outfit inspiration

Mule Time: Top 7 Open Backed Shoes for Fall

September 9, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

Fall is just around the corner, and today we’re excited to feature one of the biggest fashion trends in footwear we are seeing for the fall 2015 season, Mules! For the past few years, open-toed styles have been a popular trend in booties, heels, and other footwear. But this fall, we’re seeing a focus on the other end of the spectrum and the shoe, the heel. Mules, or shoes with open backs, have quickly moved to the top of our list when it comes to trending shoes for fall.

And while mules will most definitely be a trendy and fashionable choice during the autumn months, they are also super comfortable. There are options available in almost every height, and with both open and closed-toes, making it easy for you to find a pair to match your style. We’ve selected seven of our favorite mules below, but first, here are a few tips on how to style them from ShoeBuy’s Merchandising Manager and style expert, Courtney Barry:

“Mules are the hip, trendy sister of the clog. With the 70’s trending majorly from head to toe, the mule has emerged on the footwear runways. We are all thankful for a Fall footwear trend that is comfortable and can be worn by all! Not only can you wear them all day long, you can also pretty much wear them with anything in your closet – from a casual weekend outfit of sweaters and jeans, to a nighttime look with a denim dress.”

Have you jumped on the mule bandwagaon yet? Shop our full collection of mules here and then get out and pick some apples, carve some pumpkins, and enjoy the beautiful fall weather!

5 Cute Yoga Outfits for Fall

September 2, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

September is National Yoga Month, and we’re celebrating by sharing our favorite yoga styles and trends of the season! With the fall fashion season just around the corner, we combined our favorite athletic looks that will take you through fall stretches and beyond. Shop our top five yoga outfits below, and then head to your next yoga session in comfort and style!

The Classic Look

Prana Julia Pant | Prana Dream Catcher Top | Sperry Top Sider Son-R Flex Sport Strap | OmSutra Chakra Rivet Bag | Prana E.C.O. Yoga Mat

By choosing pants with a relaxed fit, like this elastic-waist style with a gusset for extra comfort, you are sure to stay comfy while on the mat. If you keep your bottoms neutral and stick with grays or blacks, try pairing them with a top in a more bold but still soothing color, like this green style with front empire seem and built-in bra. Complete the look with lightweight shoes (for heading to and from class) and your favorite yoga accessories in complimentary colors!

Athletic and Comfortable

lucy Studio Flow Wrap Jacket | lucy Crossback Tank | Patagonia Serenity Pants – Long | Ahnu Good Karma | Sherpani Spirit Horizontal Yoga Gym Bag

An athletic look can easily be made stylish and comfortable. Look for a moisture-wicking tank to top keep you cool while you train, and in a fun color or in a design that pops. Longer pants and a cozy wrap sweater will keep you feeling snug and warm on those chilly fall days, while lightweight and flexible shoes like these yoga-inspired ballet flats will pair nicely with your look outside of class. Finally, complete the outfit with a spacious gym bag to keep you organized and to make sure none of your essentials (including your yoga mat) get left behind! We are loving this deep purple option for Fall.

Relaxed Layers

If you’re wanting to look and feel a bit more relaxed during your next yoga session and avoid super-tight styles, add some layers to your outfit! This loose-fitting tank with a flattering scoop neck and flowy wrap will be work well at the studio and you’ll also be ready for downward dog or brunch in this look, completed with a pair of cozy leggings. And go to class armed with a pair of socks with grip technology to get you to and from your mat but also keep you warm during shavasana.

Earthly Feeling

Crescent Moon Yoga Mykonos Tank Top | Ojai Clothing Chopped Capri | Natural Fitness Eco-Smart Yoga Mat | Crescent Moon Yoga Premium Carryall | Skechers EZ Flex 2 Quipster

If you next yoga session will be held outdoors, choose soothing earth tones throughout your ensemble to get even more in sync with your surroundings! We love the calming contrast of white and browns, like this comfy tank with nature-inspired detailing paired with an eco-friendly yoga mat. To get this look, search for apparel with earthy designs that make you feel at peace!

Bright and Energized

Ojai Clothing Yoga Wrap | Prana Tandi Top | Prana Soleil Bra Top | Prana Roxanne Capri | Prana Henna E.C.O. Yoga Mat

If you’re naturally bright and energetic or enjoy a more active yoga experience, let your outfit reflect that! We are huge fans of colorful leggings (there are so many great styles to choose from these days!) and this bright, yet calming top. Gear up with a yoga mat in an equally fun color and then pair the entire look with neutral basics like this white bra top and yoga wrap.

Take the Yoga with you!

Kalso Earth Shoe Intrigue Too | Kalso Earth Shoe Cabo San Lucas 2 | Ahnu Karma Latitude

Do you love yoga-inspired fashion and the comfort of yoga apparel, but don’t always have time to participate? Take a look at these footwear styles that will give you that “yoga” feeling with you wherever you go! These shoes will keep you comfortable while on the move, and are made from all natural materials.

Ready to head to your next yoga session? Be sure to shop our full collection of yoga apparel, accessories, and shoes!

How to Style Cowboy Boots

August 27, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

Every season, new shoe trends hit the market. Trends come and go, but there’s something oh so chic about classic shoe styles. Pairing such footwear with the latest fashion trends give your wardrobe style that can’t be achieved by being a walking trend. Cowboy boots is one of my favorite classic footwear styles for its American Cowboy heritage as well as its incredible versatility.

A classic cowboy boot has a heel and pointed toes to help feet stay in stirrups more securely, stitching on the outside to reduce chafing, and a taller shaft to protect the shins. These practical details have made cowboy boots the style icon they are today, and add that unique style to any wardrobe. Below are some fashionable ways to style cowboy boots for fall.

A cowboy boot looks great with ‘70s inspired fashion; the contrast keeps it from looking too dated or costume-like, but the silhouette beautifully complements midi skirts, silk bow blouses, and boho-inspired fashions. Take cowboy boots from the ranch to the workplace by pairing with a chiffon pleated midi skirt and cashmere sweater. The Ariat Magnolia in caramel leather pairs beautifully with autumnal colors like teal, navy, berry, mustard, pumpkin and even Pantone’s Color of the Year, Marsala. Don’t be afraid to mix shades in the same color story for a version of monoblocking and a rich effect. Add the Latico Ryan Bag 7979 in cognac leather to finish the look.

Ariat Magnolia Cowboy Boot for fall for the workplace by woxy featuring a leather backpack

Once broken in to custom fit your feet, a cowboy boot will become one of the most comfortable shoes you own, making them perfect for travel and sightseeing. This look would be perfect for a day touring historic monuments and art museums, be it Portland or Paris. The Durango RD4112 11 has a worn-in look from the get-go but will only get better with time (and a few splashes from puddles). For a day about town, pair with skinny jeans, a sweater layered over a knit for fluctuating temps, and a hat to add style, keep you warm, and protect you from the elements. This Kangol Modelaine Beret is shower-proof, keeping your style even if the skies are gray and rainy. Choose a crossbody bag like The SAK Deena Flap Crossbody to keep your valuables close and your arms free for a latte, umbrella, or map. Such a bag is also a chic way to add a pop of color to your ensemble.

Durango RD4112 11 styled for fall sightseeing and tourism by woxy featuring pom pom shirts

Cowboy boots look fantastic with loose shift dresses; choose a style right at or above the knee to balance the heft of the boot. For this look I paired the Durango RD594 10 with a shift dress and denim jacket, great for a night out with the girls or the weekend. The contrast of denim and leather with a silk dress and statement necklace is always chic. With a 14.5” shaft width and 10” height, this is a fantastic style for petite women, athletic calves, or just to elongate the leg and have space to tuck in jeans or pair with thick socks.

Style Durango RD594 10 with a dress for fall by woxy featuring a tall jacket

A cowboy boot looks amazing with an outfit that has a bit of a rock & roll vibe. I love the slouchy shaft of the Durango Boot RD540 11 which gives a relaxed rocker vibe. Pair with distressed skinny jeans, but to keep it from looking too Hair Band, pair with a Breton tee and boyfriend blazer. The metallic finish and tough chain strap of the Latico Harlow Crossbody 7816 and a bold silver statement necklace make for the perfect details to complete this ensemble for Date Night or a Bachelorette party.

Durango RD540 11 cowboy boot styled for fall for a night on the town by woxy featuring a white leather shoulder bag

Are you a fan of cowboy boots? Would you consider adding a pair of cowboy boots for your fall wardrobe?

Labor Day Style: Find the Best Shoes for your Travels

August 21, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

Best Foot Forward For Your End of Summer Travels

Summer is my favorite season. The long days, the looser schedules, the chance to escape for a long weekend…

Whether you head to the seashore, the city or a country escape, there’s still time to eke out at least one more summer getaway. Here’s what to pack for a Labor Day jaunt to three different destinations.Sandy Toes and Seashells

If you’re headed to the seashore, packing for long walks on the boardwalk and shelling along the water’s edge, look no further than the classics.

Converse low tops are the perfect shoes to slip into for longer walks on sidewalks on decking. These Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Seasonal Low shoes are a perfect muted shade of goes-with everything greige that will carry you well into fall, paired with jeans and sweaters when the air gets chillier.

If scanning the coast for summer souvenirs is on your weekend to-do list, then make sure to pack a pair of these Reef Gypsylove flip-flops in your traveling bag. You’ll want to keep them in there for winter getaways as well. Reef flip flops fan the flames of year round wanderlust, offering just the right amount of light arch support paired with easy bohemian surf style.

Kick up Your Heels Country Escape

Headed for a weekend of farmer’s markets, antique-ing and a picnic by the lake? We’ve got some suggestions for that as well.

A perfect transition shoe, these perforated UGG Darling Seaweed Perf booties go great with shorts, jeans and skirts and will keep looking great on through the fall. We’d wear them on a hayride or out to the movies. They are perfect gear for a casual country evening.

For brunch with friends or a stroll around town, you can’t beat these versatile Lucky Brand Pepperr Sandals. These simple strappy leather staples are so easy to dress up or down and are a great shoulder season shoe for those times when it’s still warm enough to wear sandals, but summer brights no longer feel right.

City Adventure

Are you off to do some museum browsing, trendy shopping and sidewalk café people-watching these last few days of summer?

These Steve Madden Nonstp booties are an urban staple – sturdy enough to walk blocks in, sophisticated enough to wear into the evening hours and perfectly poised between summer and fall footwear. They’re very right, right now and add polish to almost any outfit.

If you’re taking the city by storm (on foot), or simply looking for a chance to shine, consider these comfortable Cape Clog Solids in gold. They are orthopedically healthy for your feet, but that doesn’t take away from their funky, bold beauty. The shiny gold of this shoe works perfectly right now with your summer tan. Wear these with bare feet and short or long outfits. These classic clogs will also be great this fall, worn with fun patterned socks or tights as the days grow shorter and cooler.

Wherever you are headed for the last weekend of summer, I hope you’re going in style and comfort.

Slip into these styles and other faves available from ShoeBuy on your next great escape!

Back to School 2015: Top Shoe Picks

August 18, 2015 By Shoebuy 1 Comment

Back-to-School time is almost here! This year I have 4 sons heading off to school and my daughter is heading to preschool. That’s right, 5 kids in the Back-to-School shopping craze! In all honesty, I LOVE shopping for the kids during this time of year because I really take stock in what they need and what will get some really great fashion use for the school months ahead. I’m all about finding trendy, chic; yet classic items that are going to work for my children. I’m a total lover of all things fashion, so for me – I love to make sure my children are on fashion-point for Back-to-School.

One thing I always get my children before school kicks off is NEW SHOES!

I remember buying new shoes with my mother when I was heading Back-to-School, it’s one of my fondest memories. My mom would always “just know” what was fashion-perfect for me and my sister – and she was always right! She knew what would work best with different looks and styles, and also what we would get the most use out of during the school year. I have absolutely turned into my mother for Back-to-School shoe shopping!

So what are my top picks this year for Back-to-School 2015? I’m excited to share my top picks for boys AND girls!

Let’s start with the girls! Ladies, first – right?

UGG Classic Short Sparkles

Never be afraid to add some sparkle and glitter into your look! I am obsessed with these gorgeous UGG Classic Sparkles! You could wear these with any kind of style – jeans, skirts, dresses, capris, even shorts! I love how UGG takes their classic boot and amps it up a notch with some pizzazz!! They come in different color options, too – pink, purple and silver! Have some fun and SHINE BRIGHT!

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Low

Good old fashioned Converse Chucks! You will never go out of style with a pair of Chucks. Never. I love how classic they are, but mostly how they just exude a coolness factor. There’s not many shoes out there that you can wear at ANY age and rock them like true superstars, these are THAT kind of shoe! Fabulous to have and to wear as true showstoppers, always!

Laredo Piomosa LC2242

Every girl needs a boot. And every boot needs a girl. I am ALL OVER Cowboy Boots this season. They are the most fabulous type of boot because they just work with ANY style. Jeans? They work. Skirts? They work. Dresses? They work. They are truly a staple boot for the Back-to-School season and I LOVE that! If you’re looking for a fabulous boot to get your girl, look no further!

And now for the BOYS! Since I have 4 of them, I’m pretty up on what they need and what will work best for them!

Crocs Duet Sport Clog

Crocs are always a big hit, regardless of your age and I love them. Crocs are perfect for any kind of weather and they are essential when it comes to a comfortable and well-fit shoe. Crocs can be worn with everything boys have in their wardrobes, so you truly can’t go wrong with adding a new pair each season into their shoe-closet! I am obsessed with the classic styles because they are – truly – perfectly classic.

Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Original

Every guy needs a Sperry Top-Sider, it’s just a fashion truth and necessity. Top-Siders are great for Back-to-School because it’s a dressy shoe that isn’t over the top, but it’s also not over the top casual. This is the kind of shoe that you keep in your closet and you REALLY use with your sons. A true boy-staple. Find one that fits his style and his taste and never part with it again!

Keen Newport H2 Sandal

Want a shoe that is a great cross between athletic and dressy-casual – you get KEEN. What I love about a KEEN style is that you’re getting a fabulous fit for your son, but it’s also the kind of cool shoe that can be worn with just about anything, too. You can pull off this style with jeans, shorts and khakis. Not to mention, they’re so comfortable – your son will thank you!

Back-to-School shoe shopping is FUN! Take the time to find some styles that will work well for your child(ren), but that also can truly be worn over and over and over (and over) again! After all – their feet are the foundation to everything – show them off!

White on White: Labor Day Style

August 11, 2015 By Shoebuy 1 Comment

The dog days of summer are officially here, which means that Labor Day weekend is quickly approaching. We don’t know about you, but we always like to bid summer farewell with a white hot outfit! And while wearing white after Labor Day is certainly A-OK with us, Labor Day marks the last weekend where wearing white walks the line of being a fashion faux pas. So weather you’re heading to a nearby beach, getting on a plane for vacation, or just staying right at home for a backyard BBQ, be sure to have your favorite white looks ready this Labor Day.

A white-on-white look can be achieved by pairing a white dress with your favorite espadrilles (and a fedora would be a fun touch), pulling your comfiest white pants on with a bathing suit and white gladiator sandals, or simply kicking back in white sneakers, white jeans, and a white polo shirt. Whatever you decide, you’ll look summery and stylish as you celebrate the long weekend with friends and family. If you love “all white everything” as much as we do, you won’t be able to get enough of the picks below!

Hat: Bailey of Hollywood Brooks 22721

Bags: Lacoste L.12.12 Wristlet | Casual Barn CLBS002 | Vince Camuto Leigh Cross Body

What will you be wearing this Labor Day weekend? Find the perfect outfit here!

Summer Harvest Style: Top Looks for Gardening!

August 5, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

August is finally here, which means it’s time to start harvesting all of those vegetables you have been tending to all summer long! But harvesting doesn’t have to be just about getting down and dirty in your garden. We want to make sure that you make your neighbors envious of your garden style, while also keeping you cool and comfortable while you’re watering, gathering, and kneeling. So grab one of our favorite sun hats and try one of our shoe picks below, and then all you will need is your trusty basket to start collecting all of your delicious tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, and more!

Sun Hats
Since August temperatures can be sweltering, some SPF and a sun hat are must-haves when heading out into the garden. If you can, you might want to get out there very early in the morning or in the mid to late afternoon, when the sun is lower and the temperatures are cooler.

Garden Shoes
With all of those hours spent on your feet and knees, every green-thumb needs a comfortable and durable pair of garden shoes. Look for styles that slip-on for an easy transition in and out of the house. And most importantly, styles that are rubber and easily washable are key, so you can hose them down after covering them in soil!

And once the harvesting is over comes the best part…eating! We’re sharing some of our favorite summer harvest recipes for this season below, enjoy!

2015 Back to School Trends: High School

August 3, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

The school year is quickly approaching, and it won’t be long before your teenagers are heading back to school. In celebration of the upcoming school year, we’re taking a look at some of the most popular trending styles and fashions this season to make sure you and your child are ready and eager for the year to begin! Keep reading and browse some of our top picks for apparel, footwear, and backpacks that will keep your teenager feeling comfortable and stylish this season. For any younger students, be sure to take a look at the rest of our back to school series for preschoolers, elementary school kiddos, and middle school students.

Apparel
Between classes and after-school activities, your high-schooler will have a pretty busy schedule. Look for styles that are fashionable, but still extremely comfortable! For girls, shirts with unique prints and designs will be a great complement for the rest of her outfit, while thin cardigans can spruce up any look, while adding an extra layer for warmth in cool classrooms. A colorful zip-up jacket is a great wardrobe addition for the fall weather, while a thicker long jacket will be perfect for transition from autumn into winter. For boys, polos and button downs that look casual but cool are the perfect staples for the fall. Long-sleeves and thin sweaters are also styles that you know will take your students through all 4 years of high school (or until that next growth spurt!).

For Guys: Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 Zip | Icebreaker Sphere Long Sleeve Hoodie | Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket | Lacoste Original Cotton Pique Short Sleeve Polo | Royal Robbins Bayou S/S

Footwear
The beginning of the school year is the time to take advantage of the remaining warm weather, and great sandals can set your teen up to do just that! Find a pair with unique designs and colors that match the autumn hues. Your high-schooler should feel comfortable walking down the hallways between classes, and a pair of solid-color canvas shoes are must-haves. For gym class, sports, and those outdoor activities with friends, athletic shoes need to look great, while also being functional. And a pair of boots are definitely on the list for the season, and will still compliment all of those stylish school look.

Backpacks
Classic backpacks are always in style, and this seasons packs offer a ton of space and a range of color options. A bag with bungee cords on the outside can offer a twist on the staple style, but brings great function too. This year, a few newer styles that will be popular are messenger or crossbody bags, which are still great options for holding books comfortably, or mini backpacks, which can double as purses for girls.

The North Face Jester | Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Small | JanSport Big Student | THE SAK Ventura Convertible Backpack | Hadaki by Kalencom Market Pack

Did you find some styles perfect for your teenagers? Shop them, and more, at our full collection of back to school items!

Top 10 Shoe Looks for Boating

July 24, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

Labor Day is just around the corner, and with it sadly often comes the end of one of summer’s most popular pastimes: boating.

Don’t worry! You still have a few more weeks to get out on the water and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Spend a weekend boating with your friends and family, or even just enjoy some quiet alone time at the waterside. Whatever you choose, we want to make sure that you (and your feet!) are fully prepared for the comfort & relaxation while out at sea. So today, we are highlighting some customer-favorite boat shoes for both men and women. Browse through the picks below, and then hit the boat decks in style!

Choosing the Best Boat Shoe:

Your new boat shoe should have a sole that boosts your traction, keeping you grounded on a slippery deck. The sides should be resistant to water and open enough to make your shoes nice and breathable. Don’t forget to look for a padded insole to keep you feeling comfortable even if you’re out on a full day-long adventure!

For Men

Sperry Top-Sider Leeward 2-Eye | Florsheim Lakeside Slip | Sebago Docksides | Timberland Earthkeepers Newmarket Boat Oxford | Dunham Captain

For Women

Eastland Solstice | Tommy Bahama Relaxology Castille Slip-On | Sperry Top-Sider Angelfish Boat Shoe | Grasshoppers Windham | Clarks Cliffrose Sail

Happy boating! When are you next getting out on the water? For our full collection of boat shoes, click here.

How to Wear Booties in the Summer

July 22, 2015 By Shoebuy Leave a Comment

Think boots are just for fall and winter? Think again! A great pair of ankle booties can take you through the entire year, no matter how scorching the summer temperatures may get. Today, we’re showing you 3 ways to style your favorite pair of booties this summer, and also highlighting some of our top boot picks for the season! All photos found here.

1. Booties + a Fedora
When paired with a fedora or beach hat, ankle boots are instantly given a more summery feel. Still on the hunt for that perfect Fedora? You can shop our favorites here.

Get the look: Bella Vita Raine // Jessica Simpson Cainn Bootie // Sperry Top-Sider Liberty

2. Booties + a Babydoll Dress
Dark leather boots have an inherent cold-weather feel, but you can take them into summer by pairing them with your favorite breezy dress, ensuring chic street style while also keeping cool on those hot summer days in the city! And these looks will help you transition well into early fall when the weather is still warm, but you want to keep your look light.

Get the look: Frye Reina Bootie // Lucky Brand Basel // Wild Diva Camila

3. Booties + Denim
Ankle booties will always look great with jeans. So whether it’s your cutoff denim shorts or your favorite pair of skinny jeans, pair them with a loose-fitting shirt and your favorite pair of booties for instant summer style.

Get the look: BCBG Capricorn Ankle Boot // Kork-Ease Helene //Dromedaris Kelsy Boot

Can’t get enough of these summer booties? You can shop our full collection here!