Image Courtesy of (lauren nelson)

If you’ve been following our wedding blog post series, you may have noticed that we’ve been sprinkling some wedding advice into our writings each week. If you’re getting married or know someone who is, we want to help you out! We’ve compiled all our hints into one convenient blog post for you to read or share with your friends and family. Have some other great advice to share with our readers? Please leave us a comment and let us in on your bits of wisdom!

Wedding Dress + Shoes = Alteration Hints:

1)      If you plan well, you may be able to use your wedding shoes to save on alteration costs. Dress too long? Try a pair of higher heels. Dress already the perfect length? Stick to a pair of flats.

2)      Don’t forget to bring your wedding shoes or a pair with a similar heel height to your alteration appointment. You don’t want to have your dress altered for flats and end up with a four inch heel! 

Be Bold – Wedding Shoe Color Hints:

'Something Blue'

1)      Wearing blue shoes will help you cover your ‘something blue.’

2)      If you’re a bride looking to tie in colorful footwear, a tea-length dress can really help to show off a colorful pair of heels.

3)      If you choose to wear a lighter hued shoe, be sure to watch your step during any outdoor pictures to avoid soiling your shoes!

4)      Colorful shoes make a cute statement as the only pop of color in an otherwise black and white wedding picture.

5)       It’s a fact of life – white shoes may get dirty. If you’re worried, bring a pair of flip-flops to wear anytime you’re outside and not taking wedding pictures.

Reuse Your Shoes and Other Shoe Style Hints:

Honeymoon Ready!

1)      Choose a pair of wedding shoes that will transfer well to the honeymoon. An embellished women’s sandal is a great option for a dual wedding-honeymoon shoe.

2)      Buy a pair of shoes in a color and style you would wear again. It’s a great way to get more mileage out of a pair of shoes you love! (And a great excuse to buy a pair of cute high heels.)

3)     Choose a shoe you can wear with other outfits. Whenever you wear them you’ll be reminded of your walk down the aisle! A pair of colorful, fancy flats would be a great everyday shoe to pair with a wedding dress.

4)      Choose a peep toe shoe to show off your wedding day pedicure.

No Pain, No Gain? Hints for Preventing Sore Feet:

Wedge = Comfort

1)      A wedge helps to give you the height without the hurt.

2)      Practice wearing your wedding shoes around the house before the big day to get a realistic idea of how your feet will feel after a few hours in them.

3)      Be comfortable, and choose a style you are used to wearing to eliminate sore feet that night or the next day.

4)      If you aren’t used to wearing high heels, don’t introduce your feet to them on the big day! Get a similar heel height, preferably in the same brand as your wedding shoe, and work to incorporate that style into your day-to-day life. By the time your wedding rolls around you should have no problem with the added height!

5)      If you’re worried about your feet making it through the whole day, bring along a pair of cute flip-flops to the reception. You can even go barefoot for the dance if you’re comfortable doing so – I did!

6)       You never know how your feet will feel on your big day. Be sure to create a bride emergency kit that includes band aids for any unexpected blisters.

Image courtesy of [lauren nelson]

Rachel K.'s Elegant Wedding Dress

Wedding season has just gotten underway, but our wedding shoe series is drawing to a close. Our final model is another ShoeMall employee – Rachel K. Her dress is a great example of a timelessly elegant wedding dress. The cut, style and simple embellishments make this a dress that has the potential to be fashionable many years into the future. Who knows, if she has a daughter someday it may even become a family heirloom!

When pairing shoes and accessories with an elegant dress, you have a couple of options. You can choose to play into the timelessness of the style and choose classic and simple styles. Some possibilities include a veil with a blusher or drop veil and a pair of elbow length gloves.  You can also take the opportunity to add an edge to your outfit with more modern extras.  I’m thinking a birdcage veil and chunky necklace would be a couple of great options.

Shoes for an Elegant Wedding Dress

Are you wondering what type of footwear might go well with an elegant wedding dress? Our fashionistas are here to help! They have chosen some great options in a variety of styles. Let’s take a look at their suggestions.

Beacon Felicia Pump

If you’re looking to add a vintage edge to an elegant dress, Pepsi suggests the Beacon Felicia Pump. She loves the marriage between vintage and romance in this bold pump. The cushioned footbed and thicker stiletto will help to make this 3 inch heel a little more comfortable on your feet. At only $49.95, this shoe is pretty easy on your wallet as well! TIP: If you plan well, you may be able to use your wedding shoes to save on alteration costs. Dress too long? Try a pair of higher heels. Dress already the perfect length? Stick to a pair of flats.

Jessica Simpson Milana

Should you want to go the timeless route and stick to a pair of classic white pumps, Rachel recommends the Jessica Simpson Milana Pump. The classic silhouette is a great example of the classic d’Orsay style. Although this is certainly a more traditional shoe, I think the cutaway side gives it a bit of a playful edge. This shoe many not last long – it’s current 50% off at $39.99. BONUS: The peep toe on this shoe will help to show off your wedding day pedicure.

Unlisted TV List Sandal

If a modern edge is more your style, Anna proposes the Unlisted TV List Sandal. Although the style is fairly simple, the back bow adds a punch of ‘now’ to this shoe. I really like that this sandal looks like it’s tied around the ankle, but is actually secured with a hidden zipper. Although shoes tied on with ribbons/fabric are in right now, they may not be fun to deal with on your wedding day – especially if you’re not used to wearing them! This is a great compromise if you’re looking for that type of a style. Plus, at $49.95 you won’t have to compromise your budget getting the shoe you want! TIP: It’s a fact of life – white shoes may get dirty. If you’re worried, bring a pair of flip flops to wear anytime you’re outside and not taking wedding pictures.

What to Read Next on The Shoe Diaries:

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Princess Wedding Dress

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Colorful Wedding Shoes

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Outdoor Wedding

Photo by David Kennedy Photojournalism

This week, I get to reflect back on my own wedding! It’s hard to believe how much time has gone by since I put on my wedding dress and walked down that aisle. It was definitely one of the most memorable days of my life – a feeling I’m sure most newlyweds share! I was one of the first of my friends to get married and have recently had the pleasure of helping a few of them pick out their own wedding dresses. I’ve definitely had dress envy! When I got married I desperately wanted a mermaid dress, but couldn’t find many options. Now they’re everywhere! This style, coupled with retro accessories and birdcage veils, is one of my favorite wedding trends of the year. What’s yours?

Colorful Wedding Shoes

When I was in high school, I remember reading a book called Diary of a Mad Bride. One of the details that stuck out to me was the difficulty the main character had picking out her wedding shoes! At the time, I remember thinking that was crazy – how hard could it be to find a cute pair of shoes? Later, as I was planning my own wedding, this became one of my sticking points too! I was not yet working in the fabulous world of shoes and spent countless shopping trips looking for just the right pair – sassy high heels in bright colors I could wear again. I couldn’t find anything and ended up stuck with a pair of white heels left over from some other outfit. Such a disappointment! If only I’d had the help of our resident shoe experts Rachel, Pepsi and Anna I may have ended up with something vibrant to wear myself!

Enzo Angiolini Maylie Pump

If you’re like me and looking to jazz up your wedding dress with a pair of colored heels, a huge trend this wedding season, Rachel recommends taking a look at the Enzo Angiolini Maylie Pump. This hue is a great punched up version of one of Pantone’s top fashion colors for Spring 2010 – Aurora. If you’re getting married in fall, this color would still work well. Pantone is listing Golden Glow as a hot fashion color to watch for Fall 2010 – a near perfect match to this shoe! TIP: If you’re looking to wear a lighter hued shoe, be sure to watch your step during any outdoor pictures to avoid soiling your shoes!

Andiamo Life Sandal

Another hot color trend this spring that doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon is purple. If you’re looking to incorporate this color into your wedding outfit, take a look at Pepsi’s suggestion – the Andiamo Life Sandal. The back strap on this shoe will help this style to stay in place throughout the day. TIP: If you’re worried about your feet making it through the whole day, bring along a pair of cute flip-flops to the reception. You can even go barefoot for the dance if you’re comfortable doing so – I did!

Carlos Santana Calico Sandal

Our last recommendation for a brightly colored, fun pair of wedding shoes comes from Anna – the Carlos Santana Calico Sandal. I’m loving this sexy pair of red sandals with a hidden platform. Although this heel looks sky high, that platform will help to make this shoe much more comfortable for the average bride. I can see these shoes getting a lot of use even after your wedding is over. How cute would they look with a pair of boyfriend jeans? BONUS: These shoes will definitely make a statement and would look adorable as the only pop of color in an otherwise black and white wedding picture.

What to read next on The Shoe Diaries:

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Tea Length Wedding Dress

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Outdoor Wedding

ShoeMall’s Shoes to Say I Do – Grecian Wedding

www.MomentsCapturedPhoto.com

We’re excited to announce a new blog series here on The Shoe Diaries. Over the next couple of months, we will be adding a new blog post each week to help brides-to-be and their wedding parties get ready for their upcoming nuptials. The plan right now is to focus on shoe styles that work well with some of the hottest wedding dress styles of the season. Our resident shoe experts Anna, Pepsi and Rachel will be offering their suggestions and advice each week. If you would like to see anything specific or have a dress you want some personalized advice for, please let us know in the comment section below! 

Grecian Wedding

The lovely lady pictured above is actually our very own fashionista Rachel! Not only is she in the know when it comes to the latest shoe styles, but she is a newlywed herself. Her wedding style is a perfect example of the Grecian trend that is sweeping all aspects of fashion right now, from shoes to dresses to jewelry. As you will see in the shoe suggestions below, one good thing about bridal style is that it is so easy to individualize. Just because you’re wearing a Grecian wedding dress, you don’t necessarily have to follow through with a Grecian shoe. You can feel free to mix and match the styles you are most comfortable with. 

Fergie Joust Sandal

 Anna’s suggestion for this dress style is the Fergie Joust Sandal. This shoe is a classic shape for a wedding. The back heel and ankle strap really help to provide support for the bride planning to be on her feet for hours on her special day. The detailing on the t-strap front adds bling and personality to an otherwise simple shoe. I also have to agree that a 3 ½ inch heel is a good choice for many brides. It will give you the lift you’re looking for without going overboard. BONUS: the added height may help to cut down on some of your alteration costs.

Nina Calinda Sandal

 Although these shoes weren’t available in time for Rachel’s wedding, she suggests the Nina Calinda Sandal. This shoe also has an ankle strap to provide support. I’m sensing a t-strap trend here as well! One of the things I love most about this choice is the braided straps. The slightly more casual vibe created by this detail really matches well with the Grecian look. Although this shoe has a 4 inch heel, the designer used a wedge to add comfort to the shoe. If you’re looking for a lot of height but aren’t used to wearing high heels a wedge might be a good choice for you. TIP: Practice wearing your wedding shoes around the house before the big day to get a realistic idea of how your feet will feel after a few hours in them.

Yellow Box Finite Sandal

 Pepsi’s choice hits on another big trend this wedding season – brightly colored shoes! She selected the Yellow Box Finite Sandal in turquoise. Sandals are a big part of the Grecian trend, so this shoe will fit in well with many Grecian wedding dresses. The EVA sole will also help to keep your feet comfortable all day.  Don’t be afraid to expand beyond basic blue! I have a feeling we will be seeing some more colorful shoes as the weeks go by. BONUS: Wearing a blue shoe will help you cover your ‘something blue.’

What to Read Next on The Shoe Diaries:

Summer 2010 Shoe Buyers Guide – also from Rachel, Anna & Pepsi

‘Getty Up for Fall 2009 – trend update from Rachel

Growing Up a Steve Madden Girl

The Perfect Pair of Wedding Shoes

Photo By PRPhotos.com

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!

Photo By PRPhotos.com

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!

Photo by PRPhotos.com

The Winter Olympics are back! Some years I really get into the games, and some years I don’t. This year – I’m loving it! I was looking forward to watching speed skating, but have found myself interested in a lot more than just this. Skiing and snowboarding have really caught my attention, and I have even found myself fascinated by the game of logic that is curling. (Shocking, I know!)

Although I have dabbled in many sports, I am definitely not what anyone in their right mind would call an athlete. Watching these contestants going up against the best of the best in their sports drives this point home even more. It’s hard to imagine finding the drive, grit and sheer determination to train as hard as these athletes must in order to reach such a high skill level.

Steve Madden Spiin Sandal

The men’s and women’s snowboard halfpipe events were incredible to watch. The flips, grabs, spins and twists were awe inspiring to me. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t have the courage to push myself to the speeds and heights that these snowboarders reach! Although it would have been nice to see the US sweep the podium in either event (as the announcers kept hoping for) it was still pretty cool to see our athletes winning 2 of the 3 available medals in each event.

Zigi Friend Sandal

Gretchen Bleiler was one of the US competitors in the women’s halfpipe last night. Although she did not receive a medal, it wasn’t for lack of trying. While she was a favorite going into the finals she just couldn’t seem to finish a clean run, crashing on both of her two attempts. It’s too bad she didn’t win a gold medal to pair with her silver from the 2006 Turino games. It also would have gone well with the gold sandals she’s pictured wearing above! If you’re looking for something similar, check out the Steve Madden Spiin Sandal. The Zigi Friend Sandal also carries through a similar style, with a touch of one of spring’s most fashionable shoe trends – understated studded details!

Photo By PRPhotos.com

Jon Gosselin has certainly been causing quite a stir this week! First there was the news that he would no longer be included as a headliner in the TLC show Jon & Kate Plus 8 – soon to be known as Kate Plus 8. Next came reports that Jon was delaying his divorce from Kate for 90 days. The one-two punch came yesterday when Jon announced that he was using the legal system to halt all production of his show. He followed this revelation with a revealing appearance on the Larry King show.

According to CNN.com yesterday’s interview included many details on the filming of the Gosselin reality show, along with insights into Jon and Kate’s relationship. Jon doesn’t feel the show is good for his kids and wants to give them a more normal childhood. He implied that TLC took advantage of his family by not providing payment specific to each child. Jon also claims that Kate told him a year ago that she wanted to separate from him. He wants to create a civil relationship with Kate, but seems to be receiving no encouragement from his estranged wife.

I don’t know what to make of all this drama. I have watched this show since the beginning and am really saddened by the direction this family has taken. It’s hard to know which side is telling the truth, and even harder to figure out if it’s any of our business! It does seem that the best step for the family is probably to halt filming, at least temporarily. I hope they are able to work something out that will benefit everyone involved – especially the twins and sextuplets.

Rocket Dog Fairway Sandal

One solution may be for Jon and Kate to pursue individual show business careers. Kate seems to have her heart set on her own talk show. Jon is pictured here hosting a party in Las Vegas. Whether he chooses to continue hosting events or not, Jon does seem to have a knack for dressing the part. His outfit is the perfect casual mix needed to host a pool party in Vegas. Find a similar shoe choice in the Rocket Dog Fairway Sandal. October is the perfect month to stock up on discounted summer essentials for next year – including flip flops!

Photo By PRPhotos.com

Ok – I’ll admit it. No matter how hard I tried to resist, I was eventually sucked into the Twilight saga. After almost a year of subtle hints, pointed comments and near begging from friends I agreed to read the first book. I thought I would read the first few chapters, not be too interested and go back to my normal fluffy novels. In actuality, I neglected all household chores and other nonessential tasks until I finished the book. My friends were right, I loved it! (Thanks guys!)

It looks like our obsession with Twilight isn’t going away anytime soon. People.com today posted an exclusive sneak peek at the Volturi from New Moon, out in theaters this November. I’m excited to see how the second installment of this series will play out on the big screen. I can’t wait to see Dakota Fanning’s portrayal of Jane!

The Twilight movie recently picked up eleven winning surfboards at the Teen Choice Awards, including awards for best villain, liplock and movie (drama). Ashley Green picked up her own award for her role as Alice Cullen in the movie – winning the Fresh Face Female (Movie) category. She’s pictured here arriving at the Teen Choice Awards wearing a pair of fun red high heels. The ankle-strap adds an extra sexy flair.

Luichiny Duchess Sandal

 If you’re looking for something similar but don’t have the budget of a vampire who can see the future of the stock market, take a look at the Luichiny Duchess Sandal. It even has a sassy bow to make it really stand out in a crowd. 

(Yes, I purposely ignored commenting on her outfit. I’m not sure what I think of it! Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.)