Now for today’s long awaited post… I have been coveting a perfect pair of nude patent pumps for some time. For the simple reason that this style can go with almost any outfit, it is a shoe that will seriously alleviate my random wardrobe dilemmas. I am showing options in black, navy, nude, and red but if you have to chose only one, go with black. If you can go for two, go black and nude. The red and navy are just for those lucky girls. Nude can be worn throughout the year, with the exception of very cold temperatures. With the black, the opposite is true – don’t wear these in the dead of summer.

These are all designer styles and are priced accordingly, but remember that this is an investment you will have and use for a very long time. I made it a point make my selections wearable…none of these have over a 4″ heel, but they will all give you the height and elongation for which the patent pump is famous.

1. Brian Atwood Sally Patent Leather Pumps in Nude $525. Buy at saksfifthavenue.com. Love the unique shape of this heel and the pretty pinkish hue.

2. Jimmy Choo Gilbert Patent Leather Pumps in Navy, $495. Buy at saksfifthavenue.com. These are just simply the perfect navy heel.

3. Manolo Blahnik ‘Newcio’ Pump in Black, $575. Buy at nordstrom.com. The workhorse of this list…you will turn to these season after season. Paired with a cocktail dress or a jeans, these put the polish on any ensemble.

4. Jimmy Choo Locket Pump in Red or Black, $495. Buy at nordstrom.com. Candy apple red never looked so sweet. They are also available in black.

5. Stuart Weitzman Naughty Pump in Black, $298. Buy at shoptheshoebox.com. I threw this pair in because they are a lower price point and still have a great shape.

6. Christian Louboutin Simple Patent Leather Pumps in Nude, $595. Buy at saksfifthavenue.com. The quintessential patent nude pump – another workhorse for your wardrobe.

American Retro Jill Suede Over the Knee Boots $545 – Buy at shopbop.com.

Ash Intense Suede Over the Knee Boots $325 – Buy at shopbop.com.

Rosegold Verve Suede Boots $168 (on sale from $240!) – Buy at shopbop.com.

Frye Dorado Riding Boot $458 – Buy at zappos.com.

Kors Michael Kors Veronica Flat Riding Boot $450 – Buy at saksfifthavenue.com.

Joie Caravan $379 (0n sale from $545!) – Buy at piperlime.com.

Pour La Victoire Pilar $395 – Buy at zappos.com.

Michael Michael Kors Greenwich Boots $295 – Buy at saksfifthavenue.com.

Modern Vintage Tall Wedge Boot $395 – Buy at saksfifthavenue.com.

Chloe Wrap Buckle Leather Tall Boots $1,195 – Buy at intermixonline.com.

Which ones do you love? Leave a comment and let me know. I wish for Chloe. Shocking!

Cooper & Stollbran for ASOS Shooting Jacket $337 - Sessun Military Peacoat $313

Urban Code 80′s Fit Leather Bike Jacket $202

If you’ve never heard of Asos.com, you are about to. They recently began promoting their US site and ads are popping up in American Fashion magazines (see Lucky’s November issue). Asos is strictly an online fashion store and while Shopbop and Net-a-Porter still set the standard, Asos boasts an equally impressive volume of merchandise.

Whistles Sofia Dress $210 - Whistles Petra Print Eyelet Dress $252

Whistles Mini Camo Dress $210

The self-proclaimed “world’s biggest wardrobe” means 1,500 new items a week and over 800 brands. They offer free shipping both ways, on all orders. Yes, the merchandise is coming from the UK so it takes longer (8 days for free shipping), but if you want to spend an extra $12 they can get it to you in 4 days. The clothing selection is quite different, with brands you don’t see often here in the states like Karen Millen, Minkpink, Whistles and Sessun. They also partner with institutions like high-end UK outerwear manufacturer Cooper & Stollbrand.

Minkpink Velvet Oversize Square Top $84 – Free People Lace Shoulder Chambray Shirt

ASOS WHITE Cashmere Mix Sweat Top $77

Their in-house labels are a real value for the design. It took me about 2 hours to fill my virtual cart but I still have more to see. I never even got to the Beauty department and only browsed the shoes. But I think you will agree that having access to these brands is worth the time it takes to look.

ASOS Square Pattern Blanket Wrap $70 – Vila Slouchy Spot Intasia Knit Top $58

Reiss Pippin Oversize Sweater $185

I am so excited about this new site and the variety it will add to my own wardrobe. It’s my birthday this weekend so I might be treating myself to a few items featured in this post. Do you guys have any favorites?

Asos Premium Leather Macrame Knotted Oversized Clutch $117 - Bertie Simone Key Hole Shoe Boot $160

Paul by Paul Smith Helena Cuffed Heeled Boots $421

Leave me a comment and let me know what you like. I need a bad influence!

Booties are everywhere this fall and now I want some too! There are a lot of variations on this trend, including the lace-up, military styles and the shearling-lined versions. Both would look great on all those trips to Vail but might not be the most practical purchase for those of us without a vacation home in the Rockies. A black bootie, however, is a smart buy and will last you many seasons. It’s as versatile as a fantastic black heel because it can be worn with all types of pants, skirts and dresses. And thanks to the extra coverage, it’s much warmer than a pump. That means it will be the workhorse of your shoe wardrobe from late fall to early spring.

I am obsessed with the Louboutin Lastoto (#1), but you can get a similar look and do less damage to your fall shopping budget with the Cole Haan Talia (#2). The studded Candela Booties (#3) remind me of a pair my grandmother (who has an insane wardrobe) bought in the 70s and still wears. I imagine myself buying these and saving them to hand down to my very fashionable granddaughter someday. Incidentally, that has yet to happen to me. The curve of the Ash Isa (#4) creates a softer, more casual look. Zippers, a structured toe and a razor sharp wedge, make the Belle by Sigerson Morrison bootie (#5) like art for your feet. And thank you Jeffrey Campbell (#6) for always making attractive and affordable versions of today’s trends.

1. Christian Louboutin Lastoto Ankle Boots $965. Buy at saksfifthavenue.com.

2. Cole Haan Air Talia Bootie $248 Buy at zappos.com.

3. Candela Stud Short Cloti Bootie in Black $297 Buy at revolveclothing.com.

4. Ash Isa High Heel Booties $195 Buy at shopbop.com.

5. Belle by Sigerson Morrison Wrap-Around Zip Wedge Ankle Boots $350. Buy at saksfifthavenue.com.

6. Jeffrey Campbell Frankie Lizard Booties $156 Buy at shopbop.com.

Which booties do you love this season?

Dear Scoop – You know that I love you (I have the credit card bills to prove it) but you need to do better. So I am going to assume this site is just a start. I am very glad you are back, after such a long hiatus, but I’d like to see a few more brands (including more from your fantastic private label) as well as some better search options and category filters. You have so much to offer, don’t hide your light under a bushel. Love, M

Now that my dose of tough love is done, let’s start shopping. It’s no secret that Scoop is pricey but that makes it a great place to pick up a few special pieces. It also has a curated collection of wardrobe staples that are both on-trend but sophisticated enough to survive many seasons. Here is what I would buy right now:

1. Loeffler Randall Double Jacquard Combo Jacket $625 – Ok, so this is a super splurge but it’s so perfect I couldn’t help but add it to my wish list. The only practical thing about this jacket is how much use you would get out of it. Dressed up or down it will make any outfit a standout.

2. Scoop Washed Silk Anorak $225 – All you need for a perfect casual-cool look. Add skinnies or leggings and a simple boot or flat and you are done. The military style is on-trend but the cut and color make it staple worthy.

3. Sold Super Skinny Pull On Jean $98 – We featured Sold jeans in our bell bottom post on Monday and this is the brand’s skinny version. The same benefits apply – faux pockets and zipper in a super soft material make the fit and feel of these like second skin. They are the perfect tucking-into-boots jean.

4. Sigerson Morrison Fold Over Bootie $795 – Holy cow these are gorgeous and, I know, expensive. But these are as close to perfection as you can get in a boot. Just think of how many ways you could wear them – the possibilities are endless.

5. AG Stilt Corduroy $160 – The new skinny jean is actually a cord. I am loving this twist on the trend. These come in black too – a good way to mix up your black pant basics.

6. Theory Adelson Wideleg Pant $255 – You will wear these uber-flattering pants all season. The wide leg and cinched waist paired with a pointy-toe heel and just about any top will always be a showstopper.

7. Rebecca Taylor Bloomie Dress $345 – I love the navy print of this dress and it’s a perfect fall to winter piece. Wear it now with boots and bare legs and later with dark tights and a wedge bootie.

8. Nightcap Cape Cardigan $290 – This will quickly become your comfy, go-to piece for a casual Friday or low-key weekend. The sophisticated tailoring takes the cotton fabric up a notch (there is an unexpected pleat running down the back seam).

Scoopnyc.com is currently offering a “Shop More, Save More” promotion from now through September 28^th. Spend $250 – $499…save 20%. Spend $500 or more…save 30%. They are known for these helpful seasonal incentives. Thanks Scoop!

Leave a comment and tell us what you love on scoopnyc.com.

Xoxo Melina

As fall approaches I become less enchanted with my strappy gladiator sandals and jewel encrusted thongs and start to dream about how I will adorn my toes when the weather cools. No transition wardrobe is complete without a pair of ballerina flats, or two, or three, or five! For me, this is the perfect shoe – there is no heel, so they are super comfy, but still very feminine thanks to their dainty shape and low profile. So when I met prettyballerinas.us I was in no-heel heaven.

Imagine ballerina flats in every possible color, fabric, pattern and adornment and you have the most prolific purveyor of my perfect shoe. They are also the inventors of the uber-popular Fashion Emergency Pack – “A pair of flexible ballerinas vacuum sealed and ready for the day you can´t walk another step in heels … ” This genius idea is now a staple in fashionable women’s handbags the world over.

A few things to note – each shape of shoe is named after a famous female which makes ordering additional pairs easy once you know you prefer Marilyn over Rita. Formerly only available in Europe, they recently opened a US store on Manhattan’s Upper East Side (where else?) and launched their US based e-commerce site – www.prettyballerinas.us.

There are so many styles I am coveting this fall that I couldn’t begin to make my wish-list for you. I’d rather you discover this virtual candy store of shoes for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

xoxo Melina

A sprinkling of lace tops and skirts were an exciting addition to my spring/summer wardrobe. And, based on what I am seeing in all the fall previews, it looks like what might have been a one-season wonder is now a full-fledged trend.  For those of us who are tired of the studs, chains and distressed leather that have dominated the virtual shelves of our shopping world, lovely lace is the perfect antidote. It is simultaneously sweet and seductive, an enviable duality. And just one great piece, when paired with the right basic, can take your outfit from average to incredible.

I’ve plucked some of my favorites for you to consider when planning your fall purchases. All of these are available now and can be worn during the transition time from warmer to cooler weather. One, very important piece of advice – a single item of lace in any outfit is pretty, anything more is a costume. So if you want to evoke Marie Antoinette, please wait for Halloween. Happy shopping!

1. Donna Mizani Lace Dress in Black $210 – This is a perfect summer to fall transition dress. You can wear it now with a black, strappy heel and later with a nude, closed-toe platform. Buy it at singer22.com.

2. Beyond Vintage Lace Dolman Top in Navy $180 – Dark navy lace is so appealing because it’s not the traditional black or cream but still works well with the fabric. Match the color of this top to your darkest denim and wear it with a nude or chocolate brown heel for a chic, monochromatic look. The cinched waist and see-through tummy adds sex appeal without being vulgar. Buy it at piperlime.com.

3. Joie Elvia Lace Top $198 – I love this top in black or cream. You can dress it up with a mini-skirt and boots or heels, or take it downtown with wide leg jeans, a studded belt and clogs. It would also look adorable with simple flats and dark skinny jeans, alone or under a blazer. Buy it at shopbop.com.

4. Twelve Dances Skimmers $138 – These pretty black ballet flats are light enough to start wearing in the warm weather with skirts and dresses but will take you well into the fall paired with dark or black denim, black pants, leggings or tights.  Buy them at Anthropologie.com.

5. Stretch Floral Lace Stirrup Legging (in black) $42 – These may look a tad racy but with simple flat boots (black, over-the-knee would be my preference) and an oversized tunic sweater or dress, they will make your boring staples bold. Buy them at americanapparel.net.

6. Free People All Pucker Lace Camisole $48 – Worn under a blazer or silky button-down, this cami is a discreet, sexy-sweet accent. Buy it at shopbop.com.

7. BB Dakota Issac Lace Skirt in Black $70 – If you want to try this trend but are a little intimated, I’d recommend this mini. Wear it with a boxy black sweater and nude patent pumps and you have a super classy ensemble for an evening out. Switch out the pumps for flats and you tone down the trend completely. And when you start to feel daring, try it with an over-the-knee boot in an unexpected color, like slate or maroon. But it at revolveclothing.com.

8. Pavonine Throw Back in Ivory $127 – A sexy but comfortable top with a dramatic back cutout is my perfect Saturday night outfit. That way I can enjoy dinner in something loose fitting and still turn heads! I like how it is styled with a peek-a-boo black bra and bright pants. It would also work with a nude cami and dark or black jeans. Endless possibilities and a great price! Buy it at revolveclothing.com.

xoxo Melina

It’s officially summertime and if you haven’t noticed this trend yet, the MKIAs are here to help. Like you, we are ready to show some skin in this supremely versatile style. These neutral numbers go with literally anything – colorful, flowy dresses, your favorite LBD or jeans and a blazer. They also make legs look longer, leaner and tanner. That alone should be reason enough to invest in a pair!

The styles we are featuring range from the reasonably priced to some you’d need a good reason to buy. Here are our current favorite flops, flats, sky-high pumps, and everything in between:

1. “The Sparkly Knockout” – Christian Louboutin Glitter Pump: $595. Like a sexy modern Dorothy, click your heels three times in these and go somewhere fabulous. I absolutely love these and could wear them for many a night on the town.

2. “The Back to the Beach Thong Sandal” – K Jacques Valerie T-Strap Sandal: $240. Throw these in your beach bag and head to the coast! These infamous sandals are what European women live in during the warm summer months.

3. “The Peek-A-Toe Sandal” – L.A.M.B Quincy Platform Pumps: $245. The laser cutouts give personality to these simple-yet-chic basics.

4. “The ‘Take Me to Italy!’ Wedge” – J.Crew Sardinia Wedge Espadrilles in Dusty Blossom: $118. When I wear these, I’m transported back to the sun-kissed, breezy Amalfi Coast where fashion is chic and effortless. The heel is the perfect height: low enough for everyday-wear and high enough for dressing up an evening outfit. I’ve worn these to work, shopping with friends, and on dates. I’ve already convinced both of my roommates to buy them. Love!

5. “The Practical Ballerina” – Kors Michael Kors Olympia Ballerina Flat: $165. Patent Leather with a delicious nude-pink hue and a sleek, simple design, these adorable flats will be a very popular staple in your wardrobe.

6. “The Modern Marvel” – Boutique 9 Thomsina in Natural: $110. Modern design at a modest price.  What’s not to like?  Melina recently purchased these to bring on a long trip to Spain and she swears they go with over half of her outfits! We know she won’t be packing light but at least she’s trying to pack smart.

7. “The Forget-Me-Knot Flop” – Cooperative Braided Sandal: $24. The braided cotton straps on these are a perfect compliment to the nautical trend that’s so popular this season. But these can be worn anywhere on land (especially at that price!).

8. “The Naked Bombshell” – Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Sandal: $760. Soar to new heights and be runway ready with these trendy platforms. Yes, the heel on these is almost as steep as the price, but I’ve added them to my wish list (along with being able to afford my rent). A girl can dream!

9. “The MaryJane Francaise” – MaraisUSA Mulberry MaryJane Nude: $58. Perfect for strolling the cobblestone streets of Paris, or the glittering sidewalks of New York, these flats are an adorable twist on a classic.

With this selection, we know you will find a nude knockout (or two) to round out your summer wardrobe.

xoxo Lauren

Like what you see? We hand-picked this lovely little collection to showcase one of MKIA’s favorite online fashion retailers, Net-a-Porter. Unlike many of its competitors, Net-a-Porter is a solely virtual experience and as such is a standout among other online fashion destinations. Offering a vast, yet well curated assortment of high-end designers (Balmain, Balenciaga, Miu Miu) and mid-priced labels (A.P.C., Milly, Elizabeth and James), the site looks and feels like a cross between Bergdorf Goodman and the best boutiques in London and New York. And do they deliver!

Every order, no matter what the price point, arrives in a beautifully packaged gift box complete with a big bow. If you live in New York or London your fresh-off-the-runway fashion will arrive via courier by the end of the day and within 24 hours if you live elsewhere.  That’s right ladies, no need to track your order from Net-a-Porter, this is a high-end experience all the way and, like we said, it doesn’t matter how much you spend, you get the same five-star treatment. It’s all part of the site’s fantasy-style shopping experience and knowing you are getting something special when you spend your hard-earned cash. They make returns easy too with free shipping and self-addressed labels.

Featured above and listed here are some of our favorite summer selections available at Net-a-Porter now (from left to right, top to bottom):  Tibi Watercolor Silk Dress $380, Belle by Sigerson Morrison Strappy Lattice Espadrille Wedges $240, Alice + Olivia Striped Cotton Skirt $165, Kova & T Ella Silk Shirt Dress $295, T -Bags Batwing Blouse $170, Diane von Furstenberg Juntas Cutout Mini Skirt $345

As a testament to the success of the site, the founder, Natalie Massanet, is now an e-commerce heroine having just sold her shares for $76 million to Richemont luxury group, which owns Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chloe and Dunhill. Not bad boss lady. Don’t worry the brains haven’t left the business, Massanet will continue to head the company!