Two Fashion Inventions We Can't Live Without
February 1, 2008
Marie Green is a fashion stylist and writer from San Diego California. She is the Fashion Editor of FINE Homes and Living Magazine and her column, “Fashion Focus” has appeared in FINE Magazine as well as LaJolla Light, The Del Mar Times, Del Mar Ink, The Carmel Valley Leader, Rancho Santa Fe Record, and The Solana Beach Sun. Marie is also the co-founder of SheWants.com.
Since starting this column last year, I’ve received a variety of fantastic comments, suggestions and e-mails from readers. Sometimes it’s an evolving style maven with a fashion quandary—for example, Q: Is it still ok to wear a baby doll top? A: Only if there’s really a baby in there. Not long ago, a friend’s husband suggested doing a column to assist well-intentioned men in shopping for their women-more on that later. Recently I’ve had two different local businesswomen contact me about new fashion inventions we just can’t live without.
Andrea Weisner, a homemaker and entrepreneur, had a fantastic idea for high heel addicted fashionistas. For those of you that are tired of the pain inflicted at the end of an evening in your favorite Manolo’s or Jimmy Choo’s, have I got the thing for you. Sure it’s fantastic to have an amazing pair of heels on, but do our feet really appreciate what it takes to keep them on all night? Pamper those tired tootsies with Spare Soles. Spare Soles are compact, cute and comfy. These foldable ballet flats come in small, medium and large and are featured in stylish colors such as black or silver. With a matching pouch that can fit in any purse or even a wristlet, this is a must have for Opening Day at Del Mar!
“Instead of being barefoot or having that constant reminder you’re in excruciating footwear whether it be at a wedding, dance club, office, hotel or airport, you now have the choice to be comfortable,” Ms. Weisner notes. To do some “Spare Sole” searching go to www.sparesoles.com. They retail for $23 at Jade in the Del Mar Highlands Center in Carmel Valley and Tatiana in Flower Hill Promenade in Del Mar.
Another handy fashion must have—the PurseHook. Nichole Shamlian, the founder and Denise Phillips, a sales representative for PurseHook, LLC, shared with me the philosophy behind this little device I’ve been seeing in many local boutiques including Soul Shine in Del Mar and Beach Walk Coastal Postal in Solana Beach. PurseHook, LLC provides a practical solution to a common problem that women face each day: where do you put your purse in a restaurant, at a party or even at the office? You certainly don’t want to put your favorite designer bag on the floor making it a dirt and bacteria magnet. You don’t want to exhibit bad manners and put it on the dinner table. This is where the PurseHook comes in. This handy device comes in a chic velvet pouch and holds up to a 35 pound bag or even briefcase. It’s great for holding just sunglasses or a jacket, as well. It is surprisingly durable and has full rubber backing that prevents slipping and scratching on tabletops or countertops. It looks great and comes in a wide variety of designs. Prices start at $24.95. Get “hooked” at www.PurseHook.net.
INSIDE SCOOP: FOR MEN ONLY: With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s not too early to think about what to give your loved one. Whether they admit it or not, women LOVE Valentine’s Day. Guys, this is your opportunity to score some big time points with your lady love. Start really paying attention to what she’s saying. Chances are she’s already thinking it’s time to give hints-unless she’s done this in the past and it hasn’t worked, of course. Here are the basics: a really nice card (that you actually read the inscription) is a good start, giving red roses symbolizes giving your heart (this is always appreciated), and giving her chocolates are all a great way to profess your love. Yes, do all three. But you’re not done yet gentlemen, now the icing on the cake. Take the time to give her a present you think she’d really like to have no matter how big or small. A fine piece of jewelry is always a nice gift and it’s the thought that counts-not the cost. What makes it most special is that you picked it out, so it automatically has sentimental value. Another good bet: spa gift certificates. I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t love jewelry or going to the spa. Good luck guys!
