TCB: Work Boots for Getting Any Job Done

In case you have pressing questions about where to find pink steel-toe work boots, or whether to wear hiking boots or work boots, or what sort of footwear an auto collision tech needs, there’s a site for that: CoolWorkBoots.com has all the answers. (Turns out MoxieTrades will be carrying the Betsy Xtreme protective boot in pink nubuck starting this month.)
If you’re not looking to protect your tootsies while manning a jackhammer or scaling scaffolding, here are some work-ready offerings with plenty of jeans and skirts-pairing charm.

Georgia Renegades steel toe waterproof boot

• Says shoe retailer Safetygirl.com, “We carry these boots designed specifically for women so you can be prepared for any job!” One pick from among the company’s many safety-first options: The Georgia Renegade steel toe waterproof boot.

Redwing Logger

• Redwing Boots makes footwear for serious jobs — loggers and linemen. But just the boots can work hard doesn’t mean they have to. Try the women’s lug sole 9-inch logger in black.

Ariat Heritage Lacer

• The Ariat Heritage Lacer has the cute double kiltie that says “Yes, I just got back from the stables.” Heft hay bales to your heart’s content (or just lace ‘em up with leggings and go out for espresso.)

Free People's studded combat boot

• Free People offers a rocker-tough studded combat boot. The boots are actually men’s sizes and each pair is hand detailed with silver pyramid studs.

Reiker Romina 41 ankle boot

• Sure, Reiker shoes might now seem the obvious choice for blue collar enterprises. But the company bills its footwear as “antistress” and the moccasin cute-meets-butch practical Romina ankle boot has all the makings of a workhorse. A cushioned footbed, stretchy vents for a good fit and the gum sole that recalls athletic shoes.

Dr. Martens Industrial

• Shop like the pros at WorkingPerson.com. Among the women’s work boots, the unisex Dr. Martens Industrial lace-to-toe boots have garnered raves, including, “These boots aint for sissys.” Sizes are in UK measurements; women should order two sizes down from their normal number (wear and 8? Order a UK 6).

Chippewa 8-inch Bay Apache Loggers

• Pair them with a short plaid shirt and a crisp white Oxford for the Catholic school girl gone bad look: Chippewa’s Bay Appache Loggers pair serious lug soles with nearly 2 inches of heel height.

Doc Marten Capper

• Doc Martens have stood the test of time. Their utilitarian designs are made for heavy duty but come off more punk than hick. Case in point, the Vintage Collection 8-inch Capper in oxblood is all grommets, rivets and welt construction.

Harley Davidson's Faded Glory Steel Toe

• Another old faithful boot maker is Harley Davidson. Yes, many of the company’s styles are biker-chic, but they don’t joke around when it comes to takin’ care of business. The 6-inch Faded Glory has a steel toe and Goodyear welt construction. Oh yeah, and a super-cool buckle across the foot.

Blundstone

• Blundstones, those classic Tasmanian boots, balance globe trekker penache with git-r-done fortitude. Pull on tabs, kid toes, elastic gore and waterproof leather make these a bad weather go-to.

“You Look Too Good for a Sunday Morning,” He Said

I’m not embarrassed to admit that I love a good cat call. I left my guy’s apartment this morning still wearing what I wore last night (forgot to pack a bag with a change of clothes), and as I walked to my car, I encountered a cat call. 

A jogger shouted, “You look too good for a Sunday morning.” I was shocked initially, then all I could do was giggle. (He was kind of cute, after all.)

I can’t say I blame the stranger–I was definitely dressed for a Friday or Saturday night, hardly a Sunday morning. I had on my favorite black liquid leggings, a black boyfriend blazer, a textured/frilly gray top, a navy blue square scarf and my favorite platform heels. It was my fall wardrobe at its finest.

Some might say it was the shiny pants, I think my secret were my BCBG Max Azria Diva Platform Pumps. There’s something about the “divalicious” footwear–not only did it give me height, it also endowed me with some extra confidence. You can never have enough.

So here’s the scoop on the sassy shoes: They’re $274.95 at Endless.com. Sure, that’s a little steep, but its rewards outweigh the splurge. Oh, and my guy was a fan, as well. He found them to be so sexy, he wanted me to leave ‘em on all night.

White Treats in the Form of Booties

The other day, I went downstairs (of my office) to get a snack from the market. I came back up to the office, however, with a pair of white leather boots by Max Azria. I couldn’t help myself! They were so reasonably priced at the sample sale. Not to mention, insanely adorable. I had heard somewhere that the rule that you can’t wear white shoes after Labor Day no longer applies. Yippee! I was in luck.

I wore the white boots the next day, but to my dismay, no one else had white shoes on. I couldn’t help but think I was alone on this fad.

So this is my attempt to get the rest of you to join me on this white-booties adventure. That way, it’ll be obvious that it’s hot (and I won’t look silly). Take your pick from the three cute finds. And lucky for you, they’re all on sale! 

                               

From left:

For the Funky
Type Z Markela Booties in Winter White ($85.50 at Zappos.com) 

For the Casual
Frye Women’s Reba Short Shaft Boot in White ($141.61 at Endless.com) 

For the Girly
Marc by Marc Jacobs White Patent Boots ($240 at Zappos.com)

Masquerading, Mayhem and Matching Shoes

 

A beautiful, brilliant friend is throwing a masquerade ball for Halloween this year. Guests will be donning grand dresses and suits with masks that spark the imagination. Best of all, it’s a surprisingly pressure-free way to dress up.

If you’re stressing over an original, cool and sexy costume concept without crossing the slutty line (we like to stay just shy) start with that dress in your closet–the one you sigh over every week but only had the chance to wear once (No, we are not counting the time you put it on to eat ice cream and watch 27 Dresses). Then run out for some coordinating shoes at Payless and hit the nearest Hallowen pop-up store or make your own matching mask. Soon you’ll be masquerading as your spectactular self.

Here are some looks to inspire your inner mistress.

Refined in Red

Pair this red lacey creation with ladylike d’orsay rosettes and admirers will come running.

Dark and Daring

Gentlemen callers will swoon over a decadent swan in satin t-strap sandals.

 

Prim Pierrot

You may look like a sad clown, but these oxfords will keep you happy.

Golden Goddess

Perhaps “Style Goddess” is a better title for any lady donning this golden Venetian mask and the Christian Siriano for Payless Carolina Pump.

 

 

 

Celebrity Shoes: The Motherload

While I enjoy reporting on celeb-fueled footwear lines, this Fall’s offerings are less of the occasional mention and more of a full-on deluge of A lister-backed collections. So here’s a roundup of who’s designing what and when shoppers can expect to test drive the star-powered shoes:

1. Nitrolicious reported that singer Beyoncé will launch the Sasha Fierce (Beyoncé’s alter-ego) for Deréon Collection. Beyoncé’s mom/mamanger Tina Knowles described the line to WWD as “edgier and trendier;” in addition to outerwear, handbags, lingerie, jewelry and eyewear look for “heavily studded shoes.”

Sasha Fierce for Deréon

According to Style Guru, the line, which launched in September for back-to-school shopping (because what 9th grader doesn’t need heavily studded heels?), “comes at a very affordable price ranging from $25 to $75 and is available at Macy’s and Dillard’s.”

2. It its Oct. 23 issue, New York Magazine’s fashion blog The Cut revealed that, on the heels of Heidi Klum’s dropped jewelry line, the Project Runway host will launch a 48-style show collection for Fall 2010. (Or, says StyleNews, the collection will “be the first to hit stores in February 2010 and will include everything from sky-high stilettos to tall boots.”) Writes the blogger, “The inspiration is the same as every celebrity’s with a fashion line — what’s currently in her closet.”

Louis Vuitton's 2009 Spicy Sandal, worn by Klum

The project, according to  WWD, is a collaboration with “Modern Vintage and Majestic Mills co-founders Rick and Brian Cytrynbaum.”

3. In all the excitement about the launch of the Olsen Twins’ Olsenboye line of J.C. Penny (they’re promoting it in a cupcake truck!), has Mary-Kate and Ashley’s other project — the Elizabeth and James line — fallen under the radar? Say it isn’t so! Nitrolicious previewed the 2009 Elizabeth and James footwear collection, pronouncing it “so amazing.” Pictured here, the lace-up flat ankle boots, available at Saks.

Elizabeth and James ankle boot

4. Paris Hilton frenemy Nicole Richie is to (says blogger Fantastictoe) partner “with Modern Vintage shoes and Earnest Sewn jeans. Richie will add a line of around 20 shoe styles to her House of Harlow 1960 label for spring of 2010.”

5. Black Eyed Pea Fergie’s shoe line, launched in Spring of 2009 through endless.com, is offering up fall and winter looks like a shearling-lined boot and a magenta suede peep-toe. Blogger Fergie Freak writes, “Recently, I have been asked about where to get some of the fabulous shoes Fergie has been seen performing in. Well, it turns out that they are part of her own line of shoes. She’s come out with a lot of new styles for the fall.” (A poll on Beauty Xpose’s Foot Fetish Friday showed that voters were evenly divided when it came to the hotness or notness of the singer’s spring footwear.)

Fergie's magenta kid suede heel

Tess Tuesday: A Scarring Memory From My Childhood

I was invited to my very first wedding at the age of seven, that of a distant cousin whom I had no recollection of meeting but I knew, from the wedding invitation, that he existed. Upon learning of my cousin’s existence and his imminent nuptials, I began dreaming of a beautiful gold dress, with ruffles and taffeta, lace and brocade paired with a tasteful tiara and black patent leather ballet flats. (I was seven, living in New Jersey, and it was the early nineties—there’s no accounting for taste.) I related my pageant-worthy costume choice to my mother, but only got as far as the taffeta before her face fell into an “I feel sort of bad for you, but you’re ridiculous” grimace. “Laura,” she said, somewhat gently, “This is a daytime wedding.” What that had to do with anything, I hadn’t a clue, but the point was that my dress was not appropriate. “You’ll wear a suit.”

She whisked me away from my cartoons the following Saturday morning to shop at Saks for this ill-fated suit. I sat in the back seat, pouting all the way for the loss of my delusions of grandeur, and maybe a little because I wasn’t allowed to sit in the front. We were greeted at Saks, with offensive enthusiasm by Carol, who had gone ahead and picked out a bunch of suits for me. As we walked through the beautiful party dresses in a parade of crushed dreams, I couldn’t help but wonder why anyone else didn’t find it preposterous that a child would wear a suit. At seven, I looked up at two grown adult women and thought, “You want a child to wear a suit. And I’m the ridiculous one? ” But sure enough I began trying on suits. We finally go to one that had a nice top (a cream vest lined with black satin) but I was wearing pants with it and worked up the nerve to put my foot down. “I saw a skirt out there that goes with this. Can I please wear the skirt?” My mother agreed and I handed her the pants.

“Carol,” she called. “Would you mind bringing the skirt for this top?”

“And which top is that?” Carol called back.

“Oh, come in and see it,” my mother answered without a second’s hesitation.”

“What? Mom, no!” I pleaded. I was in my underwear. Carol was not allowed to see my underwear. First these women were robbing me of a beautiful party dress and now my dignity? Absolutely not! But in Carol came. I stood there awkwardly feeling my face getting hot and trying desperately to pull the vest down to cover myself—in vain. Carol acted like the sight of my underwear wasn’t no thing, but the damage had been done. I got that “my throat is hurting because I’m trying not to cry” feeling. My mother paid for the suit and a sensible headband and off we went to Stride Rite.

I still had hope for the black patent leather ballet flat, which I fondly referred to as ‘big-girl shoes.’ (My favorite shoe to this day is the black patent ballet flat.) I made my wish known to my mother, who agreed, assuring me they would definitely have those. I spotted them the second we walked into the store. Perfect. I sat on the bench shaken by the panties incident, but thankful that at least I wasn’t afraid of the metal foot measurer. The salesgirl came over, measured, looked down at my dream shoe, then up at my mother. “She has a very broad foot,” she stated. “These aren’t going to work, but those will.” She pointed to a Mary Jane. My heart sank. “But what about another size?” I asked. “What about something you have in the back?” I was grasping. “PLEASE!”

I couldn’t believe it. My last chance for some semblance of elegance and they were sticking my stupid broad foot in a Mary Jane? A Mary Jane is the opposite of a big-girl shoe! It’s a little-girl shoe! “Sorry,” the salesgirl said—still no sympathy, and in fact, maybe a taking some sick pleasure in all of this. “These are all we have.” My mother agreed and she bought the Mary Janes. I was so depressed I didn’t even want to stop at Mrs. Fields. I hated the mall, I hated my life, and I hated my fat fat fatty fat foot.

This feeling, being denied the shoe you want because of the size of your foot: avoid it. Shop Barefoot Tess.

Now, you know I want your traumatizing childhood stories. Let’s hear ‘em. And mind the contest ($50 to our commenter of the week)!

Stepping Up and Out

Recently, I underwent a little life tumultuousness.

The recession is hitting lots of people in various ways. Some are losing their jobs, some are taking on second ones to make ends meet. Others are just living in fear, afraid to order that takeout lunch or buy a new pair of shoes, because who knows what tomorrow will bring.

In my own case, after having a delusional period of security in the face of chaos – I even joked the recession was good for freelancers – I left a longterm gig -and despite having a dozen other jobs, I immediately began to obsess about everything from rent to whether I could still afford to exclusively buy organic vegetables.

Everyone told me everything would be alright – that historically, when one opportunity ends, I have a knack for finding a bigger and better one. And, not a month later, I did.

I realize that nothing in life is certain, and I think that moment of doubt taught me to be careful, and to think ahead, rather than in the moment. No matter how secure something seems – whether it’s a job, friendship, or a relationship – ultimately, you need to just be able to rely on yourself, your abilities, and your strength to move on and onward.

Shortly after regaining my mojo, I invested in these Two Lips Kitty Kat high  boots from Zappos.com, a steal at $99  – and their vibrant seductive suede is reflective of the me I’m ready to show the world. Sexy, tall, and sure – with a whole lot of sassy pink to share.

Meeting the Friends in Penny Loves Kenny

There are a handful of significant moments in a new couple’s relationship. There’s the first kiss. There’s the moment they realize they like each other. There’s the first weekend getaway. Then, the first time each meets the friends. 

That happened to me this past weekend. I went out for brunch with the new guy (who has yet to be deemed “boyfriend,” but fingers crossed that he becomes that at some point) to meet one of his best friends. I had no idea what to expect at first, but then my guy warns me: “My best friend is a very sarcastic guy and he’ll likely put you on the spot.” Way to scare me, guy.

What I thought was going to be an easy get-together with eggs and pancakes near my apartment ended up being an intimidating inquisition. Naturally, just like soldiers prepare for battle, I armed myself… but with the proper footwear. I wanted to wear shoes that indicated that I am sweet yet hot, but that I don’t put up with sh**. 

I went with my Penny Loves Kenny Belle Suede Knee Boots. I paid $120 for them when they first came out last fall, but just in case you’re interested, the saucy shoes are on sale for $59.99 at SmartBargains.com. (Lucky you!) 

I felt cool, confident and ready to face anything in my brown suede shoes–I even got a few (good) stares from ladies waiting for their breakfasts and one compliment as I walked into the restaurant. I was ready to wow the friend.

Fast forward an hour, three plates of brunch treats, a few cups of hot cocoa and the inquisition was over. Yeah, the friend put me on the spot. Yeah, he asked me some tough (not to mention borderline inappropriate) questions. But, I faced everything with poise thanks to the pair from Penny Loves Kenny. After all, shoes give us support–physically and mentally.

Tess Tuesday: Winter is Coming and I’m None Too Pleased

I spend the vast majority of the winter months tucked up into the folds of many layers of blankets on my couch, watching DVR’ed television and sipping cocoa. Fine, that’s not true, but often I wish it were. Instead I spend my winters shivering, traversing the sidewalk hunched over with my head down, and complaining about the inexorable cold the second I arrive at my destination with chapped hands and a runny nose. New York winters are brutal, but as I understand, I’m actually spoiled having to put up only with this. Here the temperature rarely plummets below 0˚F, whereas in other cities, they’re dealing with temperatures below zero on a daily basis—I’m talking to you, Minneapolis.

Here they are.

The Top 5 Things I Hate About Winter:

5. When you’re in someone’s home and they just don’t have the heat high enough. You hint. You chatter your teeth. They don’t offer you so much as a cup of tea and they inevitably have one of those cold leather couches.

4. Falling on the ice. (This happens to me a lot because among my favorite winter pastimes is “ice skating,” though it’s most always met with the response, “Stop sliding around on that black ice, Laura, you’re going to fall!” And then I do, and I hate it.)

3. Runny noses and teary eyes. (Every time I come inside I have to wipe the tears from my eyes and blow my nose. Even then, it never really stops running. And do I ever carry tissues? Of course not.)

2. (a.) The great heaps of gray snow that are a permanent fixture on every sidewalk until mid-March. Upside: when the pile gets really tall, you can climb on it—it offers a sizable deal of fun in the cold while you’re waiting for the bus and you’ve grown tired of ice skating on the sidewalk.

2. (b.) Falling off of the gray snow pile into the street—people stare.

1. Cold feet. If you don’t wear the right boots, your feet are cold for months straight. And once they get cold, they never get warm, especially if you’re hanging out at this person’s house: See 5.

There’s just one solution and I’ve got it: Appropriate winter boots. Now, appropriate very seldom implies cute and fashionable, but I would never suggest something that wasn’t. I’ve got your backs, girls.

The Cosmosis Alaska

The Sorel Caribou BootThe Australia Love Corset

Obviously, I want to hear what everyone else hates about winter—you know I love your stories.  And remember commenter of the week (here or over at Tess HQ) wins $50.

Reminiscing About My Retired Dancing Shoes

An old friend tweeted last night that he was paying a visit to a club we used to frequent when we were in college. Gasp! No way! A part of me wanted to go. I contemplated for one hot minute. Do I really want to be trapped in a crowd like a sardine, listening to the best house music ever with a bunch of sweaty dancers? Ummm, yes! Yes, I do.

So for good old time’s sake, I threw them on–the red Diesel Protons (right) I’ve loved since the moment I tried them on at Journey’s back in 2001. To date, I can still honestly say they’re the most comfortable pair of shoes that have ever graced my feet. And beyond their pillow-like benefits, I have so many memories attached to my beloved kicks. From good times with friends dancing for hours on end to meeting cute boys on dance floors, this pair and I have been through thick and thin. I love them so much, I ended up collecting them, hoarding five other pairs in different colors (and I even bought pairs for my sister and dad for Christmas one year). They, too, can attest to how wonderful these shoes are. (Can you tell I’m obsessed?)

It’s almost 2010 and I kind of want a new pair. I went on a hunt and failed. To my dismay, the Diesel Protons have been discontinued. Le sigh. But good news–the Diesel Windom (on sale for $49.99 at Journeys.com) is still around. (I have three pairs of these.) The flatter sneaker is just as comfortable–though not as cute–but if you try them, you’ll love them just as much.