So I’ve already selected my style of dress for the BIG DAY, though I haven’t settled on a specific design yet.  I will divulge that it will be a mermaid style and accented with beading, crystals, and lace.  Now, I’m in the process of picking out my shoe style.  I’d like something comfortable that I’ll be able to wear all night without having to think about slipping or having my tootsies pinched—yet, I want to stay chic and stylish too. Here a few designs that I adore at various price points, colors, and heel heights…which is your fav pick?  What style of shoe did you wear on your BIG DAY?  Did/do you wear your shoes afterwards?  Any advice for me?

• White Ruched Peep Toe Heel $995
• Diamond Accented White Peep Toe Heel $145
• Light Blue Peep Toe Heel $151
• White Flowered Peep Toe Heel $78
• White Sling Back Peep Toe Heel $298
• Nude Simple Heel $735
• Nude Peep Toe Heel $895
• White Bow Peep Toe Heel $219

I have been so excitedabout my upcoming trip to my former home—Manhattan!  Ohh, I’m am so eager to hop on the plane next Tuesday, pop into my fancy hotel in midtown, and revel in my familiar territory.  I’ll be there for my job, but will make time to visit my ladies at InStyle (I miss you all SO DEARLY!), nosh on nuevo Mexican cuisine at Rosa Mexicano (you can read why that’s one of my fav restaurants here), grab drinks at Dos Caminos in SoHo, visit Baked by Melissa’s cupcake stand, and celebrate my mom’s birthday with her while I’m in town.  You can tell that I love the NYC cuisine.  I’ll try to fit in some bridal gown browsing at Kleinfeld’s if possible (they’re all booked up for appointments, but I’m gonna try a walk-in and see how that goes).  If that doesn’t pan out, it’s not like Saks (my FAV SHOPPING SPOT EVER) doesn’t have a hugebridal selection too.  Here are the essentials that I’ll have to pack so I’m ready to mingle with my Manhattan ladies…black is a must, great luxurious handbags are necessary, and accessories are where we get our “pop of color.”  A lot of women wear Prada perfume too…this is my fav scent of theirs.

• Silk-organza ruffled blouse, Oscar de la Renta $690
• Bow-detail silk top, Armand Basi $80
• Fabric & Pearl Necklace, TopShop, $60
• Graphic Jersey Scarf, Diesel $35
• d’Orge Amy Scarf, Moio Sucre $64
• Cotton-blend high-waisted shorts, Alice by Temperly $195
• High-waisted leather shorts, McQ $320
• Black Jewel Skinny Jean, Black Orchid $130
• L’Eau Ambrée Eau de Parfum Deluxe Edition, Prada $74
• Brown Leather Bag, Gucci $639

Manhattan Date Night Essentials:

• Layered Dress, Elle Shop $230
• Kaftan Dress, Cisco $105
• Silver and black filigree multi bangle set, TopShop $32
• Ruched suede peep toe ankle boot, Christian Louboutin $1,395
• Gray Slingbacks, Brian Atwood $284
• Le Vernis Nail Colour Spring 2010, Chanel $24
• Blush Pink Caviar Leather Tote, Chanel $3,200

I love the affect small details can have on fashion.  I like ruffles, ribbons, and pearls….however, I adore buttons!  Their presence adds a unique and playful element to the unexpected and adds something extra to catch the eye.  I would easily pair one of the blouses below with faded jeans or linen pants to maintain a feminine casual style and those shorts are perfect for a nautical feel.  What other small fashion details do you love?

• RSVP Ruffle Buttoned Blouse $53
• TopShop Three Button Fold Blouse $32
• Delia’s Bow & Buttons Burnout Dolman $19.50
• Arden B Ombre Linen Button Front Romper $20
• Tahari by ASL Textured Crepe Dress W/ Gold Buttons $132
• Authentic Chanel Button Floral Hair Pin $60
• Juicy Couture Denim Legging W/ Button Detail $88
• TopShop Gold Button Mini skirt $30
• Jane Norman Anchor Button Shorts $14
• Christian Louboutin Corto 85 leather pumps $695
• Dorothy Perkins Black Button Detail Flats $20
• Go Jane Button Trim Ankle Boot $20

Are you really that surprised that I’m writing about this today? Especially after yesterday’s posting… 

For those of you who are not southerners, I must explain the cultural fashion importance of the infamous Kentucky Derby, annually held on the first Sunday in May.  This is THE event where a girl can put on her BEST chic summer frock and really the only excuse to wear a silly hat (and have others chic girls compliment its design).

As a genuine southern belle, I had to share with you some choice ensembles to ensure you wear while placing your bet.  Don’t forget to toast your Mint Julep to the winner!

Cause why not?  Here’s a little visual pick-me-up for your Thursday!  I adore those floral lace pumps–they would be perfect for my wedding day attire!  And if one is going to $pend so much on the hottest shoe designer’s creations, why not make sure that the investment piece is something that you can easily pair with many a chic ensemble.  Which design is your favorite?