7 Warm-Weather Wedges Under $50

clockwise from top left:  2 Lips Too Too Desire Wedge Pump, $45 | Delia's Stephanie Wedge, $40 | Charlotte Russe Cork-Inset Striped Linen Wedge, $25 | Baby Phat Juno Wedge Sandal, $42 | Delia's Candice Wedge, $35 | SODA Terani Platform Wedge, $27 | Charlotte Russe T-Strap Cutout Zebra Wedge, $25



One of my loyal readers reached out to me, seeking help on finding a fabulous peep toe wedge under $50.

I look forward to reader requests that involve a budget because they become even more of a challenge. But, since she loves color, this made my search easy and frankly, quite tempting.  I would rock every single one of these myself. And with those prices, who can stop at just one pair anyway?!

So tell me. Which one would you add to your Spring/Summer wardrobe?

A Reader's Request Answered - Hunting for the perfect silver cocktail dress

For this Reader Request*, I was asked to find a silver cocktail dress for under $125.

Naturally, the fashionista in me had to layer my own personal stipulations on top of the original request.

And they go a little something like this:
1. The dress can NOT look cheap - which is easy to do when it comes to silver fabric.
2. The dress can NOT look like a prom or bridesmaid dress.
3. The dress MUST be versatile and stylish enough to be worn on many occasions.

Here's what I found.



The SOCIALITE: Hammered Metal Ruffle Bust Dress by Anne Klein - $111

The GLAM GIRL: Sequin Dress by Jessica Simpson - $83

The PARTY GIRL: Silver Cocktail Dress by Greylin - $110

I must admit, this was a challenging request. It is somewhat difficult to find a silver dress at that price point that looks well-made. But I accomplished it!

What do you think about my picks? Do you have any other suggestions on where to find amazing cocktail dresses at an affordable price?




*If you loathe shopping online or are on the hunt to find a specific something or other, email me at  nikia@chitownfashionista.com. I'll be glad to help!

A Reader's Request Answered - Hidden Platform Pumps

This Reader's Request was submitted via Twitter. Miss @curlyfro is on the hunt for a beige/taupe, hidden platform pump with closed toe under $150. I took to the internet and here's what I found...




Clockwise from top left:
Botkins by ALDO - $75.50
Lilo by N.Y.L.A. - $99.95
Heelsup by Nine West - $99.00
Fantasha by Steve Madden - $99.95

Here's the thing to remember about 'taupe' shoes: It means something different to different brands/designers. As you may notice, all of the shoes I found are different shades of taupe. If you're looking to match an outfit, determining the shade you need is fairly simple. However, if you're looking for a neutral shoe that elongates the leg, find the "taupe" that matches your complexion the most (as mentioned here).

I think the "Heelsup" by Nine West may be my personal favorite. What do you think?

A Reader's Request Answered - Leopard Pony Hair Pumps Under $150

This Reader's Request was submitted via Facebook.  My fellow fashionista, Janeen, is on the hunt for a pair of pony hair, leopard print pumps priced below $150.  The leopard pump is a classic that always adds a point of interest to an outfit and it's one item my wardrobe has been lacking for quite some time.  $150 is definitely in my price range PLUS Janeen and I wear the same size. Needless to say, this Reader's Request quickly turned into a personal quest.

And here are my finds...

Meet my new friends: Colette, Paoletta and Kenisha



Colette by Calvin Klein - $118
Paoletta by Nine West - $89
Kenisha by Lumiani - $65

Kenisha is starting to become my favorite but they are all winners in their own right.

As the Leopard King, Roberto Cavalli, has stated, "For incredible chic and fun, you can always count on a good zebra or leopard print."

So true, Mr. Cavalli. SO. TRUE.

A Reader's Request Answered - The Perfect Fall Shoe

Hello lovelies!

This Reader's Request was submitted by one of my Twitter buddies.  She told me that she was looking to purchase only ONE new pair of shoes for Fall and was wondering what would be her best choice.  I immediately responded with "a platform oxford".  Why?  When you decide to make a singular purchase to last an entire season, versatility should be the main focus.  The platform oxford is a classic design that works equally well with trousers, jeans and skirts. 

Now for the twist (à la Project Runway): The shoes have to be under $50.

Needless to say, I took to the internet and did some serious bargain "window" shopping.  Here are my finds...







Clockwise from top left:
Spotlight Heel by ModCloth - $80
Daring by Carlos Santana - $45
Westfalen by Matisse - $52
Lace Up Suede Bootie by Go Jane - $34
Vanna by Type Z - $60
Beauty Oxford by Mojo Moxy - $70
Savior by Anne Michelle - $37

I'm sure you noticed that some are priced over $50.  These were included because quality is vital and a small change in price can sometimes make a world of difference. The largest variance was $30 - not too bad considering this may be her only shoe purchase until Winter hits.

Now that Fall has officially made its appearance, what will be your "go-to" shoe this season?

A Reader's Request Answered - Silver Strappy Shoes

I occasionally get requests from my readers to help them find that perfect "something". I've decided that, going forward, I'll post some of these on the blog since there may be others in search of the same thing.

One of my readers is on a quest to find a silver strappy yet classy shoe in a price range from $80 - $100. She emphasized that she wants to "be able to use them often".

When I'm working with a $100 and under budget, I search stores that sell items at a discounted price. This means that paying the price of $100 or less will get you a shoe valued at $100 or more. Talk about a win-win situation! Also, because she indicated that she plans to wear them often, I focused on finding shoes constructed with leather as opposed to man-made materials.

Below are my picks - all of which have a classic design that will work well with many outfits. And the best part is that I managed to stay at or below the low end of the budget. *high five*







(l-r)
1st row:
Jessica Bennett 'Marek' - $76.97
Charles by Charles David 'Wisper' - $80.50
2nd row:
Nina 'Ulphia' - $76.00 (available at Lori's Shoes)
Gianni Bini 'Disco' - $79.99


Of course, I had to throw in a pair from a local favorite, Lori's Shoes. ChiTown represent!

I love reader requests. So, keep 'em coming.