For those who love the adventure of the hunt or the well-heeled collector that longs for the one-of-a kind piece; vintage shoes hold much appeal. How thrilling is it to know that you are the only woman in the city with that beaded cardigan or that crocodile skin handbag? Consignment shops and vintage boutiques are treasure chests of gems just waiting to be discovered. However, for the true vintage enthusiast, there’s a bit of education and know-how that is needed to spot the diamond in the rough, and rock that pair of heels.

Where to Go

A good way to get a feel for vintage is to take a peak online on vintage shoe websites. See what styles and eras you like and then visit a reputable vintage store. Store employees are full of helpful information and can fit you into a fabulous pair in no time.

Know Your Fabric

The material that stands the test of time tends to be leather, usually from Spain or Italy. However, there are plenty of swede, fabric and embellished pairs in quality condition. Examine the shoe carefully for tears, scuffs and discoloration. 

Repair

Sure there are plenty of vintage heels for sale in mint condition. But if you budget is a little smaller, a scuff mark or split heel can be the thrifty shopper's new best friend. For that split heel, try a high heel protector which can work wonders for your heel and prolong the already long life of your heel. Scuff marks can be removed with a number of household items from toothpaste to nail polish remover, depending on material. One item to keep in mind: if a material is ripped or cracked the shoe may not be repairable.

Let’s not forget the eau de vintage, or that vintage smell that seems attached to all things second-hand. It can be removed with a baking soda sachet, simply fill an old tight or hose with baking soda, tie with a rubber band and slip inside the shoe when not in use.

Storage

Once you’ve procured that dreamy pair of vintage high heels, one of the key factors in the fabulosity of your vintage shoe purchase is storage. The most important aspect of storage is airflow and keeping your shoes as dust-free as possible. There are a number of shoe racks and clothing racks that make this easy. Some prefer to use old shoe boxes, ala Carrie Bradshaw.

While bringing new life to a classic pair of heels is exhilarating, make sure and do your research, especially if you are looking to spend. Simply stick with this guide and you will be sporting a new/old vintage pair in no time!

It’s that time of year again! Aisles are walked, vows are made, champagne is toasted, and those are simply the grand gestures. Yes, it’s wedding season. If you're the bride to be or simply a bystander, here are the top trends for this year’s wedding season. Take a look before digging into that cake!

Off the Shoulder Neckline

A sweet take on the traditional strapless, off the shoulder wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses are a top trend this season. These dresses are soft and romantic and are a look that any bride could pull off. Off the shoulder with a long sleeve adds a nice bit of drama while a three quarter sleeve offers a fresh alternative. Here’s a little hint: bridesmaids look smashing in this style, too!

Colors

White isn’t for everyone, and it doesn’t have to be! This seasons freshest dresses are in muted blues, greys and greens - even mint! Blush has returned from last year as well as a bevy of sophisticated neutrals like shimmery beige. Colored dresses add a surprising pop of personality to a wedding and are fun to work into the groom's look, event décor and venue as well.

Unique Footwear

A bridal look isn’t complete without footwear. When pairing with color, stick to a neutral or a contrasting texture. This pair of beaded rhinestones matches everything and will add lift to your wedding look. Don’t forget to protect those little pretties with some heel protectors!

Attention to Detail

Tasteful detail is prevalent in this season’s dresses. We are still seeing the laser-cut leather intricacies in everything from invitations to gowns to shoes. Lace plays a dominant role but is featured in a number ways, from dip-dyed to pearl embroidery. Beading is also widespread and seen in glamourous pearls, golds and silvers. This gown featured by Weddings by Lily showcases large silver sequins seemingly sprinkled over the entire dress. Back detail is prominent. Is there anything more flawlessly understated that bead and lace back detail on a wedding dress?

Tulle

Tulle is the fabric of the season. From overlays to frothy floral skirts, tulle is making a big splash at weddings this season. It seems the wedding look du jour is a princess dress, a full tulle skirt, (sometimes detachable). Colors are really making a play with tulle, as some full skirts are an architected floral, some are multi-colored and event prints. The bigger the better when it comes to the princess pounce, so brides, you’d better pounce on this before it is too late!

The celebration of love is a time to embrace what makes each person feel beautiful. Try thinking outside of the bridal box and explore this season’s colors, textures and ephemeral tulle. This is a special day and what you wear should reflect your personality. After all, it's really the person that makes the dress.

Everything old is new again. Do you long for the familiar flutter of a hemline right to left as you walk down the sidewalk? Are you especially inspired by the eighties hair? The seventies makeup? Well, as luck would have it, some of your old favorites are the hottest trends in the fashion spotlight right now. Don’t fear shopping in your closet, even in the way back and give that tried and true favorite a fresh new twist with a flashy accessory or a fierce pair of heals.

Flair Jeans

Is this a time warp into the 70’s? Close, but not exactly. Embrace your inner love-child and check out the faded flair jean, which is currently considered a spring staple. So do your denim right with a lighter wash, a high waist and pair with a classic white T-shirt and some funky fresh sandals. Looking for some office flare? Choose a dark color, a classic belt and a button down.

The Poncho

Call it a cape or a poncho but this cyclical style updater comes around every few years. True, not everyone can pull it off, but you should at least give it a try. This seasons ponchos are bright, breezy and can practically pack down into a clutch, perfect for that evening concert or a swim suit cover up.

Fringe

It’s difficult to pinpoint just when fringe swung into mainstream, but is is clear that since frontier times, this has been a favorite embellishment. If it wasn’t before, fringe is your new friend. Keep in mind that a little fringe packs a big punch. Stick to a neutral bag or jacket and leave it at that. Fringe becomes understatedly killer on a sandal, especially a gladiator, flat sling back or a spike heel.

Plaid Shirts

Plaid has withstood the test of time, and this year it wins the prize for most versatile! We saw a lot of plaid this winter but with lighter colors and fabrics, this look takes you into the dog days of summer. Punch up a pastel plaid with pearls and see that shirt soar out of the baseball park and into the board room.

The Romper

Not just for feisty toddlers anymore. Rompers are all grown up and making a splash at weddings, baby showers, and outdoor events. In sophisticated silk fabrics with lace trimmings and elegant details there is a romper in every style for every occasion. Pull off this look with a nude shoe and a bold lip.

Spring fashion is all about fun. Play around with style, color, texture and hemline. Look to the past for inspiration and try and recreate your favorites. You will be spot-on!