Colbalt blue

Summer is taking forever to show it's colors. Meanwhile very  impatient fashionistas, everywhere around the globe, can't wait any longer an are giving us a little preview of what a blue, really blue summer sky should look like.

The Belgian loafer

Invented decades ago, more precisely by  Henri Bendel ( the first importer of Chanel to the states) in the 1940's. M.Bendel used a 300 year-old Belgian cobblers to produce the loafers using the meticulous "turned" method. This technique means that the shoes are sewn inside-out before being flipped when completed. That last move is what ensures that each stitch is flawless. What use to be one very conservative footwear, can now be found in the funkiest styles, colors & designs. The Belgian loafer is a classic to have in your shoe closet and a good way to add a touch of European elegance to your everyday look. 

                                               Slipper by Del Toro

                                                Slipper by Del Toro

                    Alexander McQueen Bees collection slipper

                                      Slipper by Del Toro

                           Charlotte Olympia Zodiac Signs slipppers collection

                        Alexander McQueen Skull collection

Eccentric jewelry

Jewelry takes people's minds off your wrinkles said Sonja Henie and it's true. Especially if you are willing to wear very eccentric and original pieces. This season there is no limit to what you can wear in terms of quantity and finish. Extensive wear of rings and bracelets are on most catwalks and fashion weeks around the world. Balenciaga converted the fashionistas into piling gold rings and the punk vides coming off the Met's latest exposition is everywhere to see and feel. Would you dare to wear some goth pieces? Or would you stick to a more delicate and feminine approach?

The ballet slipper

In Paris there is Repetto.  Rose Repetto listen to her son and made a very bold move when she created the first ballet shoes (60 years ago) in her atelier close to L'Opéra National de Paris. That's were I saw them for the first time and I've been infatuated with these beauties ever since. This ultimate classic as been one of many Parisians prides since 1947. Luckily for us we can find them in Montreal at :
Rosenstein Paris, 2148 rue de la Montagne or on the website :  www.repetto.com

 In Milan you will find the rare Porselli. These slippers are made in the pure Italian ballet style and technique. This company is very discrete and tends to steer clear of any kind of marketing of publicity. They can thank famous blogger Garance Doré for putting them on the international scene recently.  Last time I heard, a trip to Italy was necessary if you wanted to get your hand on these.
www.porselli.it

 Finally since 2009, we can find, in Montreal, the famous Pretty Ballerinas. From a Spanish making background, this brand sets it's market apart from the other ones with it's very ready to wear and trendy collections. The international superstars are crazy about them. Take Kate Moss,for example, who had her 16 maids of honor wear a pair at her August 2011 wedding. You can find these little pieces of art at the boutique: 392 Victoria Ave, Westmount or  www.prettyballerinas.ca