The Average Joe: {Review + Giveaway} Cushe Footwear

The holidays are over, but that doesn’t mean the giving has to stop! Pretty Indy, in cooperation with Cushe Footwear, would like to give away the pictured pair of Surf Slipper Chukas to one of our readers. A great gift for your man! Find out more below.

THE SHOE

Cushe Footwear (pronounced “Cushy”) generously supplied me with a pair of grey Surf Slipper Chukas to test out and review for Pretty Indy. And I’m quite grateful they did, as they’re easily some of the best shoes I’ve owned in a long time.

First off, Cushe made the right call when deciding to call these shoes “slippers.” That’s exactly what they feel like. Every time I pick these shoes up, I’m amazed at how light they are. I wear a size 13, and together they can’t weigh more than one pound. It’s nice to not be clodhopping around town for once!

Secondly, these shoes…er, slippers…couldn’t be more comfortable. I’ve always wanted a pair of 3/4 boots as they always look so cool on the shelf, but every pair I’ve ever tried on has rubbed me the wrong way. Literally rubbed me the wrong way. They never sit well against my ankle, and I know I’ll be blistered up three steps outside the store. Well, Cushe eliminated that concern by making the top of the shoe out of some ubersoft, quilted material. Can you tell I’m an expert on fabrics? Well, all I know is that they feel great, and that’s really all that matters anyway.

Finally, despite their lightweight design, these shoes are extremely durable. As a photographer, I’m constantly “off-roading” in these shoes—hiking up hills, trudging through brush, climbing rocks—and they hold up quite nicely. Plus, they do great in the snow…haven’t fallen once!

THE CONTEST

So here’s the deal. To enter our giveaway and receive a pair of Surf Slipper Chukas for your man, simply:

1. “Like” the Cushe Facebook page.
2. Post on their wall an answer to this question: “Why does your man need these shoes?
3. We’ll select a winner on Friday, February 3.

That’s it! So go enter now. And while you wait for your name to be called, be sure to check out all the shoe selections—male and female—on the Cushe website, follow them on twitter and sign up for their emails. Good luck!

— AJ

(Email your column ideas to averagejoe.pi@gmail.com or tweet me @AverageJoePI.)

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The Average Joe: The Pants Game

I discovered something about myself recently…I dig pants. Not just any pants, but particularly ones with loud colors, strong patterns or—if I’m lucky—a combination of the two.

The pic to the left is a sampling of my pant collection today. If you were to rummage through my closet right now, you’d find the staples:  khakis, black dress pants, and jeans. And you’d also find six pairs of plaid pants, four pairs of striped ones, one pair of madras pants, one pair of seersuckers, two pairs of Kelly green pants, and one pair of pink pants. Yes, pink. (I’m confident enough to share that with you.)

It hasn’t been easy acquiring those pants, though. In fact, I’ve found it downright impossible sometimes for me to find pants that provide enough room in the thighs, while not being overly tapered down to the ankles.

Until Bonobos.com that is.

In 2007, pants shopping got way easier when Bonobos (pronounced bə-’nō-bōs) began offering well-designed, properly-fitted men’s pants via their e-storefront. And the good news? The pants come in straight leg and boot cut styles, ensuring there will always be enough room for the rump, thighs and ankles. And the gooder news? You can get them in some highly-unique colors and patterns if you’re daring enough—or in essential solid colors if you’re not.

Bonobos also offers shorts, swimwear, polos, bags, belts, shoes, and watches through their site. But pants are really what they do…and do well.

So go visit them today and start elevating your man’s pants game. Just don’t grab the Huckleberries or Orange Game Day Chinos before I do.

— AJ

(Email your column ideas to averagejoe.pi@gmail.com or tweet me @AverageJoePI.)

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Kimmie’s Pre-Weekend Pretty-Up: On-The-Spot Fixes

Pick your best holiday outfit.  Maybe it even has chic turkeys on it somewhere.  Wear it for an hour, pick up a dainty holiday party appetizer and *boom!* drop it on whatever fabulousness you were wearing.  I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a klutz when it comes to maneuvering through holiday parties – in heels – with a plate of food – and a glass of wine – in my hands.  It’s almost inevitable that I’ll trip, fall, spill, and generally ruin the façade of being effortlessly put together.  Even if I hold it together for the evening, chances are I’ll wake up less than refreshed after a night of festivities.  Here are my quick fixes for little life’s little snags.

Pull Yourself Together:  If you find yourself having hair, makeup, or wardrobe issues during some festive event, there are a few ways to minimize damage.  You can completely save the day by keeping three things in your large purse, desk drawer, or glove compartment: white vinegar, black tea bags, and lots of natural-hued hair ties.  Dabbing vinegar can lift even a red wine stain from a white shirt (for real!).  Tea bags can be used wet to reduce puffiness and redness; apply them dry to your face to remove oily spots or under your arms if – eek! – you forgot to put on deodorant.  Besides the obvious use of getting frizzies out of your face in a chic bun or braid, hair ties can fix anything.  Broken bra strap, popped button, broken necklace, too-big blouse – you name it, a hair tie can fix it with a little creativity.

Party Aftermath:  It seems to be typical of the holiday season that you stay up late doing very non-work things during the work week.  Whether you’re sporting an ugly Christmas sweater, schmoozing with your boss or having cocktails with out-of-town friends, there are lots of November/December mornings spent looking like you slept in a drainpipe.  The fix?

Clothes: Pull the focus from your sleepy, sleepy face with a work-appropriate pop of color.  Step 1: White silk short-sleeved blouse.  Amazing with everything.  Invest in one now. Step 2: Super-bright pencil skirt (red is so hot – and holiday friendly).  Step 3: Gray tights and oxford pumps (hello, menswear).  Step 4: Tuck the blouse in and add a skinny black lacquered belt.  Done.

Face: Buy a Benefit Eye Bright Pencil and leave it in your purse through the whole holiday season.  Nothing perks up your face faster than bright eyes, and a little dab of this at the inner and outer corners is how I convince the rest of the world that I’m ready to go when, in reality, I’m sleepwalking.  Light pink blush (ahem, Nars Orgasm) is also a go-to for waking up your exhausted (read: hungover) face.  No time?  Gently pinch your cheeks for a rosy, awake look.  If you really can’t be bothered, opt for a low, loose side bun and plunk a bold hat on your head.  I just got the cutest black-and-white plaid number at Nordstrom Rack on 82nd – check out their awesome hat section!

Do you have a go-to fix during a beauty emergency?  Share with us!  Have a pretty – and beauty disaster-free – weekend!

Cheers,

@KimmieTrubiro

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{Giveaway} Earrings from Diana Warner New York

What’s that you say?  You need some fab new earrings to go with your fall wardrobe?  Well here’s your opportunity.  The lovely gals at Diana Warner New York have generously given us a pair of their Greer earrings ($78 value) to give to a lucky fan of Pretty Indy…all you have to do is like the Diana Warner Facebook page and tell them why you deserve such a treat.  Because they are made with mixed metals, the Greer earrings would go with any outfit – making them one of your most versatile, go-to accessories.

A little about DWNY – her pieces are passionately handcrafted and add instant style and polish to any outfit; no wonder they have been spotted on Gossip Girl as well as on numerous celebs.  Can’t swing by their adorable boutique in NYC?  We’ve got you covered.  Simply contact Cassie at cassiedwny@gmail.com to host a DWNY trunk show in your home and be eligible for hostess discounts and credits.

One last but very important detail – DWNY is also offering readers of Pretty Indy a very special discount…take 20% off when you shop online and use PRETTYINDY when you check out.  This offer is good through November 1 – perfect for holiday shopping (and we won’t tell if you get yourself a little somethin’ somethin’).

xo.

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Kimmie’s Pre-Weekend Pretty-Up: Football Chic

I love football.  I love tailgating, I love making game-day snacks, and I love kicking the butts of every guy in my fantasy league.  Even if you’re not a crazypants football fan like I am, chances are your husband/boyfriend/best guy friend is NFL-obsessed.  Like it or not, nothing screams “fall” quite like football, Sundays in front of the TV, and team colors.  The good news: team pride isn’t just for the boys anymore, and there’s a bundle of adorable products out there to prove it.  Here’s my mini-guide to looking fan-tastic (but still girly) on game day.

Jerseys: Only a few years ago, the NFL adhered to one rule when it came to women’s clothes: Shrink it and pink it.  We were stuck with boy-shaped, bright pink jerseys with rhinestones glued all over the place.  Thankfully, we’ve moved past those days and there’s finally NFL gear made for the ladies…so I can get rid of my extra-large kid-sized jersey and move on to better, cuter things.  Check out the selection on sites like FansEdge and NFL Shop – Colts gear has been on sale lately!  If you’re looking for an even bigger bargain, hit up eBay – warehouses sell brand new jerseys with teensy-tiny flaws for ridiculous prices (we’re talking 20 bucks for an 80-dollar jersey)!

Girly Outerwear: Much like jerseys, sweatshirts and fleeces used to only be available in men’s sizes, leaving me virtually swimming around in a size “small” sweatshirt that wasn’t remotely the right shape.  Enter the women’s outerwear line at NFL Shop.  The adorable selection is designed in actual team colors (ahem, no pink) and is designed to be perfectly, sportily form-fitting.  Get your fuzzy football fan on with a super-plush fleece or cutesy sweatshirt.  NFL sweats are even available at Victoria’s Secret!  Not only will you be supporting your team in comfy style, but you’ll become extra-irresistibly-snuggly to the superfan dude in your life. Win-win!

Other Gameday Cuteness: Alright, you’ll never see me carrying a football-themed purse, but there’s a ton of adorable accessories out there for all you football-loving ladies. When game day rolls around, you’ll find my butt planted in front of the television, with one eye on my fantasy league stats and the other on whatever game I can find to watch…but that doesn’t mean I won’t be looking team-spirited and cute!  Check out the stuff you might not think of, like a fleecy scarf with a hidden pocket for tickets – or mini bottles of game-day libation – and Colts team color nail polish.  And at the end of a cold fall day, is there anything cuter than a pair of Colts earmuffs?  I think not.

Gear up, ladies!  How do you celebrate game day?

Cheers,

@KimmieTrubiro

The Average Joe: The Forearm Shiver

In football, there’s a move called the Forearm Shiver in which players use their forearms to deliver a hard blow to an opposing player. In fashion, I use the term Forearm Shiver to describe my reaction to short-sleeved dress shirts.

And if your man’s exposing his forearms to the rest of the world, while walking around in a so-called dress shirt, your fashion sense should be shivering too.

Now I don’t want to appear too callous about this subject. I definitely feel for the guy who designed the short-sleeved dress shirt. I mean, he obviously had some very unfortunate perspiration issues around his wrists and elbows that he was trying to resolve. And maybe that’s your man’s problem too? But that’s still no reason for him to ever be caught in a short-sleeved dress shirt.

Why? Two names: Don Draper and Dwight Schrute. Which one do you want your man to emulate? Exactly.

So how do we fix this issue? First, we must define “short-sleeved dress shirt.” After all, it’s not all short-sleeved shirts that I’m opposed to…I’m no anti-sleevite! But in my rulebook, suitable short-sleeved shirts have three or less buttons at the upper placket, and all shirts with more than three buttons better have full-length sleeves. I know, I know…some of you are wondering, “But what about short-sleeved plaid or linen shirts that have buttons from the placket to the lower hem?” And to that, I personally say the same rule applies, and you won’t catch me in any such thing.

Secondly, if your man has short-sleeved dress shirts hanging in his closet, it’s imperative that you remove them from his collection. And fortunately, now’s the perfect time of year to do it! While he’s layering up for fall and winter, you can easily rummage through his wardrobe and discard of these disasters. Chances are, he won’t even notice they’re missing come spring!

So on behalf of Indy, we thank you for forearm shivering short-sleeved dress shirts out of our city!

— AJ
(Email your column ideas to averagejoe.pi@gmail.com or tweet me @AverageJoePI)

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{Guest Post: Free People} Layering Tips for Fall

Fall is here, the weather is getting cooler, and it is finally time to mold your summer wardrobe into funky autumn gear. It might be easier then you thought, as the great thing about fall fashion is there is always a new way to apply what you already have in your wardrobe to create a bold new ensemble. It’s all about the layers. Adding some scarves, knit tights, or a big comfy cardigan will turn any summer look into a fall one. Here are some key pieces to add to your collection, and how to bring them together to create the perfect layered look for the new season.

A good start off piece is a soft textured maxi skirt . They are loose and flattering, giving a modest but sexy touch to any wardrobe.  Pair your loose or bulky items with more form fitting ones, like bandeaus with a maxi skirt and a dainty lace sweater. The mixture of textures and weights of the clothing will balance everything out, creating a care-free but form flattering and pulled together look. A maxi dress can be perfect when the waist is cinched with a large, wide belt.

Off the shoulder tops are a great addition for your fall wardrobe. They come in a variety of styles and can be worn classically or with a little more pizazz. Wear a soft and lacey over the shoulder sweater with knit tights and a pair of Jeffrey Campbell boots to create a sweet but sassy mixture. A slouchy tee shirt with cut off shorts is the perfect day outfit. Layer it up with a pair of tights with a funky pair of booties, and remember that any look is completed with a fun scarf or even two if you dare.

The great item to own this season is a crochet dress . They are super versatile and can be layered under or over, while still feeling dainty and feminine. Their rough texture goes well with knits and a suede purse or belt, and they also come in a variety of different styles, so you can always find one to compliment your wardrobe. Wear a crochet maxi dress with ankle strap sandals, or pair it with platforms for a more edgy look.

With these items added to your arsenal you can stay warm (and cool) in the crisp fall weather. Mix the pieces with some summer items. Floral prints go great with earth tones. The key to layering is having fun with it! You can be daring and feel your way through an outfit. Mix and match and experiment, just don’t get lost in your layers, and always consider your body type while playing with different fabrics. With lots of warm tones and fun accessories to get excited about, you will breeze through the season with a new and fun outfit to wear every day.

This guest post was contributed by Free People, a premiere bohemian clothing boutique. For more layering tips, check out their blog.

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{Guest Post: Leslie Bailey} Celebrate the First Days of Fall with Fashion (what else?!)

While the fashion world remains abuzz with Fashion Week showcasing spring 2012 (however exciting that may be), the rest of us here on planet earth are really just ready for fall.

So what does fall fashion have in store for us this year?

Here, I’ve outlined the strongest contenders by theme. There are also suggestions for how to wear each trend and mix it with another.

You may have some of these items tucked away in your closet, others you may need to make a shopping trip for, but all will have you looking on trend this season.

Animal Instincts

Faux Fur – Not only is it animal friendly, it’s friendlier for your wallet too. The hottest faux fur fashion to rock this fall is a vest but keep your eyes open for other interesting accessories, such as purses and hats too.

Snakeskin – Python print is everywhere right now, you’ll find it in variations from the classic neutral print to bright, bold prints. This Zara shopper is a sleek way to incorporate the trend without going overboard.

Animal Prints – Show off your wild side with leopard and cheetah, sure to be a hit from your lingerie drawer to the board room.

Let’s Hear It for the Boys

Menswear – Hopefully you still have that oversized blazer somewhere because menswear is not going anywhere. Think baggy pants, fedoras, and even varsity jackets. Yes, I’m serious. Should you decide to go the tuxedo route, consider a silk camisole underneath to maintain a little femininity.

Loafers – Whether you prefer a sky-high heel or a flat, you’ll see every variation of loafer’s this season, from tassels to ties and of course that special place for your spare change.

Slippers – Not your oversized Tweety Bird numbers, think sleek flats that you’d shuffle around your English countryside estate in while smoking a pipe. These BP flats from Nordstrom (appropriately dubbed ‘Mansion’ do the trick, incorporating the animal print trend. ($59.95)

Patterns, Prints and Colors

Bold colors – The bolder, the brighter, the better. If you’re yearning for a more subtle look, take the jewel tone route. For those looking to really shine, blood orange is the way to go.

Polka Dots – Loud and clear or small and inspired, this is fall’s cheekiest trend. Show of your playful side in a dotted party dress or give a more subtle nod with spotted hosiery and scarves.

Black and White – You could do the opposite of bright and bold with the forever classic, forever minimalist black and white look. Consider taking note from Janelle Monáe (pictured) and combine this trend with the menswear theme.

Time Warp

60s Mod – Shift Dresses, color blocking and Mad Men inspired lines ensure that 60s mod stays for another season. Now if you could only decide if you want to be a Twiggy or a Betty Draper.

70s Separates – The 60s isn’t the only decade feeling the love this fall, 70s inspired looks were (literally) following closely behind. Think long skirts, wide legged jeans, ruffled collars and floppy wide brimmed hats.

Capes – Another favorite from last year is sticking around. If you didn’t jump on board the first time around, now’s your chance. It’s a quick way to look chic without any fuss – just throw it on and go.

Notable Mentions

Leather dresses and skirts, chokers, skinny corduroys, duster coats and cable knit sweaters.

Phew! That should be enough to get you going. So what are your favorite looks for fall and how do you plan to wear them? I look forward to reading your comments below.

Now if you’ll excuse me, all of this fall fashion talk has me ready to pick apples, drink a pumpkin spice latte, find some crunchy leaves to stomp through…and of course, shop.

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Kimmie’s Pre-Weekend Pretty-Up: Things I’m Loving for Fall

There are a lot of fall fashion trends I’m thinking I really can’t pull off (hello, maxi skirts and southwest prints on my 5’2” frame?  I don’t think so).  I’ll stick to my boyfriend blazers and flat suede boots for now, thanks.  Luckily, there are several fall trends and tricks that I absolutely adore.  Here are four of my fall faves, designed to keep your hair, nails and accessories on track, even if you won’t be rocking pony-hair pumps anytime soon.

Shine Sprays: Even though we’ll soon be stashing the beachy wave sprays for the season and revving up our flatirons, you don’t have to sacrifice the health of your hair.  Unlike most products, shine sprays add a super-glossy finish without weighing down your style.  My picks are Avon Mirror Shine Spray and Benniefactor B Excellent Shine Mist (available at select salons).

Ridiculous Glitter Polishes: Glitter nail polishes tend to conjure up memories of rifling through shelves of sparkle jewelry, scented erasers and furry picture frames at Limited Too, but these polishes are making a huge comeback – in a grown-up way.  Gone are the days of glitter pinks and purples, replaced by glitter metallics in silver, gold, and copper.  My new favorite glitter is OPI for Sephora’s Traffic Stopper Copper.  It’s like jewelry for your nails…who can argue with that?!

Homemade Spa Day: We all love a little pampering as we prepare to stuff our piggies into fall’s prettiest boots, but nobody wants the spa price tag.  In this barely-recovering economy, cheap is still chic!  Take advantage.  Grab some olive oil and brown sugar and give your feet a luxurious scrubbing.  Finish off with some serious TLC in the form of Avon’s Foot Works Berry Mint 4-Piece Pedi Pampering Collection (a total steal at under 10 bucks!).

Mixing Metals: There are few things in the style world that bum me out more than not being able to wear my favorite watch, bracelet, etc. because the metal “doesn’t match” the rest of my outfit.  This fall, the gospel according to style (ahem, Michael Kors) has decided it’s finally time to do some mixing.  So grab your silver, gold, and rose gold jewelry and go to town!  The only exception?  Mix jewels or mix metals, but don’t mix different metals and jewels.  Mixy-matchy overkill.

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The Average Joe: Eau de Toilette

Up to this point, all my columns have focused on making your man more visually appealing. Now it’s time to focus on making him more aromatically appealing.

If you’ve heeded my advice, your man’s no longer shedding beardruff all over, wearing denim disasters like skinny jeans and jorts, hiding under unkempt eyebrows, missing out on the wonders of a scalp massage or handing over his arm and leg for spectacles. But let’s be honest. All your hard work can be quickly negated if he’s still walking around smelling like he’s been riding a horse—even if he was riding it backwards.

So where do you start? You can’t just start spraying him every day with just any old cologne, body spray, or toilet water. No, it has to work for his own style, interests and personality—and maybe his Ph balance as well.

Thankfully, MensHealth.com has a Fragrance Finder for such occasions. In just three easy steps, you’ll be able to find the perfect scent to splash on your man. I found that Coach for Men works for me because I’m “understated but inquisitive, traditional, and a road tripper.” But you probably knew that already.

What toilet water works for your man?

— AJ

(Email your column ideas to averagejoe.pi@gmail.com or tweet me @AverageJoePI.)

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