Don't Be a Tough Guy

After I bought the Bluemarine dress from YOOX.com, I determined that I had absolutely no shoes that would properly go with it. I really wanted to pair something strappy but modern and a bit tough. I have some lovely sandals and pumps but not a lot of "tough" shoes.

But I'm finding that I'm more and more drawn to these shoes. I think perhaps, my horizons have been widened by my stylish blogger friends.

I am very covetous of these Gucci Sevigny sandals. The wide strap and double buckles give it the edge but I love the shape of the heel. Nine West did a knock-off of these but, even though they are far more wallet friendly, they just are not executed that well. I'd rather go without than get a shoe so poorly done.

Since those are not likely to be bought any time soon, I've been looking for another option that jumps out at me. These sandals from Nine West are pretty good. I like the strappyness but I wonder if they are dressy enough. They're $80 which isn't too bad




But I think these Everless sandals are more the look I'm going for. The triple straps and toe strap give it sort of a dominatrix-y look which is more my kind of tough.



I'm not sure if I'll get either. I'm sure they would come in handy but I don't need them that quickly. I'm actually sending the dress back. It had a rip in a seam and for the price it was (even way marked down) I don't want to have to worry about it. It is a gorgeous dress though. Now I just need to find another going out dress that I can wear one of these heels with.

Imitation = Flattery?

Okay, I know I just expressed a renewed fondness and admiration for Nine West but I am now sort of feeling mixed about them because the similarities between these two shoes is too close to be coincidental. I thought Steve Madden was bad but this is pretty blatant.

The top shoe is the Sevigny Heel by Gucci, available for $695 on Saks...



A very striking patent heel with a fashion-forward style. I love the wide strap, giving a new twist to a double-strap mary jane.

Now, here's the Nine West Olavera, in pre-order for $79 on NineWest.com ...



Hmmmm.... that's pretty darn close if you ask me. I'm kind of shocked and dismayed that they are so closely copying this. They also did the shoe in gold, which I actually like better than the Nine West black, but both look kind of shoddy next to the Gucci pair, especially in the heel shape.



Thoughts?

Also, is Chloe Sevigny really a style icon? I know she "takes risks" with her wardrobe, but really, does anyone like her??? Maybe it's just me.