A Confession and a Gorgeous Pair of Black Pumps

A confession from Ludlow to her budget:
Forgive me budget, for I have sinned. It has been 2 months since my last confession (pretty good, no?). I recently splurged on a pair of black Louboutins.. and while I was originally going for a basic pair of pumps for work, I couldn't help but acquire these.

Yes, I am a shoe whore. I collect them, admire them from afar and up close too. I never tire of them. But, I adhere to one rule: if I am going to splurge, they need to be the coolest, most unique version of themselves. It's true, one can argue that basics are where one can justify spending more given the higher probability of overall use per pair.

But I argue that you can find a basic shoe anywhere, and spending more should only be for the special items. 

I love the cutout on the inside of the shoe, 
I love that they are shiny but not patent leather and of course, 
I love the flare of red that will peek out with my conservative black suits and dresses. After all, I can't not be me completely.

Fear not budget, as I will suffer for my sin. They are high in height and pointed in toe. I will carry them in their little red bag while walking in flats, and change in to them only when securely at my desk.

Wear it now, Wear it later

We've found some really great pieces for work lately that are built for fall but with some tweaking, can be worn now in warmer weather and later, when temperatures are lower. It's a great way to stretch your clothing budget (if only we were so structured that we actually mapped out a budget!).

3.1 Phillip Lim, Phillip Lim's lower priced line, has some really great pre-fall and fall numbers. We grabbed this timesaver option that's perfect for cooler weather: a navy ponte peplum long sleeve top and matching pencil skirt (on the right below). It's stretchy and so comfortable. 

On the left, we've taken the top out of the equation to wear the skirt now. Roll up the button down's sleeves, add a belt and you have a summer work outfit. 

For info on where to find each piece, click here.