These mules are made for walking

According to Wikipedia “the French word, Mule, is a style of shoe that is backless and often closed-toed. Mules can be any heel height – from flat to high.”

My main goal this spring, was to get my hands on the perfect neutral pair. Something that would go with any outfit, something comfortable that I can actually wear all day and not regret it as soon as I am in the car! Before we dig in further, let’s start with a little fashion history lesson. These are always my favourite.

OK, this description seems a little bit dramatic, although what history lesson isn’t. I can’t imagine a woman wearing these heels be considered a prostitute. Let me guess… I bet a man was involved in either writing that description and coming up with that garbage.

Anyway, before I get on my feminist horse, I wanted to show you what I’ll be wearing soon (but first, please cross your fingers for this April snow to melt away). So here they are folks my new Emu Australia mules, this is the “Burleigh” style in Mushroom colour.

I purposely went for something neutral in tone to not only elongate the leg, but to offer versatility. With the popularity of the boho style making a comeback this summer, I’m sure I’ll get lots of wear out of them!

At a cool $159, you can’t go wrong.

I won’t even even tell you the workout I got from taking this photo.. squats and all! 

Continue Reading

Shoe talk: Build your wide shoe collection this Spring

I know. If the shoe fits, buy them in all the colours, right? I hear you loud and clear and I am guilty as charged!

I suffer from a little shoe obsession, and having wide feet does not stop me from buying shoes. What’s my secret to shopping for wide shoes and taking good care of my shoes?

  • Invest in leather shoes, they are more stretchy, durable, comfortable and breathable
  • Avoid thin straps that go across  the foot or mule type shoes that cover the foot and are not stretchy enough
  • Only wear comfortable shoes, don’t sacrifice your feet for cheap shoes. It’s not worth the pain or residual health problems they can cause
  • Take care of your shoes! Use leather and shoe protectors, wear the right seasonal footwear, brush your suede and clean the inside (yes, the goop) and outside (rinse off salt stains right away).
  • Stick to the brand that is right for you. Personally, I love Michael Kors shoes, Nine West and Louise et Cie. They are made for my feet and sell at a fair price point.
  • Buy the right size and fit, and buy multiples or different colours if you have too
  • Find a cobbler. I go to Moneysworth and Best at Billings Bridge (Ottawa). They do fantastic work!
  • Pimp your shoes with leather insoles and gel padding when needed

Although buying your shoes in one size up is not always the solution, I am happy to report that there are brands like Jessica Simpson and  Louise et Cie who pay close to attention to this very common issue “the wide shoe and wide calf boot“. We already know that heels are bad for our spine and feet, why must we feel the need to squeeze our feet in them too!

Worry not. I found a few wide style shoes, mules, booties, espadrilles, flats and heels to slowly help you build your shoe collection this Spring.

Continue Reading

Simons Gatineau Haul: All dressed up and nowhere to go

Head to toe Simons, well almost! I love this outfit! It’s fun and flirty and perfect for the Holidays. It’s not a traditional holiday or winter colour scheme for that matter, but I don’t tend to stick with rules. This is a navy marino wool t-sweater paired with a pale pink tutu. I snatched up both pieces from Simons. I completed the look with a bright bib necklace and vintage Louis Vuitton Mary-Janes, and voila!

I don’t feel like doing a lot of talking, so let these gorgeous pictures speak for themselves! These are, once again, brought to you by the ever-talented Kristy Chapman Photography.

I have been hoarding these photos for a while, and I am so happy to share them with you, finally! This shoot was also meant to display my gorgeous kitchen… a.k.a. my bedroom. I love it! I live there 24/7! Thanks to my lovely husband who did all the work, almost 1 year ago!

Continue Reading

DSW- Designer Shoe Warehouse coming to Ottawa in 2016!

Photo taken from DSW Facebook event page- Etobicoke Grand Opening Celebration on October 5th 2016.
Photo taken from DSW’s Facebook Event page- Etobicoke Grand Opening Celebration on October 5th 2016.

Slow clap… Canada is getting DSW. Correction, Ottawa is getting a Designer Shoe Warehouse! And, I can’t believe it. The store is set to open in the Spring of 2016at the Train Yards mall.

About DSW

Town Shoes Limited opened the first 2 Canadian DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse locations in 2014. DSW is the destination for
shoe shoppers looking for fabulous brands at a great value every single day. With thousands of shoes for women and men, DSW is
all about the thrill of finding the perfect shoe at the perfect price. A huge assortment of handbags and accessories adds to the
breathtaking assortment DSW is known for.

DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse. Designer Shoes. Warehouse Prices.

I discovered DSW on my first trip to New York City almost 6 years ago. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I bought 3 pairs of boots (one of which I am still wearing til this day) and my Michael Kors pumps seen in this picture. A lot of damage has been made!

Chantal Sarkisian Mode XLusive

Modern Vintage Tall balck leather boots DSW
Here I am lost in Central Park… but wearing my boots (photo from 2008).

I am looking forward to monitoring the progress of the opening and will be sure to report any news to you!

Continue Reading