MUST HAVE SHOES FOR SPRING

This post is sponsored by Neiman Marcus.

Spring is almost here! Can you believe it? If you're shopping the malls these days you'll notice spring resort styles on display. For some of you the weather may still be too cold, but if you live in Arizona or California you are ready to start struttin' in those sandals. Here are my top five spring shoes you plan to have this season:

PLATFORM SANDALS - We have seen then come and go, but platforms are here to stay for another year. Add suede fringe, an espadrille platform, and you have yourself the perfect shoe for any vacation. These Tory Burch wedges are comfortable and easy to walk in. They also would go with any spring outfit.

FLAT SANDALS - These gold studded Ancient Greek Sandals are my FAVORITE flat sandal right now. They are the perfect combination of comfort and style. If you like adding a bit of edge to your outfits definitely consider these shoes. I paired them with my pleated maxi skirt, denim jacket and fringe cross-body bag for a casual weekend outfit.

BETTER BIRKENSTOCKS - Remember how Birkenstocks came out in full force last summer. Yeah, I'm not a fan and never was. Those shoes make my size 10 feet look like they are size 14. For a stylish walking sandal that is flattering consider these metallic Pedro Garcia shoes. They feel like butter and provide arch support for those long walks on the beach this spring.

BLOCK HEEL SANDALS - Heels come in all different shapes, and right now block heels are having a moment in fashion. Being a tall woman I feel more confident walking in block heels than stilettos. These Joie suede heels are my go-to spring heels because they work with any outfit. I feel really secure with the ankle strap and the mid-heel is a manageable height. You'll be able to walk miles in these gorgeous shoes.

SUMMER SNEAKERS - The stylish, slip-on sneaker is a necessity for your closet this year. Loeffler Randal is a shoe designer that I have been watching over the years, and every season they nail it. This perforated espadrille sneaker is a unique and ultra cool take on the classic slip on. The two tone color reminds me of Chanel without having to pay Chanel prices, and the perforated leather is so eye-catching everyone will be asking where you got your shoes.

Photos by Rennai Hoefer.

5 Spring Trends from the 70s

Spring is almost here, and if you're in Arizona it has most definitely arrived. The trees have fresh green leaves on them and the flowers are blooming...The air smells like orange blossoms and jasmine, and I'm pretty much in my happy place right now. Spring fashion is also blooming along with nature, and you are going to find a lot of new styles that look like old ones, specifically styles from the 1970s. We all could use more peace and love anyway, right?

Check out my latest article with Ebay to see what they all are, but I promise you this picture contains two of them. Can you guess what they are?!

(Fringe swimsuit by Clementine Surfwear. It's hand dyed and made in CA.)

Clothes Speak First

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Saying "hello" to someone is usually how we start our conversations. Although, my toddler prefers to yell "Mama" when she has something to say. But, in all actuality, our clothes usually get the first "word" in. So, I love the idea of wearing a tee that simply says, "Hello," like this one from Frances Vintage. In my head it seems like it would start any conversation off on the right foot and give the appearance that you're a welcoming person.

This tee can be found at Frances Vintage and is locally made by Hello Apparel. I love the floral pattern on the letters. If you're a print minimalist, this is the perfect way to incorporate the spring floral trend. Not to mention, the shirt is 100% cotton, which means I can throw it in the washing machine and it's incredibly comfortable.

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I styled the t-shirt with a pleated maxi skirt and glitter belt to add a feminine flair. However, there's nothing more classic than jeans and a t-shirt.

Photo by Kym Ventola.

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Color Forecast for 2013

2013. Wow! I can't believe a new year is almost here. A lot of change happened in one year, and there is much to celebrate. Who knows what a new year will bring, but one thing I know for sure is that we have some beautiful colors to look forward to. Pantone always releases spring and fall color forecasts, and this spring we can keep our eyes peeled for shades of green, navy blue and lavender. Of course, they like to assign fancy name such as African Violet and Monaco Blue, but who can remember those right?

I personally feel that lavender and navy will be the hot colors of the spring and summer. For a little proof to back up my predictions, check out the images below. These are some of my top pins this year, and what do they all contain? Lavender and navy. haha! What colors do you think will be popular? Do you agree with my prediction?

Featured in the College Times

Last week, I was happy to share my thoughts on hot spring and summer trends for The College Times, and today the article is out. YAY! (Click here to read it). I sure do miss my college days, so it makes me really happy that I'm not too old to still have a voice in the college scene. haha.

I hope you enjoy the article and my tips! Happy Thursday!