We’ve already established two ground rules for traveling to the city: layering and accessorizing.  The next big thing which will make or break your trip is your shoes!  It’s so easy to look into your closet and throw all of your favorite shoes in the suitcase, but don’t do it!  Pack them carefully and think about only bringing the most versatile shoes.  It’s always nice if you can pack in somewhat of a theme – for instance, I try to pack only things that I wear with my black shoes so that I don’t have to worry about bringing two pairs of pumps, etc.

Forecast this weekend in NYC – 80s in the daytime and 60s in the evening.  Sounds perfect to me!  I’m skeptical though and I think the city always feels cooler because the buildings keep the street covered in shadows.  Lots of walking, too, so I have to pick only my most comfortable shoes – I’ll save my heels for dinner only.  Based on all of the *shoe criteria* that I must follow, I’ll most likely wear my Frye boots to shop.  The great thing about them is that I can wear them with skinny jeans or pair them with a cute skirt!  Regardless of the temperature, a riding/walking boot will serve your purpose.

Here are two that I like: the first is my Veronica Slouch Frye Boot $328 (you’ve seen them before, I know, but they are appropriate today as well).  Second is the Steve Madden Smyrna $149 in black – I love this boot on so many levels – it goes with everything, can be dressed up or down (PERFECT for the city) and the solid colored wedge heel is going to make your legs appear even longer (a HUGE bonus for a shortie like me).

Most of the time when we travel for a weekend, we have dinner out.  This is your time to kick it up a notch!  For me, heels are a must for dinner, so I always make room for one *special* pair of pumps to wear for dinner.  I can sacrifice in the clothing department to make room for one extra pair of shoes (no more than 3 for the whole weekend).

Michael Kors, how did you do it?  Perfection in a ($195) Pump with your metallic glitter shoe.  I heart you.  If you want a similar *wow* effect, but need more cash for weekend activities, check out Nine West’s Red Hot Studit ($98).  Red is such a great fall color, and studs are all over the place these days!  If you just don’t have the room in your luggage, you can’t go wrong with this Nine West “Rocha” pump in a neutral shade.  Neutral, leather, pump…what’s not to love?

So in sum – I love shoes, but have to be mindful when packing for a trip.  I pack shoes that can go with multiple outfits and then break the rule for one evening out!

shops love!

ps…don’t forget about The Shopaholic’s giveaway!!!  Please continue to refer your friends until Monday, September 27th!

Of course I’m talking about handbags!  For us ladies, handbags are a necessity – how much we spend on them and how often we switch is completely personal though.  You will almost always see me carrying my Louis Vuitton shopper tote because it matches almost anything and fits just about everything!  When we get a sitter and have an evening out, I usually switch into something smaller and carry just the necessities.  I like to buy one new bag in the fall season…usually something leather that will hold up and from my favorite of the bag trends for that season.  This season though, I’m loving SO many different bags that I am clueless as to what exactly I want (shocking).  I think it’s time to pack up the classic LV for a bit and go for something more trendy.  The satchels, the hobos, the crossbodies paired with the chains, the studs, the metal – how will I ever choose?  It’s a matter of choosing something neutral enough to get through the season.  There are tons of muted colors that will blend wonderfully while still accessorizing in just the right way.  Here’s whats I’m talking about:

I’ll get my dream satchel out-of-the-way first because honestly, what’s not to love?   Oh right, I do not love the pricetag…but let’s pretend for just a second.  *flawless*  The deep clay color (or black or tan), the subtle gold chain, and the top zipper are perfection.  Kudos, Tory Burch.  Now back to reality, you can find a super cute satchel for a fraction of Tory’s cost.  Steve Madden did a nice job with this Candy Studs bag (shown in coral, available in black too).  Priced at $65 at Macy’s, it’s sure to get you noticed in a good way!

Are you more of a Hobo kind of gal?  This season has got you covered, too!  Cole Haan made the right move by adding the additional long strap.  Very versatile and big enough for the mom in us all!  Enough zippers/cubbies/pockets to stay organized too.  On sale at Zappos for $240 (and remember, always free overnight shipping).  And for a more wallet-friendly alternative, check out Big Buddha’s Chain Rocker faux leather hobo (say that three times fast).  It has just the right amount of metal and chains.

The last featured fall trend is the crossbody bag – usually smaller than the other styles.  I love the free spirit attitude of the crossbody - throw it over anything and forget it’s there – no one else will though if you’re wearing one of these.  Lucky brand did a pretty good job of maintaining the interior space of “Stash” which retails for $178.  Available in black and brown, but also purple and red which are great fall colors.  Finally, Nine West shines with “Star Bright.”  I love the pewter, the rhinestones, and the $40 price tag!  Find it at Piperlime.

So whatever your style, the season, or your budget - you can find a purse that will get you noticed for being *so now*.  These are just a sampling of what’s available, but the weather is changing and your handbag should too.

shops love!  Happy Labor Day Weekend!