REVIEW: Bigfoot Mystery Revealed

The mid-80s gem Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others by The Smiths blared in my head. Nightmarish visions of John Waters’ Baltimore Footstomper (pictured in action, below left) haunted me. Somehow my right foot had somehow grown an entire shoe size.

This is more common than one would think. Podiatrist Arlene Hoffman says up to 60% of the population has mismatched feet. And my tootsies were now what “shoe swappers” would dub a 14/13 (the right shoe is always listed first, although in 80 percent of cases, the left foot’s bigger), but there was hope. The internet was rife with shoe swaps. Consider this:

1.Oneshoetwoshoe.net
While this website sounds like something out of Dr. Seuss, it’s much more practical. Maybe a bit too practical. Selections ran the gamut from running shoes to Birkenstocks. Let’s just say the “sensible” shoe set will be happy here. The Naturalizer “Prissy” pump was the only shoe we could find with an actual heel, but at $24.99 for each shoe, the pricing was competitive with other sites and often times even as much at $15 cheaper. Plus, shipping’s free.

2. Healthyshoestore.com/conditions-different-sized-feet.html
This is another site the Birkenstock set will love. Just wondering, are lesbians predisposed or just preoccupied with what was once dubbed “happy feet” by comedian Steve Martin? (There’s even an entire section on women’s golf shoes, need we say more?) But the clog section is fun, albeit a little expensive with clogs just south of $100. Still, with both a giraffe and hot pink plaid pair, you can’t say it ain’t fun. Not so fun? This site will only cough up free shipping if you spend $75 or more, but returns are free and easy.

3. Oddshoefinder.com
This site is kind of annoying. It requires a login and is more search-based than scrolling through pages of tiny thumbnail shoes (and really, is there anything closer to heaven than that?). This is the mother of all shoe swap sites and really created the market. So if you have a specific shoe in mind, you might want to take advantage of its search capability. A few of our searches turned up lots of Steve Madden and Kenneth Cole, but only one pair of Manolos. Then again, we are a size 14/13. Mens!

SNAPS: Standing Ovation

SU alumna Munyiva Munguti flaunts her personal style with bright pops of color and bold accessories at the Creations Dance Company's Annual Show.

HOW TO: Gifts That Keep On Ribbing

Mike Albo is fashion. The evidence: his day-off floppy hat of choice at left, his “Critical Shopper” column in The New York Times or the following from the “Ejaculations” section of mikealbo.com: “I don't change my clothes, I change yours.”

Albo’s comic novel, The Underminer, introduced the concept of the “frenemy.” The New York Times called it “passive aggression as an art form.” Albo subtitled his book: “The Best Friend Who Casually Destroys Your Life.” Without further ado, The Underminer is back to destroy your holidays with his top three insult gifts:

The Entire Biore Product Line
“Hey, I know you have this whole ‘rage against the machine’ scruffy look going on but sometimes poor hygiene is just masking a deeper pain. I just want you to know that you deserve love just like anyone else. I just worry about you.”

Renee Fleming Perfume
“We’ve all been saying how great and relieved we are that you have been wearing fragrance. But don’t get all crazy and soak yourself in cologne like you did with Drakkar in High School! Ha!”

Buttock Enhancers
“You look great! I didn't realize BCBG made velvet pants in a 14. Online orders, right? They look great on you! As a trend consultant for LVMH I have been so busy working on fashion concepts for 2011 that I almost forgot that you and other calendar-based consumers are only just now getting a look at the Fall 2008 season!”

photo credit: Blaise Allyson Kearsley

REVIEW: Olsen Fabulosity

Teen queens no more. Television, movies, accessories, clothing, and now a book. You name it, it resides on the Olsen’s resumes. Lately, their book, Influence, has been stealing the spotlight. But lets talk clothes.

The twins launched The Row in 2007. This line radiates simplicity but in the Olsen’s oh-so boho-chic manner. Knits make up much of the line with some leather and fur mixed in. If you still need a fabulous outfit for the holiday season, try the velvet Backless Gown in Fir (original price $1,500, sale price $899, Barneys.com). The mermaid hem trailing across the floor provides the perfect drama for a Christmas Eve or New Years extravaganza. Paired with the lamb-shearling Tennebaum Coat, the gown becomes a luxurious scene-stealer (original price $3,750, sale price $2,249, Barneys.com). But if you want to keep it casual this holiday season, The Row also features a number of more informal knits, such as the long-sleeved Crowneck Tee in Grey ($350, Barneys.com). Worn with the super tight and sleek Davies Jean ($345, Barneys.com), even the most laid-back person looks sophisticated.

If you possess budget boundaries, but you still want to radiate Olsen fabulosity, don’t worry. Launched shortly after The Row, the Elizabeth and James line (named after the Olsen’s younger sister and older brother), features sportswear that incorporates both feminine and masculine details to create a unique look for slightly less. The Kimberly Silk Blouse in golden, features a tie-up neck and large bell sleeves ($275, Saksfifthavenue.com). Wear it with jeans or leggings and heels. Try the Aurora Dress in amethyst ($475, Saksfifthavenue.com). This extremely short pleated dress shows off those legs at any holiday party. Or opt for a fashion standard: the Pleated Pencil Skirt in ebony ($275, Saksfifthavenue.com) Whatever you decide, you can’t go wrong with an item the Olsen name.

HOW TO: Princess from the Past

They say fashion never fades. And, with the reemergence of looks from the Romantic Period in England that statement remains true. Lace, ruffles, bows, and puff sleeves soften an ensemble and transform your into a princess from the past in no time. Follow these steps to channel your inner Bronte.
1. Start with a top that boasts plenty of ruffles but also allows you to show off those great curves (Chiffon Ruffle Blouse in Black and Cream, $22.80,Forever21.com).
2. Next up — that oh-so sleek high waist pencil skirt (Milano High Waist Pencil Skirt, $17.80, Forever21.com).
3. Pick pumps that mimic the ruffles on your blouse (Ruffles Black Satin, original price $99.95, sale price $69.99, Stevemadden.com).
4. Ramp up the style by adding a patent-leather clutch that adds chic elegance (Bflora Quilted Cork Clutch, $48, Stevemadden.com).
5. Lastly, add a few wavy curls to your hair, some powder for porcelain-looking skin, and red lipstick and just watch the Heathcliff's line up.

HOW TO: Better Black Celebration Tips

Jennifer Melnick Carota styles herself a new-age, gifting guru. So who better to ring up before "Black Friday" - the day after Thanksgiving and the biggest retail day of the year - to give us her holiday shopping survival guide? The Pennsylvania native combined her expertise as a licensed mental-health counselor and reformed shopaholic and "The Gift Therapist" was born. And because she's down with Salty, our readers can snatch a free download that she calls the "Cliff Notes" version of her latest book Giveology .

Consider her tips for the best Black Friday:


1. Prepare for Invasion. Jennifer suggests you organize before you shop. "Clean out your wallet to include only the cash, credit cards and photo identification needed to make your purchases," she says. "Creating a separate shopping wallet is a simple way to keep everything organized throughout the holiday shopping season."

2. Keep It Real. Identity theft ranks high on her list. "Play it safe," she cautions. "Keep a detailed list of the plastic in your shopping wallet and store them in a safe place at your home. Include card name, account number and customer service phone number. If your wallet disappears, quick access to this info is invaluable."

3. Don't Run on Empty. Just because you head to the mall at 4 a.m., don't skip on breakfast and bring extra fuel. "Pack a snack," she instructs. "During a long day of shopping, keep you blood glucose balanced by nibbling on granola or homemade trail mix. They'll boost your stamina, mood and budget."

4. Dress You Up. That isn't just early Madonna for the Gift Therapist. "You are on a mission," she states, "dress accordingly. Minimize primping and wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. Leave your bulky coat in the car and rely on a fleece pull-over for the parking lot. You can tie it around your waist later and still have two hands to manage all of your shopping bags."

5. The Mission's Mantra. And it wouldn't be Black Friday without a Satanic backwards message. "Shop backward," Jennifer suggests. "Buy small gifts, then big. Hit the clearance racks first. Challenge yourself to come in under budget." And remember, kids, it's a jungle out there, but when that shopping list is all crossed off, you can always crash out on The Gift Therapist's couch.

TRIPLE THREAT: All That Glitters

As the snow falls and the light disappears, it’s easy for a girl to lose her twinkle. But take your inspiration from those lights adorning fraternity houses, sparkly wrapping paper that lines store shelves, and the way the snow reflects the smallest glimmer. You also can get your shine thanks to parade of sequins on this season’s holiday fashion. When planning your winter wardrobe, consider these glittery items that revive any dull winter wardrobe. These glistening pieces also provide an instant mood adjustment.

Consider these looks:

1)Chevron Sequins Top – Charlotte Russe; $20
2)Sequin Sprinkle Dress – Forever 21; $28
3)Silence & Noise Menswear Vest – Urban Outfitters; $78

4)Sequined Converse – Nordstrom; $82
5)Serena Mini – Delias; $38

HOW TO: Dark Nails Deconstructed

With the sunshine fading and everything turning dark for winter, your nails should be no exception. Keep these tips in mind when going dark for the Holidays.

1) Keep Them Short. Long dark nails scream wicked witch of the west. And since Halloween went bye-bye so trim them down to ¼ inch past the fingertip. This makes strong hues look modern.

2) Round Bound. I swear by square nails, and after much convincing, my manicurist talked me into rounding them out. After squirming in my chair as she clipped them short and added curves, I changed my nail preference. File nails into an oval shape or “squoval,” where you will maintain a slight edge, but nothing too drastic.

3) Take Your Time. Dark shades dry slower. Set aside about an hour to avoid a dark colored disaster.

4) Moisture Is A Must. Darker colors draw more attention to the imperfections so give those nail beds and cuticles lots of moisture — daily!

Some great colors to try:
Red: OPI - Bastille my Heart, $9
Purple: M.A.C. in Illegal Purple, $11
Brown: Revlon – Crushed Crimson, $5
Blue: Essie – St.Barths Blue, $ 7

HOW TO: Strictly Ballroom

“I dance in the biggest ones,” Danielle Rayzberg says, pointing the toe of her high heel toward me flirtatiously. Her over-the-taupe, strappy pumps are designed for Latin dance, but constructed in Italy. “The best of both worlds,” Rayzberg laughs.

She’s just come offstage as the closing ballroom dance number for the Syracuse University Residence Hall Association’s Diversity Banquet. She’s very post Cha-Cha: the lips are bright red, the jet-black hair is fastened by a rhinestone-encrusted headband that matches her rhinestone-encrusted push-up bustier. There’s also lots leopard print.

She’s barely caught her breath, but she’s about to leave her post as a 20-year-old Newhouse PR major to take the ballroom dance world by storm on her first trip to the nationals in Columbus, Ohio. Before she skips town, I must get my new muse to spill her three essentials items for a big night dancing on the town.

“Well, heels, of course,” she responds, kicking up those toes again. “The higher, the better because I’m short.” For the record, Rayzberg is completely va-va-voom: robust and voluptuous, something central casting would send to the set of an Almodovar film.

“Do they have to be heels I can afford?” she asks. How about the big screen, MGM musical version? “Christian Louboutin,” she replies instantly. Most folks know the Algerian shoe designer for his “Hello, lover” heel on Sex and the City, but Louboutin began his career designing for the showgirls populating Paris’ down-and-dirty Pigalle arrondisment so they’re a natural first choice. We like this purple patent named for Louboutin’s hometown less than $450 with shipping from Ebay.

Second item? “A good pair of false eyelashes,” Rayzberg replies. She doesn’t care what brand, as long as they "pop" from the stage. We quickly discuss the drag queen/Tammy Faye tip of gluing two pair together before adhering them to your lid. Rayzberg adds, “I pick up a lot of good ones around Halloween time.” We like MAC’s 37 lash, their most dramatic length, less than $20 with glue at maccosmetics.com.

Faster than you can say kiss me, guido, Rayzberg is onto her final item: “A really good fake tanner.” She details the arduous, three-day process of a hot fake tan. “You have to do it in layers,” she explains. Her tip for keeping it off your white-hot, Cha-Cha pants? “You have to let it dry completely,” she cautions, “I love Pro Tan. It’s what the body builders use.” We like Ultra Bronze, $10.95 for 8.5 ounces at performancebrands.com.

D.I.Y: Shirt Dress

TRIPLE THREAT: Model Citizens

High fashion has gone granola. But don’t expect hemp couture dresses anytime soon. Think soft soy pants, silk blouses, and organic cotton dresses and consider these three items forerunners in breaking the crunchy mold by offering high-end, chic pieces that look good and sustain the earth.

1. Larsen Gray, a clothing line by Project Runway season one contestant Nora Caliguri and ex-Chanel alum Rachelyn Porter. Larsen Gray’s Zippered Pencil Skirt is made from 100 percent recycled wool. Available at shopbop.com for $260, this skirt offers a body-hugging fit for a sexy night out with a date or a modest dinner with co-workers.


2. Another new sustainable friendly company: Only Hearts. They live by their motto ‘inner outerwear’ and produce one-of-a-kind cocktail dresses. My pick: Organic Cotton Chemise. Don’t be fooled by the title though. The dress is the best little black dress you’ll ever own. With a deep v-neck, ruffled hem, and skinny spaghetti straps, it delivers knock-out sexiness. Made from 60 percent organic cotton and 40 percent organic hemp, this dress retails for $72 and is available online at onlyhearts.com


3. English Retreads Bags features the newest line of hip, trendy, eco-friendly bags. For a night out, choose the Mini Luxe because it’s large enough to hold all your essentials but small enough to fit under the arm. Available at t englishretreads.com in green, toffee and chrome for $109.

OBSESSION: Queen of the Jungle Confessions

The dreams of children live and grow without real-world constraints: When I grow up I'm going to be a doctor. Fireman, Actress, Lawyer—you get the drift. As a young girl, my aspirations differed greatly from my playground companions, who dreamed of being veterinarians, teachers, musicians. My main goal in life: to become synonymous with the image of the leopard.

I don't remember what motivated me to seek out all things leopard. I just remember great moments of leopard influence.

1991, age 3: On my first trip to the cinema, I see 101 Dalmatians. I run up to the screen to touch Cruella DeVil.

1994, age 6: With my grandmother, I fall asleep watching The Nanny every week. In my mind, Fran Drescher's character Miss Fine (and her preference for all things animal print) epitomized my adult aspirations.

1996, age 7: I purchase my first leopard-print ensemble at the Children's Place: a leopard dress with a black-vinyl jacket. My life changed forever.

Ever since the second grade, I incorporated some form of the feline into my outfits. The cheetah and the tiger make cameos, but the leopard dominates my wardrobe. Confronting the wild, I challenge the conventionality of Hollister and Polo with my courageous fashion statements — leopard overalls, leopard pants, leopard skirts. I know these symbols of the primitive and the exotic walk a thin line between class and promiscuity, and I guard that line when I assemble my attire each day.

But regardless of my daily fashion decisions, I remain contemporary, current. Each season, animal print reappears on the runway. From Dolce and Gabanna advertisements in Vogue to synthetic tunics at Forever 21, spots possess a stronghold on the fashion industry and an appeal that transcends age limits. Adolescent girls and businesswomen alike flirt with my prized pet. However, nothing threatens my relationship with the animal. We share a secret understanding, a special bond. I like to think I did not choose the leopard. The leopard chose me.

CRUSH: Classic Clothes

Are we facing a fashion return to America's puritan roots?
Check out this sound slide to find out.

EXPERIENCE: Rhoda Dendron

Rhoda Dendron is easily one of the most trendy places to shop on the SU Campus. Check out this sound slide to see for yourself.

A-LIST: Amazing Masters and Muses

As a designer, I know how the power of a person that inspires you to create. Friend, fellow creator, beauty, and brain, junior advertising design major Anya Dabroski filled that role for me and made me curious about the world's more famous inspiration-creation connections. Consider my list of the Top Seven Masters and Muses of all time:

7. Karl Lagerfeld and Claudia Schiffer

6. Jean Paul Gaultier and Madonna

5. Gianni Versace and sister Donatella

4. Paul Poiret and wife Denise

3. Ann Demeulemeester and Patti Smith

2. Coco Chanel and Coco Chanel

1. Christian Dior and Mitzah Bricard

PROFILE: Big Papi's Favorite Lid-Maker

Wearing that Yankees or Red Sox hat makes you about as standout stylish as wearing an orange t-shirt from Marshall Street to a basketball game. But 21-year-old senior illustration major Chris Giorgio is transforming team pride into a signature fashion statement that gives sports lovers statement-status toppers, and his designs have attracted one high-profile hitter in the process.

Giorgio started drawing at the age of three and carried this artistic passion with him to S.U. “Everyone always says ‘oh you’re an illustration major. So what, like books?’” says Giorgio. But contrary to common assumptions, Giorgio plans to use his illustration education at S.U. in a future career in fashion.

When he was a sophomore, a friend suggested Giorgio use his drawing talent to customize hats. The friend knew a girl who used her artistic talents to create one-of-a-kind headbands and bracelets. Giorgio acted on the suggestion and bought a white hat from Lids and some Sharpie markers. He illustrated his first Boston Red Sox themed hat in honor of his favorite baseball team. Just last week, Giorgio completed the third hat in a series that he sold to David Ortiz, the home-run record holding hitter for the Sox.

Giorgio estimates he’s produced about 30 hats (all one-of-a-kind), and he has five orders to create by Christmas, which, with finals coming up, won’t be an easy feat. Each wearable masterpiece starts with a plain white hat from Lids, a box of Sharpies, and a computer file of images and information about various sports teams’ histories, players, and logos that Giorgio keeps on his laptop. Each hat takes about 15 hours and costs $150.

Giorgio is still searching for a brand name for his designs and says HeyZeus remains a contender. “I just didn’t want to call it ‘Chris Giorgio,’” he says. “I don’t know why, but I just don’t think it’s cool. Everyone’s always like, ‘that’s such a designer name!’ but there’s already Giorgio Armani.” Even so, Giorgio’s new website still stands as chrisgiorgio.com, but it too remains in the beginning stages.

In the future, Giorgio says he wants to find a way to mass-produce his designs, but the detail and the personality of his hats might make that an impossibility. He also wants to expand beyond hats. Over the summer, Giorgio hand painted several Marie Antoinette themed leather handbags for a store on Newbury Street in Boston. “I don’t know what I’m going to do when I graduate, but I would definitely do something like that,” says Giorgio. “Anything in the fashion world.”

EXPERIENCE: Origins to the Rescue

After six hours of classes, I head to Carousel Mall for a little afternoon delight. I wear sweats, a sorority tee, and my Ted Baker glasses. My body aches and my eyes feel as heavy as the doors of Macy’s. Inside, I dig through my purse to find some chap stick. My lips burn and sting. I lick my lips as I dig through my large satchel. Just as I walk by the Origins counter, I drop my large leopard bag, and my whole life explodes onto the tile floor.

A young sales woman in a little green Origins apron runs over. She helps me pick up my life. “Missy! You look a little worn out today,” the cute little brunette says as she helps me. “What’s wrong?”

I explain my stressful day and how I couldn’t find my chap stick. I’ve never been an Origins fan with one major exception: their chap stick became a minor addiction in high school. “Honey, I’m gonna give you a little makeover,” the Origins helper says. “I think you deserve a little pampering.”

Em, the saleswomen, sits me down in director-style chair and grabs a cotton ball, pours a little A Perfect World Liquid moisture with White Tea ($21) on it, and then sweeps it against my makeup-free face. She tells me it helps to hydrate my dry skin during this cold winter weather.



She grabs the Lip Remedy Soothing Lip Saver ($12) and exclaims, “I am so sorry I didn’t get you this first your lips must hate me.” I giggle a little as she runs it over my lips.



‘So now that your skin feels a little better is there anything else that you might need this winter season” she asks.

I reply: “Well my eyes get really puffy in the cold air. I’m from California and I still don’t think that my skin likes it here.” She runs over to her counter of goodies and grabs the No Puffery cooling mask for puffy eyes ($21). She places it next to me and explains the direction on the back.



She walks back over to the counter and grabs a few makeup essentials. She quickly covers up my dark circles under my eyes with concealer then covers my face with powder and bronzer. She adds some mascara and screams, “Wah-laah!’

I give her my Visa to buy the liquid moisture, lip remedy, and puffy eye mask. I thank her for brightening my day and walk out into the rest of the mall with a little skip and a little less schlump.

TRIPLE THREAT: Logo Lust

Varsity Pizza on Marshall Street isn’t the only place on campus that serves up genuine Americana and iconic school spirit these days. The Syracuse University Bookstore now sells vintage inspired collegiate fashions through T.Dalton’s Varsity Club clothing line. With The Express in theaters immortalizing Ernie Davis’ time at Syracuse and his quest to become the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy, consider sporting a piece of clothing that captures a time when SU had a winning football team. Everything from cozy knit sweaters and scarves in ‘Cuse colors, to rugby tees, and hoodies feature the historic block S logo that Davis proudly wore while charging down the field to glory. Sure, the sweaters cost some coin, but that’s the beauty of a bookstore SUpercard account.

1. Zip Up #44 Knit Hoodie ($52.99)




2. Vintage Rugby ($54.99)



3. Ripped Block S Thermal ($39.99)