Red Shoes & the Best Shade of Red Lipstick

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Years ago, I purchased a pair of flat, red, Roger Vivier shoes and wore them with everything…summer and winter! For some reason, several years ago, I decided to sell them and I’ve regretted that decision ever since! When I was in New York several weeks ago, I saw a pair of pumps that were exactly the same shade of red and had the same classic Vivier buckle on top! I knew I had to have them! I like them even better than the flats because…well they’re platform pumps and fabulous! Red is surprisingly neutral and a red shoe always makes a bold statement!

Since I’ve been on a vintage kick recently, I decided to style my pumps with a vintage capelet, a statement pearl necklace, the perfect shade of red lipstick (also found in New York), a black cashmere sweater and distressed jeans! I love this look because it’s unexpected and really shows off the shoes! Of course, the jeans could be switched out for any number of other options if this isn’t your style!

Here’s the story about the lipstick! I love red lipstick…on other people! I love the idea of red lipstick on me, but I’ve never been able to wear it because it feels so harsh! Another of my missions in New York was to find the perfect shade of red lipstick! One of my favorite brands is Dior Addict, but most every shade of Dior was sold out, so the sales person at Bergdorf Goodman suggested Chanel! I tried on several different shades of red before deciding on Chanel Coco Rouge Flash in Amour. It’s a beautiful and very sheer red and the sheer, moisturizing formula is what made the difference! Now, I have my red lipstick and my red shoes for the holidays! I’ve been wearing it nonstop!

If you’re looking for a special gift for a special girl…I think a vintage fur would be such a great idea! I found a few on Etsy that you might like, but be sure to check out the Etsy website because there are so many to choose from at every price point!

I don’t know about you, but I forget what I have from season to season because I switch out my clothes when the weather gets hot and again when it gets cold. I’m not even sure when I purchased this cute black fur coat in the picture below, but I decided to photograph the outfit with this coat as well. The sleeves are 3/4 and it’s a great coat for evening. Which is your favorite?

Part of the reason I forget what I have is because I have been collecting nice pieces for quite a while now and for the most part, when I love something, I store it away (except for the shoes), knowing I’ll wear it again. I have Gucci boots that are 20 years old that I still wear, and sweaters, blazers etc. that I just can’t part with! I should do a post with my “vintage” pieces! My philosophy, more and more is to buy things I love that will stand the test of time.

As a side note…I also have quite a vintage hat collection that I want to share soon! Our home is getting quite full because I have things stored everywhere!

I have never felt that I could wear hats because I have a small head, but again, it’s the nostalgia and these vintage hats are very beautiful pieces of art and most are in their original boxes! I’m determined to one day have a hat party and pull them all out! My hats have come from vintage and thrift stores over the years and some are very old and unusual! I think I’m a vintage girl at heart and can’t wait to explore this more in the new year!

You guys…I know you’re reading my posts because I can see the analytics! I would absolutely love some comments from you!!! Your comments help me to know what posts resonate the most. We are so multi-dimensional and even more so as we age. Living a beautiful life is an all inclusive thing…the home you live in, the way you dress, the food you eat, the places you travel, and of course, the things that fill your head and heart! I truly want this blog to reflect a life well lived in every way, so if you have any thoughts, let me know!

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  1. Harriet says:

    I absolutely love reading your posts! Your style and honesty is so refreshing. I am currently trying to find my retirement style and upgrade casual basics. For years I concentrated on a work wardrobe so this is new territory for me. I like the high/low look for going out but around the house I want comfortable and practical looks since I am working inside and outside, and exercising. Keep sharing your ideas and recipes. I would love to see some exercise videos too. I loved the lesson on an afternoon tea. It’s something special that I do with my grandchildren a couple of times a year. Can’t wait to see your hat collection!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Harriet

      Thank you for reading! I totally understand about evolving style…midlife is a time of change and we have to adapt. I too like comfortable and casual when I’m home because I’m moving around so much! I will admit that some days I never change out of my gym clothes, but I figure it’s better to make it to the gym!
      I had so much fun doing the afternoon tea video and I’m planning to host a Valentine’s Day tea party this year! It is such a special ritual and it brings grace into our busy lives!
      I’ll be sharing my hat collection very soon!

  2. Sharron says:

    I am a vintage girl at heart. Can’t wait to see you collection of hats. I also adore vintage jewelry, clothing and handbags!
    Love reading your articles!
    Have a wonderful day!
    Sharron 💗

  3. Barbara says:

    I was hoping you’d do a post on vintage furs as I think they’re so fun and functional during the winter. Just haven’t pulled the trigger on one yet. I would love to shop vintage. However, not many, if any, vintage shops in my area. Etsy, you’re right, is good, though. Love your outfits! The creativity, boldness, femininity and fun make them great! Thank you, Suzanne!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Barbara

      Thank you for your sweet comment!
      I’ve found that many consignment stores in my area also have furs, so don’t think you have to go to a specific vintage clothing shop to find one. I do have to drive about 30 minutes, but I’m willing because I love to find a treasure! The shop I usually go to has booths so you never know what you’re going to find! Last year, I bought a vintage fur hat and I’m about to put it on to walk my dog because nothing keeps my ears as warm and it’s so chic!
      I always love your comments and look forward to sharing more vintage in the new year!

  4. Debbie says:

    I am on a vintage kick as well! I bought a really unique 1950s, structured mink stole in Hollywood last Spring and this post is so helpful in giving me ideas on how to style it!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Debbie!

      I would love to see your mink stole! I’m going to do a little vintage shopping today and I know the place I’m going has furs so I may just come home with another! They are so elegant and I think, lend themselves to so many different looks! Thank you for your comment!

  5. Ann says:

    Thanks for the reminder to comment because I love reading your posts! Love your "upscale casual" style!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Ann

      I really appreciate your comment! I think my style is evolving as I get older, but I’ll always love my jeans!

  6. Sharron says:

    Love the love bag!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Sharron!

      Thank you so much! I’ve had that little bag forever and find I pull it out every year during the holidays!

  7. April says:

    Hello, so yeah…I’m a lurker.

    But I’ll give you a shout.

    I like your blog.

    I believe that women encouraging other woman is an extraordinary and beautiful thing…so much more can be accomplished holding each other up than tearing each other down..I get that vibe from your blog…it’s nice to know that other women want to be a positive force.

    Your style, perfect..(I turn 50 next year so although I admit to being on a budget, I still can use your examples and pull together a 🆕 nice look that won’t make my bank account cry and still be age appropriate) so keep the ideas rolling!

    Lastly, I’m a bit of an adventuress so anything that has to do with travel is of interest…particularly if it’s off the beaten path.

    Good job and keep it up!

    Best.

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi April!

      So nice to hear from you!

      I totally believe in inspiring and encouraging women to live their best lives and I know midlife can be a challenging time!

      I also think that we can all have a unique style that is a reflection of who we are and how we want to show up in the world! Fashion is so much fun and you’ll see more and more vintage in the coming year!

      Also, I am working on 3 travel posts that aren’t so much off the beaten path, but are places I’ve been recently…Paris, New York and Richmond, Virginia! These posts take forever to put together, but hopefully they’ll be complete soon!

      I so appreciate your comment and hope to hear from you again very soon!

  8. Pam F says:

    Hi Suzanne, I too frequently read your posts and glean some great ideas for mixing and matching. Love the vintage interest too.
    And can’t wait to see your hat collection. My stash is growing. It started more as sun protection and kept going! And hats are such fun! So many styles, so little time.
    Have a great weekend! Hang on, Christmas is closer than we realize. 🙂
    Thanks again for the inspiration.

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