LiLi's Designs

One of my favorite jewelry designers is a Florida native ~ LiLi Johnson. Why is she a favorite? One word ~ QUALITY. Her designs are all made of natural stones, sterling silver and each piece is a one of a kind. One doesn't have to worry about walking into a party and seeing someone wearing 'your' necklace.

I've posted a few pieces from LiLi's winter line. All of her jewelry is sold exclusively at Thompson Fine Shoes. Which just goes to show they aren't just a shoe store.

Jane Canady owner of Clover Boutique has some wonderful holiday fashions available. Here are two of my favorites. The silk-charmeuse metallic has a beautiful bow detailing in the back. I wonder if I can turn in around and wear in front? That certainly would add some interest. Maggie looks stunning -- her dress is by Alice+Olivia. Marley is wearing our perennial favorite designer Shoshanna. Her navy blue beaded dress is what simple elegance is all about!



What you can't see are their fabulous shoes. Maggie who loves bling chose these which I hope my sister will treat me to for Christmas...hint...hint:



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

Marley chose this Avondale Style favorite Patricia Gold Leather by Lily Holt:



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

But this pair of Lily Holt's would have been a nice match too. Here comes another poll. Which pair would you have chosen? The Patricia Gold Leather or the Diana Gold Metallic?



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

Lilly, the Avondale Stylist here, we all know the story of the twelve days of Christmas...the pipers, the maids and don't forget the five golden rings. But if the story were true every year we'd get the credit card bill that goes along with such a grand occassion and I estimate that the entire event would cost around $21,000.00.

I don’t know about you but eight lords a leaping might be fun for a while, if you know what I mean, but I’d rather treat myself to these gorgeous yet affordable Luichiny Duchess black satin heals. They'll go perfectly with that 'must have' little black dress.


Everyone here at Thompson Fine Shoes would like to wish you a Very Merry Christmas!

Blue Jeans, Silk and Heels

Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

The lines between dressy and casual have become somewhat blurred. But certain dress codes remain steadfast. Take blue jeans, silk blouses and heels for example. Yes, they can be very cute together when going clubbing or attending a casual dinner party but jeans should never be worn to a semi-formal or formal occasion.



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

At such an event the jean baring attendee simply looks as if they forgot to change their pants. Also, find out in advance where you'll be dining. If the restaurant requires a tie and jacket for the males then females dawning jeans will be frowned upon. It's fun to be creative and stylish but don't do so at the risk of embarrassment.



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

But if you are like one of my sisters, I won't say which one, and simply must wear jeans everywhere you go then remember that dark jeans look more formal and stay away from anything baggy, torn or faded. As always, I'm closing with a few of my favorite pairs of shoes. All three are 'blue jean' appropriate but I'm curious...if you could only buy one pair which would you chose? The red ones are my fav. To quote Victoria Beckom they are, "MAJOR!"

Baby It's Cold Outside

We're in Florida and when the cold reaches us then it's official...Winter has arrived! It's almost noon here in Jacksonville and it's only 57 degrees out. And yet still, I see several die hard Floridians walking around in flip flops and sandals. A lot can be said about a pretty pair of Jack Rogers or a comfortable collection of FitFlops.





But they aren't worth freezing your bum off over. But then again, FitFlops do tone your bum so maybe....no still NO! Ladies we must be strong, it's time to break out those sexy leather boots. Here's two of my favorites.



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

I've decided to take a little poll. You'll find it posted on the right. What do you think of the grey suede? A must have or just a maybe?



Available at Thompson Fine Shoes

PS If you don't like boots here's a pair of my favorite new French Sole and Hush Puppies.

Christmas in Avondale

Guess where I'm going to be Dec 5th? Avondale of course, they're having their annual Christmas Party. There will be hayrides, carolers, lots of great food and of course Mr Claus himself. I've been attending for three years and it's becoming a tradition for my family. Last year the folks at Open Road Bicycle and Thompson Fine Shoes had a rock climbing wall for the kids, and that was a blast. Rumor has it, it's coming back this year too. Vanilla's Cupcakery has been invited to join the festivities and should be somewhere near. They have become one of my addictions, you noticed I said one of - there are to many to name. Resolutions for 2009 will come soon enough.

Upcoming Events ~ Pawject Runway

What a wonderful turnout we had Thursday night. The weather wasn't to cold, and all the models looked amazing. Nothing is cuter than a baby dressed up for Santa. We also had some four legged models that strutted down the runway. There was something for everyone to wear this holiday season, Blair Woolverton had beautiful one of a kind hand painted scarves. Clover's outfits were ready for a party, and red was the color. There was lots of great food from the local resturants and bakeries to sample. Pawject Runway raised over $1000.00 for First Coast No More Homeless Pets, and I hope this will become an annual event.

Jack Rogers

Who doesn't have at least one pair of Jack Rogers navajo sandals? Okay, maybe my 92 year old grandmother. But hang on Grandma Christmas is coming soon! They are without a doubt the most popular resort and beach sandal in the world. But buyer beware Jack Rogers are addicting. They come in hundreds of styles and colors. So if like me you can only afford to buy one pair remember the most versatile shade is platinum. A platinum sandal can be wore with silver or gold jewelry. Also, you can dress up or down in Jack Rogers. They look just as great with a dress or skirt as they do with jeans. These sandals are a must have for your summer wardrobe.