Banana Republic Shoes Under $100

Banana Republic has a section called "Hot Items Under $100" and I was excited to check out what hot shoes were being featured. Unfortunately, some poor, misguided editor decided that shoes did not merit being featured on this list. What could be hotter than a pair of fabulous, affordable shoes?! So I decided to check out the current selection of seasonal shoes at Banana Republic, and I've decided that the 'Kisha' woven sandals in Silver are the hottest shoes for less than $100. Runners-up include these (the color is called Black Raspberry!) and these (which were previously picked as an SB fave in February). If you apply for a "Banana Card" then you'll automatically receive 15% off your next purchase. And if you -have- a Banana Card, you'll get Free Shipping on your order of $100 or more. Or you can do absolutely nothing and shop the sale section to immediately receive discounted prices on your Banana Republic shoes, such as these sexy platform pumps which are on sale for only $54.99.

Expires: No Expiration

All Aersoles Shoes 50% Off at 6PM!

This week only, shop Aerosoles comfort shoes at 6PM to save at least 50% off the retail price! Style Bard faves are these 'Picnic' sandals in Pink (just one of the eight colors available). Isn't that just the perfect name? I feel that I would wear these quite a lot; the upper trim is actually patent, and the shine would add that extra POP to any outfit! Prices will go back to normal on Saturday, so check out all of the great styles while the sale lasts.

Expires: July 3rd, 2009

Guess the Faves & Win Free Shoes from Avenue!

Avenue is a store for normal-sized women, featuring apparel sizes 14-32 and shoes from sizes 7-13 in regular and wide widths. The house shoe brand, CloudWalkers, is always on trend with a great variety of styles; for example, right now you can find metallic sandals, flirty wedges, comfy flip-flops or even office shoes--all qite reasonably priced. In fact, there are so many cute styles in so many sizes, that there's truly something for every woman this summer. But one look stands out above the rest. After some consideration, I picked a Style Bard fave from the current collection of CloudWalkers shoes. It's between:

1) Tatiana Beaded Wedge Sandal:




2) Pricilla Snake-Embossed Wedge Sandal:



3) Fiona Croc-Embossed Slide:




In the comments, guess which shoe is the SB fave and tell me why (be sure to check out other color combinations on the site, as well). Simply by guessing, you'll be entered to win your favorite pair!

Leave a comment by July 12th, 2009. Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you with the results.

I'll announce the real SB fave and the winner on July 13th, 2009.

*Shoes in Review* June 21st-28th

Here's a quick review of the previous week's posts, recapping what's in effect this week and what's expired.

Sunday

BOGO at Payless - Expiring This Week - June 30th, 2009

Monday

10% Off + Free Shipping on Steve Madden Shoes - Limited Time Only

Tuesday

Lime Tag Sale at Piperlime! - Expires July 19th, 2009

New (York City) Blog! - No Expiration

Wednesday

New Shoes from Catherine Malandrino - No Expiration

Thursday

Two More Days to Save 25% Off Steve Madden Shoes - Expired

Friday

*Deal of the Week* Jean Paul Gaultier Boots - While Supplies Last

Saturday Note from Style Bard
Check back tomorrow to find out how you can win free shoes! I know, I'm such a horrible tease. ;P ~SB

*Deal of the Week* Jean Paul Gaultier Boots

I know, I know. Right now you're sitting behind your desk and mentally packing for your 4th of July weekend getaway. The last thing you want to see is a pair of knee-high boots on sale at ShopBop. But I just can't help it--these beautiful winter boots are now 70% off! We both know you're not slaving away at work just to blow over a thousand bucks on new boots this winter, but if you shop now, you can have these (and many other off-season designer shoes) for a much more affordable price. I believe these particular Jean Paul Gaultier 'Tall Houndstooth Boots' are down to just a few sizes, so if you love 'em you might have to shop quick! And be sure to check out the other amazing steals in the 70% off section at ShopBop.

Always Free Ground Shipping from ShopBop

Expires: While Supplies Last

Two More Days to Save 25% Off Steve Madden Shoes

But, you're wondering, -which- Steve Madden shoes are 25% off? Can I get a pair of comfortable flats to wear around town? Can I grab a pair of sexy heels for my hot date? What about sandals or wedges or---? Yes, yes and yes. You pick the shoes, you get 25% off (SB faves are these 'Bianna' sandals, which remind me of gypsy summers and far-away lands). Steve Madden has offered a very generous code that will automatically reduce the price of any shoe on the website. Just enter WELOVECJ25 when you go to check out. But that's not all. You'll also receive Free Shipping on your entire order. So what were you saying about needing new flats, sandals or heels? You know what, nevermind--just head over there and grab them before this incredible deal ends.

Code: WELOVECJ25

Expires: June 26th, 2009

New Shoes from Catherine Malandrino

I'm not always a fresh-off-the-runways kind of gal (nothing's ever on sale!) but hey, I still appreciate a fabulous pair of high-end heels (much as one appreciates unicorns and world peace and happily ever after). Here are two of my favorite styles from Catherine Malandrino's S/S 09 Catherine Maladrino line:

"Slingback Espadrille"
"Criss Cross Espadrille"

And two from the more exclusive S/S 09 Malandrino line:

"Pascal"
"Claudel"

Swoon! If only, if only. These can all can be found at the designer's new site at www.catherinemalandrino.com.

New (York City) Blog!

Hey SBS fans!

Don't forget to check out my newest blog (!!!), which discusses NYC style. It's hosted by UK-based lifestyle site T5M.com, and the premiere post is hot off the press:

"Hello, New York City!"

Let me know what you think!

Appreciatively,
~SB~

Lime Tag Sale at Piperlime!

It's time once again for the fabulous Lime Tag Sale at Piperlime!! Why am I excited? Because this means that most shoes on the website are 50% off--and when you shop, you get Free Shipping and Free Returns! It's almost overwhelming to encounter such widespread discounts; personally, I'm better at choosing from a smaller selection. Like right now, I need some breatheable walking flats, but I'm torn between the 'Ianna' by Sam Edelman, the 'Floral' by Corso Como and the 'Lilly' by Lovely People. So I've decided to ask the audience! Which do you think are the best style for the best price?

 You Pick the Faves!

• 
  
  'Ianna' by Sam Edelman ($79)


• 
  
  'Floral' by Corso Como ($130)


• 
  
  'Lilly' by Lovely People ($59.99)

view results

Feel free to let me know why in the comments.

Expires: July 19th, 2009

10% Off + Free Shipping on Steve Madden Shoes

For a limited time, when you subscribe to the Steve Madden email newsletter, you'll receive 10% off your next purchase. On top of that, you can take advantage of Free Shipping for a limited time when you use SMFREESHIP as your promo code at checkout. I suggest combining these offers with the amazing savings in the Sale section, where you'll find options like these inexplicably attractive 'Daanger' peep-toe heels. You might have noticed that I never select faves that are ashy Grey or Brown, but there's just something about these that I like. Well, they're on sale, plus 10% off, plus Free Shipping, so why not stop examining the 'why' and just get them, hmm? (PS--no, I have absolutely no idea why there is a Sale section, a Clearance section and a 25% Off section, but I assure you they're all different, and I like the many options! Don't forget to check out the Under $50 section, too.)

Code: SMFREESHIP

Expires: Limited Time Only

BOGO at Payless

Yay! I love this announcement: it's time for BOGO at Payless! From now through June 30th, when you buy any pair of shoes, you'll get the second pair (ofequalorlesservalue) for 50% off! For starters, I love these shiny shiny Montego Bay Club 'Vallin' sandals. They're now $22.99 and they would dress up any casual outfit and compliment most summer dresses. But there are plenty of wedges and heels and sneakers available as well. Take your pick--then take 50% off your next pick! Man, I love this sale (yeah, I shop Payless and I'm not ashamed). Let me know if you get anything good!

Expires: June 30th, 2009

*Shoes in Review* June 14th-20th

Here's a quick review of the previous week's posts, recapping what's in effect this week and what's expired.

Sunday

Last Day to Save 25% Off Hot Topic Sneakers - Expired

Monday

BOGO on Sandals from PacSun - Limited Time Only

Tuesday

Last Day to Save 25% Off Sandals at Aldo - Expired

Wednesday

FitFlops at Bliss World - No Expiration

Thursday

Last Day for Free Express Shipping on Father's Day Shoes - Expired

Friday

*Deal of the Week* $30 Off Whooga Ugg Boots for Style Bard Readers! - Expires August 12th, 2009

Saturday Note from Style Bard
What did you think of the FitFlops review? Have you said a similar experience with them? This week, we're looking at some hot new shoes by Catherine Malandrino, and I'm trying out a new polling feature. *fingers crossed* We've also got a contest coming down the pike (yay, free shoes!), as well as a review on Havaianas sandals. Plus, did I mention that there might be...a new Style Bard blog? Things are bustling over here, so you might want to add me to your feed (using the handy app in the sidebar), friend me on FaceBook (StyleBard Host), or join the Style Bard News newsletter (check out the sidebar) to keep up with everything! ~SB

*Deal of the Week* $30 Off Whooga Ugg Boots for Style Bard Readers!

Whooga (a company that sells ugg-style sheepskin winter boots) has generously created a discount code exclusive to the readers of Style Bard Shoes! All you have to do is enter code STYLEBARDS to receive $30 off your next order from www.Whooga.com. Sure it's a bit early to be thinking about the frosty nips of winter, but savers are those who plan ahead and shop off-season, so if you think there's a chance you'll need new weatherproof boots this winter (I sure do) then shop now before this special promotion expires! Thanks Whooga!

Code: STYLEBARDS

Expires: August 12th, 2009

Last Day for Free Express Shipping on Father's Day Shoes

Tsk, tsk. So you haven't picked out anything for Dad yet? Well, good Googling, because you've come to the right place! How about a pair of fantastic shoes? Whether Dad is sporty, dressy or casual, there's the perfect footwear for him to be found at Shoebuy. Choose a pair of shoes from the QuickShip section and your order will be sent to you via Free Express Shipping; that way, you're sure to have the perfect gift ready and waiting for Dad by Father's Day. Options range from Crocs to Mephisto, with pricing from $25.45-$949.95. Style Bard faves are these handsome-yet-casual, moderately priced oxfords by Zota. But with 4,289 styles of men's shoes to choose from in the QuickShip category, you're sure to find the shoe that's perfect for your unique Dad.

Expires: Midnight, June 18th, 2009

FitFlops at Bliss World

Ever since FitFlops hit the market (I covered them a few years ago when they were still fairly new and mentioned by the NY Times), there's been hullabaloo about whether or not they "work" and how comfortable they are to actually wear. Early on, I remember hearing a lot of horror stories about the uncomfortable thong that actually made toes bleed. I have to admit, I have been skeptical for the past several years. But then I thought, well, this brand is still going strong. They're selling out in the latest styles and more and more retailers are carrying this shoe design. If they're really not worth it, why would people continue to spend $40-$60 on a pair? And if it were all hype, wouldn't that hype have died down over the years?

So at long last I got my hands on a pair of FitFlops. Now I am prepared to give you the real and honest run down about "the flip flop with the gym built in."

Read the Full Review

I decided to go for the 'Electra' style for two reasons. One, they're a newer model, so I was hoping to find an improvement on engineering from the first round of sandals that were hitting the market two years ago. Two, they're so pretty! Sorry, but I have to choose sparkly shoes over athletic shoes pretty much always. (Though I have to admit, it was a tough choice between those and the shiny patent 'Walkstar3' style.) The only option I was wary of were the white-bottom sandals, because if these are to be shoes I wear all the time, I didn't want them to get absolutely filthy, as they're apt to do on the streets of New York City.

When my sandals arrived, I wore them around for several days in a row. And here's the scoop: no bloody war wounds from wearing FitFlops! Seriously, I don't know what older styles were like, but these are the most comfortable pair of sandals I've ever owned. I mean, sure, my Havaianas (more on these soon) and Old Navy flip-flops are comfortable, too, but they just don't have the arch support and sole padding that FitFlops provide. The thong isn't exceptional, but it's no more or less comfortable between my toes than any other pair of sandals.

So, the overall report is a solid A+ from me. But let's get right down to some of the nitty-gritty details that I bet y'all want to know, the kind of details you can't get from generic product descriptions.

1) Quality: At first I was worried about the quality. Surely, I thought, they could not adhere teeny tiny sequins to a sandal that is meant to be worn athletically. After several days of wear (and upon close inspection) those decorative discs aren't budging anytime soon. Furthermore, on the first day out of the house it began pouring on me. Suffice it to say, these shoes can get soaking wet and dry out fine.

2) Appearance: They look just as cute peeking out from under jeans as any other sandals! I'm enjoying the little extra sparkle in my step though, and when I'm doing "junk errands" I often grab my beat-up Old Navy flip-flops instead, because I don't want to waste the pretty new Fit Flops.

3) Fit: All retailers of FitFlops recommend buying a size down, but the shoes only come in full sizes. I typically wear either a 9 or 9.5, so I bought a 9. I feel that the top fits a little loose, but it's something I get used to after walking around for awhile. I believe an 8 would have been too small, but an 8.5 would have been perfect! Too bad. Fit Flops apparently bases their sizing on a European model that's a little more wide than the average American footbed. Apparently, this is something they hope to amend in the near future.

4) Comfort: As stated above, these sandals are super comfortable, and rank above all the rest of my (many) sandals and flip-flops. I have walked around quite a lot in them without noticing any discomfort, and I often pause to note just how comfortable they are. I wouldn't recommend running or hiking in them, however, due to the slight looseness stated above. Definitely buy a supportive athletic sandal with a back if you intend to go jogging or work out.

5) Price: I paid $59.99 for my Fit Flops and received Free Shipping. This -is- a bit much, considering that the rest of my shoe wardrobe consists of sandals that cost $2.50 (Old Navy), $12 (gold dress sandals), and $18 (Havaianas). Then again, I did just purchase Shane & Shawn sandals for $50 (including shipping)(more on these another time!), so I guess $60 isn't so exorbitant. I am enjoying them but I can't say for sure yet if I'd buy them again at the same price when these are old.

...but do they tone your legs and butt? Well, I've only had them for about a week, so it's hard to say. Sometimes (especially when walking up and down stairs) I do feel like I'm working harder. Other times, when I'm just strolling around, there's no demonstrable difference. I will say that I think the arch support and overall engineering do provide health and wellness benefits to your legs and back (as compared to a totally flat shoe). So hey, if it is burning a few calories while being super comfy and preventing future backaches, then that's just icing on the cake.

You can get your pair of Fit Flops by visiting BlissWorld.com. For a limited time, you'll automatically receive a free tote bag and Free Shipping when your order totals $50 (just the right price for your new shoes)!

Last Day to Save 25% Off Sandals at Aldo

Want to see an instant 25% reduction on women's sandals from Aldo? Use the button below to enter the Aldo Clearance Section by using the code 5489548. Today is the last day you can receive this quarter-off discount on beach thongs and dressy high-heeled sandals, and everything in between. These laid-back 'Decena' sandals are available in five colors, and they're all going for the sale price of $22.49. Plus, for a limited time you can also take advantage of Free Shipping on all orders! With the two deals combined, there's no excuse not to go ahead and splurge on those new summer sandals you've been vying for all month long; the only trick will be grabbing your faves before this deal expires or sizes run out.

Code: 54895468

Expires: Midnight, June 16th, 2009

BOGO on Sandals from PacSun

For a limited time only, when you buy one pair of sandals at PacSun, you'll get the second pair of equal or lesser value for 50% off! Now that's a BOGO I can get behind. Last week I mentioned this deal in relation to some other offers, but today it gets its own post. And while last week we looked at some more trendy sandals, this week we're featuring flip-flops: 'Bellows Python' by O'Neill. PacSun has a wide variety of colors and styles from which to choose, so whether you're shopping for something sporty or looking for stylish sandals, you're likely to find what you need. A set of everyday sandals plus a spare set for the beach is the perfect pair for your BOGO shoes.

Expires: Limited Time Only

Last Day to Save 25% Off Hot Topic Sneakers

Today's the last day to use checkout code HOTKICKS to take 25% off your new sneakers from Hot Topic! From funky retro high-tops to these classic Converse All Star Low Tops in Red, you pick the sneakers (or skate shoes) and you'll see the discount. Chucks are available in several other colors and patterns in low top as well as high top styles. They're available in men's and women's sizes.

Code: HOTKICKS

Expires: Midnight, June 14th, 2009

*Shoes in Review* June 7th-13th

Here's a quick review of the previous week's posts, recapping what's in effect this week and what's expired.

Sunday

20% Off on Father's Day Shoes - Expires June 21st, 2009

Monday

MBT Sale at The Walking Company - Limited Time Only

Tuesday

Take an Additional 20% Off Adidas Shoes - Limited Time Only

Wednesday

Anne Hathaway's Red Carpet Shoes - No Expiration

Thursday

20% Off Steve Madden Shoes for Father's Day - Expired

Friday

*Deal of the Week* Jersey Ankle-Tie Wedges at Old Navy - While Supplies Last

Saturday Note from Style Bard
Oops, sorry guys! FitFlops review postponed from last week to Wednesday of this week--be sure to check it out! ~SB

*Deal of the Week* Jersey Ankle-Tie Wedges at Old Navy

I love these 'Jersey Ankle-Tie Wedges' from Old Navy, and the coveting shall commence. They're $29.50 for the colors seen here, but two ribbon color options for $25 and another two for $20. That's a great deal for these frivolous summer shoes, and I love that there's a style for every girl, as long as she can put up with the high heel on the wedge. They caught my eye immediately and that's why they're this week's *Deal of the Week*.

Expires: While Supplies Last

20% Off Steve Madden Shoes for Father's Day

It's not too late to get Dad a great gift this year. Steve Madden is offering an exclusive 20% off code--CJDAD20--from now through Father's Day. Expedited shipping options will help you get Dad his new shoes on time. Style Bard faves are these funky and casual 'Propel' slip-ons in Blue, from the helpful section called 'Under $100.' If your Dad is cool enough to pull these off, my hat is off to him. If not, the same style also comes in a more wearable Black or Brown.

Code: CJDAD20

Expires: June 12th, 2009

Anne Hathaway's Red Carpet Shoes

As I was perusing pictures from the Tony Awards last night, one actress in particular caught my eye: Anne Hathaway. Always Best Dressed, Hathaway looked stunning in a classic look: the LBD and red shoes. Not just any LBD, but a delicate strapless number by Oscar de la Renta. Naturally, it was the shoes that caught my eyes. Of course, a satin peep-toe in red is almost always going to be knock-out, so I decided to see how they compared to her other red carpet shoes. And my half-cocked theory turned out to be true--Anne Hathaway is a toe-show-er! What I mean is, time and time again, she's confident to show off her perfect pedicures in a pair of open-toe or peep-toe shoes.

Here's a look from February, at the Independent Film Awards:



And here's one from the October 2008 ELLE Magazine Women in Hollywood Tribute:



But my favorites might just be these complicated beauties from the premiere of Rachel Getting Married:



Evidence from earlier years includes the following:



Thus confirming my suspicions that Anne Hathaway is proud of her petite little feet and her well-cared-for toes. Somehow, this only makes me like her more.

[Guest written for and cross-posted to www.Shudoo.com. Check it out for an affordable version of Hathaway's red carpet shoes.]

Take an Additional 20% Off Adidas Shoes

For a limited time only, Adidas sneakers and shoes in the Outlet section, which are already reduced by up to 50%, can be had for an additional 20% off! Just choose a pair of sale shoes and use code SAVETWENTY when you go to check out. Now we all know that I don't like sneakers, but if I had to pick a pair of faves, Iid choose these stylish Gold-trimmed 'Miridu 2' sneakers, which were originally $75, but can now be yours for less than $42. They also come with Silver accents. Through June 10th, 2009, they'll also be shipped to you for free (as will all orders of at least $49) with code SHIP49 -- but the discount lasts a bit longer, for a limited time.

Code: SAVETWENTY

Expires: Limited Time Only

MBT Sale at The Walking Company

I love MBTs. I saw a woman in an otherwise lackluster outfit wearing a pair on the subway, and I was immediately envious of her. So when I saw the ad for the MBT sale at The Walking Company, I got immediately excited (even if they're still out of my price range, alas). However, if you've been coveting a pair and you're ready to take the plunge, you'll be happy to hear that they're now up to 40% off their original price. MBTs rarely ever go on sale, so this is a huge opportunity to save major dough; if you think you're going to be buying these sneakers (which claim to tone your tush, thighs and calves while burning extra calories and providing back support as you walk), buy them now. Plus, every pair comes with Free Shipping!

Expires: Limited Time Only

20% Off on Father's Day Shoes

For a limited time, you can save 20% on any total purchase from Shoebuy by using promo code DAD when you go to checkout. Style Bard faves for dad are these attractive, comfortable Skechers 'Urbantrack Forward' sneakers, just as suitable for lounging and casual wear as they are for athletic pursuits. They also come in black with white accents, and white with black accents. Wanna use the code to buy shoes for yourself, not pop? Don't worry; I won't tell.

Always Free Shipping and Free Returns

Code: DAD

Expires: June 21st, 2009