Fall trend alert: peep-toe booties

We haven't yet located the exact passage, but we're sure there's some mention in the Bible of an Eleventh Commandment:

XI.
Thou shalt expose thy toes only in Summer,
And then, lo, only in sandals or the occasional peep-toe pump.
But nay, never in boots.
'Cause that's just wrong.

Well, they say rules are made to be broken, and this one is being shattered to bits in Fall/Winter 2008. We never thought we'd see the day, but sure enough, the peep-toe bootie is this season's hottest fashion find. So if you're in the mood for something different and a little wacky (and the danger of frostbite in your area is relatively low), spice up your wardrobe with something like this hot little pair from Tory Burch.

(Oh, and if the current economic news leaves you a little leery of the price tag, you'll be happy to know there are equally cute options available at Payless.)

So, what to wear them with? Well, darlings, the models we've seen make a statement all on their own, so we'd recommend going simple with the rest of the outfit.

And, you will take care of those toes, won't you girls?

Fall trend alert: plaid

If plaid patterns evoke unpleasant memories of either your own private school experiences or the "naughty coed" craze that accompanied Britney's first video, it's time to put those demons to rest. Because in Fall 2008, plaid is back in a big way—even if your school uniform days are long behind you.

From cozy wool jumpers to funky tights to handbags and shoes (like these über-cute wedges from Volatile), plaid will be showing up everywhere you look this season. And not just in the traditional grays and beiges either—look for funky combinations featuring swaths of purple, orange, yellow, electric blue, and neon red.

We've gotta say, after being inundated with florals several seasons in a row, it's quite a refreshing change.

Oh, and if you've been thinking about talking your man into wearing a kilt, now's definitely the time.

Trend alert: sensible gets sexy

Nothing tops off a power career look like a towering pair of heels ... and nothing's worse than the throbbing, aching feet they leave you with at the end of the day (if you can make it that long without kicking them off in desperation).

Sure, there are alternatives out there; you know, those "sensible shoes" your mom's always advising you to don. Unfortunately, the average built-for-comfort pump looks like something your eighth-grade gym teacher (the scary one) would wear for a big night out.

Now a select group of designers is looking to change all that by blending high style (and sex appeal) with cleverly hidden comfort features.

Browse through catalogs for the likes of Stuart Weitzman and Via Spiga, and you'll find sleek, stylish options with foot-loving features like extra padding and supports, more stable heels, and more space in the toe. Cole Haan has even teamed up with Nike Air to create a line that counts Oprah among its devoted fans (Fiona Air Pump shown here).

So the next time you slip off your toe-strangling pumps at the end of a long day, consider adding a pair or two of the new comfort heels to your collection. No one ever has to know how "sensible" they are.

(Source: Wall Street Journal)

Summer trend alert: embellished belts

Is there anything more fabulous than a great accessory? An instant pick-me-up for even the most ho-hum outfit that requires no forays into the caverns of the dressing room?

Well, this season, one of our fave accessories finds itself front and center ... and it's more fabulous than ever: the belt.

The humble belt has been around as long as ... well, as long as clothes (the ones we wanted to stay up, anyway), but this season it's gotten an ultra-glam makeover to make a fashion statement all its own. A few trends to look for:

Prints. Forget about your old standard "I know it's dull, but it goes with everything" black leather waistwrapper. This year, we're seeing patterns from classic houndstooth to crazy paisley to fabulous-anywhere animal prints, like this hottie from Another Line.

Unique Closures. No, we're not talking about the kind that lets you put a bad relationship behind you. We're talking about look-at-me buckles, jeweled clasps, and striking hardware, like on this Donna Karan Gold Conch Belt.

Embellishments. From tough-girl studs to girly-girl sparkles to painted-on artwork, this season's belts, like this Fossil Painted Leather Engraved-Buckle Belt, are fancier than ever.


So if your summertime wardrobe could use a little va-va-voom, buckle up and add some fabulous belts to the mix!

Spring trend alert: gladiator sandals

It's been over two years since the movie 300 re-ignited our fascination with all things Greco-Roman—not to mention spawning its own ab workout—but its influence is alive and well today in Spring 2008 footwear.

Yes, ladies, the gladiator sandal, that classic flat encased in more straps than you can shake a xiphos at, is back in a colossal way this season. And this time around you'll find it in styles from ultra-dressy to might-as-well-be-barefoot and in enough colors to please any goddess.

For a happy medium, try a simply styled neutral metallic, like this "Greyson" from L.A.M.B. (leave it to Gwen to give us the ideal blend of style and practicality). Perfect with a crisp city short for strolling through the park, or pair it with a flirty floral sundress to add an edge to your girly flair.

Whether you're a lover or a fighter (or both), look to the gladiator sandal in creating a style that's truly legendary.

Spring trend alert: into the nude

Every season has its star neutral—last fall, it was cozy gray, and in Spring 2008, peek-a-boo nude is the neutral of choice to accompany the season's bold florals and candy-hued brights. A few of our fave examples:

What's the best way to balance Spring 2008's bright, funky array of shoes? By pairing them with a simple, sophisticated nude dress, like this elegant cowl-neck knit creation from Calvin Klein.

Want to make your legs look a mile long? Slip on a pair of nude-colored pumps, like this scrumptious option from Cole Haan—the perfect complement for those spring florals that are often so hard to match.

Sure, last season's bright bag trend has carried over, but you still need a reliable neutral to accompany bold prints so that you don't look like a Crayola factory explosion. Might we suggest this gorgeous "St. Tropez" Cutout Handle Satchel from Botkier.


So the next time you're ready for a break from the bolder side of spring, just slip into the nude!

Spring beauty trend: headbands

Whether you're rocking long, luscious locks or a smart little bob, a headband is a fabulous way to adorn your tresses and dress up—or down—just about any outfit. And this season, they're hotter than ever.

Wanna get in touch with your inner badass? Pop on this skull-and-bones print number from Tano Jewelry ... and just for fun, pair it with the girliest sundress you can find.

Or if you'd prefer to dress things up a bit, opt for this L. Erickson USA scarf band from Hair Boutique, covered in 100% silk charmeuse (it comes in a slew of colors, but we just love this cabernet).

And if you really want to turn some heads and make a statement, nothing beats this Miu Miu Beaded Crystal Headband, just the thing for a special occasion or an extra-fabulous night out with the girls.

Whatever your favorite springtime look, there's a headband out there that's the perfect crowning touch. Explore and enjoy!

(Hat tip: The Budget Fashionista)

April 15 treats for the tax-weary

You’ve made it through another tax season, girls, and we at Getting Underneath feel you deserve a treat for surviving all those forms, all those rules, and all those conflicting bits of random advice. Whether your 2007 tax return leaves you expecting a refund (“in the money”) or owing Uncle Sam (“in the red”), it’s time to reward yourself with a gift (not deductible, sadly) and indulge in one of this season’s hottest trends.

Red lipstick

• In the Money? Dior Addict in Positive Red ($25 at Nordstrom)
• In the Red? NYC Ultra Moist LipWear in Retro Red ($0.99 at CVS)

Big bag, bright color

• In the Money? Prada Tessuto Weave Tote in Turchese (left, $1,230 at Bergdorf Goodman)
• In the Red? Andi Tote in Light Blue (right, $29.99 at baghaus.com)

Rope-accented wedges

• In the Money? Castaner by Ibiza ($261 at Zappos.com)
• In the Red? Romance Espadrille by Montego Bay Club ($19.99 at Payless)

Flirty dress in a bold print

• In the Money? Anna Sui Deco Crown Print Minidress (left, $332 at Saks)
• In the Red? AB Studio Swirl Babydoll Dress (right, $29.50 at Kohl’s)

And if you find it just too taxing to choose, pop in a favorite CD, light a few candles, and slip into a luxurious bubble bath for a long, well-deserved soak. ($0.00 at your place)

Whatever you do, enjoy—you deserve it!

Flex your flip-flop fu!

So you're driving home from work, looking forward to your date with Mr. Wonderful in that special black dress and that sweet little pair of strappy slingba—oh, crap, you remember that your toes are a mess. Sure, there's time for a pedicure, but the only shoes in your possession are your closed-toe work pumps, the stuff of which pedi nightmares are made.

Well, if you're a smart little cookie, you reach into your glove compartment, pull out your Flexflops, and make a beeline for the nearest salon. Flexflops are the world's first "emergency flip-flop," designed to fold in half and tuck neatly into a handy little tote. Keep a pair in your handbag, one in the car, another in your gym bag, because you never know...

Choose from a variety of kicky styles and colors: black ("Pedi Please"), hot pink (heart design), light blue, yellow, or grey ("Spa Snob"). And the next time you're part of a wedding party, their "Bride" and "Bridesmaid" sets will add a fun as well as functional element to your girls' day at the spa before the big event.

Your toes will thank you for it!

Russia says "da" to Coach

Time to pack your bags for Russia, Coach.

The $2.9 billion American accessories giant recently unveiled plans to open 15 boutiques in Russia over the next five years, mainly concentrated in and around Moscow and St. Petersburg.

"Russians are becoming important consumers of luxury accessories," Coach International president Ian Bickley told Women's Wear Daily. "Opening Russia is part of our strategy to capitalize on the increasing popularity of the brand with emerging luxury consumers globally."

The first two locations are planned for Moscow: the first, in the Seasons Kutuzovsky shopping center, will open in April 2008, followed by another on Red Square in the fall.

Now that's sharing some love on a global scale!

(Source: wwd.com)

Maestro Louboutin to visit Oprah

This Friday, January 18, will be a red-letter—or rather a red-sole—day for shoe afficionados everywhere.

Maestro Christian Louboutin will make a first-ever television appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, as part of Oprah's "Face Behind the Name" series. Not many details have been released, but we're told the segment will include a featurette of M. Louboutin in his Paris stomping grounds. Quelle belle surprise!

So don't forget to set your Tivos for this Friday, ladies. We can hardly wait!

(Hat tip: FabSugar)

Donna Karan goes starry-eyed

To discover the inspiration for Donna Karan's latest foray into the handbag market, just go outside on a clear night and look straight up.

In Karan's astrally inspired collection of day and evening bags for pre-fall 2008, you'll find selections with names like Leo, Virgo, and Scorpio, in a wide array of luxurious materials and featuring exquisite detailing. "In typical Karan style," reports Women's Wear Daily, "the handbags are all about the touch, from supple leathers and exotic skins such as French bull, ostrich and glazed goat to sculptural gold meditation rocks dangling from each style."

The collection will be sold in Donna Karan Collection specialty stores worldwide, and will be made available to upscale specialty and department stores. Prices will start at $390 for leathers; $350 for evening clutches made of satin, napa, Orylag fur, or python, and $970 (up to $12,320) for exotic skins.

"It makes sense—I live by astrology," the designer told WWD of the collection. "I am a Libra. I can't make up my mind. We never find a balance. We like it all."

So do we, Donna!

Design your own shoe at Steve Madden

Has this ever happened to you? You find a hot pair of shoes that's absolutely perfect ... except for one little thing. Maybe the heel color's one shade off from what you were looking for. Maybe the upper material isn't quite what you need to go with that sweet new outfit. And if only the buttons were red instead of black ...

Leave it to the geniuses at Steve Madden to come up with a solution. Click on over to stevemadden.com and you can design your very own custom-made shoe—for less than $200.

First, you'll select a basic style from over 40 options—including boots, pumps, sandals, ballet flats, and slides (there are even a couple of customizable handbags). Then you'll choose your upper material, with options ranging from innocent pink gingham to in-your-face orange patent, your heel color, and any other customizable features. Enter your size, check out, and the Madden team will get to work building your custom-designed creation.

And when the compliments start rolling in, you'll be able to say "Thanks—I designed them myself."

(Hat tip: Adventures in the Stiletto Jungle)

Hot blog: Manolo's Shoe Blog

No, he's not acclaimed shoe designer Manolo Blahnik ... in fact, no one quite knows who he is ... but if you love shoes, you'll love Manolo and his Shoe Blog.

Start with an encyclopedic knowledge of all things fashionable. Add a dash of caustic wit and an odd but amusing obsession with all things Hasselhoff, and you've got Manolo's Shoe Blog, one of the Web's hottest spots for fashionistas, celeb-gossip junkies, and anyone who enjoys a little humor with their footwear.

Here's what he has to say about this stunning pair of Dolce & Gabbana pumps:

With these shoes on your feets it is always the summer evening on the Amalfitano coast, with you and your consort (who is the image of your husband, only taller, without the little belly, and somehow, inexplicably, Italian) driving in the tiny sports car to this little restaurant on the beach, where you will be served grilled langoustines, crisp white wine, and this fabulous crusty bread baked by the owner’s mother.

It gets better. Click on over and see for yourself.

Fall/Winter trend alert: gloves to go gaga for

Get ready to give a hand to Fall/Winter 2007's most multitalented accessory: the glove.

Sure, few of us pass through an entire fall/winter season without donning digit-warmers for purely practical purposes. But this year, the humble mitt has gone from functional to fabulous, a fashion statement in its own right that can effortlessly "make" an outfit.

“Gloves are a bit old-school glam, but for fall they have a more contemporary edge when you play around with materials,” Donatella Versace recently told W. Look for fun combinations of textures and embellishments—including quilted leather, faux fur, metallics, beading, buckles, and sassy studs—as well as colors ranging from classic to candy-hued.

With so many colors and styles to choose from—at a variety of price points—you're sure to find one that fits you like a ... well, you know.

(Hat tip: W Magazine)

Kristopher Dukes hearts Citrine by the Stones!

We’re long-time fans of Kristopher Dukes’ blog—click on over and you'll soon see why. Take a keen eye for all things glamorous, add a radar-like ear for the latest buzz, top it all off with a sharp tongue for telling it just like it is, and you’ve got one of the hottest, sassiest sites in the fabuverse.

Apparently, we also have very similar tastes. Just a couple of days ago, the fabulous K gushed about an equally fabulous piece from one of our favorite jewelry houses, Citrine by the Stones. Designed by sisters Mary, Michelle, and Joanne Stone, this unique line combines sharp, powerful angles with feminine curves to create a bold, unique statement. Their inimitable pieces have graced the pages of top publications including Vogue, Elle, and Harpers Bazaar, and have earned fans among fashionistas such as Madonna, Mischa Barton, Jennifer Lopez, and Rihanna.

Keep on shining, Stones!

Fall trend alert: the return of the cocktail ring

Any stylist/image consultant/fashion guru will tell you that everyone needs one signature piece: a standout accessory or jewelry item that just screams you.

This fall, the it item for making a statement is definitely the cocktail ring. First made popular in the 1940s and 50s, they're back in a big way this season. And with a plethora of styles, shapes, and colors to choose from, you're sure to find one—or more—that fits your personality to a T.

(Image source: kayjewelers.com)

Pumps with a past

Think your favorite pair of peep-toe heels is one-of-a-kind? What would you say to a pair made just for you ... from an authentic Japanese kimono?

Meet upstart British shoe designer Henrietta Rose Samuels, aka Hetty Rose, who has gained an international following since her Kimono collection appeared at last February's London Fashion Week.

The concept first came to Hetty while studying design in Japan, where she discovered the stunning, exotic prints of vintage kimonos. She scooped up as many as she could before returning to the U.K. and getting to work.

The current Hetty Rose collection consists of 12 styles, including the lovely "Amia" pictured here, and each pair takes about six weeks to cut and assemble.

"The collection is trans-seasonal," the designer recently told online magazine Fashion Capital, "and consists of signature peep-hole styles with hand stitching detail, simple silhouettes, and functional elegance. The uppers are all made using vivid vintage kimono fabrics; these are colourful, eye-catching and get you noticed."

Prices for an original pair of "Hettys" start at £300 (about $615). To find out more about Hetty and her collection, visit her website at www.hettyrose.co.uk.

(Hat tip: about.com: Beauty)

Fall trend alert: rose gold

An old Greek proverb tells us, "If you are truthful, you will have as much gold as you want." Well, we must have been visited by the truth fairy this year, because gold is back in a big way for Fall 2007 ... only this time, it's blushing.

Rose gold is the hot metallic this season, popping up in everything from eye shadow to jewelry to handbags, like this stunning Jessica McClintock Chevron clutch. Richer and deeper than its paler cousin, rose gold radiates warmth and richness, a perfect complement to fall's muted colors such as gray and aubergine.

On the makeup side, look for this subtle shimmer in shadows, lip glosses, and nail lacquers. Bobbi Brown has even released an Exclusive Rose Gold Collection, available at Neiman Marcus.

So when you're looking to brighten up your look this fall, look to rose gold for a subtle, sophisticated shine.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: more ways to go pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and if you want to show your support in ways other than the tried-and-true pink ribbon, you'll be happy to know there are tons of other fun, funky, and fabulous ways to go pink!

Need to scribble out a note or two? Check out 3M's special pink Post-It; 50 cents from each pack sold will be donated to City of Hope to benefit breast cancer research, treatment, and education.

Need a portable spot to keep your digital photos and videos that's petite enough to fit in your makeup bag? Seagate's Pink Pocket Hard Drive gives you 6 GB of storage, features a retractable USB 2.0 cable, and even comes with eight songs preloaded. Seagate will donate 10 percent of the purchase price to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Looking for a bling-a-licious place to stash your business cards? How about one studded with Swarovski pavé crystals? This engravable eye-catcher from the Lano Company holds up to 20 business cards, and 20 percent of the purchase price will go to Breast Cancer Research.

And if you really want to make a statement, how about picking up a Sony VAIO CR series notebook PC in Cosmopolitan Pink, which will earn a $75 donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation?

With these and so many other options available, supporting a worthy cause has never been so stylish—and what's not to love about the color?

(Hat tip: Geeksugar)