RAISING THE BARRE (vacation series)

WHY: You’re an iron woman. Your body knows no limits. Whether you’re a professional or recreational athlete or not, you put the concept of the ‘weekend warrior’ to shame. Whether you love the mental clarity of long runs, hikes, or yoga, fitness is a part of your life; maximal health and wellbeing your mantra. Your daily life emphasizes physical activity, and your vacation will be no exception.

WHERE: The Pure Barre client retreat (keep an eye on the website for updates). The most recent retreat was based in Denver, Colorado, where devotees took workshops and private group classes with technique founder Carrie Rezabek Dorr, then relaxed at the Ritz Carlton Hotel Denver.

WHAT: You’ll spend most of your time here doing what you came to do: work out. Workshops and private group classes will allow you to really ‘go deep’ with your practice, improving your technique and precision over the space of just a weekend. Pure Barre, created by Carrie Rezabek Dorr, is a barre-based blend of dance, yoga and Pilates and takes an athletic and strenuous approach to isometric strength training. Pure Barre focuses specifically on the zones most women struggle with – the arms, thighs, butt and hips, and abs – and sculpts your body more efficiently and quickly than you’d ever think possible. By focusing on each muscle group one-at-a-time, and then immediately stretching them out with yoga-derived stretches, you’ll strengthen and lengthen, shaping long, dancer-like muscles, at the same time developing impressive strength and flexibility, and see a huge change in your body within just ten to fourteen sessions.

IT’S FASHION, DAHLING: You get pretty gumby-like during a Pure Barre session, what with all those advanced-yogi stretches and upside-down splits (both of which, by the way, are almost as challenging as the actual workout), so you’ll need comfortable clothes that don’t shift while you’re doing your best pretzel impression. The Victoria’s Secret VSX Sexy Sport Strappy Tank has a built-in bra, four-way stretch fabric and BODY-WICK technology that moves moisture away from the body – basically, it’s your workout’s best friend. Pair with the Splits59 Raquel Flare Tight (the actual workout pant used by Rezabek Dorr and her disciples in the Pure Barre DVDs) for that enviably gorgeous yoga-girl look. And don’t forget a pair of Pure Barre socks to prevent you from slipping on your mat!

Victoria’s Secret VSX Sexy Sport Strappy Tank

Splits59 Raquel Flare Tight, Pure Barre Socks

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion 

How to Give Yourself a Pedicure

It's almost open-toe shoe time! And you know what that means? You want your little piggies to look their best for their summer debut. However, if you're the girl on the go or the babe on a budget, getting a pedicure might not fit into your schedule or into your expenses. In that case, you can always opt for giving yourself a pedicure. It's way more bank account-friendly, and it can even save you some time. Plus, you can do it whenever you want, day or night!

1. The first step to giving yourself a pedicure at home is to purchase the right tools for the job. You should have the following items in your pedi kit:

• nail polish
• topcoat nail polish
• base coat nail polish
• nail clippers
• foot cream
• cuticle cream
• cuticle pusher
• pumice rock

2. If you have a bucket or a foot bath, you may want to use it. If you don't, you can use your bathtub. Either way, fill the water-holding device with about 2 or 3 inches of water. Grab a towel, so you can dry your feet once your done.

3. Position your feet in the water, so that they are completely submerged. Add bath salt, scented oil or bath beads to add a fresh, relaxing fragrance to your at-home spa treatment. If you opt for bath salts, make sure you rub them on your feet to remove dead skin cells from your feet. You should leave your feet in for at least 15 to 20 minutes. You can go longer if you like, but you'll need to keep refreshing the water with some more warm H₂0. Dry your feet off once you're done.

4. Rub the pumice stone on your feet to soften calices.

5. Apply the cuticle softener to your cuticles. You can use lotion to soften, as well. Once moist, use the cuticle pusher to push them back. Never cut your cuticles because this elevates your risk of developing infection.

6. Massage the foot cream on your feet.

7. Use the toenail clippers to cut your nails. Make sure you cut straight across.

8. Use the base coat nail polish, and apply it to each toenail. Let the polish dry.

9. Apply your color coat next. You may use more than one color and create patterns. If you're using nail decals, apply them now. Allow the nail lacquer to dry completely.

10. Apply a clear topcoat to every nail. This coat helps to prevent cracking and will extend the life of your polish, so your toes can look hot for days to come. Let this coat dry.  

Christine DiMaria,

Ici Fashion

Rock the Right Earrings For Your Face Shape

You've just found a gorgeous pair of earrings and are ready to make them yours. But will they match your face shape? Believe it or not, certain earrings will complement your face shape better than others, which can make you look even better. Once you figure out your face shape, which you can do by looking in the mirror and tracing its shape on the mirror with lipstick, you can decide which earrings look the best on you.

Round Face

If you have a radiantly round face, rock oval, square and dangling earrings. They can balance out a larger forehead by drawing attention to your jawline and cheekbones. Whatever you do, don't wear hoops, no matter how big they are, because they'll only emphasize a wide face, which can make you look heavier than you actually are.

Heart-Shaped Face

Heart-shaped honeys look their best in teardrop-shaped earrings that fall just below the earlobe, and medium-sized hoops. Choose earrings that feature bright colors and designs that will draw attention to the cheekbones, making your face look even better. Stay away from studs or miniature hoops, as they make your face look full.

Square Face

Square faces tend to feature rigid and masculine features. Balance them out by rocking long teardrop earrings and hoops. These super feminine accessories soften those features and leave you looking studding.

Oval Face

Oval faces can get away with donning just about anything. So go ahead and throw on your chandelier, spiral, teardrops and hoops and you'll look amazing. Pull your hair up to show off these earrings and look even hotter.

Diamond Face

These gals know diamonds are a girl's best friend since their foxy faces resemble them. Small drop earrings that hit around the jawline work perfectly with this shape, as do small studs or hoops that sit on the lobe. Bottom line is, stick with earrings that are simple and classic and you're good to go.

Of course you'll look gorgeous in just about anything you wear, but donning the right earrings make you look even more dazzling.

Heather Vicchioni,

Ici Fashion

CULTURE VULTURE (vacation series)

WHY: ‘Travel broadens the mind’ is your personal motto. For you, travel is really the point of a vacation. Perhaps you’re fascinated with the architecture and culture of Rome, or the social differences of a Spanish lifestyle (okay, okay – perhaps it’s the architecture of Italian shoes and the play-hard-party-hard-siesta-hard aspect of the vida española that really catches your fancy). Either way, the word ‘staycation’ might as well be spelled ‘sacrilegious’.

WHERE: London, England. Really, it’s the perfect destination: you get all of the culture (Shakespeare, the Palaces, war museums, world-famous art galleries) without any of those pesky language barriers or the one cultural thing you could do without – ‘misunderstanding’.

WHAT: Kick off your London visit in style by visiting one of the most prestigious art galleries in Europe. Previously a power station, the Tate Modern opened in 2000 and has since played host to the work of some of the most celebrated contemporary artists in history. Dedicate your early-morning energy to wandering the famous Turbine Hall on the first level of the Tate: at 3,400 square metres, it houses large, commissioned exhibitions that will cater to even the most insatiable cultural appetite. From there, you can work your way up to the notable third and fifth levels, which house shorter exhibitions and focus on themes of 20th century art, from 'Poetry and Dream' and 'Material Gestures' (Monet, Mark Rothko, Anish Kapoor) to 'Energy and Process' and 'States of Flux' (Picasso, Warhol). Discover your next favourite contemporary artist in an equally spectacular, if slightly spooky, setting: the Crypt Gallery, located underneath St Pancras Church, plays host to various exhibitions (which usually include free guided tours) as well as its original 557 occupants. St Pancras Church is located on the corner of Euston Road and Upper Woburn Place and is reachable (walking distance) from the Euston, St Pancras and King’s Cross stations. Tired out from absorbing all that creative genius? Take your evening to relax, intellectually, with one of England’s most famous creative visionaries by catching a play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

IT’S FASHION, DAHLING: Both contemporary art and London street style are renowned for being a little off-the-wall, so feel free to let your (sartorial) creativity show. Going to the theatre is (unfortunately, in our opinion) a pretty casual affair, so feel free to pick a kooky day-to-night outfit to wear throughout all your cultural excursions. In homage to the artsy spirit of your tour, why not pair a cool pair of printed trousers (you can pick any of the hot summer prints, from paisley to floral – we love A.L.C.’s Briggs silk pants) with the perfect white t-shirt (Topshop’s Premium Crepeon Panel Tee should do it), a baroque cuff (Dannijo’s Molly cuff rocks) and sleek black court shoes (we’re currently lusting after the Kelsi Dagger Karmine pump).

   

A.L.C.’s Briggs silk pants,  Dannijo’s Molly cuff

 

Kelsi Dagger Karmine pump, Topshop’s Premium Crepeon Panel Tee

Laura Hunter-Thomas

Ici Fashion 

Looking Stylish on a Summer Date

One of the best things about summer is outdoor dates. Being outside with your cutie and enjoying the nice weather is the perfect opportunity for romance to make an appearance. Of course you have to look amazing on your date, but you might not be sure of what to wear. Fortunately, you have many sizzling options when it comes to hot weather looks.

The Sundress

You can't go wrong with a sundress. These dresses show off your arms and legs and make your body look oh-so-pretty. The thin fabric will feel good against your skin, which can make you feel confident and amazing. You can choose just about any style you like, including maxi and A-line. And if you feel squeamish about showing off your arms, don't fret – cover them up with a cute shrug or cardigan. Pair your dress with a pair of strappy espadrilles or cute sandals and you're good to go.

Olivia L Lookbook.nu

Jeans and a Tank

If you and your date are hitting the clubs or going to a semi-glam affair, go with a classic, yet fabulous look. Slip into a pair of dark skinny jeans and a sparkly tank top. It may not sound so glitzy, but you when you rock a pair of stilettos and throw on a fitted blazer, you'll swear you just stepped off of the runway. The sparkly top and the shoes take your look to the next level – just make sure you can get around good on those mile-high spikes. And if you get hot, simply take the blazer off – you'll still look dazzling.

Shea M. Lookbook.nu

Romper

A romper is cute, comfy and perfect for a walk in the park with your mate. When you think of rompers, you might think of something you wore when you were in kindergarten. However, rompers have taken a grown up turn and will leave you looking sophisticated and fun at the same time. Plus, they are super easy to put on and wear. So go ahead and have some fun with your date; your frock will let you move around and still look perfect.

Alana R Looknook.nu

Thilda M.  Lookbook.nu

Shorts and Shirt

If you're going to an outdoor concert or doing something fun like playing minature golf, the classic shorts and T-shirt look is perfect. A pair of cute, not too short shorts paired with a fitted tee will leave you looking stylish, sexy and fun. The key is to wear a T-shirt that is anything but big and bulky. You really want to show off your body in this look and can do so with a nicely fitting shirt. A cute pair of flip flops or sandals completes the look and allows you to get around without any problems.

Daniela Lookbook.nu

Healther Vicchioni,
Ici Fashion 

TAHITIAN TRIP (vacation series)

WHY: For those feeling a little (okay, clinically) frazzled by the stress of the everyday rat race, an exotic getaway is the perfect antidote. There’s something about boarding a fourteen-hour flight to the other side of the world and touching down in unbelievable heat in a place where the locals seem to have dedicated the time they should have spent building an airport to growing palm trees that just screams ‘escape’. Forget ignorance – isolation is bliss.

WHERE: Pearl Beach Resort, Bora Bora. A ten-minute boat ride from the Bora Bora airport, the Pearl Beach resort on the island of Motu Tevairoa is a pristine slice of paradise. The angel-white, silky soft sands beckon, and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the lagoon surrounding the five-star resort host some of the most beautiful aquatic life in the world, which you can feed in the comfort of your own over-water bungalow by simply pushing your glass coffee table aside – look out for the special ‘stale’ bread rolls set aside at breakfast specifically for this purpose.

WHAT: What is there to do in heaven? Well, quite a lot, it turns out. In the spirit of true escapism, you could just lie back and relax by the pool and Jacuzzi or on the beach (if you can’t make up your mind, don’t worry, they’re separated by just a few feet), interrupting your bliss only to wander to the pool-side restaurant and bar for buffet bites or piña coladas. Or, explore paradise with free paddle boats, canoes, kayaks or snorkeling equipment. To take it to the next level, consider the incredible (and totally worth it) paid activities on offer: submarine or glass-bottom boat excursions, scuba diving, shark and stingray feeding with island tour, jet ski guided island tour or catamaran cruise (trust me, this one is a can’t miss. When I turned up for mine, I was the only person who’d booked in, so the skipper gave me a personal tour, completely tailored to my preferences, and I got to visit the patch of lagoon completely inhabited by giant orange starfish, and go snorkeling with the fish and an octopus, which my skipper brought up from the depths for me to pet) are just some of the once-in-a-lifetime options.

IT’S FASHION, DAHLING: A trip like this doesn’t require much (except perhaps a lot of high-SPF sunscreen!), but while you’re in heaven, why not look heavenly? Your one essential is going to be a killer swimsuit or five, so make sure you shop for your body type to look absolutely amazing on that white-sand beach. All of you long-and-lean ladies will have no problem looking great half-naked – you can get away with those itsy bitsy teeny weeny bikinis, so grab your favourite skimpy two-piece (our favourite is the Vix Bandeau Bikini & Briefs With Snake Print, available at ASOS) and make like a Victoria’s Secret Angel. Busty girls, you also look great in a two-piece (for obvious reasons!), but make sure you get enough support. Look for something like the ASOS Halter Leopard Fuller Bust Bikini Top for a real bombshell silhouette. If your stomach is your trouble spot, particularly that tricky lower-ab pooch, two-piece suits with high-waisted bottoms, like the ASOS Insight Animal Print Bikini, are your friends. Athletes, don’t be ashamed of your hard-won muscles. Show them off! All that hard work and dedication is beautiful, and so are you! A so-hot-right-now athletic one-piece that is sexy and not too literal (like the Karla Colletto Outlines one-shoulder mesh-paneled swimsuit) will have people wondering if holidays are how you unwind before the Olympics. For those with hourglass shapes, emphasize your curves by highlighting your smallest part with a ruched or wrap-waist one-piece. We recommend the Miraclesuit Jena One Piece Swimsuit from Nordstrom, available in summery white or ever-flattering black. Actually, just like it says on the tin, this is kind of a miracle suit that everyone will want to put on their shopping lists: the suit helps you look ten pounds (and one whole dress size!) slimmer instantly, while comfortably holding you in and shaping you wherever you need a little extra help. The beauty of this suit is that it’s also a multitasker: after your day at the beach, on a catamaran, or snorkeling, toss on the Mercer Essential Knit Wrap Skirt from BCBG MAXAZRIA and Topshop’s Hawaii Chain Print Sandals for effortless evening glamour.

 

Vix Bandeau Bikini, Karla Colleto 

Hawaii Chain Print Sandal, Miraclesuit Jena One Piece

BCBGMaxAzria Mercer Essential Skirt

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion

How to Wear This Season's Tricky Dresses

Are you itching to try some of this season's hottest dresses, but are unsure of how to wear them? Don't worry, you're not alone. Plunging V-neck, cutout and bodycon dresses are oh-so-chic, but they pose one major problem – what the heck do you wear under them? Unless you are planning on going braless – which is fine if your girls are on the small side – you'll need to find a special undergarment to keep others from seeing the straps or even the bra itself. But don't worry; a variety of bras are available to keep you covered and looking fabulous.

Deep V-Neck

Deep V-neck dresses show off your neck, collar bone and decolletage. The problem is, typical bras are almost guaranteed to show up. To give your girls support, while keeping your bra under wraps, you'll need to go with a U-plunge bra. Unlike a typical bra, plunging bras cover the essentials, but feature bands that sit well below where standard bras stay. Because of this, they are able to feature a deep, plunging front, that won't likely be seen in a V-neck dress. If you're looking to show off some serious cleavage, you can always try a push-up bra. Some are cut low enough that wearing a V-neck is possible. However, test yours out before being seen in public.

 

Lovers+Friends Daydream Blouse, U-Plunge Bra

Cut-Out Dresses

Cut-out dresses are super cute and allow you to play peek-a-boo with those around you. These foxy frocks allow you to show off some of your favorite body parts, whether they are your back, tummy or sexy collarbone area. If you're rocking a cut-out dress with a low back, you can't wear a typical bra, because it would surely show. Instead, don a self-adhesive bra that is sans straps and a band. This sassy bra gives you coverage up front without blowing your cover in the back. This type of bra is also effective when wearing dresses that are cut out on the sides, as well. If you need more support than this bra offers, go with a bra that features low back straps. The band dips down almost to your waist, so it should give you the coverage and support you need.

  

ASOS Snakebite Metallic Dress, Gather The Girls Silicone

Bodycon Dresses

Bodycon dresses are super sexy because they are tight and hug you in all the right places. However, rocking such a fitted dress puts you at risk for committing a serious fashion faux pas – the visible panty line. Avoid such a heinous crime by going commando. If that's not an option, you could also try rocking some seamless shapewear. Not only will shapewear stick tight to your body, which could mean sucking in those problem areas, but it will give you the coverage you need without showing through your dress. Seamless and strapless body suits can serve as both your bra and underwear, or you could simply choose to only don the underwear. Either way, you'll look gorgeous and feel confident.

 

Motel Candis Dress, Spanx High Waist Half Slip

Now that you know how to rock these dresses, wear them with confidence and you're sure to look smokin'!

Heather Vecchioni,
Ici Fashion

COSMOPOLITAN METROPOLITAN (vacation series)

WHY: A city escape is perfect for those with a curious and culture-hungry outlook or who like to have an engaging schedule jam-packed with the coolest things to do. For those with bags of energy, like to be busy, or are filled with a zest for life, a city escape gives a whole new, energized meaning to the term ‘sightseeing’.

WHERE: New York City. Is there any other city? If you’re looking for contemporary culture, in the mood for sophisticated soirees, or just lusting after days of variety and thrill-seeking, there’s no place like the Big Apple. Why is it called the Big Apple? The truth is, no one can really say for sure. In fact, it’s one of the most hotly-debated questions among New Yorkers. Some say the nickname originates from the jazz age, others contend it has something to do with the races, but, come on. Do you really care? This is New Yawk, baby!

WHAT: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you consider NYC culture? Most likely, it’s art. New York City is home to some of the most renowned art museums in the world, and has arguably the best art scene to be found. This is, after all, the place those involved in the arts come to make it, the place where it’s ‘the work you do’ that counts, not ‘the work you’ve had done’. If you’ve come to New York, you simply can’t afford not to visit the Met, the Whitney (both of which, by the way, have donation-based entrance fees), MoMA, and the Guggenheim, as well as the Chelsea art scene for the best current art for free. The best way to experience Chelsea’s over-200 galleries is to go on a ‘gallery crawl’ on a Thursday or Friday night (late-night openings! great art! free booze!). Check out chelseagallerymap.com for more information. Is dance is more your style, don’t miss the best dancers in the world and the atmosphere of the company Black Swan portrays at the New York City Ballet. Before or after getting your fill of art, experience a different, yet equally impressive, art form at Per Se, the best and most authentic French restaurant in the whole of New York City. Given a full four stars (the highest possible rating) by Sam Sifton of the New York Times, the famously expensive fare (the nine course tasting menu will lighten your wallet a painful $295) can be sampled even by the most strapped-for-cash (the a la carte salon menu runs $14 to $46) and, along with the stellar service, totally warrants the steep prices. Best bets include signature dish Oysters and Pearls, pressed duck, and huckleberry sorbet with whipped lemon verbena and red-wine granite. And what would a trip to NYC be without going shopping? My suggestion would be to hit up a sample sale or two – the gods’ divine secret to getting designer wares for unbelievable prices. Sign up at topbutton.com for free for an updated list of current sales, and keep an eye on the Budget Fashionista and Mizhattan blogs and the shopping section of Time Out New York for updates on sample sales.

  

IT’S FASHION, DAHLING: Now, we all know that when you go on vacation it’s important to pack light, or even take an empty suitcase with you in anticipation of what’ll make its way back home with you on the return trip, and New York is definitely the rule, not the exception. Luckily, this is completely manageable. If you intend to hit up the NYC art scene, you’ll need to look chic and polished, yet not too stuffy. Pair J Brand’s 901 Legging in Pitch for a polished yet comfy jean with French Sole New York’s Feature flat (like real ballet slippers, they conform to the wearer’s feet, thus making for incredibly comfortable gallery crawls), available at Zappos, a simple black spaghetti-strap tank (it can get hot schlepping around 200 galleries, y’know, and sweaty does not equal chic) and Ted Baker’s bright blue Tailored Jacket available at ASOS. This also makes for a great sample sale outfit (comfortable, yet chic – could you ask for more?). For fine dining at Per Se and fine watching at the NYCB, try Tart’s Short Infinity Dress in dune – it’s the perfect nude, flattering, Marilyn-Monroe-silhouette-creating dress that can be styled multiple ways on top (“Oh, this old thing? I’ve worn it loads of times, darling!”) – with an orange lip and Zara’s I Basic Sandal in black and orange for chic yet timeless appeal. Fabulous, darling!

901 J Brand Leggings, French Sole Feature

Ted Baker Tailored Jacket, I Basic Sandal 

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion

Handbags for the Pool and the Beach

When you're laying out on the sand or relaxing poolside, you obviously want something to carry your stuff in. You must have a home for your brush, your makeup, your sunscreen, your cell phone and other summertime essentials. Your Pochette Round by Louis Vuitton might be great for going out for drinks in the evening or enjoying dinner at your favorite locale; however, typical handbags are not made to be waterproof and oftentimes aren't big enough for all your beachgear. If you still want to look hot on the beach without sacrificing space and functionality, you may want to heed these words of advice:

                                      

Go Bold or Go Home

It's all about the colors when it comes to bags for the pool and the beach. Bold colors and patterns are what's hot for summer. Save the boring hues and bland patterns for your everyday bag; summer is all about cute bathing suits, pool parties and fun! Try a bright green or a pink-stripped bag.

Choose a Bag Based on its Purpose

When selecting a bag, look for features that serve a purpose—like having a place for your water bottle or your cell phone. Nothing is cute about a messy tote!

Your Bag Needs to be for the Water

Make sure your bag is waterproof. You won't look your best, when your iPod is ruined or your extra set of clothes are damp. Although fashion is important, every fashionista knows your bag needs to hold your stuff and do it well!

Bigger is Better

A small clutch is just fine when you're going to work or to the mall, but bigger is better when you're going on a summer outting. Nothing is fashionable about your stuff falling out of your tote, so make sure you buy a bag big enough to hold everything you need for the beach or pool. Big beachbags are actually stylish. You'll look out of place with an itty bitty handbag.

Christine DiMaria,

Ici Fashion

Summer beauty essentials

Summer is supposed to be a relaxing time of year, but as illustrated in last week’s post, it can be kind of crazy – for your body and beauty regime, that is. These products will relieve the stress and get you back to your zen (composed, groomed, gorgeous yoga-ite) self.

FOR THE FACE

Mario Badescu Special Healing Powder is a skin- and life-saver! Applied directly to problem areas, it can soak up excess oil, clear up blemishes and quickly dry up, disinfect and heal erupted pimples, and when mixed with loose powder or mineral foundation will help make up stay put all day (or night). It conceals redness and calms irritated areas, and is a great product to apply pre-party to ensure you’re shine-free and photo-ready! Plus, a sneaky tip: apply all over the face after cleansing for general coverage and with a Q-tip as a concealer, and you’ve got yourself a matte, perfect, yet no-fuss and no-make up look for the beach!

FOR THE HAIR

Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Mist. Hair tends to frizz in the summer, and this spray is the most lightweight one around to keep hair smooth and shiny.

FOR THE BODY

Coconut oil is a magical multitasker, and should be your new secret weapon! Brilliant in summer to give arms & legs a nice sheen, it also moisturises sun-kissed skin, is an intensive hair conditioner to use after swimming, and best of all, it smells like summer!

Laura Hunter-Thomas,

Ici Fashion 

Flats for Summer 2012

Heels have been all the rage for quite sometime. In fact, many women consider heels a staple in their wardrobe, and flats as uncharted territory. But the flats for summer of 2012 will definitely make you want explore and experiment with something with a little less height.

 

For the vertically challenged, heels add height and can act like a crutch for those who are a little self-conscience about their small stature. However, a bright colored pair of flats will take all the attention away from your size and put it on your feet. Ballet flats aren't new to the fashion world by any means, but bold patterns and vibrant colors make these reliable flats something new to try. Don't forget to check out the metallic ballet flats. Red metallics, pink metallics and basically any other colorful metallic was hot for spring of 2012, and this fad is going to take us into summer, as well.

Maybe you're looking for something a little more strappy and seductive. No problem, because one of this summer's hottest looks are open-toed flats. There are so many choices to choose from that you will be sure to find something you love, even if it took everything you had to pry that heel out of your hand, and check out the flats for summer. Paired with a cute summer skirt, open-toed flats can really be a hit.

Flat doesn't have to be dull. Jewel embellished flats like a pair of crystal encrusted satin shoes can be fun to wear, not to mention quite comfortable.

 

Charlotte Olympia Shoes

Or, you could always release your wild side with a pair of zebra print shoes. They're a little flirty, a little sexy, and they will definitely get your feet the attention they deserve. Animal prints were hot for spring, and guess what? They're going to live on for another season! 

 

Todd's Loafers

Christine DiMaria,

Ici Fashion