While we recover from an amazing vacation in the Big Easy, we invite you to remember that sometimes all you need has nothing to do with the season’s it bag or newest shoes…

Ask Alexis: Check my footwork

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Q: Can I wear lime suede cap toe pumps this fall (see photo)? -T. C. B., Trussville

A: Why not? I love unexpected color combinations in any season, and wearing pastel into fall and winter is a very modern and fresh approach. However, when styling your look make sure the rest of your ensemble reads “fall” or “winter” as appropriate. So as the season changes, don’t pair these with lightweight fabrics. Try anchoring these pumps with a monochromatic outfit in pewter tones (like charcoal coated jeans and a relaxed, knit top or chunky sweater), tribal-print harem pants or tops, or even with camo-print! Just leave them at home when it’s rainy out, and invest in a suede shoe repair kit (with a stiff brush and protectant spray) to keep them in tip-top shape between wears.

Got a style question? Ask Alexis! Send your questions to alexis@samechicdifferentday.com.

Fall fashion at Belk is ‘seriously chic’

Even if we haven’t quite reached fall on the calendar, the crisp temps and arrival of pre-season football are putting many of us in the mood ahead of time. As you search for the perfect items to accomodate the cooler weather, Belk is ready with the top trends you need in your wardrobe this fall.

At Belk’s recent fall fashion preview, Arlene Goldstein (Vice President of Trend Marketing and Fashion Direction) suggested that shoppers embrace texture, pattern and the clever use of color in “entertaining pieces that will blend well in your wardrobe.” Before you grab something off the rack, consider whether it will add value to what you already own. “Fashion should liberate us, not fence us in,” according to Goldstein. “You can wake up every morning and be whoever you like.” (For more with Ms. Goldstein, click HERE.)

With that in mind, here are four key statements you may make this fall.

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MODERN MINDSET: This is a sleek, architectural look with boxy shapes, juxtaposing the large against the small, and featuring “punk” influences like zippers and studs and dramatic optical or graphic patterns.

PAST PERFECT: Vintage, textile-driven pieces with more subtle effects. Neutral palettes, lace detailing, and embellishments are hallmarks of this look. And if you’ve grown bored with the platform soles we’ve seen for several seasons, single-sole pumps are back.

GLAM GLOBETROTTER: Pattern-mixing is key to this look, which includeds one of my favorites: animal print! Goldstein also notes, “Don’t limit shiny things to evening! Wear your glitz before six!” Tiptoe into this trend by trying a beaded or sequined top worn under a jacket; don’t wear a cocktail dress to work, darlings.

JUST DANDY: This “town and country” look features contemporary classics with a bit of a twist. Think plaid and houndstooth and military touches like brass buttons and epaulets. Flat boots and smoking slippers are part of this look.

One of the most exciting collaborations at Belk this fall is the new CYNTHIA Cynthia Rowley footwear line. The shoes feature details such as studs and ankle straps, which are on-trend for fall. Four different options are available online now, and each is a totally wearable, high-quality addition to your fall wardrobe. I tried to pick a favorite (I’m leaning toward the “City” pump), but honestly, they are all amazing and affordable (in the $90-110 price range). Check out the “Halo” pump, “River” flat, “Chelsea” bootie and “City” pump! Can’t decide between the various heel heights? Buy them all.

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Happy shopping!

Toss some sequins, darlings: it’s our 500th post! Thank you for supporting Same Chic Different Day! – Alexis

Images courtesy Belk

Summer essential: Sam Edelman ‘Gigi’

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I know I’m supposed to be transitioning to fall footwear, but can we talk about the chic simplicity of a Sam Edelman sandal? Sigh.

I’m just purchased my third pair, the ‘Gigi’ in new nude leopard, and I have a feeling I probably should have bought two because these will probably get worn out. They have a comfortable padded footbed, come in a variety of neutral colors and fun patterns, and can be worn with dresses and denim. Coincidentally, Gigis have also been spotted on the Kardsashian sisters. They’re just a well-made, fashionable, reasonably-priced sandal ($65, unless you catch a sale). I bought mine at Zappos.cm, but the Sam Edelman line is also sold locally at Belk.

(And yes, my love for certain animal prints is almost as fierce as my love of bedazzling. This shoe is a perfect “baby step” toward incorporating it into your look without your ensemble screaming “Fierce Kitty” to onlookers.)

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In other news, J. Crew Factory is open at The Shops of Grand River! They’re offering 20% off on purchases of $125 or more, and you can register to win a $200 gift card.

Happy Shopping!

Images via Zappos.com

C is for Chic

Feeling a little nostalgic today as the kids head back to school?  I don’t have children, but I certainly miss “back to school” shopping each summer!  And there’s no reason why we can’t update our own wardrobes with items sure to make the grade.  My shopping list always included items to mix and match: new kicks (sneakers for gym class and a pair for “fun”), a few pairs of slacks and denim, at least one cozy sweater and a snazzy bookbag; below you’ll find looks for the diva who’s still schoolin’ life.

Clockwise from top left:  Forever 21 “Tres Chic” sweater, $22.80; Forever 21 Leopard-print harem pants, $19.80; Steve Madden Realove, $79.99 at Zappos.com; Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM, $980, also available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Nike Air Pegasus 83, available at Zappos.com

Images via Forever 21, Zappos.com and Louis Vuitton

J. Crew Factory coming to the Outlet Shops of Grand River

JCrewFactoryLaunchToss some sequins! Although the J. Crew Factory website says we have to wait until August 21 for it to open, The Shops of Grand River are welcoming J. Crew Factory to the area this morning. CAN. NOT. WAIT.

While you’re celebrating and getting some amazing deals throughout the Shops, be sure to stop by Summer on the Plaza while it lasts. Summer on the Plaza features games, giveaways, music and even a Starlight Cinema! Click HERE for more details.

The Outlet Shops of Grand River are located at 6200 Grand River Boulevard in Leeds.

Happy shopping!

Image via J. Crew Factory

News you can use: back-to-school giveaways!

If you’re in the market for back to school items, or maybe just something special for yourself, be sureto check out these two contests going on NOW at Colonial Brookwood Village and the Riverchase Galleria:

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*Colonial Brookwood Village is offering a $1000 gift card giveaway via its Facebook page. Be sure to Like their page and register to win via the “Register to Win” tab.  Giveaway ends August 20, 2013.

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*The Riverchase Galleria is offering a Back to School Fashion Rules Sweepstakes via its website. Enter to win a $5000 scholarship, a Lenovo Ideapad, or one of hundreds of gift cards.  Increase your chances of winning by entering daily.  Giveaway ends August 18, 2013.

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