COLD WEATHER SHOES

WARNING: Paris is cooling down, and quick. We had a false alarm about winter coming a couple of weeks ago, and then France decided it wanted one last heat wave.

BUT it’s November, and autumn is actually here. We’ve talked a few times on this blog about different shoes that are important to have out and about, but we’ve never mentioned another important shoe that people need:

~*~slippers~*~

 

There are few things better than wools slip-ons with a cute pattern on them. Even better they are burgundy, a great color for the fall.

This pair of Fairisle patterned Mules are from next, a British company. Not only are they available in burgundy, but they are also available in the navy-colored pattern, and other solid colors.

On cold Parisian days, nothing is better than a great pair of slippers; these are our favorite pair right now.

Monk Shoes November (B’s Choice)

Picture from Zara.com

NOVEMBER. Cold weather, festive occasions (in America) and a transition into cold weather shoes. In looking for a pair of shoes that would be appropriate for a November in Paris, I stumbled upon these patent leather black Monk shoes from Zara.

I’ve always loved monk shoes. This style of shoe is characterized by a flap over where the tongue would normally be. This flap is then held in black by two buckles that attach to the outside of each foot. Personally, I don’t have a pair of monk shoes; I never have felt classy enough to own a pair, but I’m hoping to get a pair of monk shoes for my next pair of dress shoes.

I think this particular pair of monk shoes is perfect for November because of the many different outfits they can be worn with. Whether with a suit, a nice pair of trousers, or even a well-tailored pair of pants.

The patent leather elevates these shoes beyond the normal pair of monk shoes! Here’s to looking spiffy and fly in Paris this November.

-B

Roganel + Doc Martens!

Every day as I walk to class I take Rue des Archives. I pass a store called Roganel each day, and its window displays always catch my eyes. With well-known English brands and trendy mannequins, I can’t help but be drawn to this local Marais store.

In particular I found myself stopping and looking more in depth at a display of shoes.

The crate displaying Doc Martens was my absolute favorite. With fall finally arriving, sturdy boots are of the utmost importance. With their thick soles and well-treated leather, Doc Martens are perfect for cool weather; they can stand up to rain or snow, and are thick enough for wind.

The pair of cognac leather boots in Roganel’s window are at the top of my must-have list. They would match black, indigo or light-wash denim.

I can’t wait to spend an afternoon exploring Roganel’s more, and getting lost in their shoes, apparel and accessories.

– B

 

M’s Choice

Republique is an excellent subway stop if you’re looking for authentic, privately owned Parisian retailers, thrift stores and small name labels. Last Friday I spent the morning wandering the small streets, especially keeping my eye out for men’s shops.

This was not a difficult task as I passed one after another! All ranging from suiting, footwear, high scale thrift, etc.

I am a person drawn to aesthetics above all else, especially when I’m trying to whittle down from a list of options. With only an hour left before I needed to walk back to the Marais, I stumbled into a shop called Monsieur Lacenaire. While there were only a few pair of shoes being featured, the vision of the retailer was so precise. Navy block print walls and an old bike hanging up gave it a feel of specified minimalism. The colors presented in the fabrics were golden yellows, true red, navy, and deeper woodsy browns and greens.

What I especially enjoyed was the attitude of high quality, low consumption, seeing as the camel colored boots could be worn with almost all of the articles.

I got to talking to the man, and as there was a little bit of a language barrier, he gave me a card with the intention of returning. I look forward to learning more about the company!

– M

Black Chelsea Boots (B’s Choice):

 

Black is the color for Paris. In our Mass Media & the Fashion Industry class, Mamie and I have learned about le parisian and la parisienne. They exude an effortless confidence, and are smart and sexy. They are typically thought to be wearing all black.

In preparation for a semester in Paris, I knew I would have to add more black to my wardrobe. The first place to start is with black Chelsea boots.

As a college student on a budget, I had to check inexpensive places first.

H&M

Zara

Black leather Chelsea boots are perfect for autumn/winter. There is only a matter of time until it is boot weather, and it’s imperative to get a pair of these before it’s too late.

I’m personally leaning towards the shoes from Zara. They’re real leather, unlike the pair from H&M, and hopefully would last longer.

The H&M pair is definitely more economical, however.

Either pair will make your Fall 2014 wardrobe sleek and cool.

-B

Equality, in comfort and style

Balenciaga Look 19

Balenciaga Look 20

Balenciaga Look 22

Balenciaga Look 23

TREND ALERT: BLACK SNEAKERS

In looking at the menswear lines for Fall 2014, we came across a trend that had transcended from the runway to the sidewalk.

In looking at the Balenciaga show we noticed that Alexander Wang paired sleek black sneakers with formal wear. These sorts of shoes have been replicated by brands like Nike and New Balance.

In walking around around the city over the past four weeks, we have noticed men on the Metro wearing suits with these sneakers.

This sportswear look works with business attire as well as casual wear; perfect for a city wear walking is the primary mode of transportation.

-M&B

B’s Choice

 

Paris is a walking city. People don’t use cars as much as they use the Metro. When I was getting ready to pack up my life back in August, I had to make calculated decisions about what I needed to pack. Which shoes I would take was the most important.

I decided to bring a couple different pairs of shoes. Two different colored desert boot. High top white Converse. Tall boots for when it finally cools down. But the best pair I brought with me was these cognac Cole Haan Oxfords.

They’re perfect for every occasion. With a colorful and fun pair of tall socks, they can elevate the classic jeans and button up look. I wore them earlier this year with a gray suit for my brother’s wedding.

They’re sturdy shoes that can stand up to this city. The perfect shoes for the perfect city.

-B