"Flat out fabulous!" A special guest blog by Tamar Minassian

After a few too many peppermint martinis on Christmas, I injured my ankle and had to retire my heels. That is when I began to rediscover the world of flats. With the right shoes you can conquer the world- but I assume conquering the world takes more than a day and would require an extensive shoe collection. Today I am going to highlight an essential army of my favorite fabulous flats

Giuseppe Zanotti shoes stop traffic and they’re flats do not disappoint. I put these pretty babies on and found myself staring at my feet. I was looking down, but felt high. The tangerine color is on point for the season and the shine is be-yond.

Thin patent sandals, what’s not to love? These are perfect for time spent at the pool, lounging in the sun, and hanging by the BBQ. They also come in florescent orange and pink.

Belle by Sigerson Morrison has delivered a flat pretty enough to place on top of your side- table. The detailed cut outs completely charmed me and are sure to do so time and time again. This is a “best bet” for spring.

I’m a big fan of a staple slip-on ballet flat. Comfort and versatility are key to finding the perfect pair. Michael Kors delivered on both. The black and white snake skin will go great with spring colors and will add a nice texture. The sole has extra grip which makes it the perfect running around shoe!

The highly anticipated Rachel Zoe accessory launch has made its arrival in Tootsies and has gone straight onto my favorites list. This double strap nude sandal is super sleek and perfect to pair with graphic prints and everything else in your closet! So easy and an obvious brain child of a fashion stylist. Did I mention the hardware clasp? In the words of Rachel Zoe, “I die”.

Well there you have it, my current obsessions of the season! Come by and try them out for yourself. John and the trusty sales staff at Tootsies are a huge help in finding your perfect sole mates!

XO, Tamar

Twitter & Instagram: @tamarbourine

PEDRO GARCIA for Spring/Summer 2012

Pedro Garcia is a brand steeped in heritage. Starting in 1925 with the very first Pedro Garcia the company began building a business around classic craftsmanship and quality. Now with the third Pedro running the show, with the help of his wife, the brand is stronger than ever. The elements of quality and fashion merge into a perfect style ethic that accounts for the look and the lifestyle of every woman.
One special element of the Pedro method of construction is the cork cushion in each shoe. Natural cork is extremely durable and as a cushion that is valuable because your shoes will stay comfortable for a very long time.

This chunky flatform* is a great shoe for running around town during the day. Funky&Chunky is a top trend right now. Pick this sandal up and rock the look.
*Flatform: A shoe that is built up on a high platform without a high pitch making it essentially flat.

Here is another great example of Pedro Garcia's mastery of the chunky sandal silhouette. Keep it easy and casual in this style.

This shoe has a slightly higher level of dress than the last two styles making it perfect for very casual wear but also for a look that requires a bit more polish.

We know that flats and low heels should be pretty comfortable but Pedro has done an amazing job of creating high heels and wedges that feel amazing too. This peep toe sandal is a very different shoe built for the avant-garde style but also to be very wearable.

I love this wedge. It is high and comfortable and has a great style. The materials and the shape are beautiful making it every bit as wearable and neutral as the other styles above.

Bettye Muller Spring 2012

Bettye Muller is one of my favorite designers with one of my favorite stories. She spent years loving, admiring and collecting wonderful shoes before she ever began creating her own. Her background is diverse, taking her into a variety of worlds from competitive ice-skating to soap opera actress. She also spent time abroad cultivating her taste and her intuitive style. Now she creates wonderfully wearable and whimsical shoes that bring a little humor, color and a lot of panache to any wardrobe. Enjoy!

I love this shoe - one of the biggest trends for Spring is colorblocking and this sandal fits the bill. Pair this with fun dresses and skirts or pop it against your new pair of color denim.

Everyone needs a new espadrille for summer and in a season that is ruled by color this is a great way to go. (it comes in blue too)

This is probably my favorite go-to staple shoe of the season. Dress it up for outdoor parties and dress it down for everyday. The combination of colors and textures makes it the king of neutral shoes.

A classic with a twist. Take one part classic espadrille and add one part emerald ikat and you have a comfortable and stylish summer shoe.

Or make the espadrille strappy and do it in orange and purple.

Going all neutral is always easy, just work this in with the colors you pick for the season. It will also blend well with other soft tone materials - like your linens.

This shoe is the best for your summer dresses. The covered front is young and fresh and the ankle strap is a very feminine touch.
*Note* Ankle straps are a huge trend too. Don't be afraid of being "cut-off" just come find me and I will put you in the right one.

This elastic strappy sandal is effortless and chic. The heel is wearable for all day and the grey and cork are a perfect combination. This is a no-brainer.

This is the perfect shoe to end with. A cork heel, a jute platform, polka dots and a pretty ribbon all placed on a classic silhouette. This is very Bettye

Michael Kors for Resort

Chunky, funky and chic is a perfect way to describe this sandal. I love the look of cork in the spring and summer and in this case it will keep your black shoe from looking too heavy.

This chain sandal is a perfect addition to any wardrobe. You can easily take this from casual day-wear to cocktail.

The chain detail translates well from the heel to this flat. The combination of metallic and the cognac color makes this an extremely wearable and neutral flat.

This neutral sandal with a copper colored heel is awesome. It looks great with darn near everything and it is very comfortable. Picks this one up before it is sold out.

Winter Sale 2011

We have had markdowns throughout the store on our hottest merchandise. Come by or get in touch soon to find amazing deals on great shoes and bags. There are just a few examples of what is in store below.

Giuseppe Zanotti
Originally $1095 NOW $439

Casadei
Originally $1040 NOW $419

Badgley Mischka
Originally $225 NOW $139

Giuseppe Zanotti
Originally $595 NOW $359

You can see more shoes and bags as they go on sale, and the brand new merchandise I receive, by following me on TWITTER. Just click here to set up an account and follow @DallasShoeGuy