accessory addict {shoes}

When most people refer to accessories, they are talking about jewellery.  To me, an accessory is the cherry on top of the (plant milk) sundae, anything that adds an extra element of fabulosity (hats, shoes, jewellery, belts, scarves, etc. etc.) I first discovered the power of a pair of shoes as a great accessory in grade 9 when I was drawn to a pair of red studded, pointy toed heels from Le Chateau.  I wore these shoes to school, out for family dinners and even once to volunteer at the local soup kitchen.  When my high school peers were wearing sneakers and American Eagle sweatpants, I was dressed up in skirts and heels. I am an enthusiastic shoe supporter and my clothes room currently houses 85 pairs (not including flip flops and boots) and counting!

{Fergalicious by Fergie heels from The Bay}

{Andrew Gellar, consigned}

 {Guess shoes from the Hidden Treasures fundraising sale}

 {Aldo}

 {Thrifted}

 {Target}

Sage asked me if I build my outfit around my shoes or if they are the finishing touch.  It depends on the ensemble (for example this look was inspired by the shoes) but because I have so many shoes, I rarely have a problem finding a pair that matches so usually add them as the last styling component. 

 {Thrifted with DIY silver button embellishment}

 {Because no country music lover's wardrobe is complete without a pair of vintage cowboy boots!}

{Vintage}

{Jessica Simpson clogs bought at Hidden Treasures}

{Priceless Shoes, Colchester UK}

{Max's Footwear Boutique & Cobbler}

{Thrifted}

{Thrifted}

{Pour la Victoire, Santa Monica.  Photo credited to Maureen Murphy, photographed at Stepping Out  2011}

If you're an altruistic shoeaholic living in Ottawa, there is an upcoming charitable event that will knock your shoes stilettos off! Dress for Success Ottawa (where I work full-time as a Program Manager), is hosting its annual fundraising evening called Stepping Out on May 30th at 7pm at Lago Bar & Grill.  Besides delicious canapés, refreshing cocktails & a wonderful silent auction, attendees are asked to wear their most fabulous footwear and later in the evening there will be a shoe-off (and this year a DIY shoe category has been added!) You can buy your tickets and learn more about Dress for Success here. 

{Gifted from Aldo}

{Urban Outfitters}

{Spring Shoes, Place d'Orleans}

{Thrifted}

{One of my most beloved pairs of heels I bought at a garage sale for only $2!}

{Gifted from Aldo}

{Winners}

{Nine West from Winners}

{Charlotte Russe, Santa Monica}

{Payless flats with DIY glitter}

{A sampling of my shoe collection, displayed in my clothes room}

Are you a shoe-aholic? What is your favourite shoe style?