Christian Louboutin Very Prive

This is turning out to be accessories week here on Crewlade. The Very Prives in classic Black with red toe from Christian Louboutin is THE must-have classic staple in any girl’s closet. It’s many times the price of normal pumps, sure, but as a splurge, there is nothing else more flattering, stunning, or worth it for $795. I remember the first time I saw these online, I gasped. These were my first shoe loves. I don’t think I had ever imagined a shoe could be described as “stunning” before that night.

Christian Louboutin Very Prive - Black w/Red Toe

They’re very comfortable for a pump this gorgeous and this tall, mostly because there is a small platform built into the shoe. I’ve purchased and worn many shoes that I thought were very flattering and leg-lengthening, but none compare to these. They dress up any outfit and are sure head-turners. Also love the pop of red against the smooth, soft black leather, both in the toe and the sole.

Christian Louboutin Very Prive - Black w/Red ToeChristian Louboutin Very Prive - Black w/Red Toe

I’m wearing: Banana Republic Timeless Tank, Lands’ End Canvas Pattern Cotton Lawn Skirt (True Navy Circles)

I got them one size up from my usual US size. This is the trick I’ve learned to fit comfortably into Louboutin shoes. The first time I tried a pair on, I went with my usual US size, and it was way too small. The sales associate at Neiman Marcus, who clearly was not familiar with Louboutins, snarkly remarked that maybe Louboutin was just not a brand for me. Only after some research online did I realize every single girl sizes up in Louboutins. One size up generally works as a rule of thumb for me now when it comes to Louboutins. They will feel slightly tight at first (damn those narrow-footed European women these were probably designed for), but because the leather is a calfskin, it really molds to your foot over time and they become much more comfortable with wear. These are probably one of my most treasured and loved possessions, and whenever I need some pizazz or a boost of self-confidence, I whip these out and I know I will look amazing while still feeling comfortable. Get your own pair here at Neiman Marcus for $795.

Michael Kors White Midsized Chronograph Watch

I’ve had the White Midsized Chronograph watch from Michael Kors for a few months now. This post is really more like an inquiry disguised as a review – hope you guys don’t mind! So first, the review. The watch looks gorgeous. Ever since I laid eyes on the Chanel J12 in white, I’ve loved the fresh look of a white watch. Not just a small girly white watch but a watch that combines the fresh femininity of white with the bold, masculine style of a big, round-face, typically men’s watch. The touches of gold detailing really add interest and glamor.Michael Kors White Midsized Chronograph Watch

It looks casual but dressy. I really love(d) it a lot. I wore it every single day. Especially love the gold peeking out of each link in the bracelet. The 33mm size is perfect for my wrist also – just big enough to look like a feminized men’s watch.

Michael Kkors White Midsized Chronograph Watch

Now here’s the problem…the white bracelet is white polyurethane-wrapped stainless steel, polyurethane meaning a very rubbery material. Since it’s white, it is literally a magnet for dirt. I try not to wear it next to any dark colored clothing and I always take it off if I’m going to be at my computer where something may be touching the bracelet. Even with all this prudence, the bracelet basically turned to gray in just the last few months.

Michael Kors White Midsized Chronograph WatchMichael Kors White Midsized Chronograph Watch

Do you see the dirt streaks in the right picture? Ugh. I’m starting to feel embarrassed wearing this watch. It doesn’t really matter if you’re dressed all cute if you have fraying hems, holey shoes, or in this case, dirty watches. It just kind of ruins the put-together look, especially when you’re trying to project that confidence. So…even though Crewlade is not intended to be about watches or accessories, I’m really on a quest now to find a replacement for this watch…if anyone out there has any suggestions for a cute, fresh, big bold men’s size watch that may match my style, please feel free to throw it out there.

Review: Spanx Higher Power

Today I finally received the Higher Power shapewear from Spanx that I had promised to review a few days ago. I had theorized this would be the perfect solution to flatten and smooth out your lower tummy to look better in pencil skirt or just generally to wear under skirts for better shape and more coverage for those windy days.

Spanx Higher Power Panties

Well, it certainly does all those things and more. Not only was my tummy completely flat in pencil skirts, but somehow this thing created a butt for me out of nowhere. I had really never seen it before. I literally said “what the hell?” out loud.

Spanx Higher Power PantiesSpanx Higher Power Panties

I’m wearing: J.Crew Softspun Cotton Henley Tee, Banana Republic Pique Skirt (left), J.Crew Sunshine Peony Pencil Skirt (right), Nine West Getby Wedges

The top extends all the way up your ribcage so it doesn’t roll down when you sit or move. I guess the only con I can say about this is that it definitely feels like an extra layer of clothing, very much like a tight corset, so your skirts will feel slightly tighter and it’ll be slightly harder to bend over or sit down because you’re so held in by it. Perhaps I’m just not used to shapewear. However, it accomplishes everything it’s intended to, and I’m definitely going to turn to it whenever I wear anything I’m remotely self-conscious in. For only $36, it’s totally worth it. Get it from Bare Necessities here.