Showing posts with label footwear. Show all posts
Showing posts with label footwear. Show all posts

Monday, April 14, 2014

Find out why Ascending Butterfly recommends following the Butterfly for 'Happy Feet' @AlegriaNation!

Alegria Shoes Logo


Nothing puts the motivation in my Monday faster than a good pep in my step. And while I had no idea that my love of butterflies would become a blog or a brand for me, I do know that following the butterfly has never led me wrong yet.

I'm an April baby and while everyone thinks the 'season of renewal', after many years of soggy birthdays, I have learned the hard way about 'April Showers bringing May Flowers'. Meaning I want to keep my feet dry, but don't necessarily need boots with fur anymore and that's exactly where Alegria Shoes come in. Not just any shoes, but the shoes with the butterfly on them.

If like me you thought Alegria was all 'Nursing Shoes' I urge you to take another look at their website, they are not just for Nurses.



I got to try out the Alegria Cami Mahogany Boot:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Genuine Mahogany Leather
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Buckle Straps at the Calf and Ankle to allow for a custom fit
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Leather Covered insole let's your feet naturally breathe
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cork, Memory Foam & Latex footbed, form to the natural contours of your foot
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Removable Footbed
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hand sewn, Dri Lex Lining
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Superior Arch Support
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Roomy Toe Box
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Heel Height: 1 1/4 in.
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Platform Height: 1/2 in.

Ascending Butterfly wears Alegria Cami Mahogany Boot


MY TAKE:

These are super comfortable, I actually broke them in during a weekend away in Atlantic City and I usually never break in new shoes when traveling there because I know I will be doing more walking than usual. My feet didn't hurt at the end of the day, and I had tons of people asking me about them. Whenever I go to an event I tend to wear something that has a butterfly on it, (usually jewelry) and now I get to add my footwear to the mix which is fun. I love the arch support on these because that's one of the things I actually need the most. I love that these are comfort footwear but don't really look like it. The Buckles give it a hard edge and then the butterfly lends it a more feminine vibe. I'm not going to be happy when the weather warms up so much that I will have to put these away.

These definitely get a 10 butterfly rating out of 10 for hitting it right out the park: comfort (check), stylish (check), BUTTERFLY (check plus, plus!).

And as my fellow Latinas already know, 'Alegria' means happiness, and who doesn't want happy feet?

Are you already a member of the Alegria Nation? If so, which is your favorite pair? Don't forget to tweet @AlegriaNation and tell them you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly! (Apologies for no giveaway this time around, hopefully they can come back for something fun for Spring/Summer!)


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, however the Alegria Cami Mahogany Boot was provided to us for editorial consideration. All opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Monday Motivation: The put some pep in your summer step with @NaturalizerShoe Bzees Summer Fun Lightweight #Shoe

Naturalizer provided the shoes referenced for editorial consideration, see below for Full Disclosure

Naturalizer Logo


I know Fitness can get to be a bit routine at times, but with summer in full swing, you can get your heart rate up in ways that don't have to be routine at all, hop off the treadmill today and take a brisk walk OUTDOORS! Mix things up by taking a route that is new to you! Do you have a park or beach nearby? Those would be my top two choices, allowing you to get in a good walk and be closer to nature at the same time.

Naturalizer BZEES Summer Fun, Slip-on, Casual Shoe, Shoes, Footwear
Naturalizer BZEES Summer Fun Slip-on Casual Shoe


The folks at Naturalizer put some pep in my summer step with their 'BZEES Summer Fun' slip on shoe in the color 'Tomato Red Mesh'. A bright Orange/Red color that I have been living in all summer.

The Lo Down on the BZEES:

PROS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Stretch Mesh Upper, Casual, Slip-on style, round toe
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Elasticized collar for easy on/off construction
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Antimicrobial Lining
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dual Air Gel and EVA Cushioning Comfort System
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lightweight, each shoe weights less than 6oz
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Traction outsole with 1 1/14 inch heel

CONS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I was sent the wrong size, with Naturalizer I am usually true to size, but with these I would have preferred a half size up (they press into my ankle bone a bit), Naturalizer also runs a bit narrow which is why I always order the Wide option in any of their shoe styles, but sadly I wasn't sent the Wide, I was sent the Medium so these were a little bit uncomfortable on me. But if you have a narrow foot, my con would certainly be your PRO.

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - "Like" Naturalizer on Facebook to keep up with promotions, discounts and giveaways!
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @NaturalizerShoe on Twitter too
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You can follow their Pinterest Boards too!

MY TAKE:

If these had been sent in the right width they would get a 100% reco from me, but my pair were a bit too narrow for my liking. I do love that they are so lightweight, and slip on and off so easily, and they offer more foot support than a casual slip on would normally offer which is a definite plus. The mesh upper is stretch which is great when your feet swell. Now these are not runners shoes, but are great for walking, and do offer support which is rare in a slip on style.

What Shoe have YOU been living in this summer butterfly?

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FTC Disclosure: Naturalizer sent the BZEES Summer Fun for editorial consideration. This is NOT a sponsored post and no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for our evaluation/review, all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. We only post about products and services that we feel will be of value to our readers. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Policy Page for additional information.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Valentine's Day - How I style it! #Fashion #Polyvore #Curvy #handbags #shoes with @IGIGI @NicoleMillerNYC @EarthiesUSA

IGIGI Ambrosia Dress - How I styled it







Nicole Miller Clutch
Available for Purchase at www.nicolemiller.com



Van Cleef Arpels pins jewelry



As we start to approach Valentine's Day I thought I'd share some buying recommendations from what to wear, jewelry, accessories and more!
 
I got so inspired by my first finds that I thought I'd create a cute polyvore set to highlight them all! The folks at IGIGI sent me the Ambrosia Dress, and that started a chain reaction! I already had the great clutch (which you may recall from our last Nicole Miller Giveaway HERE), and I also already had the shoes), I think together these make a killer combo and are perfect for a night on the town no matter where your town may be. As for me, I'm in New York City, the City that Never Sleeps, and which favors the color black! It's been New York Fashion Week Insanity all week.
 
The seductive Ambrosia Dress is cut from all-season stretch jersey and hugs, smoothes, & enhances the contour of your curves. Whether in rich blue or black add some bright gems, a colorful clutch and strappy pumps for head turning style.

 
The Ambrosia Dress couldn't be more perfect for Love Day, not just because of the perfect for Valentine's Day name, but it's made to flatter your curves, accentuate what you want to accentuate and helps you hide what you need to hide because of the fantastic ruching!
 
And because despite Punxsutawney Phil's prediction of an early Spring this year, it's still FREEZING in the Northeast, but there is no way I was going to put this super cute dress under my puffer jacket, I was so happy when IGIGI sent over their Hanna Coat! It's a perfect compliment to the dress, and a stylish outwear option for us curvy girls!
 
 

I of course went with Black again, but this coat literally goes with everything, and I couldn't love it more! I have to add some photos of myself wearing everything (model photos are above)!
 
My Take:
 
Both the Ambrosia Dress and Hanna Coat are not just 'figure-friendly' but 'figure-flattering', as they are cut for curvy girls, their sizes tend to run bigger, so if you are ordering for the first time, refer to their size charts to ensure the best fit! (Although you should really do that anyway if you are ordering via internet or mail order for the first time with any brand!)

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like IGIGI on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @IGIGI on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow IGIGI's Boards on Pinterest too!
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - And don't forget to subscribe to their channel on YouTube

In fact you'll be super happy you are following them across their channels, as they are hosting a giveaway via their facebook page and pinterest page right NOW! What you are waiting for butterfly, get in on the fun and a chance to win an IGIGI gift card of your own!

Butterfly, What are YOU wearing for Valentine's Day this year?

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FTC Disclosure: The Ambrosia Dress and Hanna Coat were sent to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own.

Monday, February 4, 2013

My Winter Standout Boot!



Living in the Northeast comes with one thing you can count on, super COLD winters! Snow, cold and ice are constants, and when rain factors into that mix, you get pure sleet, which is not only deadly on roadways but equally dangerous while walking the icy City streets.
 
Boots have always been my obsession, second only to handbags, and for the most part, much like handbags, there are boots for different purposes and occasions in my closet. I of course can't get enough of the Equestrian trend and style, but New York winters really do a require an all-weather boot that is really going to not only withstand the winter, but keep me steady on my feet in the snow and ice. And because I'm well, ME, it needs to be cute too, it needs to be a pair I really want to reach for, not just have to reach for.
 
I've been living in my Boreal by BEARPAW Boots this winter, and for good reason, they are not just functional, but also super fashionable. I have other boots by BEARPAW but these are a bit different in a few ways. these are a more *snug* fit, but please know I do NOT mean that in a bad way. You will feel these a bit snugger on the instep, width and toebox than other boots in the line. They tell you on their site to size up one full size, this is definitely correct, this is not just other users telling you so you may think it's subjective, it's the ordering page for the boot that tells you this. Please don't ignore it, you will need to size up a full size because these don't run in half sizes. They are long but the opening is meant to fit you snugly so snow doesn't get in. While they are not touted as Wide Calf in any way, I can tell you that I am a Wide Calf and usually require boots that specifically say they will accommodate a Wide Calf, and these fit me wonderfully around the calf. They are snug enough so snow doesn't get in, but fully and comfortably accommodate my calves!

 
 
About Boreal by BEARPAW:
 
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 16" tall
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cow suede vamp and heel counter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Nylon shaft with decorative patch
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pocket detail and bungee cord drawstring
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sheepskin and wool blend lining
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sheepskin footbed
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Woven heel logo
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Crepe rubber outsole
 
See them in action in NYC:
 
 
 
Realized I wasn't smiling and took another shot:
 
 
 
My Take:
 
I love that these work well with my Wide Calves, they are tall so when the snow drifts at the end of each sidewalk become a snow mountain, I can easily maneuver with these. While the snugger fit did take a small break in period (I have a super high instep), they did break in quickly. I also have a toe with a past fracture and was pleasantly surprised that these did not bother my toe in any way. I'm wearing them in 'Charcoal', and I saw other user reviews complaining that they thought Charcoal would be black, but it's not, it pictures like a Grey (which is actually why I picked them) and they are a true grey, not silver and definitely not black in color. These are not like the oh so popular 'slipper boots' in feel, these offer a very supportive frame and a real sole, they are not super flat on the bottom which I love. I find they do offer ankle support because of the way they are constructed and that helps keep me stable on the snow and ice which I love. These definitely get high praise, warm, full on weather boots with great fashionable touches and details, what's NOT to love?
 
Get Social With It:
 
While I wasn't able to offer a giveaway this time dear butterflies, please know that BEARPAW hosts their own contests via their social channels, so you definitely want to be sure you are already following them! 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like BEARPAW on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Become a Pin friend on Pinterest
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @bearpawshoes on Twitter

What Boots Have You Been Living In This Winter Butterfly?
 
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FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly received a pair of Boreal Boots by BEARPAW for Editorial Consideration, however as always all opinions are 100% my own.

Friday, December 7, 2012

December is National "Made in America Month"! 5 winners can win @TeroxFootwear - Men or Women, GLOBAL #Giveaway

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Terox Footwear! We look forward to working with you again. Entries are being processed. Once the winners have been notified and upon winner confirmation, follower names will be posted both here on the Rafflecopter Widget, and on our homepage.
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Terox Logo

Do you want to know what Made in America Feels Like? Try:

 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ  Comfort
 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ  Durability
 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ  Quality
 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ  Eco Conscious

Terox Footwear is a brand on a mission with a dream of not only building great footwear, but to also be part of restoring American Jobs and keeping our planet clean!

Terox Holiday Infographic

Powerful Right? With un-employment rates still in double digits in many states in the US, restoring American Jobs is an important mission, one I whole-heartedly support. Imagine that with every single step you take you can also help to support that mission, and you can do so in a variety of cool colors too!

ABOUT:

Terox offers a Z Strap, Flip Flop, and Slide style shoe, all with an anatomical design made from a lightweight, elastic, resilient polymer compound and they are proudly manufactured in Georgia! The American Podiatric Medical Association has listed Terox flip flops on their very shortlist of acceptable Flip Flops, and as you know the Association is super careful about their recommendations when it comes to footwear!

MY TAKE:

I wanted the Z Strap because it has a butterfly on the sole, but somehow I received the Flip Flop instead. I normally don't feature flip flops here because I don't really like them, the toe thong usually ends up hurting my toes after prolonged wear, and while they are OK on the beach, I don't like that squishy 'flip-flop' sound when I'm walking with them indoors. But Terox has created a convert, these have so far been the exception to my absolutely no flip flops rule, after a full month of wear (mostly as house slippers because it's super cold in the NorthEast right now), my toes do not hurt after prolonged wear, and they sort of feel like they are bouncing you back with every step. This time, my only real complaint about them being flip flops is that if it's cold in the house I can't wear socks with them. (And please don't comment here telling me to try flip flop socks, that is NOT happening! :)

Terox Flip Flop
Terox Footwear, this Flip Flop comes in super fun colors!

WIN IT:

We have hosted Canada Friendly giveaways before on Ascending Butterfly, but this is our FIRST ever Global Giveaway! You read that correctly, this giveaway is GLOBAL. Wherever you are, you are welcome to enter, and Terox makes footwear for both Men and Women! So make that special someone happy and slip some Terox Footwear in their holiday stocking this year! 5 Lucky Butterflies will win a pair in their choice of size and color based on availability. (Remember, some colors may or may not be in stock at the time of the drawing, so our sponsor will have the final say on color!)

Enter using the Rafflecopter Below:





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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% my own. Terox Footwear provided us with a product sample to facilitate this review and for editorial consideration, they will be fulfilling all prizes to giveaway winners directly. Ascending Butterfly nor it's giveaway sponsors are responsible for lost or mis-directed mail. One entry per household.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

{CLOSED} Ugglebo Seattle Low Style Shearling Boots Giveaway! ARV $309 Ends 02/18

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Ugglebo! The winner is Kathy Pease, comment #826! Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
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Ascending Butterfly's Valentine's Day Buying Guide Giveaway #3, sponsored by:


With New York Fashion Week shows, pre-shows, launches and kick off parties my feet are already nervous. Loads of commuting (trains, tons of stairs) and even more walking and standing, coupled with VERY cold weather these past few days and even worse, SNOW coming, keeping my feet warm and happy has been my top priority.

And after battling pneumonia and a collapsed lung, I am definitely all about making sure I am warm enough while out and about! During a time in New York City where Fashion is the top word on everyone's list, how do you keep it fashionable and not end up with a severe cold or worse flu?

UggleBo Brand Clogs



Seattle Low in 'Tan'

About

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Seattle Low Shearling Boot in color 'tan'
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tall Clog Boot on a low-heel Alderwood base
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Customizable - Fold over the shearling to fit the style you want.
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Non-Zipper, slip in style for a smooth look all around (pull tabs on top of boot)
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Available in two colors: Black and Tan
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Each Clog is crafted by hand

Many people fall under the mis-conception that Shearling is only good in the winter, but if you wear Shearling Boots without socks, you will find that quality shearling actually circulates air evenly and does not cause your feet to sweat, shearling can help regulate your body temperature making it fine to wear well into Spring with your skirts!



Here is a picture of me wearing them tucked under my Beija Flor 'Jennifer' Jean! I love how they are the perfect marriage of the comfort of a clog style, with the fashion forward detailing and the shearling! I've never managed walking on backless shoes so usually clogs with their open back styling are normally off limits to me, I was so happy that Ugglebo offers clog style in boots, and that these are such a perfect heel, not too high so you can wear these all day and your feet don't get tired! Their website has a size chart so you can order the correct size for your feet, these don't run totally on traditional sizing and I sized up about a half a size. Like many people I have one foot that is slightly longer, so the size up was perfect for that foot, for the other foot I put in an insole and found that to make them absolutely perfect for me! I am able to wear these for long stretches and my feet don't feel tired, I love that they are fashion forward, still totally comfortable, and have really held up well, because I love wearing them and wear them often!

My Take

I love supporting companies with a conscience, and Ugglebo is a company with heart! Ugglebo donates 5% of their annual profits to the nurturing, growth and passing of wisdom to disadvantaged children through education. In addition, they also made their Chukka Shearling Boot their Pink Ribbon Riders’ boot, which means that for every Chukka Shearling Boot that you buy, they will donate $20 to the Pink Ribbon Riders, whose mission is to promote breast cancer awareness in the motor sports industry for both men and women, while raising funds for those in need.

And you know how much I love a win/win, there is a 10% off discount coupon for new 'likers' on Ugglebo's Facebook Page! The coupon is valid through January 2013, how cool is that? Not to mention their facebook page has 'sales of the day' prices on select styles, so you definitely want to make sure you are in the know so you can nab your favorite style on sale (and don't forget that additional 10% off!)

While Fashion Week is always super chaotic and totally exciting, for me I'd prefer to spend my time telling you who is giving back. Trends come and go, but a company with the spirit of giving, that my friends is totally fashionable!

Want to nab a pair of your own? Enter using the Rafflecopter form below, if it doesn't load for you, hit refresh! Start by pressing the big green button that says '+1 Do It' to get started with the Mandatory Entry! (And if you experience any problems using Rafflecopter to get your daily tweets, no worries, just copy the link to your tweet and leave it as a comment on this post instead!