Oh Dem Golden Slippers

Elvis has returned to the building

Cherry red slingbacks. Sunset orange Chuck Taylors. Silver Hush Puppies. Asparagus green sandals. None of these kicks can top my new Midas-gold wingtips. I found this fabulous pair of Sam Edelmans at Marshalls for $28. Yeah, it really does feel like I raided Fort Knox.

I dubbed them my Elvis shoes. Why? There is a 1959 Elvis album titled, “50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can’t Be Wrong,” and on the cover he’s rocking a gold lamé suit and matching shoes.

The shoes made their debut with a pair of indigo J. Crew Toothpick jeans that were plucked brand new from the racks of Buffalo Exchange for $20, a charcoal J. Crew tee listing the days of the week in Italian, and a Boston Proper jacket with gold-tone studs at the cuffs. I padded around the workplace wearing them with black high waist pants and a snug black cap sleeve turtleneck.

My friend Amy says that I have to do the Mummer’s Strut when I wear them. I just might do that as I navigate the cube farm at my job.

Down to the Nightclub

Lotsa folks consider the 1980s a fashion wasteland. They cite acid washed jeans, Miami Vice looks, parachute pants, neon, big hair and heavy makeup as reasons to hate. But there was a lot of fun stuff and super cool influences like Michael Jackson, Madonna and punk music. I loved wearing miniskirts, high top sneakers, overdyed denim, shoulder pads, colored tights, and touches of androgyny. My favorite pieces were slouchy suede boots with men’s overcoats and baggy shaker pullover sweaters.

If you’re a fan of 1980s style, check out these pieces from the “Club to Catwalk” exhibit which was at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London last summer. It’s a fabulous reminder of the imagination that busted out of our closets and the energy that emanated from storefronts and dance floors. I bet you were rocking some of these looks while you grooved to The Human League, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, or Bowie’s ubiquitous “Let’s Dance.” 

Shoes Abloom!

Here’s a shoe that redefines “spring in your step.” This was a delightfully unexpected find at the Gap. There is so much to love about this shoe -- it’s flat, comfortable, versatile, and affordable (under $60). It’ll make its debut when the polar vortex vacates and our souls thaw after this nasty winter.

The flowery pattern will transport me to an English garden, whether I’m on the concrete searching for treasures at a favorite resale shop, or trotting off to the gym for my favorite indoor cycling class. I’m excited about wearing them with everything including midi skirts, cropped pants, and boyfriend jeans.

The Shirt on Your Back

Tired of wearing puffy coats and heavy snow boots? Dreaming of days when your lovely locks don’t turn into a matted pelt under hats and hoods? Yeah, me too.

Believe it or not spring will return and when it does, my dear butterfly, you’ll want to bust out of your multi-layered cocoon. Here’s a classic item for spring -- the shirt dress.

Forget those demure staples of 1950s TV sitcoms--the 2014 version is unlikely to be accessorized with an apron. Instead you’ll find denim minis, silks splashed with mad graphics, or funky renditions with elaborate front ties that will turn you into a gift.

The flattering shape is great for every body. No matter your height, size, or body type you’ll look fabulous in this style. Fabulous prints and retro-inspired styles can be found on ModCloth.com, Mango.com, Newlook.com, Peopletree.co.uk, and Kohls.com.

So, turn off The Weather Channel, throw another log onto the fire, and browse cyberspace for your next favorite thing!

Not Trending

The end of season sales. A time when you trawl racks and racks of ugh-inducing items. Sometimes you’re seduced by thrice-slashed prices even though the color washes you out, the fabric gives you hives, and the print makes you look like Aunt Rhoda’s armchair.

Stop throwing your hard earned coins at those racks--here’s a better plan! Invest in trendproof classics and you’ll look and feel spectacular every time you got dressed. These items aren’t on the clearance racks, but if you buy the best quality you can afford you’ll wear them forever. You’ll also be less inclined to shriek, “I don’t have anything to wear,” when you’re invited to the opera.

Here are some items to look for the next time you shop.

Trench coat - Effortlessly stylish. You’ll feel as mysterious and glamorous as Ingrid Bergman did opposite Bogie. You can also pop it on over your birthday suit to greet your sweetie at the front door.

Black cashmere sweater - The only reason to look forward to cooler weather. You’ll never feel as elegant, cozy, or warm as when you slip a cashmere sweater over your head. Makes you feel rich and sexy.

Knee length pencil or A-line skirt - An indispensable, stylish staple that can be dressed up or down. Great for travel. It’s a wonderful wardrobe extender--unlike the rust-colored mini-skirt that’s been on clearance at Macy’s for the past two years.

Wrap dress - The perfect dress for any occasion. Got a date? Wear it. Going to work? Wear it. Weddings, graduations, cocktail parties? Wear it here, there and everywhere.

Ballet flats - Cute and comfy shoes for tired feet. Makes visiting museums and standing in line at the DMV a bit easier. Polyvore.com has an amazing selection!