THE LAST SHOE

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Bridgeport

After over a year at the Eugene store and one amazing Summer helping the women of Portland find shoes at our Bridgeport location, my time at Miss Meers is coming to an end.

As I pull myself together and prepare to say my goodbyes, I have one last decision to make: what will be my last pair of Miss Meers shoes?

Okay, I realize it obviously won't be my last pair. There is no WAY I'm staying away from this place forever. But there is something special about that last pair as an employee (besides just the discount). It's the shoe that more than any other will remind me of the good times I spent here,

(the ladies of Miss Meers at our work Christmas party)

One comment I must have heard once a week since I've worked here is "I don't know how you even go home with a paycheck". While its true there have been some days I've taken my paycheck home in a shoe box, when you're around so many beautiful shoes every day it gets a lot harder to decide which ones are actually you.

I have always struggled with deciding between two things: Do I want the high quality basic shoe what will become a staple of my wardrobe, or do I want the crazy fun shoes I won't be able to find anywhere else?

Lately I've been noticing that I'm not the only shoe lover with this problem. All the time I have customers who fall in love with a shoe and then decide its just not practical enough, or they love a shoe and decide its too boring and they want something more special. How do you find a balance!?


So here I am, faced with a decision. Do I make my last shoe a wild fun one a classic plain one?

OPTION 1: WILD

Kenneth Cole Reaction "Frida World"

Open toed suede booties accented with a cascade of fringe? Yes please! This Kenneth Cole Reaction bootie is right up my alley. Perfect with skinny jeans or a fitted dress. 

Cute for a night out.... but maybe not the best shoe to make a good first impression in my new office. As hard as it is, I think I'm saying no the fringe today!

OPTION 2: BASIC

Sam Edelman "Dea"

Let me just start by saying that this shoe is INCREDIBLE. If anyone knows how to make a comfortable shoe its Sam Edelman, and the Dea is no exception. You can't go wrong with a basic pointed pump and this camel color is such a gorgeous neutral.

The Dea is definitely office appropriate, however... do I want my final Miss Meers shoe to be neutral?

FINAL DECISION:

Drum roll please....

The All Black Met Fish Cuts!

Maybe I'm a little wild and a little basic. Why not make my final shoe a pair that represents both sides of who I am?

The Met Fish Cuts is the perfect combination of everything I love in a shoe. It takes your traditional pointed flat and gives it a special twist with sharp angles and a totally unique fish scale texture. Perfect for work OR play.


Goodbye Miss Meers and thanks for all the memories!

MODEL BEHAVIOR

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Bridgeport

Thanks to social media, models these days are more famous than ever. People everywhere are finding just as much inspiration from their fashion off the runway as they are from the designer digs they wear on the job.

Want to steal your favorite model's street style look? Today I'm making it easy for you! I picked out six pairs of brand new Miss Meers shoes I think these models (and you) would LOVE! Lets go!

Gigi Hadid: Jeffrey Campbell "Nuestra Bootie"

If you haven't heard Gigi Hadid's name before, you've definitely seen her! Gigi is killing the fashion game right now as the face of Maybelline, Topshop and Guess just to name a few. She's also made appearances on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (her mother is Yolanda Foster) and shown up on stage at Taylor Swift's 1989 World Tour. With 5 MILLION followers on her Instagram (and counting), Gigi is definitely someone worth paying attention to. Capture her California girl look with the Jeffrey Campbell "Nuestra Bootie".

Joan Smalls: Vince Camuto "Corra"

Joan Smalls is basically the definition of personal style. Her off runway looks are always notable in the seemingly effortless way she combines feminine and edgy pieces while still looking elegant. You might recognize her from the last FOUR Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows or her recent Vogue cover. Joan was also the first ever Latina to model for Estée Lauder (she's from Puerto Rico!). The Vince Camuto "Corra" is the perfect combination of edgy and girly. Cute for work or play!

Cara Delevingne: Frye "Sacha Moto Shootie"

Cara (not Carla)  Delevingne is known for being unique. She bravely defies stereotypes and denies labels in an industry known for doing the opposite. While she's been seen dolled up on the runway for designers from Chanel to YSL, her street style is a little more edgy. I think Cara would feel right at home in the Frye "Sacha Moto Shootie", and so would you! 

Karlie Kloss: Sam Edelman "Felicia"

It should come as no surprise that Taylor Swift's BFF shares her love of classic style. This former Victoria's Secret Angel is seen more often in comfortable flats and tailored pants than platform sandals and wings these days as she takes a break from modeling to start school at NYU this Fall. The Sam Edelman "Felicia" flat is the perfect shoe for Karlie, or any woman on the go. The soft leather gives you all day comfort and the black is sophisticated enough to brave the NYC streets.

Fei Fei Sun: Jeffrey Campbell "Oriley"

Fei Fei Sun made history in 2014 as the first Asian model to appear on the cover of the American Vogue September issue. Now she makes history everyday with her amazing street style. As a former fashion design major herself, Fei Fei sun is often seen rocking unique and edgy looks. Try Fei Fei's edgy style for yourself with the Jeffrey Campbell "Oriley" bootie!

Kendall Jenner: Frye Dylan Slip

Kendall first came into the public eye on a little TV show you've probably never heard of called "Keeping Up With The Kardashians". Although Kim has always been the most well known of the Kardashian clan, little sister Kendall has become a star in her own right thanks to modeling campaigns with big name designers such as Calvin Klein and Balmain. She also currently holds the title for the most liked picture on Instagram. Want to steal her sleek reality star style? Try the Frye "Dylan Slip"!

TREND ALERT

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Bridgeport

Memorial Day has come and gone, and there is no denying that Summer is finally upon us. As you pack away your Fall sweaters and pull out that box full of tank tops and sun dresses that you've been saving (we all have one), you might find that your old go to favorites are a little out of style. You don't need to buy a whole new warm weather wardrobe to look current. Try adding just a few trendy pieces to update your old staples and finish off the look with the perfect Summer footwear. Need a little inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite trends for this Summer, and the Miss Meers shoes I want to wear them with!

Culottes

Yes, you heard me right. Whether you loved them or hated them, culottes are back this season in full force. We're trading in our seventies denim for something a little sleeker like this rayon pair from Splendid. Wear them with a basic tank top and some ankle strap sandals and you've officially taken this trend into the 21st century.  Here I put them with the Jeffrey Campbell "Hough" and some sassy sunglasses.

Kimonos

The kimono trend is one of my favorites this season, because it is so easy to adopt. Throw one over a plain top and pull on your favorite jeans and you instantly look stylish. The Swedish Hasbeens "Tudy Fruity" is the perfect way to complete this sweet and funky outfit.

Wide Leg Jeans

Put away your skinny jeans, this Spring it is all about the flares. If you're anything like me, you've gotten attached to your skinny jeans. Take my word for it, you need to give flared jeans a chance. Want your legs to look miles long and your waist to look smaller? You might want to give your skinnies a break for a while. Add a platform like the Splendid "Grand" for even more leg lengthening magic, and a Matt and Nat bag in a Spring friendly color. 

Sneakers

How can you not love a trend that is as comfortable as it is cute? Sneakers aren't just for the gym anymore. They can add a sporty vibe to your everyday wardrobe. I love the Lacoste "Helene" to add that perfect pop of color. Pair with black jeans, a graphic tee, and some sunglasses.

SAY "I DO" TO THE SHOE!

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Bridgeport

The first time I ever came into a Miss Meers was with my best friend to help her pick out a pair of shoes for her wedding day. Now as an employee, I have helped countless brides find that perfect pair to walk down the aisle in. Summer is wedding season in Oregon (because it is the only time of year you can ALMOST count on it not to rain) so now is the perfect time to start looking for that perfect shoe for your dream wedding!

Every bride has her own unique bridal style. The trick to picking out the perfect wedding shoe is finding something that isn't just pretty, but that fits into your whole wedding vision. Not engaged? Me neither. Just play pretend! Here are some of my favorite summer wedding shoes, and I included the rings I would wear them with because who can resist a little sparkle?



The Vintage Bride - Seychelles "Quiz Show"
Is your favorite book The Great Gatsby? Do you often find yourself wearing long strands of pearls and swing dancing? This is definitely the shoe for you. The low heel and t-strap give it a little vintage flare and the rose gold keeps it dressy. It would look PERFECT with this vintage engagement ring on your finger and a birdcage veil.

The Beach Bride - Tkees Highlighters

You live in a bikini and feel as if you belong in the water. You didn't wear high heels to your senior prom, so why start now? Tkees are dressier than your average flip flop, and the silver on this pair will sparkle beautifully in the sunset. An engagement ring with a pop of blue will make you stand out, and coordinate with the ocean!

The "Bling" Bride - Jeffrey Campbell "Gaby Jewell"
Who says glitter isn't a color? A bling bride is all about one thing: sparkle. If this giant ring isn't enough for you, complete your bridal look with the Jeffrey Campbell Gaby Jewell. This shoe could only be more bedazzled if you dipped it in glue and rolled it in glitter.

The Nontraditional Bride - Dolce Vita "Henlie"
Who says a bride has to wear white on her wedding day? Its your day. Don't be afraid to be yourself. This Dolce Vita is perfect for the edgy bride who wants to dress up but not look too traditional. Oh, but being nontraditional doesn't mean you don't get a diamond. How gorgeous is this black ring?

The Shabby Chic Bride - All Black "Fish Pump"
The Shabby Chic bride, (also known as the "Pinterest" bride) loves to DIY and is looking for that perfect balance of polished feminine pieces and vintage distressed details for her day. At her wedding, you'll find as many mason jars as flowers, and all the lace will be contrasted by burlap. No shoe says shabby chic to me like the All Black "Fish Pump". It has a classically feminine shape, but the fish scale treatment of the leather makes it completely unique. Oh, and ivory will look beautiful with the blush pink on this ring!

BONUS: The Maid of Honor - Seychelles "Like You Mean It"
Don't forget that your bridal party needs cute footwear too! Treat your MOH to something classy and comfortable like they Seychelles "Like You Mean It". The wedge will keep her feet feeling great as she dotes on you all day, and the metallic will help her stand out (without overshadowing the bride of course). A simple heart shaped necklace will remind her how much you love her even if you go a little bridezilla.

VACATION SHOES

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Bridgeport

With Memorial Day weekend coming up and Summer waiting right around the corner we have officially reached my personal favorite time of year: VACATION SEASON!!! It seems with each passing day I get asked one question more and more frequently. "What shoe should I pack for my trip to (blank)?"

Packing for a vacation isn't just a boring chore, it is a science. It takes research and lots of trial and error to narrow your bag down to just the right essentials, and shoes are no exception. The perfect travel shoe is as versatile as it is comfortable, and fits in with your (temporary) new surroundings just right. Going somewhere new is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, and embrace a new style. Here's a cheat sheet of what I think are the PERFECT go to shoes for these popular vacation destinations!

New York: All Black "Grand Open Perf"

When you're vacationing in one of the fashion capitals of the world, you definitely want to fuse a little style into your travel wardrobe. This shoe is perfect. The black will match just about any outfit, but it has a lot more visual interest than your classic flat. Dress it up to go to out to dinner, or down to go sightseeing. You might even convince someone that you're a local!



Disneyland: Camper Ballet Flat

It's hard for me to remember my first time going to Disneyland as a full grown adult. I have lots of wonderful memories of going as a child, but the memories of the most recent time are clouded by thoughts of the horrible blisters I got from my very cute but INCREDIBLY uncomfortable shoes. Don't underestimate the amount of walking involved in a Disney vacation. Bring something that will be comfortable ALL day, like these Campers!




San Francisco: Toms "Desert Wedge"

If you think Oregon is full of hipsters, just wait until you visit San Francisco. Toms are the PERFECT shoe to fit in with this crowd. Ankle boots are trendy, and the colorful piping on this one gives it a unique touch. The low wedge is also super comfortable for walking up and down the SF hills. BONUS: Every purchase from Toms helps a person in need. Check it out.


Hawaii: Tkees

Okay, this ones pretty easy. Flip flops and the beach go together like peanut butter and jelly. Tkees aren't just any flip flop though. The minimal design was inspired by St. Barths and is meant to blend in with your foot like makeup. There is not a sundress or bikini this shoe won't go with. You might not need to bring anything else!


Staycation: Steve Madden "Rivett"

Sometimes the best vacations are spent at home. Like George Costanza once famously said, why not try taking a "vacation from yourself" instead by wearing something a little out of your comfort zone? The Steve Madden "Rivett" takes an Oregon favorite (the Birkenstock) and turns it on its head by adding sparkles galore. Start with an adventurous shoe and who know what adventures might find you!

THE NEW NEUTRAL

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Eugene

Every Spring, I get customer after customer coming into the store with one common goal: to find that PERFECT sandal that will go with everything in their warm weather wardrobe. The perfect sandal means something to everyone. Some people like a low heel, some people want it super strappy, but what everyone can agree on is that they want it to be versatile.

This season, I'm seeing one major trend in all our Spring shoes. METALLICS! When most people think neutral colors their mind immediately goes to shades of brown and black, but I am here to convince you that a sparkly metallic sandal can go with just as much as your favorite black pair.

Here's how I'm wearing my favorite of this season's sparkly-est sandals and flats:

1. Miz Mooz "Cali" in pewter
This Miz Mooz may be super versatile, but it is anything but ordinary! The two tone look matches with any outfit, but the unique ankle strap makes a bold statement. Pair with relaxed skinny jeans and a basic blouse.

2. Sam Edelman"Gigi" in gold

I'm always excited when I see a new color in the Gigi, and this gold is easily my new favorite. A sandal this chic is easy to dress up, or down. Here I dress it down with a Free People tunic and a Michael Stars fedora (come pick up the hat in Eugene!).

3. Korkease "Rebecca" in bronze

Korkease may have just made the perfect sandal. Super comfortable, and incredibly stylish. You don't need much to look put together with this shoe. A simple dress and some lipstick and you're unstoppable.

4. Sam Edelman "Lynn" in silver

Nothing says Spring like an espadrille, but the bright silver on this Sam Edelman keeps it from being ordinary. Pair with white shorts, add a pop of color with a fun bag, and just add sunshine!

IF THIS SHOE WERE A DESSERT

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Eugene

If there is one thing I love more than shoes it MIGHT be dessert. As I am constantly tempted by the chocolate kisses sitting on my desk for customers, I often find my mind wandering to thoughts of ice cream sundaes and cronuts when I'm supposed to be working.
Desserts, much like footwear, can be very tempting. Everyone has that one treat that they can NOT resist. In this (as always) incredibly scientific blog post, I attempt to determine what shoe you will love based on your favorite dessert. Let's begin!

1. Mini Cupcake - Jeffrey Campbell "So Easy Jewel"
You're girly and fun and you can't resist a little sparkle. You like your desserts bite sized and your shoes easy to slip on and off. This Jeffrey Campbell is for you!

2. Biscotti - Calvin Klein "Sable"
You are always put together and "classy" is basically your middle name. You haven't worn flats since you learned how to walk and you won't be stopping any time soon. You take a biscotti with your morning double espresso to go. This shoe is PERFECT for you. Sleek and stylish with the comfort you can count on from Calvin Klein.

3. Bacon Maple Bar - Matisse "Exotic"
You're not afraid to take risks with your fashion. Someone says '"lace up calf hair sandal" and its like they're calling your name. You don't back away from risky food either. The Bacon Maple Bar is famous in Oregon thanks to local favorite Voodoo Doughnut. Cured pork product on a doughnut? Doesn't scare you!

4. Baked Alaska - All Black "Ankle Lace Geo"
You are passionate, hardworking and you put 100% into everything you do. You don't indulge yourself too often, but when you do you don't fool around. Baked Alaska is the epitome of decadence. It has everything. Ice cream, cake, oh, and did I mention FIRE? If you're gonna buy shoes, you want something special too. Treat yourself to the All Black "Ankle Lace Geo". This sandal has everything. Pattern, color, and just the right platform height.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream - Frye "Carson" Ballet Flat -
Practical and simple, you like a dessert you can always count on to be delicious. You'll try the occasional trendy treat but you always find yourself going back to your tried and true favorite.This Frye flat, much like your go to vanilla ice cream, never goes out of style.

DRESS IT UP, DRESS IT DOWN

Posted by Carly

Miss Meers Eugene

At some point in her life, every woman has faced the same problem. Can I justify buying a shoe for a special occasion that I might only wear once? Whether you're looking for a shoe for your wedding or just for a night out, it can be hard to talk yourself into spending money on a fancy shoe that you know will probably end up spending more time in the closet than on your feet.

Now I don't think it has to be that way. The great thing about a fancy shoe is that it can add interest to an otherwise boring outfit. Don't leave those special heels waiting in a box for a worthy occasion, make any day an occasion! Here's some of my favorite fancy shoes and ideas for dressing them up and dressing them down. 

1. Jeffrey Campbell "Gaby Jewel"
This shoe adds just the right amount of sparkle to make any outfit feel special. The jewels are just as at home with a formal dress as they are dressed down with a sweater and skinny jeans.

2. Sam Edelman "Opal"
Leopard print is basically a neutral. The kitten heel on this shoe is comfy enough to wear all night with a cocktail dress or all day with trendy track pants and a dressed down t shirt.

3. Jeffrey Campbell "Brea"
I can never get enough Jeffrey Campbell and the Brea is the perfect example why. I love how it adds sparkle AND color to an otherwise monotone outfit. Here I show peplums two ways. Dress it up with these skinny coated J Brand pants, or go casual with the Current/Elliot boyfriend jean.

4. Dolce Vita "Leka"
Who says a night out on the town requires a pair of pumps? The Dolce Vita "Leka" bootie is sleek enough to wear with a cocktail dress, and casual enough to throw on with your favorite summer dress and go to denim jacket.

BACHELOR STYLE

Posted by Carly
Miss Meers Eugene

Its that time of year again where each Monday night my friends and I gather together in the living room to watch… THE BACHELOR! Some people watch for the drama, some people watch to see Chris without his shirt on, but working in the fashion world I can’t help but pay attention to the contestants outfit choices.

Bachelor women aren't exactly a perfect example of cutting edge fashion, unless you consider platform stilettos with a bikini risk taking style. Watching these women parade around in bad prom outfit after bad prom outfit, I can't help but wonder, "what on earth I would wear if I were a contestant?"

1. The "Classy Cowgirl"

Let’s face it, I’m a city girl, but I’d go a little country any day for Bachelor/“Farm Hunk” Chris Soules. Adding a little country twang doesn’t have to mean losing your sense of style. Perfect combination of classy and cowgirl? The Frye “Reina” bootie. With subtle touches of country and a feminine low heel, this shoe works both on and off the farm. I paired with the Current/Elliot Slim Boy Shirt and Stiletto Jean in white (both available in our Eugene store!).

2. The "Pool Party"

Since being a contestant on The Bachelor apparently also means looking like a swimsuit model, There is always at least one cocktail party per season that gets replaced with a pool party. While many of the girls choose to strut their stuff in high heels, I’d be more afraid of slipping and falling on a towel. My shoe of choice? The Bernardo merit. The white color will look awesome against your tan, and you’ll be comfy as well as cute. Throw on a bikini and a coordinating cover up and you're good to go.

3. The "Fantasy Suite”

This is it, you’ve suffered through countless group dates and rose ceremonies and finally you get some alone time with your possible future husband. Its time to go all out and stop being subtle. The Seychelles Frequency says "I deserve a rose" because it is literally covered in roses. Pair it with a white dress that says "bridal" without being too obvious and lots of sparkle. He'll get the hint! 

4. The "I Just Got Dumped on National Television"

Okay, so its down you and one other girl and you're pretty positive he's not going to propose. Make sure he knows its his loss. Slip on something daring and pretty like the Vince Camuto Trumen. This shoe pairs perfectly with a black romper and a statement purple lip. Hey, they might even make you the next Bachelorette!