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Heel to Toe
Our Favorite High Heel Shoe Stores

You know that we love shoes so we thought that we would share our favorite high heel shoe stores with you. When you need a quick foot fashion fix or you have the time to search for that coveted pair, here are our favorite haunts. Here are five online high heel shoe stores and five brick and mortar stores that we just know that you will flip for.

Retail High Heel Shoe Stores

For when you need a little retail therapy and have some precious spare time away from kids, school or work.

Aldo

Honestly, we couldn’t love Aldo more. Pop into a store for a kicky pair of sneakers, sandals or a fierce pair of heels. Committed to the community, the Aldo Group actively supports YouthAids, War Child and the Cure Foundation. Spring 2016 they are rolling out a Personal Stylist program. Schedule a private shopping session at your local store and meet one-on-one with a stylist. http://www.aldoshoes.com/

DSW

DSW, which stands for Designer Shoe Warehouse is exactly that. A giant, well organized warehouse of gorgeous shoes, oftentimes designer brands are marked down with deep discounts. If this doesn’t entice you enough DSW offers a great rewards program for frequent shoppers. With over 400 stores nationwide, we love the convenience and the variety of this shoe super store. http://www.dsw.com/

Chinese Laundry

Started in 1981, Chinese Laundry has always been dedicated to beautiful footwear for young women. With three stores, and product lines in both Macy’s and Nordstrom’s, Chinese Laundry has grown to encompass seven brands. Always at the forefront of fashion, they are one of the most stylish high heel shoe stores and offer a refreshing variety of price points. http://www.chineselaundry.com/

Nordstrom

Shoe lovers flock like homing pigeons to Nordstrom, and for good reason. Nordstrom always seems to have the best shoes before anyone else. Also, their sales are legendary and the return policy is generous. Nordstrom claims to help people have style, not just buy fashion, and they have been doing that for over 100 years. What’s not to love about Nordstrom? http://shop.nordstrom.com/

Famous Footwear

We love Famous Footwear because it is everywhere. With over 1,000 stores across the country, it is not just one of our favorite high heel shoe stores, they have lots of shoes for everyone on your list, men and kiddos can find great kicks there as well! http://www.famousfootwear.com/

Online High Heel Shoe Stores

For when you’d rather shop with your fingers and not your feet, there are a number of delightful high heel shoe stores just a couple clicks away.

Sole Society

The Sole Society site is a favorite high heel shoe store, but offers so much more. Clothes, handbags and other accessories are in stylish abundance. With free shipping on orders over $50 and a live chat 24/7, this is a great resource for putting together that extra-special outfit. http://www.solesociety.com/

Zappos

If you haven’t yet heard of Zappos, it is the online giant shoe retailer of the internet. They seem to carry every size and every brand so plan to spend a good amount of time browsing around. Quite frankly, the search filters are a little staggering. You can specify shoe type, size, style, color, material and much more. Once you join their rewards program you get free shipping and returns. http://www.zappos.com/

Shoe Dazzle

Shoe Dazzle offers interesting options for the shoe lover. There are two options, first, as a “Basic Customer” you can shop and buy as you please. The second option “VIP Membership” comes with a monthly charge of $39.95-which you can postpone, and you can shop each month and receive lots of fun perks. Sound intriguing? Try dabbling in the Dazzle. http://www.shoedazzle.com/

Shoe Buy

Shoe Buy is another online shoe super store that carries over 1,200 brands. With free shipping and returns, they pretty much promise to have exactly what you are looking for. They offer coupon codes and a rewards program, so if you’ve got frisky fingers give Shoe Buy a try. http://www.shoebuy.com/

Heels.com

Last but not least favorite, like the name suggests, heels.com is the ultimate online high heel shoe store. There are a few flats thrown in for fun, but this is your one stop shop for something high and pretty. The homepage has little videos of women walking around in high heels which are nifty if you are a first-time wearer or simply re-entering the high heel scene. http://www.heels.com/

It is clear that we simply love shoes and we love shopping for them. We hope that you love these stores and sites as much as we do, because you can never have too many pairs of high heel!

5 Favorite Movie Clips of Women Helping Women

Have you ever watched a film with a lead female character or two and enjoyed it so much that at the very end you felt a little bit…emotional? And has this feeling perhaps led you to think, “I need to watch this again with (insert BFF’s name here) and I need to call her RIGHT NOW and tell her all about it”?

It happens. It happens and it doesn’t have anything to do with quantifiable evidence. A feel-good-about-the-sisterhood movie might not have won any Oscars or stars or thumbs up, but it can make you feel lucky to have your girlfriends and it might make you want to be a better one.

A strong group of girlfriends is like having a pot of gold and it’s always a delight to see that magic happen on the big screen (or even the little screen if you're anything like me in college).

Here’s a very short list, in somewhat chronological order, of our favorite movies featuring women helping women. 

1. Thelma & Louise (1991)

    Iconic; Thelma & Louise is what every woman thinks of when she thinks of films about women helping women. World-weary Louise helps doe-eyed Thelma out of uncomfortable man situations while fleeing to Mexico in a convertible mustang. Their decision-making, how the stakes get higher and higher, the scenery and that soundtrack! This film surpasses the term chick flick and is more a spiritual thriller with some seriously young Brad Pitt eye-candy thrown in. Best movie ending ever. I’d probably floor it off a cliff if Harvey Keitel was chasing me.

    2. Steel Magnolias (1989)

    Another one not to miss, I think of this film as paving the way for Thelma & Louise. A high-voltage cast of southern women see their friend's (Sally Field) daughter (Julia Roberts) marry and then die a tragic death. The life challenges they face together and the way these old and new friends communicate is so subtle and sensitive it is a good friendship lesson to us all. Full of excellent one-liners and killer scenes (armadillo cake anyone?), this is a woman's classic.

    3. Practical Magic (1998)

    Okay, this didn’t get many stars, not many good reviews or any thumbs up. There’s a good chance you’ve never heard of it... but it’s fun to watch with your girlfriends anyway. The basic plot is that two sister witches have been cursed upon. The curse entails that the men they fall in love with will die an early death. They also drink piña coladas and have dance parties in the middle of the night. Need I say more? Goran Visnjic -- Dr. Luka from ER, hello! (that’s who put Croatia on the map for me) -- is the swarthy bad guy. The sisters have to work together to exorcise them out of their lives. Maybe not technically a classic, but a fun watch, especially around Halloween.

    4. Sex in the City-Movie #1 (2008)

    This could not be left out. Like it or not, Sex in the City is the TV series of our generation that taught women to speak to each on another level. The movie features the characters we all know and scenes that we’ve all been through before, packing up and moving, escaping from the love of your life. Buying your wedding dress at a vintage store and then ditching your penthouse -- oh, wait-that would NEVER happen. Regardless of reality these are four friends that stick together through the best of times and the worst of times.

    5. Bridesmaids (2011)

    Bridesmaids is a great example of women helping women and the dark jealous resentment that some women have the capacity to harbor. This is a film about two frenemies planning their friend’s wedding. Lots of funny and tragic things happen. Actually, many tragic things happen. However the grand finale is the wedding scene featuring the band Wilson Phillips singing “Hold On”, which is an awesome way to show the women had united.

    Why We Love Films About Women Helping Women

    A few themes stood out in compiling this list: tragedy, bonding, sensitivity and above all, a sense of humor. Leading lady characters carry a depth and grace that isn’t often seen in their male counterparts, and the traits of depth and grace are exemplified when they are helping each other.

    Obviously, this is an abbreviated list, but there are so many! Please share your favorites and explain why.

    Clickless High Heel Protectors

    American Made High Heels & Shoes for Women

    Don’t fear pledging allegiance to buying footwear in the USA. A long history of shoe manufacturing and an All-American attention to style and innovation have helped develop some of the world’s top brands here on our own soil. Comfortable and well-made, you’ll be surprised at the wide range of fashionable options that are produced domestically. Whether shopping for new shoes or strutting a favorite pair, feel free to give yourself a pat on the back for being patriotic. Shoe love of this kind is All-American.

    Frye

    Handcrafted in the United States for over 150 years, Frye makes a heel that you can strut straight from the windswept prairie right onto Park Avenue without missing a beat. Started in 1863 in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Frye began with a simple purpose, to ease the lives of factory workers by providing high quality, comfortable shoes. www.thefryecompany.com

    Sbicca

    Based in Los Angeles, Sbicca distills the California vibe into a stylish and well-made shoe. The Sbicca brand has been around for over 90 years and prides itself on Genuine Leather or Hand-woven jute materials and a special heel made out of light-weight and flexible polyurethane. So a Sbicca heel looks good, feels good and is well crafted. www.sbiccafootwear.com

    Vivanz Footwear

    Headquartered in Southern California, the "utmost respect and appreciation are circulated within production and distribution". Believing that their people are their greatest asset, VIvanz shoes are manufactured in both the U.S. and Mexico. www.vivanz.com

    Munro American

    More of a comfort/casual shoe, Munro American has been a family owned and operated business out of Arkansas since the late 1950's. They are dedicated to size, comfort, and of course, style. www.munroshoes.com

    Eastland

    "Made in Maine, USA" isn't just their slogan, it's Eastland's way of life. And it's been that way since 1955. These shoes are the embodiment of Maine, and a beautiful sight for the casual shoe lover. www.eastlandshoe.com

    Jen and Kim

    We love this business because not only was it founded by two young women who have known each other since grade school and live on opposite ends of the country, but because each shoe is custom made to your taste. Choose your style, materials and size to begin the process. Their mission is to increase domestic production. www.jenandkimshoes.com

    Calleen Cordero

    A combination of earthy and modern, Cathleen Cordero is "out to prove that hand crafted luxury can be made in the U.S.A.". We love this collection out of California. www.calleencordero.com

    Salpy

    Salpy shoes may have kind of a funny name, but all aspects of their manufacturing and design are done right in Southern California. Founded by a husband and wife team, there isn't much not to love about these beauties. www.salpy.net

    From the beach to the runway, American made heels and shoes can help you conquer pretty much any situation in comfort and style. It’s in our constitution, as patriots and as women to have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And that includes happy feet.

    Speaking of happy feet, if you want to keep your high heels looking new longer and soften your step, learn about our simple high heel caps

    Clickless High Heel Protectors

    How to Make Old Heels Look New

    When you step out to strut your stuff, it’s always a good idea to put your best foot forward. But what if that foot is firmly planted in a favorite pair of heels that has started to look a little worn? Splits, chips, scuffs, scrapes and rips are common high heel problems that can all be fixed at home. Whether a furry friend has used your heels as a chew toy, or you're the victim of simple wear and tear, there are a number of steps you can take to put a spring back in your step and give an old pair of heels a loving little face lift.

    5 Ways to Make High Heels Look Newer

    1. Replace the Heel Tip

    Because of pressure that the heel endures, a lost or chipped heel tip is a common issue. A replacement kit can be found at a shoe repair shop, online or at your local craft store. First, glue any split or torn fabric back to the heel with adhesive applied with a sponge or small nail brush. If damage is extensive, camouflage with a matching color acrylic paint. Second, either glue or hammer the tip into place. Lastly, file the heel tip to fit the shape of your shoe, but not too much that you weaken it. One way to prevent the need for this type of fix by wearing high heel protectors, especially when walking outdoors and on rough surfaces. 

    2. Fix a Broken Ankle Strap

    Don’t let this common problem slow you down. A sketchy heel strap, or blown out flip-flop or sandal is actually a very easy fix! A number of shoe adhesives are available at drug stores or even superglue would work in a pinch. First, remove any dirt or dust with a dry cloth, surfaces must be dry for the glue to set. Second, remove any stray thread or torn fabric. Apply glue and let sit for at least two minutes. Third, press pieces gently together and use a clamp to hold, a clothespin or paperclip will do. Let dry for 24 hours.

    3. Walk This Way

    When heels don’t fit properly they will show signs of age sooner. Luckily, there are a number of products that do double duty to help your feet and your fabulous heels! If an ankle rubs the back of the shoe, apply a band aid to create a barrier, or gel pads are re-usable. Foot inserts are available to take pressure off the ball of the foot, and arch supports help support the foot and back. The better fitting heel will instantly look newer.  

    4. Condition, Condition, Condition

    For any heel material, there is a way to clean and a way to pre-treat. A favorite shoe store or online site features a number of products to spiff up your heels. Each season, take out your collection of shoes and give each a clean. Then, depending on the circumstances, waterproof, de-salt, brush and buff each pair to perfection. Each pair will look renewed and this will prolong the life of the shoe.

    5. Scratch & Color Fixes

    When conditioning alone doesn't fix scratches, tears and scrapes, additional repair might be necessary. This is difficult with fabric shoes, but can be done with other materials as long as it isn't too deep or wide. First, prep the shoe by buffing out each scrape with leather oil. Then, use a color matching shoe polish to disguise the blemish.

    Conclusion

    Old age isn’t a good reason to retire a pair of heels, and expensive high heels are particularly worthy of the effort to keep them looking new. Renew your shoes with these handy tips and tricks and old becomes new again. It’s like getting new shoes without spending much money, and that makes everyone feel fabulous!

    Clickless High Heel Protectors

    15 Stocking Stuffers for Fashionistas Under $15

    Stockings are where the fun and utilitarian gifts get stuffed. It’s the smaller, thoughtful and personal presents that don’t break the bank, yet truly warm the heart and are a blast to give. As luck would have it, there is no shortage of wonderful gifts this holiday season. And with major shopping days Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, now is time to stock up on some swanky stuff!

    1. Who can resist Burt’s Bees? Especially this tips and toes kit! High quality, natural ingredients and such delightful scents, this will be a hit for anyone looking to help winter heels.
    2. The perfect looking pair of shoes doesn’t always feel perfect on our feet. "No pain" blister cushions can save the day. Like bionic band-aids, they cure calluses and blisters by simply sticking to the back and/or upper area of a shoe.
    3. A sweet accessory to a favorite heel, ballet flat or sandal, these gorgeous black fabric flounce straps from Sassy Strapps step up a shoe and can pull an outfit together.
    4. High heel protectors that maintain shoe heel integrity and prolong the life of the shoe are amazing. These teeny tiny caps do double duty, also quieting heel clicks on hard surfaces.  
    5. Coming in at $19, and maybe too large for a stocking, but this boot storage kit is an incredible value. Plus, it’s like four gifts in one. A boot hanger and foam shapers keep your kicks off the floor. Leather lotion and shining cloth are total necessities for maintaining your favorite pair. 
    6. Even Fashionistas appreciate a little help now and then. Check out these boot straps, and keep pants tucked into boots! 
    7. For the friend who burns the candle at both ends, and looks great doing it! Eye makeup corrector and remover are little cotton swabs that offer ninja-like precision. Compact and perfect for a handbag for touchups or removal.
    8. Hate the flyaway scarf look? Keep it in place with a tape dot! Medical grade, double stick tape keeps bling, belts and bra straps firmly in place.
    9. Sweet as candy, keep those cords in place with these earbud holders. Simply wrap the cord around the holder and suction it onto a phone, table or any hard surface. Available in four yummy colors.
    10. Speaking of cord holders, they make them for the office, too. Keep the printer cable in place with these snazzy chord clips.
    11. Bedazzle a cup of cheer with these holiday-themed drink labels. Reusable and water resistant, each pack contains 30 labels.
    12. Chalk isn’t just for classrooms anymore, especially when it’s dust-free and works on any non-porous surface.
    13. Her feet will be happier, which means you will be happier, if she does not get blisters. If your honey loves nice kicks but doesn't wear them often enough to not get blisters, save the day with a stick of foot gloss to minimize chafing.
    14. There are so many wonderful people creating delightful, all natural concoctions and selling them on sites like Etsy. Why not support a small business this season and get your special someone a jar of handmade foot soak
    15. If you're like us, you want to wear your heels year round. We've just discovered the most incredible socks that allow you to wear heels and flats all winter long. And we aren't talking about that socks-under-sandals trend that came by the wayside a few years ago. We're talking about Keysocks
    Stockings are the icing on the holiday cake. This is just a small list of fun things that are sure to impress your family and friends. Stuff those stockings with care, fun and humor, and your loved ones will be blown away by your present-giving prowess.

    Clickless High Heel Protectors

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