*Deal of the Week* Zappos for Mother's Day

I find it a little odd that a website that made its name on shoes offers a complete Mother's Day Guide including only slippers. Is it really that hard to buy your mother regular shoes? I guess it can be difficult with sizing, but not really when Zappos has Free Returns. For a style that every mom would probably love, Style Bard recommends these casual, comfortable, quality Hush Puppies 'Bueno' flats in Black Leather, Silver Leather Metallic or Tan Metallic Nubuck (shown); they're selling for a mid-range price of $69. And why not just get her a gift certificate to Zappos? Despite overnight shipping, this late in the game a gift certificate is actually the ideal option for a forgetful son or daughter. Then she can treat herself to whatever new shoes she wants! For a quick click-through to the gift certificate page, use the button below.

Expires: No Expiration

*Deal of the Week* Adidas Y-3 by Yohji Yamamoto

WAS: $420
NOW: $336

I. want. these. OMG. Just the right amount of athleticism and street chic, but a girl in wedges that high definitely means business. A little on the Lisbeth Salander side of fashion, but I just know I could make them work! If I only had hundreds of dollars to spend, that is; these are currently marked down but not quite enough to fall into the "writer's budget" category. Especially not with all the spending I've been doing lately. Even with Free Shipping. But oh man...I wish I had the money - or at least the guts to go broke over these.

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Sale on Zappos T-Straps

D&G DS2373 E7806 Variante Abbinata
Was: $835
Now: $388

I'm always on the lookout for new office shoes. For many people, this means a classic pump or mary-jane. For me, I think of the t-strap. This is one of my favorite shoe styles, actually. I think it's insanely flattering what a chic t-strap can do for your look in terms of elongating your leg and standing out from a crowd of typical slip-ons. Zappos has an entire section dedicated to t-straps that are on sale, like this D&G Variante Abbinata leopard-print set that was originally $835, now marked down to $388. Not that I'm saying that's exactly peanuts, but you have to admit it's a smashing sale price. And thinking of all the many ways and places I'd wear these shoes in particular, it starts to sound like a great idea. Still a little beyond my price point right now, unfortunately, but I definitely needed to share this great find with you in case you've got bucks to spare that I haven't! Or maybe just a hot Valentine's Day date that might motivate you to splurge?

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Breast Cancer Awareness at Zappos

It seems so soon, but October is finally coming to a close. In the first week of this month, Style Bard Shoes featured Pink Shoes for Breast Cancer Awareness. So instead of closing out the month with a post devoted to Halloween, this last *Deal of the Week* is devoted to brands at Zappos that are donating a percentage of their proceeds to Breast Cancer Awareness initiatives. Use the button below for a complete list of participating brands that sell products that will not only look amazing on you, but help women around the world. Including these New Balance 'Komen' slip-on cushioned sneakers which, of course, contribute to the Susan G. Komen foundation. They're less than $60 and come with Free Shipping and Free Returns.

Expires: October 31st, 2010

*Deal of the Week* Zappos Modern Vintage Platforms

Despite the site's outstanding customer service, I have to admit that I sometimes hate browsing Zappos because it can seem a little overwhelming and disorganized at times. But at least once I get the search perimeters set so that I've got a cache of wonderful shoe thumbnails staring me down, the deals more than make up for the effort that was put into shopping at Zappos. For example, clearance shoes currently include these dignified-yet-sexy 'Georgie' platform heels by Modern Vintage that're on sale for more than $100 less than they were first sold. Without any flash or hardware or bling (even the zipper at the back is all but concealed) they make a powerful impact. Because I can't stop looking at them (and can actually afford them!), they're this week's *Deal of the Week*.

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Over $100 Off Camper Boots

To me, this week's *Deal of the Week* comes just a few inches short of being the perfect LBB--Little Black Boot. I love these Camper 'Rachael' boots because they have a low enough heel in a sturdy non-stiletto shape which means they might actually be comfortable for long hours of walking and wearing. They have an elongated toe that's rounded off rather than pointy, which gives you more options for outfits. They don't have any kind of hardware, so they can be paired with any purse or jewelry. The only problem is that I wish they were a little closer to knee-high than mid-calf; I like a tall boot. Still, I do love them overall. I also love this tidbit from the website: "The slogan “Walk. Don’t Run” expresses the Camper philosophy of slow living and in the appreciation and attention to detail. These values can be found in Camper original footwear designs created with the passion and flavor of the Mediterranean." And you've just gotta love the price: $199.50, marked down from $329.95. They also come in a gorgeous, bright Chestnut.

Always Free Shipping and Free Returns

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Daniblack Espadrilles at Zappos

These are the shoes that you'll want to wear everyday once it's Spring, but which won't be on sale anymore when the weather's warm enough to remind you to buy them. Right now, they're on sale at Zappos for $40 off their original asking price, making them this week's *Deal of the Week*. These nautical-inspired 'Gambler' ankle-tie espadrilles in the colors of Americana are the perfect shoe for a Sunday in the park in May, or a picnic on the 4th of July. From quality shoe brand Daniblack, they're sure to last you throughout these sunny occasions and well into Fall. Check out the website for a picture of the shoes on and laced up, which is a real selling point. I also like this version in Pink, at a slightly higher price point.

Always Free Shipping and Free Returns

Expires: While Supplies Last

New Year's Eve Shoes

I love New Year's Eve because it means you get to dress up, hit the town and wear whatever suits your fancy. Although I typically prefer a house party with tons of friends and fabulous food, my co-hosts and I pick a year every few years to add a theme or dress code to the invitations--just to spice up the night. Because while you're going to be partying to the wee hours and it's just as tempting to throw on something comfortable as you stuff your face and get drunk off your ass, when you think about it, aren't New Year's Eve pictures the ones that get passed around all year long and used in every online photo album from now until forever? I think so. If you're going to go down in infamy wearing whatever you don on New Year's Eve, then why not dress to the nines? If I had my druthers, this year's look for me would include a skimpy, sparkly LBD and these fantastic one-night-only 'Vanderbuilt' heels by Report, which come with Free Shipping from Zappos. They are the quintessential high heel for New Year's Eve.

Expires: No Expiration

*Deal of the Week* Fall Shoes at Zappos

Zappos has an amazing assortment of Fall shoes on sale right now. To see hundreds of 'it' shoes at a discounted rate, simply visit the clearance section and narrow your search to the Fall category. Style Bard faves are these 'Jude' loafer pumps by Jessica Bennett. They epitomize the work shoe that can take you out for cocktails afterward; they hit all the marks for corporate-wear, but add little quirks and traits to sustain visual interest. Plus, that Burgundy color is quintessential autumn (they also come in classic Black and Brown). They're now on sale for only $100, making them this week's *Deal of the Week*.

Always Free Shipping and Free Returns

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Foot Petals Stiletto Stylist Kit

Now that it's summer, when we don't have an excuse to stuff our feet in ugly sneakers and winter boots (for warmth, we protest), suddenly we're looking for ways to trek around all day without killing our feet--while letting our feet breathe and showing off our new summer pedicures. So, naturally, everyone's flocking out to get Fit Flops (more on these next week) or MBTs; something comfortable and atheletic, and a little more supportive than a thong between our toes. Of course, for the sake of comfort, women are once again forced to compromise beauty. Well, no more. I suggest saving the effort and getting a Foot Petal kit from Zappos. For only $50, you can wear all of your gorgeous high-heeled sandals without worry of foot pain. The Stiletto Stylist Kit (pictured) comes with insoles, back-of-heel cushions, heel cushions and ball-of-foot cushions. They don't just add comfort and support as you walk, they add grip between your sole and the shoe, so your weight's not sliding down against the shoe straps, creating additional pain. And if you are still leaning a little heavily on your thongs or sandal straps, the kit also comes with strap cushions to provide extra comfort. Every piece can be trimmed down to fit into even the slimmest pair of sandals. Foot Petals kits allow you to keep your style while strutting for hours on end in any pair of shoes, so instead of investing in a new pair of ugly athletic sandals for summer, try these first. If the whole kit doesn't appeal to you, Zappos also carries an assortment of different packages and comfort shoe options ranging $40-$64.

Expires: No Expiration

*Deal of the Week* Taryn Rose Oxford Flats from Zappos

This week's *Deal of the Week* is for the nontraditional dresser who likes to add a little Annie Hall to their wardrobe now and then. These 'Burda' oxford flats by Taryn Rose are handmade in Italy and padded for extreme comfort. Love 'em? Well they're now over $200 off their original price at Zappos, so grab 'em up while supplies last at this new low price point.

Always Free Shipping Both Ways

Expires: While Supplies Last

Last Day for Free Shipping from Aldo!

Today is the last day for Free Shipping from Aldo (which I personally think they should feature at all times to stand up to competition from the likes of Zappos, 6PM and Endless). So if you're being a bad girl and eyeing some full-priced, new arrival shoes, such as Style Bard faves, the beguiling 'Shrewsberry' sandals in Cognac (a mix-breed of styles such as...gladiator? Victorian? roller skate?), then at least you can justify the expense by saying, "Hey...if I buy them today at least the shipping is free!" That's one way to save a few bucks and still have the hottest, freshest must-have looks on your feet the minute the weather warms up. East Coasters (my peeps) have until 3am, while those in the Pacific time zone only have until midnight to shop.

Expires: March 29th, 2009

Election Day Shoes

It's Election Day, and that means it's time to exercise your right to vote! Now, I know polling lines can be a hassle; I early voted and stood in line for an hour and a half. So I thought that these comfy, patriotic 'Virgo' flats were absolutely ideal to represent what you want to be wearing when you go to vote. Made of blue suede and splashed with red and white accents, they're perfectly all-American, even though they're by French Sole. Are you dressing up in red, white and blue today?

Expires: No Expiration

*Deal of the Week* 25% Off Christian Lacroix

I don't know about you, but where I am it is overcast and cool today. Which just puts me in the mood for a little weather-themed pick-me-up. And nothing says drizzly fall afternoon like these grey satin beauties from Christian Lacroix. It's a way to wear the mood without letting it get you down. And they've just been marked down by 25% on Zappos, which means you can splurge on a decadent pair of lacey stockings to wear with them. It's friday night; so forget the weather and let these booties inspire you to dress up for a night on the town.

Always Free Shipping

Expires: While Supplies Last

*Deal of the Week* Dolce & Gabbana for Fall

A fantastic find for Fall, these Dolce & Gabbana pumps are now on sale for almost $100 off their original price at Zappos! They'll help you transition through the seasons with a little peeptoe (it's not too cold just yet!), which would look cute over statement tights. And yes, the bigger statement will be that you can wear white after Labor Day!

Expires: While Supplies Last

Shoe Scavenger

One of the Style Bard's many talents is shoe scavenging for others, whether they're looking for a hard-to-find size or just the perfect style to compliment a certain outfit or activity. This week has randomly brought in a slew of requests, and I was tickled to find one of them at a favored read, Tomato Nation.

Check out the query here.

And here's the feedback from the Style Bard:

Oh man, finding once-spotted shoes can be like chasing the dragon. They become a thing of lore, the equivalent of men's "I once caught a fish this big..."

Thankfully, this is something people often ask me to do for them and I'm pretty good at it. In this case, since we're a few seasons off, it makes sense that I haven't found your exact pair, but there are a few in the same vein:

Glider by Penny Loves Kenny
http://zeta.zappos.com/product/7341157/color/3

Wimbley by Delman
http://zeta.zappos.com/product/7283751/color/11415

Caraway by Easy Spirit
http://zeta.zappos.com/product/7374823/color/4418

And if none of these works for you, just let me know which characteristics you loved the most (quilting, patent toe, wedge, strap) and I can find you a bevy of suggestions tailored to what you're looking for at Style Bard Shoes (www.style-bard-shoes.blogspot.com).

Same goes for all of my readers: always feel free to ask me for assistance locating a shoe! I'll even do my best to fit it into your budget, finding the best price, and extras like Free Shipping. If nothing else, the Style Bard looks at shoes all day, and she loves a good chase.

Shoes News

Here are some interesting thoughts/links:

The science of footwear. I'm the patron saint of comfy sensible shoes -- I'm known for it among my female friends, in fact (who are not always complimentary about my workmanlike choices) -- but that doesn't mean I can't branch out once in awhile and be truly stylin'. Who says women can't be smart, serious, 100% professional, and still totally rock a pair of hot pink pumps if they want to? (Or asphalt-stomping Doc Martens, if that's your preference. To each his/her own.)
[ . . . ]
The upshot is, be smart about your choices, but wear the styles you like, whether it be sexy stilettos, ballet flats, platform wedges, comfy Tevas, cowboy boots, or anything in between. After all, ever since humans began wearing shoes, the accessory has been as much about status and fashion, as about practicality and comfort.
[ . . . ]
Or perhaps, as Dawn once said in an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it's just because "Everyone loves a slender ankle."


How do we take feminist bloggers seriously if they post about shoes? Occasionally, I get emails from men who tell me (rather dubiously) that they really want to get on board with the whole feminism thing, but they really wish I'd stop blogging about shoes, or my marriage, or too many clasps on my trousers. I have to be serious, they tell me, if I want to be taken seriously.
[ . . . ]
Making the personal public and political is serious business. Because women's stories aren't told, it's incumbent upon female feminists to tell their own stories, to fill that void, to be unrepentant and loquacious raconteurs every chance we get, to talk about our bodies, our struggles, our triumphs, our needs, our lives in every aspect. It's our obligation to create a cacophony with our personal narratives, until there is a constant din that translates into equality, into balance.

*found on Bitch PhD, who first posted these gorgeous Pucci sandals which are now 40% off at Zappos. (That gorgeous pattern, btw? "Geranium Marine Satin." Love.)

Up to 75% Off from 6pm.com!

6pm.com is an amazing shoe site spun off of my favorite, Zappos. 6pm offers the same user-friendly template, where you can find the shoes you're looking for by Brand, Size, Price, Color, etc. and everything your search returns is going to be up to 75% off. I like the way that these Hype Blast wedges play with trends. They have the floral pattern that are so prominent right now, but they're subtle enough that the shoe works as a neutral. There's a cute feminine bow that's also done in a delicate way, not overpowering the rest of the shoe's complex design. Now they're almost half off! Check them out in Sable or Black.

$6.95 Flat Rate Shipping on your whole order.

Expires: No Expiration

Easter from Zappos

Here's a special dress slide perfect for this spring holiday occasion: Hale Bob's 'April' from Zappos. These bejeweled, patent purple beauties are aptly named, as their design suggests an elegant floral bouquet, or looking into a bright Easter basket, and they would be perfect for any time you want to feel decadent. Affordably priced at $100, these would be a great addition to your closet this season. Don't be afraid of colors and adornments! Get them now.

Free Shipping both ways.

Expires: No Expiration

St. Patrick's Day from Zappos

St. Patrick's Day is the perfect time to point out one thing I love about Zappos. You can find shoes that specifically meet your criteria, by selecting what you're looking for not only by color (green) but also by style, height, size, width, or price. When I need one kind of shoe, I go to Zappos first because it's just so easy. These festive Nine West 'Favorly' d'orsays are perfect for celebration this Irish holiday, in green satin with sparkling rhinestone accents.

Always Free Shipping both ways!

Expires: Limited Time