HOLIDAY SHOE SOS

POSTED BY NATALIE

MISS MEERS BRIDGEPORT

It's that time of year again - festive parties, cozy hot cocoa, and holiday blockbusters are here! Let your girls at Miss Meer's help you transition your fabulous fall wardrobe into a comfy and warm winter one.

SOS #1: Office Holiday Party

Need help finding the perfect shoe for your holiday office party? French Sole New York's Mondo in burgundy crackle is the perfect shoe for both comfort and holiday sparkle. The color pairs with any LBD and tights, and the low heel is perfect for maintaining stable ground after sharing a few eggnogs with your favorite co-workers. I think they even look super sassy with a pair of black skinny jeans, a flowy chiffon top, and a statement necklace. However you choose to style this shoe, they're sure to make a statement.

SOS #2: Holiday Movie Date Night

Who doesn't want a fresh pair of shoes to wear on a date? And with all those new holiday films, there are plenty of opportunities for a night at the movies. The Jessica Simpson Venita is a perfect companion for date night. The red elastic straps provide a little extra support, and the pointy toe is super chic. For a perfectly casual date look I would pair them with leather pants, a fresh white top, and a chunky red necklace.

SOS #3: Holiday Tree Hunting

Do you need a boot that can brave the cold December weather as you and your family venture off to find the perfect holiday tree? The Frye Sabrina Double Buckle can stand up to the job! Pair it with a cable knit sock, cozy cocoon jacket and blanket scarf for a winter warm look. The two inch heel will even help when lending a hand to tie the tree to the car. 

WEATHER WELCOME HERE

Posted by Grace
Miss Meers Bridgeport

Hunter Original Short Gloss

For me (and maybe you agree) one of my favorite things about living in the Pacific Northwest is the rich change of seasons. Just as we're feeling the wariness of a few too many hot days, BAM! It's fall and the leaves are changing, the temperature is cooling, the weather giving us something new to dress for. And as much as I enjoy soaking up every last drop of this seemingly endless summer, there is this little part of me that looks at next Tuesday's forecast of rain and jumps for joy.

Hunter Original Two Tone & Original Ballet

This sentiment probably has much to do with the year's vast array of (fashion friendly) weather gear to choose from. There are so many options, it's inspiring! Ankle boots and classic rain boots. Ballet flats, even! There is literally a pair for every day of the week.

I love how Hunter updated their original welly, a mustard/black two tone that will intermingle perfectly with wools and cashmeres, along with its little companion flat: glossier, dressier, amazing with a dress.

Melissa Necklace & Doris

Ugg Elsa

All Black Weather Bootie

Melissa's chelsea boot and buckled flat (molded from their signature sweet smelling jelly rubber; the boot complete with removable spat!) are perfect if you're looking for a stealthier rain option, and the lace up Ugg boot (boasting waterproof leather) is just sassy enough for Aspen, and still practical for a trip to the pumpkin patch. I especially love All Black's version of the duck boot, with it's stylish rubber gum sole and two tone upper. It begs to be worn with a perfectly frayed pair of skinnies and buffalo checked flannel. You start the fireplace, I'll grab the cider!

We know all too well that before long we'll barely be able to stand another drop of rain (as refreshing as it sounds right now), so my plan is to embrace the season wholeheartedly, and rock my rain boots with pride. I am a NW girl, after all, and it's only so long until it'll be sandal time again.

GET THE POINT?

Posted by Natalie
Miss Meers Bridgeport

For many, pointy toe shoes are a bit daunting. Maybe reminding you a bit of the early 90's? Or even worse, the 80's? As a strong supporter of reviving old fashion trends, I am in love with some of this season's new pointy toe shoes. The important trick: doing it in a new and oh so exciting way. Here are my top three choices for pointy toe shoes and some tips on updating the look!

#3 Calvin Klein Brigitte

Why we love it:
The Brigitte brings just the right amount of edge to a pointy toe pump. The chunky treaded sole updates the shoe to a more modern treaded lug-soled look (and extra traction when you need it!). Tumbled leather gives off a bit of shine but not enough to make the Brigitte exclusively a night time shoe. The branding is simple with a minimal studded detail on the outside of each heel. This shoe is the wonderbra of pumps -- comfy with amazing lift!

Does it measure up? 
The toe is nice and long (about 2 1/2 inches), but just soft enough to amp the look up a notch or two.

How to update the look:
Try the Brigitte with a dark indigo skinny jean and a simple white tee. Pop the look with a sparkly statement necklace and you have a great Saturday afternoon lunch outfit!

#2 All Black Screen Mesh

Why we love it:

This pointy toe flat is not like the others. With a super cool see through mesh (so on trend this Fall), raw edges, and patent leather, this shoe is what mixed media is all about. 

Does it measure up?

The point is about 3 inches long. But because the toe box starts further up the foot, you wont feel like a 1980's sport speedboat. The point is nice and rounded off too.

How to update the look:
Because this shoe rocks the mesh trend, why not continue on with some active wear pieces? Pair them with your favorite jersey on game day, or a cool vintage inspired baseball tee.With this shoe, I think it's always important to keep it fun and unexpected.

#1 Sam Edelman Opal

Why we love it:

I can't take my eyes off this shoe! It makes my heart sing. The leopard print is perfection -- not too loud, and yet just loud enough. And super luxurious because it is printed on calf hair. The heel is nice and low (about 2 1/2 inches) so it is totally appropriate for the office and great for a night out dancing with the girls. 

Does it measure up?

The point is about 2 3/4 inches long. It seems higher though, because of the roar that the fabric gives off. This shoe is definetly a head turner. 

How to update the look:

Let this shoe be the prominent statement of your look -- so don't try to overpower it with sequins, metaillics, or intense textures. A sleek black leather biker jacket and structured black shift dress would be absolutely amazing with the Opal! 

I WEAR MY SEYCHELLES ON THE WEEKEND

Posted by Natalie
Miss Meers Bridgeport

The amazing Seychelles Marvel is an ideal shoe for the office. Closed toe, ankle strap, and a beyond perfect two inch heel. Easy to imagine with a pencil skirt, trousers, a dress... your go-to pump. (It's even a cinch to get into when you're running late. There's a hidden zipper in the back!)

But I think that the Marvel is my new go to shoe for the weekend, too. Dress it down for a lunch date in the city with some vintage Levis boyfriend jeans, a black tank, hat and a Matt + Nat vegan clutch. Or why not dress it up with your new little black dress and rock them this saturday night? The possibilities are endless...

Who doesn't love a work to weekend shoe!?

HAPPY HOUR SHOES

Posted by Grace
Miss Meers Bridgeport 

Recently, I had a customer come to me with this request: "I need a happy hour shoe." I had to hesitate for a second -- I thought I knew what she meant, but never had I heard it put so succinctly! "It's not an evening or party shoe (stiletto), but it still needs to be a little hot. It isn't casual (no flats), but it needs to be kinda... low key. You know, to wear to happy hour."

And so in a last hurrah for summer, this darling phrase got me thinking about some favorite happy hour shoes, and the outfits one might pair with them. I was inspired to make a date with the bestie. Our outdoor seating days are numbered, after all. 

The Single Sole Wedge.
Try something with a low to medium heel height, on a single sole (no platform). The shoe will flex and move with your foot while you jet between locations.

Love both of these shoes with white jeans or shorts and a navy silk blouse. KCR Oh Ava & Matisse Reach.

The Clog Sandal.
If you like a little platform, the clog sandal is your hero. They are just a bit elevated to give you some height, and slightly more feminine than their trendy cousin the flatflorm. A perfect choice if happy hour lands you pub-side.

Swedish Hasbeen Braided Sky High & Miz Mooz Harlene are both darling with boyfriend jeans and a vintage t-shirt.

Black and Strappy.
There is always something sexy about a black shoe, right? If you are hitting a dressier spot, pick this color and then keep it low or with a chunky heel. Cheers!

Fab with a mini shift or black skinnies and a denim vest. Bernardo Bamboo & Seychelles Menace.

WHY NOT?!

Posted by Kim

Miss Meers Corvallis

Jeffrey Campbell "Shermer"

The one thing I feel like I’m always saying to customers when they’re trying something outside of their comfort zone is why not??!? I completely understand issues of practicality, neutrality, and comfort, but I think there are plenty of shoes out there (and at MM) that have got those bases pretty well covered. Basics are a beautiful thing, BUT life is too short to not get the crazy, wild, impractical shoes too. Those flashy sequin shoes might not match anything you own, but why do they have to? Feeling fabulous is reason enough for me. However, if you are in need of something a little more practical don’t be so quick to dismiss that seemingly crazy shoe. Stilettos are not just for the cocktail dress, go ahead and throw them on with your jeans and see what happens. Just be warned, heads may turn in awe of your coolness.

Alright, now on to my current favorite practical shoe in disguise: Jeffrey Campbell Shermer. I love the chunky platform that is sure to steal lots of looks from passersby, while still providing comfort. The black and tan combo is neutral, and the platform gives you a little boost while you run around town (both your height and your attitude). The shoe may seem trendy, but look how well it goes with all of our favorite trends, as well as our wardrobe staples!

Outfit 1: “The No-Brainer” 

Jeans and a tee is perhaps the easiest outfit to throw on, but that doesn’t mean you have to blend in. While running errands may be mundane, your outfit does not have to be! (I cannot emphasize this enough.) Distressed skinny jeans, loose striped tee, oversized scarf, and minimal accessories let the Shermer take charge on your day out. When the outfit is basic like this one, don’t forget to dress from head to toe – hair and makeup make all the difference. It doesn’t have to be anything complicated, but a fishtail top-knot and red lip can really pull it all together.

Outfit 2: “The New Mary-Jane”

The crisscross buckles on the Shermer immediately reminded me of a classic mary-jane pump, so let’s use that idea to dress up the Shermer for fall! This outfit combines the two upcoming fall trends that I am most excited about – plaid and sky blue. The Shermer is the perfect updated mary-jane to wear with preppy plaid, and looks darling with knee high socks and a simple sweater dress. The light blue Matt N Nat bag is a perfect pop of color, and a nice change from the usual jewel-toned fall colors. It could just be that I want to wear that bag with everything these days.

Whether you’re wearing tried-and-true staples, or the upcoming trends, try them with the Shermer. I mean, why not?!

THE "THREE TIMES A CHARM" TEST

McGuire "Majorelle" Jean, available in Eugene. 

Posted by Grace
Miss Meers Bridgeport

If you're anything like me, when you find something you love that falls just a weeeee bit outside your budget, you waste no time getting down to business. And by business I mean bargaining. Bargaining with yourself to prove that you aren't making a flippant decision to splurge.

Rule numero uno? Think of three ways you can wear this item. Three outfits, three totally different occasions. If you're at a loss for what you wear it with, or where you're going to wear it, maybe it's not worthy of swearing off your daily latte or juice bar for the month.

Enter Mcguire's Majorelle: super long, super flared, super flattering, super distressed, super -- you get the idea -- trouser jean. I mean the craftsmanship alone on these things.... and Christina Aguilera wears this line. And the designer is from Eugene! Let's just say when I met this particular pair of pants I went into a tailspin of excuses and reasons they had to be mine. Even with all that amazingness, they still had to pass my test.

They did, of course, and here's how:

Outfit 1: Date Night! Strap on the stilettos, pile on the gold and silver bling (don't make me say it.... Yes, mix and match those metals!), and grab a clutch. We're getting a babysitter and going for drinks. Sexy crochet tank? Check. The jeans will be the cherry on top, making me feel like my legs are miles long and ever so thin (that distressing does WONDERS in the optical illusion department).
Shoe: Sam Edelman Addie

Outfit 2: Casual Friday. Ok, every day is casual Friday for me, but my work outfits (casual as they can be) still need to look put together, and wearing denim to work doesn't have to be sloppy. A flowy silk blouse with a fitted cardigan will dress up the jeans without overwhelming them. Throw on some comfy-cute clogs (because I'll be on my feet all day), grab a bag that fits all my files, and finish it off with some chunky jewelry.
Shoe: Swedish Hasbeen Braided Sky High in gold

Outfit 3: Holiday Weekend. The fourth of July is just around the corner, so what better way to convince myself these are a good purchase, than to picture them traveling with me for the holiday weekend. Pulled on over a bikini, paired with a slouchy-tuck white tee. Sun hat in tow, beach bag ready, and sunglasses polished, I'd say we've got a winner. Grab the espadrilles, let's go!
Shoe: Splendid Ganes

AMERICAN HUSTLE GLAM

Posted by Catie

Miss Meers Bridgeport

Swedish Hasbeen Braided Sky High

Recently I was talking to a customer about that weird notion that keeps us from wearing our new special items, and instead, “saving” them. Those shoes that are a little higher, the top that goes a little lower, or maybe even your brand new, made-to-look-lived-in denim jacket, whatever the item is, it is new and we might feel a pressure to “do it justice” when we wear it for the first time. But why wait to debut our new clothes and shoes?! We can literally wear them again!

Michael Kors Calder & CK Serenity

That's why when I saw American Hustle, with Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Adams dressed to the nines on a regular basis, I was reminded of that conversation and inspired to actually WEAR the special occasion shoes and dresses that I let sit in my closet. The next day I glammed it up: I put on my Calvin Klein “Vivians,” some flowy culottes and a silky button up with full makeup and hair done. I strutted self consciously around the Bridgeport mall feeling a little silly; were people wondering “what is she wearing, where does she think she is going?” No! No one cared, and if they did, it was just to compliment me on my outfit.

CK Vivian

When fashion inspiration strikes, seize it and rock those looks that might scare you a little bit! Don't judge yourself for being over dressed. Those you encounter will more than likely be inspired by your style and maybe they'll go home and get out that piece they've been holding on to. 

Here are my favorite glamorous yet wearable shoes from Miss Meers with some American Hustle  inspired outfits that won't translate as costumey. 

IF THIS SHOE WERE A COCKTAIL...

Posted by Chelsea
Miss Meers Eugene

It's Friday! And you know what that means! Time for a round of "If This Shoe Were a Cocktail," where I use a scientifically proven method to determine any shoe's alcoholic equivalent. Because why not? I urge you to indulge- if only with your eyes- in shoe shopping's most indulgent companion (rivaled only by chocolate): a nice, refreshing cocktail. Always drink and shop responsibly.

The old-school prep of this sneaker deserves an old-school drink. Tennis club appropriate indeed.

This sandal is seriously garden-party ready. It's starting to look like summer, no?

In all of it's mule-ish glory, this shoe has to be a fortifying dessert drink. The dudette abides.  

This sandal is definitely picnic-ready. Pair them with your favorite gingham top and put back a few lemonades.

The Southwestern vibe of this heel makes me want tequila. Is that just me?

This caged heel is ready to dance all night. The cocktail gives you the boost you need to keep up.

THE BIRK IS BACK! (whether we like it or not)

Posted by Chelsea
Miss Meers Eugene

Iconic Kate Moss, effortless in her Birks of the 90s

Aching feet of the world rejoice! Why, you ask? Because Birkenstocks, Tivas, sliders and basically any other shoe classically referred to as ugly is not only tolerable, but stylish. I’m Birken-shocked (hehe).

Some may argue that Birkenstock-esque sandals lack aesthetic appeal and, honestly, they might be correct. The style has traditionally been coveted by kayakers, hikers, and your old lady neighbor who wears a sweat suit every day and gardens on the reg.  While the trend’s presence in the fashion world is undeniable (check out this Vogue article written about them), these sandals honestly just aren’t super pretty. And it’s fairly obvious the fashion world did not embrace these sandals for their function. So why are they a trend?

Well folks, that’s a tough one to understand, but things that aren't easily understood tend to be the most interesting. Sometimes things don’t make sense and feel like they shouldn't work but, they. just. do. I love things that are pretty, but things that are easily understood can sometimes be boring. The trends that aren't universally agreed upon as aesthetically pleasing, but persist and work anyway are the most exciting. Plus, after you see the awesome sporty/edgy effect that they bring to outfits you realize: they aren't just working, they’re thriving. I recommend pairing with a light summer dress for an easy outfit, or a pair of wide leg trousers and slouchy tee for a sophisticated and easy look. Let’s embrace what we don’t understand and let Birkenstocks/sliders have their moment!

Here are the celebs/fashion bloggers of the web showing us how:

Leandra Medine

Ashley Olson

Alexa Chung

We’ve got ya covered for the trend, but with shoes that definitely do NOT look like the shoes your great aunt wears to walk her dogs. Here are my favorite picks:

Gentle Souls "Breaking News"

Chocolat Blu "Melissa"

Corso Como "Slim"

The Corso Como “Slim” celebrates the silhouette of the Birkenstock, but retains the sassy sophistication that I hope you’ve come to expect of our store. The Chocolat Blu “Melissa” is earthy-cool, and totally on-trend with its big cork platform. And the Gentle Souls' "Breaking News” alludes to the slider sandal, but is easier to dress up than some of the sportier versions. 

WEEKEND READY

POSTED BY GRACE
MISS MEERS BRIDGEPORT

Who's ready for summertime getaways?! I know I am. Already, I'm dreaming up holidays at the coast, trips to Bend, and extended weekends in Palm Springs. Am I getting just a little ahead of myself? Maybe. But the way I see it, the best way to push through these last few weeks of Spring rain is to start planning those sunny days approaching.

Which leads to my big question: what sandal(s) to wear?!

Let's break it down.

Havaianas. Known for their patented rubber sole, these flip flops are probably the most traditional, casual option. Worn with simple shorts and sundresses, or even just a swimsuit, they're the easiest throw'n'go for hot days.

Next up, Reef. Same casual comfort, but Reefs have that highly sought after arch. They're foamy and mold to your foot, so offer a little more support.

Saltwater sandals! OK, we all remember having a pair when we were little/dressing our kids in them, and they are still the same well made leather sandals of summers past. They stay put on slippery feet while running through rivers, and look deliciously sweet with a maxi skirt for later.

Tkees. These flippies are just a little more dressed up. Just a little - you can still wear them with cut offs and a white t. They've got that luxe leather footbed and narrow strap, so really up the ante if you're one to sport a perfect pedi all summer long. As seen on the lovely feet of celebs like Angie Jolie, Jen Aniston, Jessica Alba, Beyonce, etc, etc.

So now that I've talked myself into needing one of each.... Reefs for walking in Bend, Hav's at the coast, Tkees for Cali and Saltwaters at the river. A girl needs options, right?

LET'S GO ALL OUT

POSTED BY CHELSEA

MISS MEERS EUGENE

Here at Miss Meers, we are strong believers in opposites attracting. Mixing hard with soft, masculine with feminine, vintage with modern has always been one of our favorite past-times. It’s always a sure-fire way to keep an outfit from going over-board in one direction. I’m all for it. But I’m also all for going over-board. Every now and then I like to pick a style and wear it to the max, from head to toe. Thinking of wearing denim? Wear your favorite chambray shirt underneath your denim overalls (one of my favorite throw-back trends this season). Just watched American Hustle and feel like going 70’s? Go ahead: pair those high-waisted flare jeans with hoop earrings and ridiculous platforms. At the sober age of 23, I've already realized life is too short to always be restraining yourself from following your stylish heart wherever it wants to take you. Because although we are inundated with fashion rules constantly, fashion is, above all, about fun. So go overboard! Maybe not every day (there’s still something to be said for refinement and balance), but every now and then have some fun taking your outfit to the max and run the risk of looking like a character from a movie. It’s like a wise man (my dad) once said: everything in moderation, even moderation. And now I show you the perfect shoes to go overboard with.

The Matisse “Glare” is ridiculous. I love it, but it’s ridiculous. The copious amounts of jewels are almost challenging me, as if to say, “try to tone me down, I dare you.” Don’t take the dare. Pair them with pieces equally as opulent to create an overly-rich and girly ensemble.

The Dolce Vita “Montey” screams Western, and I’m suggesting you embrace your inner-Southwestern cowgirl (we've all got one) and saddle up.

Finally, the Naya “Monroe”, with its enormous platform, will complete your all-out 70’s outfit. Because sometimes, when you want to dress like a flower-child,
you want to REALLY dress as a flower-child.

Side-note: The incredible McGuire "Majorelle" flare jeans pictured here can be found at the Eugene Miss Meers!

The great thing about these shoes is that they work perfectly with your over-the-top outfits, but they’ll be there for you tomorrow when you opt for a more balanced look. That being said, let’s leave balance for tomorrow and embrace reckless indulgence today.

ANKLE STRAP SANDALS & TRACK PANTS

Three looks for the track pants & ankle strap sandal.
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell "Hough" and Michael Kors "Calder"
Outfits: Splendid, Parker, Sanctuary, all in Eugene, along with Krisa jacket, below.

POSTED BY GRACE

MISS MEERS BRIDGEPORT


These days, my favorite trend has got to be the track pant & ankle strap heel combo.  It's so fun and fresh, so comfortable and chic. My pick is the Splendid track pant (yes, they're at the Eugene store!), but the possibilities are endless. Chambray, silk, rayon; color, black, two tone; rolled at the ankle, zipper details (like mine), or just a simple cuff. Paired with the Jeffrey Campbell Hough - a rich black heeled sandal, kissed with snake embossment - the look is out of control! And you know the waistband is elastic, right? UM, YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU. 

I love the way Elin Kling paired her blue track pants with a t-shirt and leather jacket, but I've also seen the look styled a little  more professional-ready, with a long sleeve silk blouse tucked in; or more edgy, with a sexy tank for going out in the evening. As long as you've got your ankle strap sandal on, you really can't go wrong. It's only so often a trend comes along that is this, well, comfortable(!), so I hope you're excited as I am to take advantage.

And to top it off? (Because the jacket you wear can make or break the look) I love this Krisa coated drape jacket - it's just cropped enough to not interfere with the waistband detail, but still has that finished look to dress up the outfit.

Perfect.

SPORTY AND STYLIN'

Sam Edelman "Becker"

POSTED BY CATIE

MISS MEERS BRIDGEPORT

“As far as I am concerned, leopard is a neutral” –Jenna Lyons

As a fashion obsessed individual, I am a huge fan of keeping up with fashion blogs and street style. These media platforms  encourage me to wear what I want, and inform me of how to wear trends in an accessible way for my lifestyle.  I often find a disparity between what is fashionable and what is actually wearable, that is why I’m so excited about the Sam Edelman “Becker” in leopard. It’s ease and comfort of being a slip on, paired with the bold leopard print, make it the perfect shoe to bring fashion week to my own wardrobe. I think these images speak for themselves when it comes to how to wear it. Simply pair it with you favorite staples that need a mid-season pick me up: your chambray top, trousers, trench and leggings will thank you! If the leopard print and slight platform is too much for you, try the Frye Melanie slip on to achieve the same sporty ease.

Frye "Melanie Slip"
(Another great option.)