According to our friend Lilliana Vasquez at Cheap Chicas, embellished flats are one of the hottest trends for fall 2010. And I’m thrilled!  From bows and ruffles, to clever flowers crafted of zippers, to gem encrusted medallions, bigger is better this fall!

But what to do with all of those solid colored flats you’ve already got in your closet? No problem! My solution is a collection of easy-to-use shoe clips from Absolutely Audrey.  These clips add serious style to any plain shoe. In fact, they are the perfect way to dress up not only flats but also pumps, sling backs or stilettos — and stay right on trend.

Inspired by Audrey Hepburn, a fashion icon of elegant style, Absolutely Audrey is a unique accessories design company that marries the elegance of vintage-inspired shoe clips with the latest fashion trends. The firm offers over 65 incredible styles in rhinestone, enamel, leather, pearl, satin fabric, grosgrain fabric, and more. You can shop for vintage styles, casual pieces, evening accessories and even spectacular bridal clips.

Of all the great styles offered by Absolutely Audrey, I had a hard time narrowing it down to just three must-haves, but I think that my favorite are the Sabrina clips pictured above. Inspired by one of Hepburn’s most famous characters, these  add instant elegance to any outfit. The clips are made from grosgrain fabric in black and are accented with delicate rhinestones. Retail $14.99

A beautiful look for evening (or a wedding) are the Audrey clips, inspired by the legendary actress herself.  These stylish rhinestone flowers, pictured at right, have faux pearl “petals” in a light cream hue. Retail $19.99

Finally, a pair of Ellie clips are a fabulous update for fall flats. These multi-colored clips, below, look perfect with everything from jeans to a mini.  Retail $19.99

But, I’ve saved the best for last. The price range for the entire line of shoe clips from Absolutely Audrey is a mere $10.00 to $25.00 — infinitely more cost-effective than an entire new collection of shoes (my husband will be so happy!).

Now you can win your own choice of gorgeous shoe clips from Absolutely Audrey. It’s easy, so get started!

1. MANDATORY COMMENT – Please visit Absolutely Audrey and let us know which pair of shoes clips — sassy, sophisticated or simple — are your favorites. (1 entry)

2. Subscribe to Style on a WHIM via our brand new Google Friends Connect option, 5 entries (please leave a separate comment for each of the five to let us know)

3. “Like” us on Facebook (5 entries, please leave a comment to let us know)

4. Follow us on Twitter (5 entries, please leave a comment to let us know)

Already a follower?  Just leave us a comment that you follow. Good Luck!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition toStyle on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

Photos courtesy of Absolutely Audrey.

Also — don’t forget to enter the other Style on a WHIM contests that are running right now!

Shondra Leigh silver “lace” earrings contest Valued at $60. (ends 9/8)

Say Goodbye to Summer Super Fashion Swag – Valued at over $575! (ends 9/15)

UPDATE 9-21-2010: Our winner is JoAnne S. of Hammond, Indiana. Congratulations!

July is here and that means some steamy nights! Messy up dos, flirty little dresses and some seriously sexy heels are all the weapons I need to face soaring temperatures on those hot Saturday nights.

Recently, I added the most perfect shoes to my summer wardrobe — just right for Saturday night on the town! These “Basket” wedges from Two Lips Shoes are ideal for everything from dinner at a café on the waterfront, to early evening strolling down Philly’s famed South Street, to a summery outdoor concert.

The 4” heels (plus platform) give me a little extra height (A huge bonus since I’ve always lamented my paltry 5’5”) and are simply gorgeous. The upper is vegan-friendly faux leather and is covered with brightly colored sequins and gemstones. The shoes have a flattering ankle strap and a trendy, strappy look. The cork wedge is ultra light and the shoes are well padded, so they really are wonderfully comfortable. Retail $79.99

Two Lips Shoes designs a whole range of chic and comfortable footwear for women. Whether you’re looking for dress shoes, flats wedges, or boots, the Two Lips look is easily recognizable — fashionable, edgy, and most of all – fun!

The line has already been discovered by great stylists everywhere and shoes from Two Lips can be seen featured in major fashion, style and women’s magazines – from Regard, to Glamour, to Southern Bride.

Want to get your own? Two Lips Shoes can be found at retail stores, online stores, fine department stores and specialty stores — including a great range of choices at one of my favorite retailers, DSW Shoes. Or you can see the entire selection at the Two Lips online store .

Now, I just need to convince hubby to take me dancing this Saturday!

Photo courtesy of Two Lips Shoes.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

I love all things interchangeable. In this tough economy, I’m always thrilled when a designer comes up with a new style solution that allows a cash-crunched fashionista to get a little more for her money! From interchangeable bead jewelry like WHIMSY earrings to adorable Miche Bags to sandals from Convertibles, changing it up can be fun and fashionable.

Last week I found playful, interchangeable watches from Sasha Rhett and I was immediately hooked! These watches come in an amazing array of colors and all of the straps are (you guessed it!) interchangeable. So, you can wear a sleek, black snakeskin strap for work and later switch to sassy, hot pink one for happy hour. Basically, Sasha Rhett’s timepieces allow every girl to create her own personal “watch wardrobe.”

The interchangeable straps are available in genuine leather and exotic skins like ostrich and snakeskin, plus colorful, fun patterns. Whether your style is classic, preppy, conservative or wild, you’ll be able to match your Sasha Rhett watch to your outfit of the moment. And, if eclectic like me, you can have them all!

One thing I love is that the interchangeable technology is easy, so you can change your band in seconds. The mechanism to switch the straps is both simple and extremely secure.

Plus, Sasha Rhett watches use Swiss movements for reliability. Each watch is covered by 1-year manufacturer’s guarantee.

Sasha Rhett offers several great collections, with something for every girl’s style. You can take a walk on the wild side with The Alexandra Collection (which I have and black and white). Straps are genuine leather and US-made with a zebra print in five vibrant shades.

The Bailey Collection is All American preppy and straps are also made of genuine leather in a classic stripe. The Bailey Collection wouldn’t look out of place while yachting or lunching at the Club.

Elegant and stylish, The Julie Collection offers the very feminine Flourish print in four lovely shades. Also made of genuine leather.

Sophisticated and urbane, The Schuyler Collection straps are crafted of genuine snakeskin and ostrich skin. Very chic!

The Chrissie Collection (pictured) is the newest and trendiest of the five collections. These double wrap straps wrap twice around your wrist showing off more of their bright colors and luxurious exotic skins. The adjustable length ensures they’ll fit almost any wrist size and allows you to play around with how loose or tight you want to wear it on your wrist. The Chrissie strap comes in purple, silver, pink, and orange snakeskin, and orange and turquoise ostrich skin. The straps are also interchangeable with all other Sasha Rhett straps and watches.

Watches from Sasha Rhett range from $159-$249 and additional interchangeable straps are only $49-$69.

To find a store near you, you can visit Sasha Rhett or even shop online.

The only thing left to decide is which band to wear today!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

Photo courtesy of Sasha Rhett.

As Earth Day approaches, I have been searching for companies that go beyond the ordinary in their efforts to stay green. Reducing your carbon footprint is great, don’t get me wrong, but there are some fashion firms out there that take environmental awareness to the next level.

One of my favorites is OKA b. Shoes That Love You. OKA b. makes the most comfortable sandals I’ve ever worn — cushy, cute, slip-on thongs that I literally keep by the front door.

But the coolest part about this company is that once your sandals are too worn out to wear anymore, you can send them back! OKA b. grinds them up, mixes the grind in with “virgin grind,” and voila! They are turned into brand new, adorable sandals!

And the program is definitely working. According to OKA b., the plant is literally filled with brilliant colors of shoes that loyal customers have sent for recycling after years of use.

I like all of the styles, but have two favorites that I reach for again and again. First, is the Lucy. (pictured above) I have these in a light honey color, which is neutral and goes with everything. This is especially useful in spring – it’s warm enough for sandals, but I can’t wear white quite yet. The oversized, intricately beaded chrysanthemum flowers give them a sophisticated edge and, like all sandals by OKA b., the Lucy is available in a rainbow of colors. Retail $40.00

I also adore the Madison. (at right) With their cute ribbon bows and jelly bean colors, these sandals are preppy personified (and right up my alley!). The interchangeable ribbons even allow you to personalize your style! Retail $30.00

In addition to the Lucy and the Madison, OKA b. has dozens of other styles — from ribbons and flowers to jewels and pendants — in thongs, slides, flats, heels, closed toe or classic. OKA b. even has shoes specifically designed for men!

No matter which design you choose, the folks at OKA b. work hard to ensure that fashion and comfort are never mutually exclusive. Armed with an eye for beauty and a mind for comfort, the savvy designers have integrated the principals of reflexology using a massaging foot bed, bringing you comfort with each step. Also, the proprietary Microplast® process creates a material that cushions feet while remaining antimicrobial, waterproof, washable, and of course recyclable!

Green and adorable sandals from OKA b., just in time for spring. What more could you ask for?

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

I can’t stop thinking about the beach! Everytime I’m out, I search for a beach accessory for my trip in a few weeks, whether it’s the perfect pair of flip flops, the perfect beach towel or the perfect beach bag. And I’ve found some great wallet-friendly picks that I love and I think you will, too!

Perfect flip flops or sandals:

Piperlime is having a sale right now (as of the date of this post!) on all sorts of summer shoes. I found a pair of simple yellow flip flops for $17.99. If you aren’t looking for anything too flashy, they’re comfy and perfect for the

beach. (The walk to the beach is about the only time I wear flops, so why splurge on footwear that just transports you to a place you want to be barefoot?) Please note: A few customers have said they run a little small, so order a half size larger. 

Athena sandals by Hot Cakes from The Shoe Dept.

If you like solid colors, try these super cute Athena sandals by Hot Cakes from The Shoe Dept. I suggest trying to find them in stores if you want a color other than black because they do come in white, silver and bronze. (I know because I have them in white, too!) They’re just under $13.

Perfect beach towel:

I LOVE oversized beach towels because I don’t like getting all sandy right after putting on suntan lotion. ShadeUSA has big beach towels, ultra plush oversized beach towels and even a double sided “towel for two” (!!) on their beach towels page, and they’re all for under $30. I’ll definitely be investing in a “towel for two” to give me LOTS of room to spread out with my beach gear (radio, books, cooler, perfect beach flops, perfect beach bag, perfect beach friends, etc.)!

Organic cotton beach bag by Sea Glass Organic

Perfect beach bag:

I NEED to get my hands on one of these adorable satin scarf hobo bags from Old Navy. They come in six different patterns, which makes it so hard to choose! They could easily go from the beach to the boardwalk and back.

Sea Glass Organic makes life a little greener at the beach. They have organic cotton beach bags for under $25, and they’re even having a beach bag giveaway, so you could get one for free!

Perfect beach hat:

I found a floppy printed beach hat at Target.com that would definitely save your face from too much sun without being too outrageous and hard to pull off.

Sunfitters has a white straw floppy hat that would look absolutely adorable with a black swimsuit. So chic.

Malibu Sheer sarong from Sarong.com

Perfect sarong/cover-up:

Sarong.com has so many patterns and options, you don’t even have to look anywhere else for the perfect sarong for you. They have short styles, long styles, sheer, non-sheer, patterned, solid, and they even have plus sizes!

Kohls has probably the cutest strapless beach cover-up I’ve ever seen. It comes in black, coral and teal, and it’s insanely affordable at just under $15. Get it while it’s on sale!!

No matter which accessories you choose, remember to use lots of sunscreen out there, have fun and look FABULOUS!!!

-Keri