Tag Archives: ballet flats

Ja-Vie: A Comfy, Stylish & Practical Pair of Ballet Flats

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As a blogger, I’m finding out more and more that Instagram is a great place to not only connect with other people, but to discover new and emerging brands.  I discovered Ja-Vie ballet flats through a like on my Instagram, and decided to look into these very innovative, yet stylish flats.  I’m a sucker for anything houndstooth, so I was excited to see this lovely ivory & black pair.

Ja-Vie ballet flats differ from any other flat I’ve come across.  They are made with a jelly outsole, leather cushioned insoles providing comfort and support, and a knit “sock” lining.  The leather insole can be removed and the whole shoe can be machine washed (just make sure to use a mesh laundry bag to protect them)!  Plus, the price point of $68 is great for any budget.  The result: practical comfort and style, which is great for a mom on the go, like myself!

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javie4For my outfit, I decided to really play up the 80’s factor, because I have loved houndstooth since I was a teen.  I remember I had a houndstooth skirt from The Limited and houndstooth leggings from Express that I wore over and over with everything.  I had a hat just like the Topshop version I’m wearing with this outfit, and I also had a leather moto-jacket back then as well.  I guess my love for the 80’s doesn’t just stop at music!

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Outfit:  Topshop hat; Forever 21 faux leather jacket (old); Madewell jeans; Milly purse; Love Tatum necklace (bought on sale at Simply Local); Wendy Brandes rings; Depeche Mode 5 icons sterling silver & leather handmade wrapping bracelet by Little Treasure by Mir“Mona” glasses in Fuchsia Sunset c/o Spy Optic; Flower Design bracelet in Steel Silver c/o Bittersweet; Ivory/Black Houndstooth flats c/o Ja-Vie

(Outfit photos by Rholnna Jiao)

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My latest hair color:  “Oil Slick” by Salvador at Kelly Cardenas Salon in Hillcrest.  It’s the brunette’s answer to Unicorn Hair!  I think this is my favorite color so far!

FTC Disclosure:  I received product in exchange for a product review.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Step Into Comfort: Kushyfoot Review

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I have been on the hunt for the perfect foot covers (AKA  shoe liners, peds, footies, “not socks”, etc) for some time now.  My issue with them is that they never stay put, or when they do, they show!  When I was approached to review Kushyfoot products, I hoped for the best and that my search for the perfect little foot cover finally would end.  I can say without a doubt, my search is over!

KushyFoot Collage 1As you can see, Kushyfoot’s Ultra Low Cut foot covers offer just enough coverage for your toes, but also have a “non slip” backing, ensuring that the foot cover stays put both ways.  As for the “cushy” part, there is padding right at the ball of the foot, providing all day comfort.  I wore these with sneakers and flats to work all day for two days, and I didn’t have to adjust them.  The price point is also affordable, and retails for approximately $3.99 a pair ($23.97 for 6 pairs).  This is well worth it for all of the cute flats coming out for fall!

Kushyfoot not only offers foot covers, but a variety of hosiery, including knee highs, tights, socks, and their Flats to Go® (pictured below).  They are not intended for long distance use, but definitely would be great for the end of one of those long evenings out, where you just want a bit of relief from your heels.  They fold and fit right into its little convenient purse pack to grab and go!

If you like what you see, you can find Kushyfoot products on their official site, and please also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.  Thanks again Kushyfoot for these wonderful products, and for ending my search for the perfect foot cover!

DSC04680 - Copy (1280x1280)(My own Michael Kors peep-toe pumps & Arden B studded clutch)

FTC Disclosure:  I received product and was asked to review the product in return.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

I Love My Tieks!

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I have always wanted a really good pair of ballet flats.  The basic black ones I currently own (I have two pairs) are comfy to a point, but ultimately start to pinch in the back and eventually tighten up front.  I remember first seeing Tieks by Gavrieli ballet flats on Keiko Lynn and thought they were not only adorable, but looked incredibly comfy.  So recently I ordered my first pair, and I’m so very glad I did!  Firstly, the customer service I received from their company was outstanding (I love the handwritten note accompanying my package).  Secondly, the highly anticipated shoes arrived quickly and quite beautifully in the signature “Tiek Blue” box, topped with an adorable flower.  Thirdly, they fold into their own carrying case for the ultimate in convenience, and they come with an additional tote to carry your heels when your feet are in dire need of rest.

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My California Navy Tieks are far and away THE most comfortable ballet flats I own, and I wish I had them on my London trip back in 2012.  The backs of the shoes are cushioned rather than elasticized, which make them so easy on my heel.  The leather is soft and supple, and because of the split-sole design, I carry them everywhere I go (if I’m not already wearing them).  I chose the California Navy because I wanted to stay away from another pair of black shoes, but I wanted a versatile pair that I could still wear them with most everything I own.  As you can see in the pictures below (and upcoming outfit post later this week), I’m wearing them all the time.  I’m now plotting for my next pair (it’s a toss-up between the Metallic Pewter or the Metallic Gold).  What’s the most comfortable pair of shoes you own?

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The first time I wore my Tieks.  Love how they stand out against black textured tights!

Tieks and galaxy skirt (2)Wore them to work with the Supernova Twirl Skirt from ModCloth.

IMG_1163 - Copy (533x800)Worn in an outfit with my niece, when we accidentally wore the same thing one day!

IMG_1256 - Copy (800x800)Worn with my son, while waiting for my hubby (who was buying popcorn) at “The Lego Movie”.

FTC Disclosure:  I received a generous discount from Tieks as a courtesy, but not as compensation for this post.  Although I did receive a discount, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.