun and flirty style that I personally think would go with pretty much any style this summer. I could see it matching especially well with a pair of cute capris for a day of errands or a semi-casual dress for an afternoon wedding. This style is available in black as well, but this color is selling fast! At $32.95, this versatile sandal would give you a lot of bang for your buck! This is another Roxy style this is also available in youth sizing.

Roxy Bangles Bag

Our last selection isn’t a sandal, but Anna couldn’t resist including it! The Roxy Bangles Bag is a great choice for the long summer days to come. The size of this bag provides the space you need to store all of your must-haves for a day in the sun. It even offers a great place to stash your shoes while enjoying the sand between your toes on the beach!

And there you have it! Our 10 Must-Have Roxy Sandals for Summer 2010 list is complete! Did we miss a style that should be included? Do you have any suggestions for future Top 10 lists? Let us know in the comments below!

Moda Spana Barkley Sandal

Jennifer W. from Florida selected the Moda Spana Barkley Sandal, which is very similar to a pair of shoes I recently purchased myself! The t-strap look is huge right now when it comes to summer footwear.  I’ve been seeing a lot of embellishments added to this trend, and this style is no exception.  I really like the extra style boost provided by the basic black texture on this.  It keeps the sandal interesting while staying simple enough to allow the shoe to be extremely versatile.  This sandal will look great with a cute pair of jeans, a swimsuit or a flirty summer dress.

Original Dr. Scholl's Premier Sandal

Karen W. from Virginia chose the Original Dr. Scholl’s Premier Sandal for her prize.  This sandal adds a sexy twist with a 3 ½ inch heel.  The thicker heel and platform should really help to keep this shoe comfortable, even with the added height.  It doesn’t hurt that Dr. Scholl’s has a reputation for and commitment to comfort as well!  The medallion on the front of this shoe adds a nice touch.  This is another shoe that should work well with many different outfits and styles – I’m especially drawn to this sandal as a compliment to a pair of jean capris and a fun top.  Maybe perfect for a girl’s night on the town?

Clarks Lucena Sandal

Erica B. from Michigan added the Clarks Lucena Sandal to her shoe collection through our contest.  The description for this shoe includes the phrase ‘An oasis of pure comfort awaits you in this plush casual.’ It looks like our customers agree with this – the shoe has been rated a perfect 5 on our site with the majority of reviews raving about how comfortable it is!  The style and color really make this a shoe with staying power.  It is a classic sandal style that I don’t see going out of favor anytime soon!   

Merrell Siren Ginger Sandal

Our last winning sandal from week four went to Penny S. from Michigan.  She picked out the Merrell Siren Ginger Sandal.  This style is selling quickly, so if you’re interested in it for yourself, I suggest taking a look soon!  This shoe would be a good choice for anyone with an active lifestyle.  It would really hold up well transitioning from a casual, everyday shoe to a go-to choice for any outdoor summer activity – even in the water!

Once again, congratulations to our winners!  We’ll be posting our last round of winning sandals soon!

What to Read Next on The Shoe Diaries 

ShoeMall Summer Sandal Winners – A Parade of Women’s Sandals

Teva Ventura Sandal

Our week one winner, Pamela M. from Oregon, kicked things off by selecting the Teva Ventura Sandal. Flip flops are definitely my casual sandal of choice. These are great because they will go great with virtually any color. Plus, the brown leather makes it easy to dress this pair up or down, depending on your mood or agenda.  If you’re going to get a free pair of sandals, it doesn’t hurt to find one you can wear all the time! 

Nicole Pleasant Sandal

Week two brought about two very different sandal choices. Jennifer P. from Indiana chose the Nicole Pleasant Sandal. Again, this shoe is very versatile. A neutral color coupled with leather straps is super easy to adapt to different outfits. Plus, the platform on this shoe can really help you gain some height while not having to sacrifice comfort. The backstrap should also help to provide you with more stability – a plus when wearing a higher heel. 

Teva Omnium Sandal

Our second winner selected a more athletic, outdoor sandal. Cynthia S. from Pennsylvania picked out the Teva Omnium Sandal. This shoe would be great for days when you’re on your feet a lot. I also think they would be a stylish choice for outdoor activities that might involve getting your feet wet. They are much cuter than some other water-safe shoes out there – I really like the lime green accents! On a more practical note, they would also help to protect your feet from sharp rocks and other water hazards. 

David Tate Rosette Sandal

Week three saw another three winners selected. Again, the styles each one chose were very different. Rea P. from Pennsylvania definitely had dress sandals in mind! She selected the David Tate Rosette Sandal. This shoe is a classic. With the low heel and understated and elegant jewel, Rea should be able to get a lot of use out of this choice. I can’t imagine it going out of style anytime soon. 

Photo by PRPhotos.com

I was surprised how much the trailer to The Last Song caught my attention. I’ve seen Hannah Montana – I know Miley Cyrus is a decent Disney channel style actress. I just wasn’t expecting her to be very enticing in a more serious role. I may have been wrong – the movie actually looks really good! 

Not only is Miley looking to get into the movie business, but it sounds like she may be doing so at the expense of her current career. It’s no surprise that Hannah Montana is ending. There is only so long a show about a teenager can last! What is shocking is Miley’s claim that she is done making music as well. I can’t imagine this revelation will be entirely true, but she is definitely letting the world know she is ready to grow up!

Jessica Simpson Jessica Pump

Miley is pictured at the world premier of The Last Song with Liam Hemsworth – her boyfriend both in the movie and in real life. He may be new to show business, but I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of him in the near future. A Nicholas Sparks’ film and a famous significant other can do wonders for a Hollywood newcomer! The pairing actually reminds me (and others) a lot of Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosslin from The Notebook.

Unlisted Sewing Kit Pump

While you may not be lucky enough to share in many other parts of Miley’s life, one thing you can copy is her style. A good place to start is with those sassy black pumps. There is a pair of Jessica Simpson shoes that may do the trick – the Jessica Simpson Jessica pump. If you’re more of a peep-toe girl, I like the Unlisted Sewing Kit Pump.

ShoeMall Merchandiser Rachel with Steve Madden

The first shoes I ever remember falling in love with were a pair of Steve Madden wedges. They were my first memorable pair of brand name footwear, and in all my fourteen years I had never seen a more perfect shoe. I lovingly called them my bale of hay shoes – in reference to the fact that the heel was covered in a twisted material that resembled straw. While the style may no longer sound fashionable, the brand remained as one of my favorites.

Later, when I was in college, that Steve Madden love stayed with me. I took a class that involved analyzing print ads. What did I choose to base my project around? A Steven by Steve Madden magazine advertisement. I was drawn in by the ad’s juxtaposition of high fashion and industrial images. It was one of my favorites – a creative image for an equally creative shoe brand. (I tried to find a copy of the ad online but no luck.)

Madden Girl Savvyy Pump

Rachel, one of our ShoeMall merchandisers and contributing trend editor to The Shoe Diaries, had the good fortune to meet the Steve Madden last week at the Footwear News Platform Show at MAGIC in Las Vegas. The two are pictured at the event. So jealous! It would have been awesome to meet the namesake of one of the brands that inspired my love of shoes. Not only that, but she says he loves what he does and it really shows when you meet him in person. Having passion of your own can really help to inspire passion in others! Love it!

Steve Madden Tristano Pump

Rachel was also recently quoted in a Footwear News edition almost completely dedicated to Steve Madden as the brand completes its 20^th year in the shoe business. She mentioned something that really fits in with my personal experiences with Steve Madden: “ . . . [that customer] can grow up with the brand and that’s pretty cool. It creates customer loyalty and a bond. You can evolve with the brand as it evolves.” – (Quoted from Footwear News). I completely agree – with multiple brands to choose from, Steve Madden offers styles for fashionable women of all ages.

Steven by Steve Madden Xtinct Pump

The Madden Girl line, including the Madden Girl Savvyy Pump, is perfect for the high school girl just venturing out into the world of fun shoes. The main Steve Madden line is a good fit for anyone looking for shoes with more mature fashion forward flair. (I’m really liking the studding on the Steve Madden Tristano Pump right now.) Last but not least is the Steven by Steve Madden line – this really takes things up a notch with additional detailing and drama. (Check out the studded sole on the Steven by Steve Madden Xtinct Pump.)

What about you? What was the first brand of shoes you fell in love with? Have your loyalties changed over the years?

Photo By PRPhotos.com

I’m not going to lie – if the Packers aren’t in the Super Bowl, I only watch for the newest commercials. I love choosing a favorite from among the wacky, high-priced spots. I won’t turn down a good football feast either – bring on the chicken wings and chips! I can’t wait!

If I’m forced to watch a football game, the Colts versus the Saints isn’t so bad. I adore Peyton Manning. No, not for his athletic prowess, but for his funny bone! His turn as host on Saturday Night Live a few years ago was hilarious. I love seeing someone with that much talent able to make fun of himself on national TV. His mock-ad for United Way is definitely one of the funnier skits I’ve seen.

Photo By PRPhotos.com

A win by the Saints would bring the Lombardi Trophy to New Orleans for the first time. It’s also the team’s first appearance in the big game. An event like that is special no matter what team is behind it. I’m also impressed by the goodwill Drew Brees has shown his team and community. It’s hard to pick a favorite between these two teams!

There are a couple of Hollywood reality stars with a pretty big interest in the big game as well. Kendra Wilkinson will be cheering on her husband, Hank Baskett, as he plays with the Indianapolis Colts. She’ll be there with the couple’s young son, who will be sporting a bite size Colts jersey. Kim Kardashian has been in Miami the past couple of days supporting her on-again boyfriend Reggie Bush. I’m sure she’ll be hoping that Reggie will be able to help the Saints bring home the victory.

Rampage Dania Sandal

Not only do these two women have ties to Sunday night’s rival teams, they also seem to have completely different styles when it comes to their shoe choices. Kim is pictured above wearing her ubiquitous black stiletto pumps. Kendra is sporting a metallic silver sandal. From what I know about these two, the shoes pictured really reflect their personal style. Sexy and timeless versus flirty and fun. I think these choices mesh with their personalities as well!

Fergie Nacho Pump

If you are looking to copy Kendra’s style, take a look at the Rampage Dania Sandal. With a price tag of only $44.95, this sassy shoe is hard to beat. The four inch heel on the Fergie Nacho Pump make this an excellent choice if you’re more into Kim’s footwear. I also really love the textured look of this shoe.

 So who do you want to win tomorrow night? And – more importantly – whose shoe style do you like the best? Let us know in the comment section below.

Photo by PRPhotos.com

I was definitely surprised when I first heard that Katy Perry and Russell Brand were seeing each other. She seemed spunky and a little wild. He seemed vulgar and a little dirty. I didn’t get it and didn’t think it would really last – probably because he didn’t really strike me as the monogamous type.

It’s been five months, and I can admit I might have been wrong. They seem to complement each other surprisingly well! The couple, who took the first step toward making things official over New Years, seem to be getting a head start on the honeymoon. In recent months they’ve visited India, Paris, Berlin and London. I guess the couple who travels together stays together! One important stop for the twosome was a recent party in Beverly Hills. According to People.com, fifty of the couple’s family and friends helped them celebrate their engagement with a party at the romantic Italian restaurant Il Cielo. Ahh, young love!

Clarks Salon Bliss Sandal

Russell and Katy showed off their sweet side by attending the Arts of Elysium Heaven Gala this week. According to the organization’s website, the event helps to raise funds for a program that “encourages working actors, artists and musicians to voluntarily dedicate their time and talent to children who are battling serious medical conditions.” It’s great to two people with such star power supporting such a great cause!

Naughty Monkey Me O My Pump

Katy is pictured attending the event in an adorable togo-esque gown. Could she be wearing white in preparation for her big day? Either way, I have to say I’m not really feeling her footwear choice. Don’t get me wrong – I normally love Katy’s unique, flirtatious style. However, the color and style of these shoes sort of remind me of ace bandages. A better option might have been the Clarks Salon Bliss Sandal. The simple style seems fitting for this Greek style dress. If she was looking for something dressier, I might have suggested the Naughty Monkey Me O My Pump. It’s a little riskier, but I think the studded, rocker edge would have worked on Katy!  (Or would the Report Signature Vaugn Sandal have been better? Sound off in the comment section below!)

As a side note, please don’t forget to watch the “Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief” telethon tonight at 8 PM EST and contribute if you can. It will air on pretty much all of the major channels.