Brian Atwood's "Tie Me Up" Sandals

Shoe Crushin'! Today I spotted these sex kitten (ish) lace up sandals. But, I must admit, as I looked at the shoe by itself (right) I wasn't wholeheartedly loving them -- until I saw the "Tie Me Up" sandals on Brian Atwood's friend (above), which basically displays the perfect example of a creative personal styling approach.

Pairing the sandals with dark blue distressed skinnies was a fabulous idea (because I'm not sure if I would like the sandals as much -- if they were paired with a dress). Also, I like the rockstar mixture of neon green (heels) and purple nail polish! These simple touches made me realize that the animal print sandals ARE workable and far from "hideous." 

Warning: Animal Print can be tough to pull off; it can add some spice, or add tads of tacky. 

What do you think about the Tie Me Up sandal? Hit, or Miss? Tell me on Twitter. -TTYS

Photo Credit: Brian Atwood

A Cool Closet Organizational Tip, Called "Shoe Stacking"

Photo Credit: Lavish Lyfe

Notes By Nikki! I enjoy trying new ways to better maximize closet space, and would like to share an organizational tip with you.

When the shoe sales associate asks me at the register, "Would you like to keep the box?" My response was "no" most of the time, because I wanted to see my shoes lined up in the closet (Exhibit A), or alongside the bedroom wall. I believed that the approach gave me quick visual access to shoes I wanted to wear, daily.

But then space became scarce due to the accumulation of new shoes bought each season, and the unforgiving dust bunnies started to move in. Not cool.

Exhibit A.

Photo Credit: theyhyperbalist

Therefore, in efforts to maximize space, and to keep my beloved shoe collection looking brand new for many more seasons to come, especially the suede ones, I took note of a wonderful tip: Shoe Stacking...using inexpensive clear plastic bins (Exhibit B).

Exhibit B.

Photo Credit: Dressed Her Days Vintage

Photo Credit: nikkistyle.net

I do keep some of the original shoe boxes if I can identify which stilettos, wedges, flats, flip flops, sneakers are in the box from the outside, but certainly have adopted the clear plastic container method as well -- since you can actual see the shoe in the box. Though, selected shoe boxes are meant to be kept regardless, such as my Fergalicious boot box (right). After all, the red splashes of detail are pretty electrifying!

Check back for more of my favorite organizational tips. Share your faves, too!

Mid-Week Obsession!Bright Peep-Toe Pumps

Style Notes | Fashion Beauties! It's all about bright fun colors this spring! Yep. Tangy colors are the new black. The featured citrus (almost mustard) colored peep-toe pump is delicious—and the stylish silhouette is, indeed, a knock-out. 

Currently imagining: wearing these shoes with skinny denim jeans and a sleek blazer. 

Shop the look: GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI ($795.00)

Photo Credit: giuseppezanottidesign.com 

Would You Wear This Trend? Hot-Pink Pumps

Trend Watch | Would I? Absolutely. The color hot-pink is the added spice—and an instant upgrade to a 'blah blah' dull-colored outfit. Besides ... what a completely fabulous way to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Though, do you know what I suggest? To click those pink heels all year-round, not just [this month], because the fight against breast cancer should never stop!

The People Speak: According to the people poll via StyleWatch magazine, 67% would wear the trend: Hot-Pink Pumps; 33% would not. Seriously, I'm thinking P.I.N.K all day, everyday! The color pink represents empowerment, I believe.

Photo Credit: Positive Promotions

Mid-Week Obsession!Wedge Ankle Boot

Style Notes | New Arrival at Net-A-Porter: Leather Wedge Ankle Boots by Jil Sander ($1,395). I swear it ... if money were no object I would scoop 'em without hesitation. And, I would mix-and-match so many different looks with these bad boy booties—wearing with skinny jeans, leggings, or even a maxi. The detailing, specifically the cut-out wedged heel coupled with the brass definitely grabs my attention. 

Bring on the wedged-boot ... so nikkistyle!

Photo Credit: Net-A-Porter (Product Code: 172552)

Ditch MY Cowboy Boots for Uggs? Negative. Moccasins? Well...

Source: EDITD, October 12, 2011

Style Notes | Fact: I would never ditch my beloved cowboy boots for Uggs, for they are one of my staple items. I love wearing mine with an adorable skirt and a basic (solid-colored) top. However, regarding moccasins—I took a liking to them—and even purchased a pair recently. See below; aren't they cute? 

Exhibit A. 

Featured: TONY BURCH -- Kiki Wedge Boot

Style Notes | Okay so ... the featured boot definitely looks like a carpet. But you know what? I would wear the FUNK out of the Kiki Wedge Boot! Shop the look?

Photo Credit: shopbop

United Nude and Iris van Herpen Crystallization - SS/11 LIMITED ED.

Look No. 1 - Tan

Look No. 2 - Black+Chain

Look No. 3 - Black

Look No. 4 - Off White

Style Notes | A little birdie told me that these architectural ankle booties are 100% hand-made. So cool. Confession: Initially when I saw these—my vote was for the Black+Chain (Look No. 2). However today I'm loving the tan!

Facebook Description: United Nude, an iconic brand at the intersection between design and fashion is open-minded towards creative talent. After two successful collaborations with Dutch fashion designer Antoine Peters, United Nude and Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen joined forces to create shoes for van Herpen’s Autumn Winter 2010 collection. The shoes were presented in her catwalk show during London fashion week and the collaboration shall soon be available as a limited edition item, only available at the world’s most exclusive retailers and at the United Nude flagship and concept stores in Amsterdam, New York, Shanghai and Vienna.

Photo Credit: United Nude, $995

JEFFREY CAMPBELL - Short-Edge Wedges

Style Notes | I should be an official spokes girl for Jeffrey Campbell, because I'm a walking advertisement for the brand—JC designs are super stylish!

Details: Tan moccasin platform wedge, $172.

Photo Credit: edge of urge

JUST IN! SENSO - WILMA NAPPA HEEL

Style Notes | Smokin' HAUTE leather ankle booties—a must-have staple item that can pretty much be worn year-round. oaknyc.com ($192)

Animal Print Heels

Style Notes | Now those heels ... I would so wear!

Photo Credit: Photographer, Leif Schmodde; Hair and Makeup, Patrica Bontscheff

NEW ARRIVAL! REBECCA MINKOFF TROTT CUTOUT WEDGE

Style Notes | These are different ... to say the least. The back of the wedge is what really got my attention. The rear zipper and side cutouts is a good look—and the animal print adds a bit of character. oaknyc.com, $374

Photo Credit: OAK

ASH - Uranus Wedge Boot

Photo Credit: Bergdorfs

Photo Credit: ASH

Style Notes | Oh yes, love these boots!

Specs:

• Leather Upper
• Genuine Rabbit Fur Cuff
• Stud Detailing
• Leather Lining
• Rubber Outsoles 
• Shop the look. ($142.50)

Open Letter To Chad Ochocinco Regarding, THIS SHOE!

Style Notes | NFL wide receiver, Chad Ochocinco, posted this image via his Twitter page and commented, "Ladies - you got to be a bad mofo to pull these off..." And my response is this: "Child please, I was born to wear these." Signed, Nikki.

Tip: Do not over-accessorize if you're bold enough to wear this shoe; all that letter detailing and fire engine red will make the intended fashion statement ... that you're bad! 

Photo Credit: Twitter

KAYTEE - AVAILABLE ON RACHELROY.COM

Photo Credit: Rachel Roy

Style Notes | The lace-up heel detail is three words: Sexy, Sexy, Sexy!

Shop the look ($99); also available in red. 

New at Net-A-Porter.Com! VERSACE - Lace-Up Leather Platform Sandals

Style Notes | Check out these Lace-Up Leather Platform Sandals, available now at netaporter.com ($1,495). These are interesting—to say the least. 

Photo Credit: Net-A-Porter

LED Footwear by Edmundo Castillo

Style Notes | These Tron-inspired Light Sandals are priced at $1,650.00, and will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue on February 1st.

My Personal Thoughts: 1 - This sandal is not cute. Truthfully, I've seen plenty sandals similar to this style, minus the rechargeable battery socket in the back of the wedge. 2 - Why in the HECK would I want-to draw that much attention to myself walking down the street, or while at a nightclub? 

Don't get me wrong, my intention is to always standout a little. However, this wedge right here ... is a bit over-the-top (even for me). So if I'm not working the night at some exotic glow-in-the-dark hot spot—never will I wear these. No offense.

Photo Credit: Luxury Insider

CHECK OUT THIS NEW ITEM! MATT BERNSON - Tundra Brown Shearling

Photo Credit: Need Supply Co.

Style Notes | I usually prefer a taller heel, but I'll make an exception. I like these boots. And I would try pairing them with a double layered sheer black dress (right), which is also a new item.

Shop the look at Need Supply Co.

Boot Porn: Editor's Picks!

1. Senso

2. Dolce & Gabbana

3. Bea Fur

4. Persia

Shop The Look! 

1. Senso NEVE Boots, $200; solestruck.com
2. Dolce & Gabbana Low Lace Boots, $605; luisaviaroma.com
3. Bea Fur Buckle Over-The-Knee Boot, $90; topshop.com
4. Persia Black Lace Thigh High Boots, $370; topshop.com

Photo Credit: Essence Magazine

Kickin' It, Jeffrey Campbell Style!

Style Notes | I love this shoe. So funky and edgy—a look that's right up my alley. Funny, this fabulousness reminds me of a similar 'mummy-style inspired' wedge I posted a few months back. In any event, the featured item is also available in black.

I officially have a crush on Jeffrey Campbell. 

Photo Credit: Sole Struck