Thursday, December 12, 2013

Local Artisan Holiday Market


This Saturday, December 14, officially starts the 12 days til Christmas countdown and we want to make it easy for you at our Local Artisan Holiday Market trunk show. This one stop shop event will have everything you need for that best friend or best man in your life. We will be featuring goods by Porter Lyons Jewelry, Krewe du Optic eyewear, and Sarah Amacker Pop Art. If these aren't reasons enough to get to Feet First this weekend, the 610 Stompers will be in the house signing their 2014 calendar and bringing us some holiday cheer.


Porter Lyons believes in preservation and documenting culture through design.  A portion of all proceeds goes to causes that protect a culture’s fundamental identity. Porter Lyons’ first collection is inspired by New Orleans and the Bayou, and part of the proceeds benefits wetland preservation.


KREWE du optic is a handmade eyewear company based firmly in New Orleans, LA. Committing ourselves to the highest standard of quality and craftsmanship; we create lasting, fashion-forward designs inspired by the city we call home. KREWE's frames are hand-crafted specially for those with an individualized style and timeless aesthetic. Or, as we like to call them, " THE KREWE ".

Sarah Amacker was born and raised in Zachary, Louisiana. Through self-teaching, she began experimenting and created her own unique style of pop art that gives simple photographs a pulse, bringing to life the beauty and complexity of the ordinary through bright and bold expression. Her pop art style gives viewers a new perspective to the ordinary snapshots of everyday life through the use of bright colors, bold shapes, and vibrant effects. 

 












  

The 610 Stompers is a diverse group of ordinary men, from their 20s to their 60s. We are doctors, lawyers, professionals, laborers, students, teachers, and parents. We are different but we’re the same, and we’re brought together by our ongoing desire to entertain the world with our “Extraordinary Moves”, and in doing so, give back to the community that we love.

Monday, July 15, 2013

8 Ways to Wear a Summer Scarf

There is this huge misconception out there that scarves are only appropriate to wear in the colder months of the year. Well we are going to completely debunk that ridiculous myth and prove to you that scarves have their place in fashion, even in the summer months!

Wearing a scarf used to be so much more about function than fashion- heavy wools meant to keep the cold from chilling our bones. Well a new wave a fashionistas have popularized a type of scarf made of lighter, freer fabrics that won't make you sweat once the sun starts to shine, and this summer scarf is taking the fashion world by storm.

Not convinced? I'll show you 8 ways to wear that summer scarf that are so chic and stylish, you won't be able to resist.

1. The Double Knot


This style is a simple and quick way to add a little pop of color to your wardrobe. Just put it around your neck and tie a knot (not too tight) in the same position on each side. Wear it with white for a classy day wardrobe or with black for an elegant night look.

2. The Rich and Famous


















Want to wear your scarf the way the celebs do? Simple fold your scarf into a triangle (corner to corner for square scarves) and rest one corner on your shoulder. Then, wrap the scarf once around your neck and knot the other corner to the one already on your shoulder. And that's it!
Feel free to make this style as loose or as tight as you want around the neck and, while you don't actually have to tie it to achieve the look, I recommend that you do (so you don't have to keep adjusting throughout the day).
You can wear this style with any outfit, though I love it when paired with jeans and a plain v-neck shirt.

3. The Womanly Windsor



The Windsor knot, though typically associated with male neck wear, has its place in female fashion as well! For this elegant style, drape the scarf over your neck and make a loose knot in the longer side, then pull the other side of the scarf through the knot and tighten slightly. 

4. The Kerchief


I love this look for a few reasons. I really love the styles that tie in the front (they're super cute and easier to tie yourself) and I also really like the styles that let the fabric fall naturally so they don't look too stiff.
To wear your scarf this way, first fold it into triangle and line up the center point on your chest. Then wrap both ends around your neck, bringing them all the way back to the front, and tie in the center of your neck.  


5. The Neck Braid


This is my absolute favorite way to tie a scarf! It may look like it would be complicated, but the technique is actually quite simple.
First, bunch or fold the scarf long-ways to form a thin rectangular shape and drape over your neck. Next, make one small knot (not a double knot) around where you want the final product to sit on your chest. Then, fold one end over the other and loop up into the neck circle. Then take the other end and do the same. Continue until you are unable to braid any further and tuck the ends around the back of the scarf (you can secure with a safety pin if you like).

Don't like wearing scarves around your neck? We've got you covered too!

6. The Belt


Tired of plain black and brown leather belts? Try using a scarf! simply fold the scarf into a long, thin rectangle and tie on one side, letting the ends dangle. This looks so chic with a romper or maxi dress and I love to see it with maxi dresses that have no real contour to the body. Adding the belt gives you some shape and draws attention to the natural curves of your body.

7. The Bustier


The idea of wearing a scarf as a shirt may seem a bit strange, but I assure you, it is adorable and perfect as a beach cover-up! Fold a rectangular scarf in half long-ways and wrap around your torso. Then, tuck the ends into the bust-line to create a semi-sweetheart neckline. Quick and simple for covering up a bathing suit at the beach!

8. The Sarong


Another very beachy way to wear a scarf is to tie it into a sarong. Fold the scarf across its diagonal into a triangle and tie the other ends at the hip, letting the triangle point fall to one side of your legs.Another simple yet stylish way to cover up a bathing suit, and the lightweight fabric maintains the summery feel of relaxing at the shore.


These 8 styles are ideal for wearing all-weather scarves, and there are still so many more creative alternatives out there! So, stop in to one of our Feet First locations to pick up your summer scarf and talk to our associates about what way to wear it perfectly fits your personal style!

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Local Love

While we at Feet First certainly love our shoes, we'd be remiss if we didn't shine the spotlight on our local New Orleans vendors that help us accessorize our outfits with style and class.

We absolutely LOVE the artistic styling of Ashley Porter's Porter Lyons collections. Her unique designs pay homage to New Orleans heritage and culture and showcase the originality and diversity that this city has to offer.

This bronze backbone cuff is the perfect example of what we're talking about.
 

This statement bracelet conjures up images of the swamp monsters that roam the bayous of the Louisiana country.

And of course, you can't get any more authentic than this genuine alligator hide cuff.
Another bold piece from her collection, this cuff bracelet is complete with a 22K gold plated snap lock.

But perhaps the piece that most fits the spirit of New Orleans is this voodoo skull bracelet.
While not available for viewing on our website, feel free to pop into either of our locations to take a closer look at these bold New Orleans inspired pieces, or give us a call at 504-899-6800 if you're out of town.

Another of our favorite local merchants we carry in our stores is Birds of a Feather. We adore their feather fascinators- they're a great way to jazz up a hair style in perfect New Orleans style.

Check out some of our favorites:


Such a fun and easy way to add a little flair to your wardrobe; you just clip them in and you're on your way.


We also carry the fabulous NOLA Couture line of Louisiana themed ties and bow ties.

Louisiana is famous for its fresh gulf oysters, and this tie is a great way to show your love for the city's fresh-as-can-be seafood:


Love Louisiana college sports? Try this LSU tie on for size:
 
This is the perfect way to show your love for your favorite football team in an office-appropriate way.

Want to show uptown New Orleans some love? Check out this St. Charles streetcar tie:


All NOLA couture ties are made with 100% silk with a wool interlining so, no matter the occasion, you're sure to be the most stylish one in attendance.

So next time you're out shopping, stop into Feet First and help us show some local love to our amazingly creative and endlessly talented local New Orleans vendors!

Monday, June 3, 2013

Wedding Bells and Debutante Balls








Well, it's summer in New Orleans and you know what that means- we're seeing plenty of wedding marches and debutante balls all over the city! But while you ladies are shopping for your dresses, don't forget the importance of a beautiful pair of shoes to complete your outfit!
 

Here at Feet First, we've got a wide selection of debutante and bridal footwear and we stock styles and colors that satisfy all preferences. You can find your traditional white heels, you can go with some less traditional styles, or you can opt for the completely unconventional style and color shoe. It's your big day and we want you to look stunning in whatever footwear makes you look and feel more beautiful than you've ever felt before.

Traditional
For the debutante or the traditional bride, we carry an assortment of white heels both open- and closed-toe (for all you debs out there).
On the close-toe side of things, check out these remarkable pumps:

Touch Ups "Zeta"
Dyeables "Grace"



Touch Ups "Ginger"

A classic look, these heels will complete your outfit in the most elegant fashion.
If you’re looking for an open-toe shoe, we’ve got plenty of those too! These peep-toe heels will be a tasteful addition to any dress. 

Dyeables "Ida"
Touch Ups "Marissa"


Touch Ups "Dakin"

And because we know you want your shoes to be perfect, we have samples of all these styles in the store for you to try on, but we will special order you a fresh pair in time for the big day!


Slightly Less Traditional
While many women choose to stick with tradition, recently we've seen brides who are breaking the norm by choosing less conventional styles on their big day. Take, for example, these Pelle Moda heels:
Pelle Moda "Gretel" Heels
Pelle Moda "Hadley" Evening Sandal


Both of these styles are just waiting to be seen on the big day!

We know that for the wedding you need to wear something blue- why not make it your shoes?
Both these Nina and these blue Butter shoes will complete your look with a flair:
Nina "Criana" Evening Pump
Butter Putt Peep Toe Pump - Women's Shoes
Butter "Putt" Peep-Toe Pump




These elegant blue heels will nicely compliment the white in your dress and will leave your guests speechless as you walk down the aisle.


Unconventional
Looking for something completely outside the norm for your wedding? We've got you covered too!

These Butter shoes will make your outfit pop on the big day! If all eyes weren't on you before, they will be now!
Butter "Sanford" Low Wedge
Butter "Percy" Slingback Pump


Butter "Posey" Low Wedge

In traditional New Orleans style, these colorful shoes will turn heads and make sure there is a big buzz about your big day.

Shopping for wedding shoes in New Orleans can be a nightmare, but whether you're a traditional bride or funky one, we've got you covered!

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Summer Must-Haves

We may only be mid-way through May, but as days are getting longer, the sun is getting brighter, and the weather's getting hotter, we know summer is coming quickly! 

Along with keeping an eye on the temperature, we at Feet First are also keeping an eye out for the hottest new trends and this summer we'll be seeing a lot of maxi dresses and platform wedges! With their light-weight, flowing fabric, maxi dresses are a stylish way to keep cool in the summer heat, and an open-toe wedge is the perfect way to embellish the look.

Take, for example, these strappy Nicole wedges:

Product Image
Nicole "Across" Cork Wedge


They're great for hanging out around during the day, but can be easily transformed into a stylish look for a night on the town!

Looking for something a little taller? These Sofft sandals sport the hugely popular floral print we've seen so much of lately. 

Sofft Peggie Floral Wedge - Womens' Shoes
Sofft "Peggie" Floral Wedge
The straw heel gives this a more casual look, making it an ideal pair to bring on vacation (can anyone say "beach babe"?).

Another hugely popular and equally fabulous pattern this year is the animal print. 
These Isola platform wedges show us why the pattern has received so much attention.
Isola Oma Mule Wedge - Women's Shoes
Isola "Oma" Mule Wedge

 With a cork heel and gold metal t-strap, this pair provides a chic finish to any look.


Want to go the extra mile? To finish off the look, I personally love the straw hat and handbag combo. They're lightweight and perfect for summer. You can take them to a music festival; wear them to brunch in the Garden District; wear them walking around the quarter, wear them anywhere!

My personal favorites?
Dorfman Women's Strip Fedora Hat
Dorfman Women's Strip Fedora
http://www.feetfirststores.com/Assets/images/jumbos/PAHDADAJBBEHGNKI_Natural_alt1_lg.jpg
Magid Straw Fedora
 

I absolutely LOVE the straw fedora. It just oozes comfort and coolness and will keep the blazing sun out of your face on a hot summer day (look at that, fashion AND function).
These pair nicely with straw clutches and totes and finish off any look with a classy, fashionable touch.
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Toss Cane Weave Straw Hobo

Onigo MP15 Straw Tote - Handbags
Onigo Straw Tote
 
Need more convincing? Check out Jessica Alba rockin' her maxi dress with a stylish pair of wedges and a colorful straw bag to finish off the look.

Jessica Alba in Lanston

So next time you're out and about in the city, stop by and visit us at Feet First. We'll help you finish your look with the perfect pair of shoes and accessories that just shout summer chic!

Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Get Runway Looks for Less at Feet First

The Feet First girl is savvy. She knows that she doesn't have to spend hundreds on a shoe to look like a million bucks. She also understands the value of style, quality, and comfort. Getting designer looks for less is easy, and this blog will make it a snap!

First of all, the heeled mule look is huge for Spring this year.You get that chic ankle boot look without the ankle boot heat. The Loopey by Nicole is a great option for this look that's been all over the runways, without the runway price. As a nice bonus, it comes in a "canary" brownish color-which almost reads as a nude and is great for lengthening the leg
Gianvito Rossi $650
Nicole Loopey - $129.99  at Feet First

Another look we've been seeing a lot for Spring is the D'orsay flat. (D'orsay means it's open on the sides). Stripes and cap toes are also huge...so the Brice by Pelle Moda is pretty much a no-brainer. Regardless of its right-on-trend style...it's just so. stinking. cute.
Jenni Kane $425
Pelle Moda Brice - $109.99 at Feet First
Pelle Moda Brice - $109.99 at Feet First

You know you can always count on Sam Edelman to deliver styles that look like designer pieces but are in your budget. The menswear trend is easy with the Alvin, and the leopard print acts as a neutral in your wardrobe.   
Jimmy Choo $650


Louboutin $695




Sam Edelman Alvin - $149.99 at Feet First
Another runway-ready pick from Pelle Moda is the Vino. The bronze-y gold color will really go with everything, and you're saving a solid $1300 by opting for the Vino instead of the Renee Caovilla on the left...you could buy all of the Feet First shoes in this post and still have money for a bag!
Renee Caovilla $1595

Pelle Moda Vino - $194.99 at Feet First

Happy shopping, y'all! xoxo