About a year ago, I bought the perfect nude patent pumps from Aldo. They had a nice high heel and a great coloring to them – not a pasty nude, but one painted with a thin veil of mocha. I’m sure they were modeled after a Brian Atwood pair, but whatever. Whenever I would wear them my legs looked longer, more toned, and even a bit more tan. For a while I wore them almost every day.

They are the type of shoe that everyone asked about and was shocked to hear that I bought them at Aldo and for around $80. Well, after a really fun night out and waaay too much dancing, my shoes were pretty much destroyed. Destroyed not beyond repair, but there is a significant amount of repair work that needs to be done, which will probably cost more than the shoes themselves.

I wore them out yesterday (despite the fact that one side is worn down to the metal post) and I was reminded of just how much I really enjoy the look and how perfect they are for the summer. Browsing online today I’ve found quite a few possible replacements and even found that a pair nearly identical to my old one that still exists on Aldo’s website…see below for my finds although right now, I’m crushing on the pair pictured above by Guiseppe Zanotti.

Arnoldoa Pump | $80 at Aldo

Guiseppe Zanotti Sandal | $654 at Zappos

Prada Degrade Mary Janes | On Sale for $369 at Barneys

Miss Dior Patent Pump | $590 at Neiman Marcus

Christian Louboutin Satin Very Prive | $795 at Barneys

Charles by Charles David Pump | $145 at Piperlime

About four years ago I bought an amazing pair of jean capris by 7 for All Mankind that I used to get complements on all of the time. I tried them on again last week and…well, not so fabulous.

While the fit was still great, the style was just all wrong. I used to love the length, but now the capri cut just looks a little too ‘mommy’ and doesn’t do a thing to flatter my frame. Realizing that I’d never wear those jeans as they were, I attacked those poor jeans today in a diy (do-it-yourself) that resulted in a great “new” pair of chic summer shorts.

Not your typical cut-offs, these are more refined and will definitely be put to good use this summer. I’m planning on wearing mine with heels and dressier tanks, blouses, and longer blazers for a look that is casual yet sophisticated. See below for a step-by-step and go ahead, do it yourself too!

While I’ve slowly begun adding in this year’s style must-haves, there are still a few things I’m looking for – which has inspired a short shopping series I’m currently working on. Stay tuned for my top picks of the season and gorgeous pieces you’ll simply have to have. Xx