Sunday, September 24, 2017

Do You Really Have to Buy More Shoes?

Do you YOU really have to buy more shoes? 
Me? 

YES!

And here are my reasons why:

1. I NEED new shoes
and
2. I WANT more shoes

Hello there ladies and maybe, gents!  Do you have similar answers as mine? 


My reasoning is essentially a matter of addressing a need and satisfying a want.  Below are some of my detailed elaborations on why I need and want to buy new pairs of shoes.  Can you relate to me? 

NEED to buy when:
1. Old favorite shoes for daily/regular use (work or casual) is worn down
2. Extra pairs as alternative, in cases of emergency (unexpected shoe damage)
3. Extra pairs as another alternative e.g. to match uniform color
4. A realization hits me, "I have no open shoes lately", e.g. sandals, and I must grab one.

WANT to buy:
1.I am not a rainbow person, but I always hanker to fill my shoe cabinet with shoe pairs that complete the roy-g-biv colors.
2. The color of my shoes must match my clothes, and also my bags.
3. I am always attracted to all the shades and tints of pink and my forever love for black and white color combination too.
4. New favorite colors just surface out from nowhere, anytime, and that I MUST buy shoes on that new favorite hue. For example,  I have been craving for red shoes starting last quarter of 2016, even though I find the color (a few years ago) too loud for my personality.
5. The more, the merrier! More options to mix and match my multi-hued wardrobe.


I am thrilled upon composing this post since, for those who have been reading my blog posts, I am a shoe person.  And through the years, I have shared in this blog all my shoe purchases which you can see all of them HERE.

In summary, I only purchased 25 pairs last year, 2016.  But only 23 of which have photographs in this post since those other two pairs are far, far away from my current location now which makes it impossible to have their snapshots.

Again, I am declaring that I am a shoe lover who does not collect shoes. But, I am totally head over heels on the activity of haunting for those pretty perfect pairs, in my opinion, and of course, taking them home with me is one pleasurable achievement.  

I am picky and meticulous when it comes to buying shoes. Despite being a need or want, that pair of shoes must measure up to my established set of shoe qualifications.  I always refer to and contemplate on these factors during selection and decision-making (purchase time).   These 3 factors are at all times simultaneously considered and may vary in priority, depending on the need or want reasons of purchase.

This post is a bit more detailed compared to my other "shoes" posts since I am to provide information on the brands, the shoe sizes, the prices, the places /stores where I bought them and the ranking of "shoe qualifications" for every purchase made.


What are my Shoe Qualifications?
 The S-P-C Factors 

1. Style 
They say shoes can make or break an outfit.  I seriously agree on this.  It can essentially create flattering impact if paired with its complementing set of clothing, accessories and... attitude. This factor includes the shoe style (ballet flats, pumps, sneakers), color (single or color combination), material (mono or multi) and overall aesthetics including exquisite embellishments, playful baubles, and unique trimmings attached or embedded onto the shoes.

2. Price
A discounted pair consistently captures my attention but if the shoe costs above my budget but have wowed me ultimately, with no doubt, that pair will be worth the splurge.
Some would say, branded pairs are associated with higher cost, premium quality and that one should invest in these extravagant pieces.  In my opinion, I fairly agree to invest in "extremely expensive = highest quality" shoes since I consider this fashion item as simply, consumables.  They wear and tear over time and why spend too much while thinking that the pair will survive past your lifetime.  Almost everything has its own expiration date, and even shoes are not exempted.

3. Comfort
This is also closely equivalent to functionality and convenience.  I can wear almost any kind of shoes, well, except for Stilettos and those high-heeled shoes with heights above 2.5 inches.  But I am most attached to flat or kitten-heeled closed shoes, either round or pointed.  And I can fit shoe size range of 5 / 5.5 / 6 / or even up to 7 depending on the shoe style. 
Aside from the height: one best, immediate way of assessing shoe comfort, which I always do, is to feel and twist a bit the back part of the shoe - the topline to the heel cap (that part which is constantly in contact with the heel bone and down to the ankle).  If it fits but hurts, it is definitely a No! even though how covetous the pair is.


The very first pair of shoes I purchased on 2016 was during also the very first month of the year.  There was an urgent need to buy new pairs of shoes since I was scheduled for a trip to the United States of America for both work and personal matters. 

I was primarily looking for functional yet fantastic pieces.  Functional, to mean, it must provide comfort and can help me withstand longer hours of walking and standing; and Fantastic, to mean, it must appeal sophisticated with a light touch of flamboyance, true to Shoe #1.

My 2016 Shoe Haul


Shoe #1: a NEED
This kitten-heeled, black, suede, almont toe, pumps with ample faux diamond bling on the toe cap is perfect for work and party ensemble.

Brand: PRIMADONNA  / Shoe Size: 6

Where Bought: PRIMADONNA boutique at SM City Cebu, Philippines

I could not exactly remember the price, but I think it ranges between Php 900.00 - 1,200.00 and it was on regular pricing when I bought it.  It was quite a splurge, but it's too graciously charming to miss out.


Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Not, pictured here is Shoe #2: a NEED - a white 2 inch-heeled pumps from PAYLESS, size 5 1/2.  I have already bought the same kind, color and size of this shoes last 2015, see HERE, but I felt the urgency to buy a new pair to ensure safer struts for a wedding I will be attending in the U.S. 
Where Bought: PAYLESS store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Comfort
2. Style
3. Price


Shoe #3: a NEED is another pair of shoes I intentionally bought for my U.S. trip last year.

Brand: CELINE  / Shoe Size: 6 


Where Bought: CELINE boutique at SM City Cebu, Philippines.


I needed to buy new pairs for a long hour flight to California, U.S.A.  Comfort and convenience (easy to put on and remove) are the top requirements but it must be affordable as well!  Good that this pair of baby pink loafer was on sale at Php 900.00 - 999.00! (I can no longer remember the exact price)



Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Comfort
2. Price
3. Style


Shoe #4: a WANT
With white sneakers (athletically-inspired) on trend last year, I need and badly wanted to have one pair too!  My trip to California was the key to grant my wishes and desires to come true!  I indulged on this GUESS sneakers at $50.00.  So in love with its patent leather material, quilted design, round-toe style and those hardware silver accents of the brand.  Shoe size is 5 1/2.  I love American brands of shoes since they always have half sizes. This pair that I splurged is sporty and chic find.


Where Bought: GUESS boutique at Camarillo Premium Outlets in Camarillo, California, U.S.A. 

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Shoe #5: a WANT
I love sneakers, floral prints on my shoes and a discounted branded pair is a tremendously amazing deal!

Brand: GUESS / Shoe Size:  5 1/2   / Price: $25.00


Where Bought: ROSS DRESS FOR LESS in San Francisco, U.S.A.



Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Style
3. Comfort


Shoe #6: a NEED
Tan colored slip ons (no photo available) on a super discounted price.

Brand: NATURALIZER /  Shoe Size: 5  / Price: $10.00

Where Bought: NATURALIZER boutique at The Outlets Shoppes of Atlanta in Woodstock, Georgia, U.S.A.

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Comfort
3. Style


Shoe #7: a WANT
I have been attracted to the marsala color for quite some time and seeing a pair with gold details at a super low discounted price and with only one pair left in my size? With no second thoughts, I purchased it right away.

Brand: MADDEN GIRL / Shoe Size: 6  / Price: $10.00

Where Bought: STEVE MADDEN boutique at The Outlet Shoppes in Atlanta in Woodstock, Georgia, U.S.A.

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Style
3. Comfort


Shoe #8: a NEED
Gray flat ballet shoes that was bought as alternative shoes for "uniform days" (days when we wear our tailored uniforms) at work.

Brand: PARISIAN / Shoe Size: 5 
Price: discounted at Php 250.00 (forgot the original price) 

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Comfort
3. Style


Shoe #9: a NEED
Pointed suede flat shoes with that faux gold enlarged angled stud was bought as alternative shoes for "uniform days" (days when we wear our tailored uniforms) at work.

Brand: PARISIAN  / Shoe Size: 6
 Price: discounted at Php 250.00 (forgot the original price)

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #10 and Shoe #11: a NEED
 same style of flat shoes in two different neutral colors which I bought for use as alternative shoes for work.

Brand: SOLEMATE / Shoe Size: 5 / Price: bought at Buy One Take One deal, which I think it ranges between Php 400-500 

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Comfort
3. Style



Shoe #12:  a forced NEED
Heeled loafers used to be a big trend back in my high school days. But now it is still a classic style for office or school shoes.  I am not a fan of browns, but I had to choose from the items laid down in front of us for sale and will be paid a month after.  So I choose this 1.5 inches-heeled pair in genuine leather. 

Brand: MELLUSO (Made in Italy) / Shoe Size: 6  / Price: Php 1,200.00


Where Bought: from a former co-worker who went for a holiday trip in Italy.

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Shoe #13: a WANT
Love this shade of brown: between Mahogany and Rust.  That cute bow it a plus and the eyelet cutouts permits ample fresh air to my feet.

Brand: Simply LOLLA / Shoe Size: 5 / Php 300.00 -400.00

Where Bought: Gaisano Capital SRP Department Store, Talisay City, Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Shoe #14: a WANT
Kitten-heeled maize slip on thong sandals at a discounted price.

Brand: PARISIAN / Shoe Size: 5 / Price: Php 250.00 -300.00

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #15: a WANT
Silk flats with embellished bling on the toe cap in lemon color.  What I loved about this was the price! So pretty to be cheaply priced. But, I am so thankful for their decision to sell this pair below Php 200.00!  It's the last pair too in my size.

Brand: FIVE & CO. / Shoe Size: 6 / Price: Php 199.00
This particular shoe brands creates beautifully designed pairs and with trinkets to adore. Regular prices range from Php 400.00 - 1,500.00.  This pair is such a steal!

  Where Bought: Gaisano Fiesta Mall Department Store in Talisay City, Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort



Shoe #16: a WANT
I am not a sporty person, so I can only strut in athletically-inspired sneakers and you will rarely see me in hardcore athletic shoes.  But this magenta with the paisley print pair was difficult to resist. And knowing that it was on Sale!, I have to amplify then my physical and outdoor activities to justify my purchase.



Brand: LACOSTE / Shoe Size: 6.5
Price: (forgot again the actual price I paid) Php 1,600.00 - 1,900.00

  Where Bought: LACOSTE boutique at Ayala Center Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort




Shoe #17: a Want
Magenta is a magical color to me. Every time I see it, I am hypnotized in a mystical way. When I saw this pair and it was not even displayed on my eye level, my heartbeat made a humongous skip! I grabbed it and tried on.  Though, by fact that this type of shoe style ( sling back) will be uncomfortable for me, but I can use this in my photo shoots at home or on occasions where sitting is the dominant activity.  The pointed toe cap and the D'Orsay-slingback style imparts a classy chic appeal with minimal hints of sultriness.



Brand: PARISIAN / Shoe Size: 5
Price: (forgot again the actual price I paid) Php 500.00 - 600.00

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #18: a WANT
Pink color + glitters all over + modern icon embroidery made this pair a standout among those designs that were on sale.


Brand: PARISIAN / Shoe Size: 6
Price: (forgot again the actual price I paid, but on Sale!) Php 250.00 - 300.00

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #19: a Want
I find thin bows too cute to ignore.  With the mix of abundant metallic studs, this pair is halfway girly, halfway punk.

Brand: PARISIAN / Shoe Size: 6
Price: (forgot again the actual price I paid, but on Sale) Php 250.00 - 300.00


Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #20: a forced Want
Another pair sold by the former co-worker from her Italy trip.
A comfortable, heeled, leather pair of loafers in very light beige tone with neon highlights on the sole.

Brand: Light Step (Aerata) by GRISPORT  / Shoe Size: 6  / Price: Php 1,200.00

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Comfort
2. Style
3. Price


Shoe #21: a WANT 
I admire white shoes.  This pair with a almond toe front, a conspicuous chevron design metallic embellishment and priced at Php 500.00 pesos only (from Php 1,000.00++) made me fall deeply in love with this sophisticated, demure pair.


Brand: GIBI Collection / Shoe Size: 36. / Price:Php 500.00

Where Bought: SM Department Store at SM Seaside City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort


Shoe #22: a WANT
Nude pointed pumps have been a famous footwear for celebrities or style street personalities.  Why not give them a try on my feet?  And this 2 inches heeled patent leather pumps imparts both comfort and class on my strides.   

Brand: COMFORT PLUS by Predictions / Shoe Size: 6  
Price: (forgot the actual price) ranges from Php 1,000.00 - 1,300.00


Where Bought: PAYLESS store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Shoe #23: a WANT for future need
Red, ombre, glittery, textured, high heels, super discounted price = perfect for photo shoots! 
That is why I bought this pair for later intentions.


Brand: FIONI Night / Shoe Size: 5 1/2   / Price: Php 199.00 

Where Bought: PAYLESS store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Price
2. Style
3. Comfort


Shoe #24: a WANT
T-strap 2-inch heeled pumps at a discounted price. The saturated red color, plus the pointed tips and the "t" strap that crosses and embraces the outer arch of the feet imparts the wearer to appear stylishly enticing and desirably intriguing.

Brand: FIONI / Shoe Size: 5 1/2   / Price: (forgot the actual price) Php 700.00 - 900.00 

Where Bought: PAYLESS store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in a specific order:
1. Style
2. Price
3. Comfort



Shoe #25: a WANT
I have a slight addiction to pointed pumps in patent leather. So I scored the same style from the same store, of the same brand as Shoe #22, but this time in baby blue.

Brand: COMFORT PLUS by Predictions / Shoe Size: 5 1/2

Price: (forgot the actual price) ranges from Php 1,000.00 - 1,300.00


Where Bought: PAYLESS store at SM City Cebu, Philippines

Reason for Shoe Purchase basing the S-P-C factors, in the specific order:
1. Style
2. Comfort
3. Price


Hope you have enjoyed scrolling over my shoe purchases last 2016.  


At the end of this post, you may wonder how do I dispose of my shoes since I do not collect them. There are those pieces that I endlessly love re-wearing.  But since I only have one pair of feet and can only regularly and normally wear one pair of shoes in a day, there are indeed pairs that usually have more dormant periods than the others. As much as possible, I exert more effort to allow each pair a chance to breathe fresh air and experience sunshine and rain too. 

Below is a list of where my shoes go after I decided to give them freedom:

1. My ONLINE / OFF-LINE sporadic SELLING MICRO-BUSINESS of pre-loved and new fashion items that includes my shoes.

2. PEOPLE who I strongly believe to be the most deserving recipient of my "precious" shoe purchases. The list includes female relatives and friends and even to our support house staff (full-time/part-time house help), including their daughters too.  And more importantly, I shed out pairs more than once in a year and share the shoes while these are still in good (also, very good) condition.

At the beginning and middle of this year, 2017, I gave away 10 pairs from my 2016 purchases since I am unable to bring them all with me to my new location and I know that somebody was overjoyed to have received a useful and engaging pair of shoes from me.  And more importantly, the feeling of sharing happiness to other people is fulfilling, gratifying and priceless.


Are you also a SHOE-holic?  
Do you wear same kinds of shoes? And how do you discard/dispose of your shoes?

Share your shoe stories ladies!


Click my SHOES page to see my other shoe stories and shoe hauls.



Shop, Share and Live in style, every day!


Monday, August 28, 2017

The Look For Less: Series 2: Super Sale - Branded and Thrifted

I love clothing, but I love them more when they are very much affordable to the pocket.

My wardrobe consists of branded and unbranded clothing which are either bought on regular price or on sale.  And I also never miss appreciating the vintage/thrifted ones.  I often mix and match my non-thrifted (branded or unbranded) clothing with thrifted (branded or unbranded) fashion items and at times I can go head-to-toe thrifted.

I have previously created a series which I called: THE LOOK FOR LESS, see series 1 HERE.  It is obvious that the series talks about my personal styling which involves outfit/s that costs definitely inexpensive.  In this second series, I am sharing the fashion pieces that I bought from a thrift store and from boutiques of known brands which were having super sale promotions and showing to you how I styled these pieces altogether.


How to achieve a look for less?

Series 2:

SUPER SALE - BRANDED & THRIFTED

Never miss a super sale of known brands of clothing and accessories and try to buy and wear something thrifted too.

This is a color-coordinated outfit wherein my look camouflaged with my background curtain.  The two-tone long sleeve top with faux fur and faux leather edgings intentionally matched with my leggings.  

The (1) top was thrifted at uber low price at Php 10.00 and the (2) leggings were also purchased on super discount sale price from Terranova in SM City Cebu which I bought at Php 199.00. And another item on this look that was also bought on super sale is the pear-shaped hoop (3) accessory earrings from H&M at the Villagio Mall in Doha, imagine I bought it at 2 QAR = Php 28.00!


What I Wore:
silk long sleeve top - thrifted
leggings - Terranova (on sale)
oversized accessory earrings - H&M (on super sale)
sunglasses - G. Country Mall Department Store


Live in style, every day!