My life in pictures

Top Row L-R: Toms Jadon Wedge, Pamela Love Tribal Necklace, Big Star Denim
Middle Row L-R: Dresses @ Show & Tell, Awaken Cafe, Candid Art Hand Chain
Bottom Row L-R: Vintage Dodgers Tee, Baggu Leather Bags, Jeffrey Campbell Heels 

What I Want Now: Shoes with a POC

Clockwise from Top Left: Neon Tipped Vellies- Schier Shoes, Stripe Oxford- Sarah Smith, Lunargrand- Cole Haan,  Recreation- Civic Duty

Convert Shoes Opening Fete

The Window at Convert
Photo by Lindsay Isola 

I am a shoe fanatic! By this I mean I have an insatiable, undying love of footwear from sneaks to the highest heel and everything in between. I'm not quite sure when my love of shoes started -it might just be genetic. My mother seems to have the same affliction and regularly acquires new styles to add to her impressive collection. Or, once again, it could be the influence of my dance career. Every dancer knows that even though we abuse our feet with countless rehearsals, jamming them into pointe shoes, etc that they really should be cherished. I look at cute shoes as the perfect reward for the body parts that have taken me the farthest in life.

Given my obsession it is not hard to imagine just how excited I was to get an invite to celebrate the opening of eco-chic Convert Shoes. For the last year Convert has stocked fashionable and well made apparel and accessories for the Bay Area's ethically minded style set.  The new shoe store follows in the same vein and also features an exclusive collection of Jeffrey Campbell X Convert vegan styles in addition to brands like TOMS, NATIVE, and, a new fave clog brand, Maguba. The party hosted by well known bloggers Anne, Krystal, and Erica was a total blast and of course I picked up a new pair of shoes! See more pics from the event below!

Host Anne, Erica, and Krystal
Photo by Lindsay Isola

Lovely Chocolates + Shoes= Heaven!

PACT Socks made by Wind Power- Awesome!

Love these TOMS

Need a pair of these Maguba Clogs immediately
Photo by Lindsay Isola

Me and my new Palladium Kicks
Photo by Lindsay Isola

Photos are my own unless otherwise stated.

Fashion = Fun

The combo of these socks and shoes is a great reminder that at the end of the day fashion is about having fun.

Photo via Vogue.com by Phil Oh

Bootie-licious Part Deux: Miss New Bootie

Me showing off my booties!

A couple weeks ago I wrote about how I was in search of the perfect pair of booties to take me through fall and winter. Well ladies and gents today i hit the Jackpot! I scored not one, but two pairs of equally awesome booties that I plan to rock with everything. Thanks to the good folks at the GAP my feet will be fitted for fall!  

Compared to all the other boots I have been eyeing these babies were a steal ringing in at under $100 per pair. Peep the specimens below:

This badass leather ankle boot also comes in black and brown leather, but I could not resist this intoxicating shade of aubergine.

I can already tell that these stamped leather boots are going to be in heavy rotation this fall. They are sooooo comfy and will add the right dose of edge to any outfit. I am giddy thinking about all the things i can wear them with!

I am urging you- run, don't walk to the Gap to get a pair. 

You won't be sorry!

Women Enough Bare Event + Breezy Black

Last Thursday I skipped Fashion's Night Out, one of my favorite events of the year, to attend Women Enough's unveiling of their "Bare" add campaign to promote healthy and diverse body image and self esteem in Women. I was lucky enough to participate in the add campaign. It was an amazing experience with a diverse group of lovely women and lots of sexy shoes!

The picture above is one of my favorite shots from the Bare campaign and perfectly shows off all the amazing shoes. I wore my own pair of Prada color block heels for the occasion.

When I was deciding what to wear for the event I naturally started with the shoes I wore for the photo shoot. A breezy strapless black dress from BCBG and subtle cat eye makeup completed the look.

 

 Posing with the lady of the evening WE founder Michelle Fetsch

There were some awesome prizes raffled off at the event including a $100 Show & Tell gift certificate and a massage.

Several of the ladies at the event were rocking some seriously sexy shoes. I snapped a couple pics of the fashionable footwear.

Bisou + Business Blues

After  a lovely vacation in Barbados (updates to come) and a quick trip to Vegas I am back in the Bay and back to business. On Thursday I had a couple of meetings to attend and errands to run so I wanted to be comfy by still look pulled together.

Dressing for casual business meetings when you are in a creative field can sometimes be a bit of a conundrum, but I find that a clean dark wash pair of denim is always a good base to build upon. On this occasion I rocked my new Raleigh Denim straight leg Union Denim.  Adding a flirty printed blouse, neutral Pierre Hardy for Gap wedges, and a vintage LV clutch made for a look that was both fun and business worthy.

I love the lip print and asymmetrical ruffles on this blouse.

My hair is growing out so I decided to pull my hair up on top into a quasi french twist. It was so easy to do and gives me a different look than my normal afro. I really like how it turned out so this might become my new go to hairstyle.

I love this vintage clutch I "borrowed" from my Mom. I love it so much she is probably never getting it back!

Look Good, Feel Better: My Fave Cause Based Brands

TOMS X The Row: The Row teamed up with TOMS to turn out a luxurious, limited edition collection of cashmere and Italian wool TOMS for fall. For every pair of TOMS purchased a pair of shoes is given to a child in need. Photo via TOMS.com

When my partner and I started toying with the idea of opening show & tell we knew that we didn't just want to open another boutique selling pretty things. If we were going to open a store of any kind it had to be meaningful in some way. Months of brainstorming yielded the ambitious mission of stocking our shelves solely with fashionable goods that are about more than being stylish. In our effort to shift the paradigm of retail in this country we sought out local lesser know brands that are produced in the U.S., goods that are made using fair trade, ethical and sustainable practices, and brands that directly benefit underserved members of the global community.

At first I thought our lofty mission would be a challenge to uphold, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a bevy of brands out there that are doing amazing things. I am particularly partial to cause based brands that do something tangible for every one of their products that is purchased.  Being an avid shopper there is always something for me to covet, but knowing that I can choose to spend my money on products that help to make a difference is even more rewarding than how great said product will look with my latest outfit.

While TOMS is a superstar in the cause based game, with a 1 for 1 promise, comfy shoes, and a new line of sunglasses, there are several other brands out their doing amazing things.

Here are the deats on some of my other faves:

Who: Good Society

Good Society Women's Skinny Fit Denim- Photo via GoodSociety.org

What: This brand packs a lot of punch producing Sustainable, Fair Trade, Organic Denim. As if that wasn't enough they also donate 1/4 of their profits to local and international project like the SA Foundation, that provides support for women who have been victims of or are in danger of sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Where: To purchase and learn more visit www.goodsociety.org

Who: Warby Parker

Warby Parker X Suno- Photo via Refinery 29

What: In addition to offering fashionable and affordable sunnies and specs Warby Parker has teamed up with non-profits like VisionSpring.org to offer a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair they sell. Soon to come a collaboration with the pattern masters of Suno.

Where: Get your glasses and find out more at www.warbyparker.com


Who: Falling Whistles

Hamptons Rose Necklace- Photo via FallingWhistles.com

What: Falling Whistles has turned the weapon of children on the front lines of the war in the Congo into a tool to help rehabilitate these children and turn them into activist for human rights. Through a partnership with community leaders in the Congo and with funds raised through the sale of the FW necklaces and other products children of the war are taken through a 4 stage program that includes education, arts, and other skill building programs.

Where:You can purchase a necklace and learn more about how you can help the situation in the Congo at www.fallingwhistles.com



Who: Freewaters Sandals

Women's Tropicali Sandal- Photo via Freewaters.com

What: California based Freewaters makes your new favorite pair of flip flops that feature an ergonomic design and eco-friendly materials and production. When you purchase a pair of Freewaters sandals you provide access to clean drinking water for 1 individual for 1 year.

Where: See the full line of sandals and learn more about the clean water projects at www.freewaters.com

New Camera/ Basics + Brights

On Friday I tested out my new camera with an impromptu photo shoot before heading out to the  Oakland Art Murmur . I am pretty pleased with how the pictures turned out and I'm super excited to have better quality photos to share with you all! 

Bay Area summers are notoriously cool so my look was all about easy layers. I am also still obsessed with neon so I try to work it into my look whenever possible.

I am experimenting with bright lipsticks and I love that this lipstick matches my scarf!

Men's Jeans-  vintage Gap, Tee- Joe Fresh, Jacket- vintage Gap Red,
Ballet Flats- Gap.com, Scarf- J.Crew,  Bag- Cambridge Satchel

Lived in jeans, striped tees, military jackets, and ballet flats are wardrobe staples for me. The scarf and bag add fun pops of color. 

I love my new glitter snakeskin city flats from the Gap. They are super comfy.

I am seriously considering buying this bag in every available color.

Budget Buster vs Bargain Buy: Jeffrey Campbell Edition

Left: Prada Platform Brogue $795
Right: Jeffrey Campbell Ad Long $165

Some say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. While I am not sure that everyone in the fashion industry would agree there is something to be said about making high end fashion ideas accessible to the masses.

While I find knock offs that try to pass as the real thing super annoying sometimes I am on the fence about brands that take high fashion ideas and turnout something similar ( sometimes very similar) at a much more reasonable pricepoint.  The peeps at Jeffrey Campbell, on the other hand, seem to have no problem with this practice whatsoever. In addition to their own unique designs they continually turnout lower priced versions of designer footwear.

I am currently lusting after their Ad Long, an excellent stand in for the Prada Platform Brogue that I have had my eyes on. In addition to the Ad Long I've included some other JC imitators below for your viewing pleasure and I'll leave it up to you to decide if they are cool or not.

Left: Charlotte Olympia Bananas is My Business Shoe $1700 

Right: Jeffrey Campbell Fruit Bowl Shoe $159

Left: Yves Saint Laurent Gipsy $795

Right: Jeffrey Campbell Jenna $145



5 Ways Dance Influences My Life and Style

Performing my own choreography at Duke University in 2008

Maybe it was the google homage to dance icon Martha Graham on what would have been her 117th birthday or the article about ABT soloist Misty Copeland in the New York Times  or maybe it was my friend Phaedra getting back into dance and musical theater after years away.

I'm not exactly sure, but after a self imposed year hiatus I find myself feeling like I did when I was a kid, dying to be in in the dance studio. Ready to stretch my body and more importantly my mind.



L: Me taking a break at the barre during a college dance class,
R: My first performance in San Fran

I started dancing when I was four and never looked back. I spent the bulk of my elementary and high school years in a dance studio or on a stage perfecting my craft. Although I took a slight detour for college I always maintained my goal of someday becoming a professional dancer.

I was lucky enough to get my first professional gig right out of college and for a couple years dancing was my primary line of work.

Some may wonder what exactly this has to do with fashion and style and I agree the link is not necessarily the most obvious, but for me the influence of dance on my personal style has been quite important.

Top 5 ways dance has influenced my life and style

#5-Ballet Flats are a girls best friend
I am obsessed with ballet flats. I own numerous pairs in almost ever possible incarnation and color. One would be hard pressed to find me out during the day in something else. They are the perfect shoe for running errands and side walk dance offs, should the need arise.

#4-Long live leggings
I know the trend has kind of died, but these comfy leg coverings will always be in regular rotation for me. While black ones are always a surefire win colorful ones are a great way to incorporate the ubiquitous spring 2011 trend of bold color.

#3-You only have one body, treat it well
Self loathing has become way too popular these days and I am really kind of over it. Suffering or hurting your body in the name of fashion is played out. Every one of us was given a body that is unique and special. It is about time we start treating our bodies that way. Who cares if years of  developing amazingly strong thigh muscles doing grand plies (a more graceful version of a deep squat for non- dancers) means skinny jeans are not my thing- Flares are back in style anyways!

#2-Individual style- never duplicated, but always admired
Josephine Baker is one of my dance and style icons. What I admire most about her is that she turned what was seen in her day as a negative ( the color of her skin and lack of formal dance training) into a positive. In the 1920's she took Europe by storm with her individual looks, voice, and dancing and along the way helped to break the color barrier and became a fashion icon. There hasn't really been anyone like her since. Her style and story was incredibly influential this season. Check out Prada's spring 2011collection for proof.

#1 Express yourself
Blogging, dancing, even getting dressed in the morning are all amazing creative outlets for me. Some days I thank my lucky stars that a regular gal like me is fortunate enough to be able to share what makes me special with the rest of the world!


L: Pointe Shoes,
 R: My first pair of designer shoes were "pointe" inspired Gucci Heels



Crazy for Cobalt

Bracelet by Max and Chloe, Striped Purse by DVF, Sunglasses by American Apparel, Striped Tote by Fendi, Watch by KR3W,  Foldover Clutch by Clare Vivier, Ring by Rachel Roy, Striped Espadrille by Kate Spade

I am completely smitten with all of the cobalt, azure, and royal blue accessories out this summer. Blue hued accessories paired with rich neutrals and crisp creme and white are the perfect way to create a summer look that will sizzle!

Photos via Shopstyle and seevivier.com

Measure Up?

Your style surely will in these unique Christian Louboutins. 
I love them!!
Photo via Neiman Marcus

Retail Math # 3: Much like Michael (Kors that is)

Lately I am all about slouchy, relaxed looks and Michael Kors Spring 2011 runway was all about easy, breezy American style. I'd love to rock this Kors inspired look for a weekend escapade in the city or while strolling along at an outdoor mall or flea market on a sunny day.

My favorite part of this look is that the lax-ness of the easy, knit top and full skirt are balanced by the rich, earthy-luxe texture and color of the accessories.  



Items from L-R: JCrew Whisper Linen Boatneck, Dooney and Bourke Crossbody Satchel, Zara Long Skirt, Ralph Lauren Brown Embossed Belt, Ecote Platform Crisscross Sandal





Sneak Peek: Studded Converse

I have an intense shoe habit. I always have and always will. While I love the added height of a high heel and the comfort of my ballet flats there is something about dope sneakers (or tennis or trainers- whatever you like to call them) that I can't resist. The more unique (read: weird) the better. I guess I am what you would call a true sneaker head.

Over the years I have put together a collection that I am pretty proud of and that's why I decided to do a regular post called Sneak Peek where I share pieces from my collection and a little more about what defines my personal style.

First up- my Green Studded Converse. I am generally not a converse type of girl, but when I stumbled upon these on the Free People website a couple years ago I knew I had to have them. Converse have an innate ease and the studs add the requisite edge the really compliments my style.

Retail Math Lesson #2: Going for Gucci

I am kind of feeling a '70s disco vibe this week. The seed was planted earlier in the week when I created a Disco inspired bridal look taking cues from Bianca Jagger and the Spring '11 runways, where white and '70 styles had a major moment.

 From there the next natural step was to tackle recreating a look from Gucci's Spring 2011 runway where '70s era sexy was on full display. As always, I had a blast looking for pieces to pull the look together.

Check out how it all adds up below:

Lesson #2: Gucci Spring 2011

Going for Gucci :

Asos Twist Detail Bodysuit, American Apparel Sash Belt in Teal, BCBgeneration Maya Clutch , Cheap Monday Juliana Drape Pants, OPI nail polish, Topshop Logan Blue Metallic Platform

Going For Gucci spread put together on Shopstyle.com

Gucci Runway Photo via Style.com