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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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I don’t know why, but I was surprised to hear that Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green had gotten married a couple of weeks ago. It had just become public knowledge that she had received (and promptly lost) another engagement ring from Brian. I figured there would be the obligatory year long planning period before the wedding. Silly me – since when has Megan Fox been known as traditional?

That’s one of the things that most impresses me about her. She may be famous, but she seems to do what makes her happy. She doesn’t appear to worry a whole lot about what people think of her – and she tries to keep her personal life somewhat private. Unlike some celebrities, I haven’t seen many photographs of her out partying at the normal celebrity hot spots. In fact, she’s a bit of a self-proclaimed homebody – sort of like me!

I actually just got my first look at one of their wedding pictures. I love the aura of comfort and love that seems to radiate from their little family as they stand before the Hawaiian priest. (The little boy is Brian’s son from a previous relationship.) It’s truly one of the best celebrity wedding pictures I have seen. They look ridiculously content and I hope they stay that way for a long time to come!

Carlos by Carlos Santana Privilege Pump

Megan is picture above at the premier of her movie Jennifer’s Body. I really love her dress, and her shoes are super fun. I’m just not sold on whether I would wear the two together! If you envy her shoe look, I have a couple of great options for you that will give you the same look, but won’t cost you a fortune in the process.

First up is the Carlos by Carlos Santana Privilege Pump. This shoe will give you the same heel height Megan is sporting above. Luckily, it comes with a hidden one-inch platform to help you handle those added inches! The pattern and color palette are also similar to Megan’s shoes above.

BCBGeneration Ariel Pump

If you like the peep-toe look, the BCBGeneration Ariel Pump would be a good choice for you. It’s also a more toned down hue if you’re afraid to go for the yellow-gold look Megan selected for her movie premier. As a bonus, if you do want to pair gold shoes with a silvery dress this shoe might do the trick. There looks to be just enough of a silvery sheen in this gold tone to pull the double metallic look off!

Report Kennedy Pump

The last shoe is a personal favorite of mine. I bought the Report Kennedy Pump in black about a month ago, along with a half dozen or so of my co-workers! At 50% off, it’s a great deal. I can also honestly say they are the most comfortable pair of high heels I own. The wedge is amazing. I seriously feel like I’m wearing a pair of comfy, flat, sandals when I have these on. I can’t recommend them enough! This option would give you a golden peep-toe shoe in a similar height to Megan’s stilettos. (Sorry ladies, the black is no longer available!)

And if you’re wondering about that ring Megan lost? Don’t worry! The rumors were false, the ring was found or Brian presented her with a new bauble.  Whatever the story is, I think her finger is now sufficiently dressed!

What to Read Next on The Shoe Diaries:

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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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Sandra Bullock has had a tough time of late. I’m sure most people are aware of the issues she has been having in her marriage to Jesse James. I’ve spent the last couple of months hoping that some good news would be coming her way, while the whole time she has been keeping a joyful secret – make that a bundle of joy secret! 

According to People.com, Sandra and Jesse were in the process of adopting a newborn son named Louis from New Orleans when allegations that Jesse had been cheating on her surfaced. Although Louis had been living with the couple since January, Sandra decided to continue the adoption process on her own. People’s cover shot this week features the new mom with her son and I have to say he is adorable! Congratulations Sandra!

One of the things that strikes me most about this story is that Sandra was able to keep this a secret for so long. This is especially shocking when you consider the increased scrutiny she has had to endure over the past two months. With all of the public attention many stars face on a daily basis, I’m glad she was able to enjoy this part of her life without having to share it with the general public until she made the decision to do so.

Steve Madden Caryssa Pump

Sandra has been avoiding the limelight recently – which is certainly understandable! She is pictured above at the People’s Choice Awards back in January, where she accepted awards for Favorite Movie Actress & Favorite Comedy Movie. She’s wearing a pair of pumps that adds height while still retaining some comfort with a built in platform. If you’re looking for something similar, check out the Steve Madden Caryssa Pump. This style has a bit more of a pinkish hue, which I really like for summer! 

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It was a bittersweet evening at my house on Wednesday. Although I did get to enjoy new episodes of The Middle, CougarTown and Modern Family, I also watched the very last episode of Ugly Betty. As you probably already know, I’m going to miss it! (FYI – if you haven’t watched the finale yet and don’t want to know how it ends, you may want to skip this post.  There will be spoilers!)

I have to say, I was a little worried about how they were going to end the show. Between my knowledge of how the Columbian version wrapped up and hints of Daniel’s crush on Betty, I was afraid the writers were going to force an awkward romantic connection between the boss and his former assistant. I just don’t think there was enough of a foundation to end with Betty and Daniel as a twosome, especially if Betty gave up a dream job in London in the process. I’m glad the writers agreed! They left the possibility of a relationship open, while still allowing Betty to embark on a career that was right for her - the perfect ending!

Moda Spana Qually Pump

Elsewhere in the Suarez family, Hilda, Bobby and Justin are on their way to homeownership. Hilda was concerned that Papi wouldn’t like everyone moving out all at once, but she shouldn’t have worried. Papi turned down Hilda’s invitation to move in with them in order to finally have the house to himself. I love the idea of his character finally getting some ‘me time!’ All parents deserve some peace and quiet once their kids have grown!

Nina Colucci Sandal

Ana Ortiz is pictured here filming the final episode of Ugly Betty. Her dress was super cute, but I wasn’t as sure about her shoes. I don’t think I’m brave enough to pull off such a wild platform! If you like the style but are interested in a more conservative version, take a look at the Moda Spana Qually Pump – same cage look in a similar color without the wild base. If you’re searching for a steal, check out the Nina Colucci Sandal. There are only a few sizes left, but at 60% off it’s worth a look!

How did you feel about the Betty/Daniel ending. Do you agree that it was perfect? Or do you wish they had gotten together? Let us know in the comment section below!

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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.

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One of my all-time favorite television shows is Friends. The name is very fitting – not only do you feel like you know the characters and are personally involved in their lives, but it’s the perfect show to watch with a group of girlfriends. I remember starting to get into the show in 6^th grade with my friend Jessica, and have fond memories of watching Friends with friends all the way up to the final season during my freshman year of college.

I think it’s this love of all things Friends related that has made me take such an interest in Jennifer Aniston. From 2005’s Rumor Has It to last year’s He’s Just Not That Into You, Jennifer hasn’t been out of the spotlight very much since the show’s end – and it doesn’t look like that is going to change anytime soon! She is starring in two movies in 2010 that look to be some of her best yet.

I’ve been seeing trailers for her current flick, The Bounty Hunter, all over the place. It looks like a pretty fun concept: Couple divorces. Boy becomes bounty hunter. Girl jumps bail. Ironically, boy must bring girl to jail. It should be pretty funny, and I’m going to guess that the exes get back together in the end.

Nina Galvey Sandal

Jennifer’s ex-husband is played by Gerard Butler. Although the two have denied it, there is speculation that the two have found love off-camera as well. They have been spotted out and about, including on a recent vacation in Mexico. Maybe Jen has finally found her match!

And speaking of matches, Jen seems to have found the perfect shoes for this beautiful off-the-shoulder gown. She looks gorgeous! If you’re looking for similar footwear, take a look at the Nina Galvey Sandal. I love the girly ruffle at the heel. Not looking for a shoe in this color, but like the style? This shoe is also available in white, pink and black!

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I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about the movie Valentine’s Day. It is jammed packed with star power and seems like a cute way to look at the holiday of love. If you’re looking for something to do this Sunday, and have a willing date, I would suggest checking this out! If you don’t have much luck convincing your significant other to choose this movie over something like Avatar, don’t fret. It looks like a pretty good flick to catch with a bunch of friends as well.

Jessica Biel is one of the many stars lending her acting chops to this blockbuster. She plays a public relations rep who throws an ‘I Hate Valentine’s Day’ party. In real life, the lovely Ms. Biel doesn’t have the same problem as her big screen alter ego. She has been dating the multi-talented (and incredibly hilarious) Justin Timberlake for the past few years. In the non-romantic department, Jessica recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro for Summit on the Summit – an effort to raise awareness for the issues many people around the world face as they attempt to secure clean, safe drinking water.

Bella Vita Wow Pump

Jessica is pictured here at the Los Angeles premier of the movie Valentine’s Day. Her dress does sort of remind me of a candy cane, but on her I think it works. It is especially fitting given the theme of her new movie. To finish off her outfit, she chose a pair of simple pumps in a slightly beige shade. If you’re looking for something similar, take a look at the Bella Vita Wow Pump. It’s available in ten other colors, including red!

ROBeeZ Chubby Car

I can honestly say that when I have babies, they will be rocking ROBeeZ pretty much from birth. While in college, one of my friends’ children had the cutest pair with an ‘I Heart Mom’ tattoo design. With just that one display of cuteness, I was hooked. They are, hands-down, one of the cutest baby shoe brands out there. It doesn’t hurt that they are also made of soft, flexible material perfect for your little one’s delicate feet.

ROBeeZ Lil Man

It appears the Super Bowl MVP and his wife Brittany just might agree with me on this one. It looks like the adorable Baylen Brees (son of Drew Brees) may have made his post Super Bowl appearance in a pair of ROBeeZ. Although I wasn’t able to find a photo showing the front of Baylen’s shoes, I think the ROBeeZ Chubby Car would be a good choice for parents looking for a similar shoe for their son. The ROBeeZ Lil Man would be very cute as well!

Congrats to the New Orleans Saints on their first Super Bowl win!

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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.

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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.