Monday, September 22, 2008

Recap: Boston Fashion Week: “Shoe Diva”- An Evening of Footwear and Fashion | Hello Stiletto | Macy's


Fabulously submitted by BostonFab! Correspondent Chanelle

Admit it…every woman has a fashion addiction and for many, the drug of choice is SHOES! On Wednesday, September 17th, at 6:00 p.m., I found confirmation for this theory when I joined numerous fellow shoe addicts at “Shoe Diva” – An Evening of Footwear and Fashion, hosted by Hello Stiletto* and Macy’s, at Macy’s Downtown Crossing (450 Washington Street, Downtown). Accompanied by Fab! Friend Michelle and her Fab! co-worker Jocelyn, I headed to the Women’s Shoe Department and found a line of business-casual clad ladies, waiting patiently to receive a yellow armband , denoting their 21+ age status, and a complimentary Fashion Boston tote.

Waiting patiently to enter Shoe Diva heaven!

Once we’d obtained our armbands and totes, Michelle, Jocelyn, and I made our way to the cocktail area, but quickly met with a substantial line of attendees who were waiting to get their drink on, so we opted to do a little shoe shopping first. Sadly, I was a little disappointed with Macy’s shoe selection. The event had advertised a showing of the season’s hottest footwear, yet I definitely spied quite a few styles that screamed “Summer ’08”…yikes! While we perused the shoes, we were treated to hors d’oeuvres, including mozzarella and spinach skewers, courtesy of The Ivy, which were served by three, male models, who were quite easy on the eyes…wink-wink…

Nothing like some eye candy while you do a little shoe shopping-:)

Now, that's food presentation!

After a half hour or so, we decided to give the bar another try. This time around, we were successful and rewarded with our choice of three delicious cocktails, provided by Beija Chachaca Vodka. Crowd favorites appeared to be the Beija Clear Storm and the Beija Blueberry Bliss, which incorporated the flavors of ginger beer and blueberries, respectively. While enjoying our cocktails, Michelle, Jocelyn, and I noticed that M.A.C. make-up artists had set-up shop in a corner, to give mini-makeovers, which many women were taking advantage of, pre-and post-shoe purchases.

Ready, Set, Shop!

As 7:00 p.m. rolled around, everyone’s attention was drawn to the runway that had been set up in the middle of the shoe department. A Macy’s representative, along with, Hello Stilletto founder, Melissa O’Shea took to the stage and proceeded to inform the crowd of the hottest upcoming trends in shoe styles everywhere, from open-toed booties to stacked heel oxfords. To accompany them, a bevy of models walked the runway, showcasing a variety of Macy’s offerings in fall shoe styles. Music for the fashion show was provided by Soulclap, a Boston-based company, specializing in dance music. At times, I couldn’t help but be distracted from the fashion show, by Soulclap’s DJs, who appeared to be enjoying their musical selections, a little too much…let’s just say, it was a bit reminiscent of a “Night At The Roxbury”…LOL…


Killer magenta pumps, by BCBGirls

Following the show, attendees were invited to participate in a “walk-off” competition, where they strutted their stuff and their own fabulous shoes, for a chance to win the title of “Best In Shoe.” After 37 models-in-the-making, had their moment in the spotlight, the grand prize went to a young woman, sporting leopard-print stilettos. There were definitely individuals who some believed had been cheated of the title, specifically a sista’ rockin’ some killer yellow heels…go ahead, girl!


Everyone needs a pair of leather black boots

Despite no purchases made by us, the evening was quite enjoyable and an entertaining reminder that a woman can never have too many shoes!

*Hello Stiletto is a FREE social club for individuals who love shoes. Originally founded in Boston in 2004, the club has grown to over 6,000 members in eleven cities. Check out their website for local events, where you can rock your favorite pumps, stilettos, or boots!