Ferragamo is always a favorite among readers when we talk about comfortable heels — and Zappos seems to be having a secret(ish) sale on select styles. This darkish taupe is 10% off, which normally I would snub my nose at, but will welcome at this price range. (The other three colors the shoe comes in … Read More about Coffee Break: Pola Peep Toe Heel
Coffee Break: Panama Leather Shoulder Tote
Ooooh: nice. Sure, sure, I mostly like it because of that blue lining — but it’s a nice looking, lightweight bag. (It actually reminds me of a slightly more fancy version of Everlane’s leather tote, which is also very nice but definitely very plain.) The pictured bag has a flat base, and I like that … Read More about Coffee Break: Panama Leather Shoulder Tote
Coffee Break: ‘Paradise’ Croc Embossed Suede & Leather Satchel
I don’t know which I’m more excited about: to see shoulder bags coming back in style, or to realize that Nordstrom carries the brand AllSaints, at least as far as bags are concerned. This boxy black/blue shoulder bag looks perfect — functional but interesting, and the tighter shoulder strap makes it look just a bit … Read More about Coffee Break: ‘Paradise’ Croc Embossed Suede & Leather Satchel
Coffee Break: Quilted Ballet Flats
We’ve mentioned these simple ballet flats before in round-ups, but I don’t think they’ve ever had their own Coffee Break. Not only did several readers call out these Paul Mayer flats in our last discussion on comfortable ballet flats, but the shoes are bestsellers at Bloomingdale’s, where they have nothing but positive reviews. For $225, that’s … Read More about Coffee Break: Quilted Ballet Flats
Coffee Break: Acqua di Parmi
I’m curious, ladies — what are your favorite summer scents? I took a break from wearing perfume years ago when my sons were babies, but I’m starting to get into scents again, and am on the hunt. In years past, my summer scent was the men’s cologne, Acqua di Parma; Nordstrom notes that it is “a composition … Read More about Coffee Break: Acqua di Parmi
Coffee Break: ‘Friar’ Shopper
Hobo is a solid brand for affordable, quality leather. They have a very popular, long-running bestseller, the Lauren wallet, but today I’m featuring this shoulder bag, the Friar. Note that the leather has a soft, distressed look to it, which can be great, but some colors may veer a little too far into the “ooh, she needs … Read More about Coffee Break: ‘Friar’ Shopper
Coffee Break: Pamina Wedge
These simple wedge pumps look great. They’re available in a nice size range of 5-11, and in both black patent leather and “nude Chicago patent leather.” They’re $195 at Zappos. Via Spiga Pamina Wedge Here’s a lower-priced option. Update: We’ve found these wedges on sale (mostly in lucky sizes) at 6pm (black nappa), Bloomingdale’s (both black … Read More about Coffee Break: Pamina Wedge
Workwear Hall of Fame: Small Square Stud Earrings
These bright stud earrings come in a zillion colors, and I like how they bring a healthy dose of color to your face while still staying small and pretty discreet. There are 13 colors to chose from in flat colors, and seven more in glitter colors, if that’s your jam. They’re $38 at Bloomingdale’s. Kate Spade New York … Read More about Workwear Hall of Fame: Small Square Stud Earrings
Coffee Break: Resin Nate Chain Necklace
Many moons ago, back in the days when I would haunt DC’s Eastern Market flea market every weekend (it was a stone’s throw from my apartment!), I got a plastic red beaded necklace for a pittance. It was a round, short necklace, with the beads knotted together like pearls. I intended to cut it up … Read More about Coffee Break: Resin Nate Chain Necklace
Coffee Break: Lissa Heels
I love the look of these affordable beigey heels — I always like a strappy heel, and one that doesn’t cut straight across your ankle is a much more flattering, leg-lengthening look. Platforms can be yea or nay with me, but I think .5″ is still professional, and these certainly add comfort along with the height. … Read More about Coffee Break: Lissa Heels
Coffee Break: ‘Zana’ Wedge Pump
Wearing wedges can be a nice way to get height with stability — which is great for commuting and general comfort — but they can definitely feel a little frumpy from time to time. A slender wedge heel like this one keeps it sleek and young, and I like the lowish vamp and not-too-round, not-to-pointy toe. The shoe … Read More about Coffee Break: ‘Zana’ Wedge Pump
Coffee Break: ‘Siren’ Semiprecious Stone Stacking Ring
I have yet to own a Monica Vinader piece of jewelry, but it’s only a matter of time — I’m a bit obsessed with her simple, almost organic designs. This stone stacking ring makes me want to start a collection of stacking rings, ASAP — and I like that depending on sizing, you can wear it … Read More about Coffee Break: ‘Siren’ Semiprecious Stone Stacking Ring