While working on the site redesign, I had the chance to go back through a lot of previous posts, and ran across one about Michelle Obama and her Lanvin Cap Toe sneakers. She’s been photographed numerous times since then wearing all sorts of stylish sneakers. It also got me to thinking, even though it’s summer, you can’t wear sandals all the time. What if you go on a nature hike? I don’t know about you, but I’d rather have my toes covered in case I run into any spiders or other bugs along the way. Ick. Or what about those days when you want to dress casually, but it’s raining? You need a more substantial shoe for those times, and a comfortable but fashionable sneaker is a great option. I started looking around and ran across this Bikkembergs leather sneaker and had to share it with you.
First, Bikkembergs isn’t a plural for the shoes. It’s the name of the company, but it’s also the name of the man who started the company, Dirk Bikkembergs. He was born in Germany, but his father is Belgian. He’s a huge football (that’s soccer to Americans) fan, and began designing shoes, clothing, and other accessories for European football teams. His fashions caught on, and are worn by people all across Europe, in addition to several pro football teams. In fact, in 2005, Bikkembergs bought an Italian football team, and now uses them as a test bed for all his designs. His fashions have made it across the pond, and are now available here in the States. These sneakers have a 100 percent leather upper with suede tonal accents. The lining and insole are also leather, and the shoes have a lace-up closure. I love them in purple, but they also come in fuschia, turquoise, green, red, and black. You’ll know they’re authentic Bikkembergs by the tonal logo stripe on the vamp. Get the sporty style that’s all the rage in Europe right now for $239 at Zappos.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 1
Now, sneakers are hardly unique to Europe, and have been a staple of American fashion for several decades now. One brand in particular has been around since 1917, and remains a classic today—Converse All-Star. You’ll even see celebs like Kristen Stewart wearing them on the red carpet, so you know you’re in good company with a pair of All-Stars. They come in both low and high tops, in too many colors and patterns to mention in just one post. The Double Tongue OX sneaker has a unique fold-down extra panel on the tongue. I like this shoe in particular because it’s black and pink, one of my favorite color combinations, but because that double tongue features a lip-print pattern in pink and orange, another of my favorite color combinations! The upper is canvas, and the vulcanized rubber outsole gives you extra traction and flexibility. Be sure to check out the other colors available, and get a couple of pairs since they’re only $45 at Piperlime.com.
Budget Saving Alternative 2
Another brand that’s made quite a name for itself in casual fashion is Roxy, and this Bacci Lace sneaker is a perfect example. First of all, they call it a lace sneaker because it has a faux lace print on the upper, not because there’s any actual lace on it. Lace sneakers went out in the ’80s, thank goodness, and let’s hope they never come back. No, these shoes actually have a linen upper, so they’ll be quite comfortable since that fabric isn’t as stiff as canvas before it’s broken in. The rubber sole lends both comfort and stability. Look for the tiny Roxy logo stud on the side. Very cute. They also come in brown, but I love this mild orange color. With the white detail, it reminds me of a creamsicle, making this a perfect summer shoe. Make it your summer shoe for $44.95 at Endless.com.
