The Second Challenge

When I unveiled these studded Prada booties—the second item in the Bluefly / StyleList America’s Most Stylish blogger contest—my first thought was how gorgeous they were. My second thought was that I might be a little afraid to actually wear them! They are, after all, my first pair of designer shoes. A few steps with these beauties on and any hesitation disappeared. I couldn’t wait to show them off with the perfect outfit!

Although they’re studded, they struck me as more whimsical than edgy. The small, sparkly embellishment covering the rich grey suede recalls a star-filled sky. To play up this mood, I paired them with a delightfully playful piece: a tiered ruffle dress in cotton candy pink. To bring the look back to earth (and to make it more appropriate for the cool fall day), I layered a simple short-sleeved sweater over the dress. So as not to take the spotlight away from the shoes, I kept accessories simple but charming. A polka dot scarf tied into a big floppy bow serves as a belt. The bowler hat makes use of the once forbidden but now favorite color combination of red and pink. A pair of scrunched-up socks completes this girly but chic look.