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Hump Day Highlights #6

Well there goes January!  The month just flew by, a lot of things are happening in the sports and fashion world so I must chime in.  Also, I have some personal updates to give as well.

As most of you know I LOVE basketball, it is by far my favorite sport.  I love the athleticism and showmanship of basketball the most.  Recently Lebron James and Blake Griffin both reminded me why basketball is my favorite.  Who deserves the dunk of the year title thus far?  My vote is for LeBron, I mean he literally jumped over this man's head after all!!  

Take your pick...

Griffin owns Perkins

LeBron's sick alley-oop over Lucas

Tis fashion time!

Oh I love two tone everything including jewelry, clothes, glasses, and shoes!  The save and splurge shoe will feature two tone materials.

The save shoe is by one of my FAVORITE shoenistas...Jessica Simpson.

The shoe is called "Match" and is now on sale on Zappos for $69.99 with an original price of $98.

The shoe features two materials, suede and patent leather on the upper of the shoe, the heel height is 5 3/8 in.   

If 2012 has been amazing for you financially than maybe you would be more interested in the splurge shoe.  Although I try not to feature Christian Louboutin that often on my blog because it receives ENOUGH noteriety as it is, sometimes I can't deny a good shoe--enter "Bye Bye."

Deets on Bye Bye:

Suede and trapunto-quilted calfskin sandal features cutout vamp and sides.

Adjustable square buckle on either side.

Round toe rests on 1" statement platform.

6 1/4" stacked heel

 This beautiful shoe retails for $1,195 at Bergdorf Goodman

Activities & Community Service

A few weeks before my birthday I tweeted about collecting canned goods and non-perishable items for a local soup kitchen.  Well, I have been SUPER busy and hadn’t had the chance to actually take them to the food bank.  Recently, I donated the 77 cans to First United Methodist Church in Kissimmee, FL.  See a few pictures of us below.  Thank you for everyone who donated--the staff was extremely happy to receive them.  They open up their doors every every Tuesday to feed the needy in the community.

I worked the Walt Disney World marathon VIP suite I met A LOT of awesome people.  One person who engraved themselves in my memory and heart is the marathon champion Fredison Costa.  Check out a cool picture of us.  Although he didn't speak much English we still managed to interact.

As always I really enjoyed sharing updates with you.  What are your Super Bowl predictions?  Let me know here or on twitter @VictoriaHawkins

xoxo
-Vykky

Santa got me Sports & Fashion for Christmas

Happy Holidays all:

As the year comes closer to a close I have realized how many awesome and not so awesome sports and fashion events I didn't get a chance to offer my two cents on.

Instead of doing a boring traditional recap I thought it would be pretty cool to put it to the "12 Days of Christmas" tune, no worries there will be NO audio embedded. This will be a compilation of things happening in the sports and fashion world.  I also added pictures of events I have attended or worked while interning at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex  I hope you enjoy it! 

Merry Christmas!!!

-Vykky

On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me NBA Games Finally

On the 11th day of Christmas my true love gave to me Kanye debuts Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 10th day of Christmas my true love gave to me Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 9th day of Christmas my true love gave to me Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 8th day of Christmas my true love gave to me RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 7th day of Christmas my true love gave to me Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 6th day of Christmas my true love gave to me Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 5th day of Christmas my true love gave to me MARC JACOBS spring line gone missin', Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 4th day of Christmas my true love gave to me LSU vs Alabama, MARC JACOBS spring line gone missin', Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 3rd day of Christmas my true love gave to me Cam Newton sets record for yards-a-passin', LSU vs Alabama, MARC JACOBS spring line gone missin', Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the 2nd day of Christmas my true love gave to me David Stern steals CP3's Christmas, Cam Newton sets record for yards-a-passin', LSU vs Alabama, MARC JACOBS spring line gone missin', Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me CAROLINA WILL REIGN SUPREME,  David Stern steals CP3's Christmas, Cam Newton sets record for yards-a-passin', LSU vs Alabama, MARC JACOBS spring line gone missin', Not so nice Nittany Lions, Tiger is finally winning, RGIII captured Heisman, Cardinals won world series, Ndamukong Suh's behaving badly, Kanye debuting Dw and NBA Games Finally!!!

Dwight Howard's Celebrity Charity Basketball Game

Children's Miracle Network Golf Classic

2011 Old Spice classic Championship Game

Homecoming Hot & Not list

Hi fam! It is homecoming season for a lot of schools and I started to think of things we can do to make the homecoming experience fun,but also still professional. Check out a few of my do's and don'ts below...feel free to add! Xoxo

Don't hook up w/an old boo when u know y'all have no potential
Do be genuinely happy to see people & interested in their post graduate life--think networking
Don't spend your bill $ trying to fake it like your ballin
Do support your old organizations as they will be asking for donations
Don't cake on the eyebrows, lashes, make-up and booty pads...you do want people to recognize you a bit.
Don't look desperate if you are single
Do bring your significant other if you're dating or married
Don't bring your child to the plots if you are going to spend the majority of your time strolling
Do bring business cards
Don't ask people why they aren't following you on twitter or friends with you on Facebook
NO FAKE LOUBOUTINS!!!!
Fellas just because you had a "thing" in undergrad don't assume she is still an option. Save yourself the embarrassment and her the awkward moment.
Don't go back to school wearing nalia if you didn't really cross...please save yourself from being wrecked
Always help the old alumnus at the games and on the plots. Fix their plates, give them your seats etc.
Don't spend your entire time talking about other people. Lame.com
Remember this is just a weekend--don't make detrimental decisions that will affect you long term
Don't wear shoes that you can't be comfortable in.
Visit with old professors if time permits
Be positive even if things aren't going great in your life...you don't want to leave your former classmates with the thought that you have become negative Nancy!
Post appropriate pictures on your social media sites.
Don't go back asking for a job
No fighting
Do be fabulous & fly all weekend!

Hump Day Highlights

As a new resident of FL I was eager to watch the Miami Dolphins take on the New England Patriots.  I am former fan, back when Dan Marino was calling the shots, but now I am free agent.  Miami hit the ground running scoring the first touchdown well before the first quarter was over.  In efforts to not over saturate you with yet another game recap let’s get straight to my point—Wes Welker is my Monday Night Football MVP! 

I have decided to select a MNF MVP weekly, but I have very STRICT criteria:
·         Possibly underrated or overlooked
·         Huge heart/humble
·         Made notable plays

Had I not decided on this criteria Cam Newton, who also fits the description above would have hands down been picked, but with him going as first overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft sort of cancelled him out.  I really enjoyed watching Wes play on Monday.  He plays with poise and swagger which is always a bonus.  His 99 yard run, which enters him in the record books AGAIN (see his other records here) got me off my couch.  I loved his stiff arm to Benny Sapp (unfortunately he was released the NEXXTTT Day by Miami) and full stride down to the in-zone! 

I haven’t decided on a team yet, but if Wes keeps playing that well, I may pull for them…just maybe.

Girls behaving badly!

Now if anyone has talked to me for more than 15 minutes about physical fitness or health I am sure I mentioned my slight obsession with Serena Williams.  Yes—I love this woman, her attitude, her physical appearance and her demeanor.  Serena carries herself as a boss of all bosses and with a  5’9 frame and a body that brings most African American males to tears, intimidating people can’t be that tough.  Welp, folks as you know she did it again.  Serena “POPPED” off on the chair umpire. 

As I watch the video clip over and over again, I cringe.  I love Serena, I do and I can totally identify with the intensity of the game getting the best of you.  I think back to how many yellow and red cards I received in volleyball for slamming a ball or talking junk back and forth with another player through the net (GANGSTTAAA) lol, but Serena has to know they are gunning for her.  She can't even look wrong at someone before they start whispering about her acting out. 

I hate the way the media portrays her, as the big bad wolftress scaring her oppenents and judges alike.  Losing the game and her temper at the U.S. Open wasn't a complete lost for Serena as she walked away with 1.4 million dollars, that's not too shabby for getting runner up.

Save vs. Splurge

Bright done RIGHT!  I am sure you ladies can agree with me, you've seen the girl in the club with the neon patent leather pumps...probably purchased from the Rainbow nearest you.  Well this week's shoes are beautiful, bold, BRIGHT and classy. 

The save shoe is called Angel Lina by Luchiny.  I like the brand Luchiny, they make pretty well constructed shoes, considering the price.

Shoe Stats:

Heel Height: 5in

Platform Height: 2in

Material: Faux Suede

Price: $84.95

Color Options: Fuschia, Cobalt Blue and Black

You can purchase this fabulous shoe here

 For the first time in High Heels High Goals history I have TWO splurge shoes.  I couldn't bring myself to pick between these two fabulous designers & shoes, so I thought the only appropriate thing to do is to feature both. 

The first splurge shoe is by Giuseppe Zanotti.  I haven't come across that many Giuseppe shoes that I wouldn't wear.  This brand just puts out some amazing, high quality, eye catching shoes. 

Shoe Stats:

Heel Height: 5 1/2 in

Platform Height: 2in

Material: Suede Leather

Price: $750.00

Color Options: Pink

You can purchase this beauty here

The second splurge shoe is by late-great Alexander McQueen.   The creativity and brilliance that goes behind every McQueen design amazes me more and more each experience.  I was satisfied with comparing the Luchiny & Zanotti, but darn you Zappos for recommending shoes!  When I saw this baby in my suggested shoes it felt like Christmas day.  How could I walk away from such an amazing shoe and not share it with my Shoenistas.  Enjoy dolls! :)

Shoe Stats:

Heel Height: 5 1/2 in

Platform Height: 1 1.4in

Material: Velvet

Price: $930.00

Color Options: Paprika

You can purchase this beauty here

Side note...I met Sean Paul this week at 102 Jamz Orlando see pic below!

Ciao

Vykky

Hump Day Highlights #7

     A Sports Meeting: An Ode to my Ladies in Sports 
It was such an inspiring moment to be in a Monday morning meeting and look around the room and find nothing but women.  As we sat there discussing the future of sports and marketing strategies I had to digest the growth we have had over these last few decades.  We have a list of trailblazers that made it possible for us to be in this meeting shaping the look of sports at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

I felt honored, inspired, reassured, and humbled.  This is an awesome time to be a woman in sports as the playing field is growing more and more leveled.  We have more female sports broadcasters, sport show producers, athletic directors, and the list goes on.  We must continue to prove that it is okay to "play like a girl!"  I constantly remind myself that I must work extra hard and maintain my integrity so the next generation of women can coach an NBA team or have ownership of a NFL team...oh wait the Williams' sisters are already doing that huh?  Ladies we are on our way!    

                           Save vs. Splurge
Yes oh yes the Espadrille is back with a vengeance and don’t worry ladies these are NOT your mother’s espadrilles circa 1982.  Often people confuse what an “espadrille” is, is it a wedge…is a wedge an espadrille??  Yes and No!  A wedge is a type of shoe—so if you see an espadrille with a wedge bottom than it is an espadrille, but some espadrilles are flat, thus not yielding them to be included EXCLUSIVELY in the wedge family.  The traditional espadrille is made with a wiry synthetic or natural fiber that resembles rope, but our two featured designers have taken the espadrille look and put their own fabulous spin on it.

Save:

The save shoe is by Enzo Angiolini and I absolutely love it for its natural, yet fashionable appeal. 

Shoe Deets:

·         This shoe is called Ramie
·         It was originally priced at $110, but you can presently buy it for $71.53 Zappos.com
·         It also comes in a Pewter color—but I am not super stoked about it.
·         The heel height is 4 ¼ in
·         The platform height is 1 ¼ in

How to wear it:

Work:

I love this shoe because it will look fabulous on just about every body type and height (I would suggest being at least 5’0” though lol)  I think because the shoe has that casual material & look it wouldn’t be appropriate for a business attire environment UNLESS your office offers casual Friday.  This shoe would be perfect for the casual nod—you still look put together, but you know how to be casually cute!  I envision this shoe with a  button down dress, hitting right above the knee with a slight a line flair to it in white, green, tan, or maybe a CALM floral pattern.  If you decide to go with a button down dress limit your jewelry to a nice simple ring & maybe a good metal watch (Gold or Rose Gold would be beautiful)!!  If you go with a calm floral pattern I think a 3-tiered simple gold rope necklace  would be beautiful.

Date:

If you’ve got hot legs show em!!!  I think this shoe would look perfect with a nice pair of high-waist culotte shorts!  It would look AMAZING for you long legged gals!  Tuck in a tee and throw on some glam earth-tone colored jewelry and you will leave him thirsty for more.  I think this look also calls for bronzer…please don’t go Jerseylicious on me—but that nice sun-kissed glow will tie the look together.

Brunch with the girls:

I can see this shoe with some wide leg jeans and a crisp white halter button up.  A braided colored belt, maybe coral or turquoise, would be fabulous!  I would love to see gold hoops & high bun/ponytail with this look.

*I am strongly considering purchasing these shoes soooo I will probably recreate some of these styles and add pics later! *

Splurge:

The splurge shoe is by Jimmy Choo and is just as adorable as it wants to be.

Shoe Deets:

·         This shoe is called Patriot Pat
·         It is priced at $495 and you can buy it at one of my favorite retailers  Nordy!
·         It has a patent leather upper w/a leather lining
·         The heel height is 4 ¾  in
·         The platform height is 1 ½ in


How to wear it:

Work:

This shoe would look FAB with a  coral sheath pencil dress—exposed zipper is a bonus!  I am thinking a shorter gold necklace with an interesting looping shape…think thick squares or stones linked together.  I would probably do a ring over a bracelet—it is so annoying to me at work to have my bracelets constantly jingling & clicking. 

Date:

Think summer nights in NY…navy cigarette pants with a  silk rose pink halter—extremely low back, so HAUTE right, I know *FLIPS HAIR*!   I would love to see a Chanel 2.55 bag in cream on the shoulder.  For jewelry I say glam earrings & the hair up in a soft, messy ball.  Go light on the make-up, this isn’t the time to BEAT your face.  I am thinking pinkish blush…a pinkish nude lip, a little highlight under the brow and that’s all.  Very, very sweet with a sexy twist!

Brunch:

This brunch would have to be pretty fancy to strut up with patent leather espadrilles before noon, so with that preface let’s begin!  I  imagine a sea foam green peasant dress with off the shoulder cap sleeves.  A little cinching at the waist with a loosely pleated A-Line skirt hitting above the knee.  I like simple jewelry for this look, traditional Tiffany & Co toggle set or a nice pearl set.  What’s that you say…you want to wear your big sun hat, sure bring that along as well!!

Ciao

-Vykky

The Day after HumpDay Highlights...Yeah that will work!

I know I know..I am a day late...but since it is my blog I can do what I want Ha  lol

As a heel lover it pains me to admit that some of the shoes I wear HURT MY FEET!!! I mean from start to finish…just plain ole uncomfortable, but we do it for the girls to be envious & the boys to admire us!  In my current position at Disney I pretty much sit at my computer all day and do my awesome marketing job, but on rare occasions I have to go over to the complex.  One time I was totally caught off guard and had to go over for a meeting.  I wore one of my FAVORITE pair of H by Halston for Bakers Shoes.  It was about 95 degrees outside and I had on a sheath dress with a  nautical twill blazer.  Needless to say I was DRIPPING with sweat & my feet were crying for freedom. 

I was soo unprepared and had no flats in my purse.  Once we arrived at the meeting we stood for at least 30mins talking (ouch, ouch) cries my feet! Lol Well, since then, you can always find a pair of flats at my desk, in my car or in my purse. 

The save & splurge shoes for this post are a homage to the flats…often overlooked & regarded as a cop out for women not willing to strut in 5in platforms.  When in fact a flat can be gorgeous, fashion forward, and most importantly comfortable.

Save:

The save shoe is from Charlotte Russe.  Although I think one should stop shopping here for the majority of their wardrobe by high school I think when you are looking for a quick fix or an expensive addition have at it. 
 
Here are some deets on the shoe:

·         This shoe doesn't really have a name, its labeled as a Faux-Snakeskin Thong Sandal
·         it retails for $22.50 
·         It comes in 2 different colors (black and white). 

You can buy the shoe here Charlotte Russe Snakeskin Flat

If you go quickly Charlotte Russe has a BOGO for $15 special, but be careful with the “I BUY IT IN EVERY COLOR” deal—that’s not cute.   

How to wear it:

Work:

I adore this sandal because it is nice to look at, but not distracting.  That is my mantra for selecting work appropriate shoes.  Because this shoe exposes your foot I would stay away from wide leg pants because it could look like you don’t have any shoes on at all.  I would suggest a nice coral cap sleeve dress if your skin is sun-kissed and golden!  Don’t worry my fair-skinistas because this flat would look awesome with a navy cap sleeve dress as well.  I would either find a dress with nice structured hardware (square or round metal buttons) or without any hardware at all.  If you find the latter a solid skinny belt at the waist will add the flair of professionalism that you are missing with such a casual shoe.  A nice pearl set will tie this look together well.

Date:

Okay my preface for wearing this shoe on a date is NOT ON THE FIRST DATE!!  The ONLY exception to this is that it is during the day and you guys are going to do LOTS of walking because a wedge or espadrille will carry you a long way.  If you must wear this shoe on a date I would suggest looking extra sweet!  I imagine an A-LINE halter in the warm color family, a few of my favorite colors are sea foam green, coral, or white.  The material should be a linen, light cotton, gauze (maybe) think easy, flowy, and effortless!  I would take a cardigan just in case the date goes into the night (woot woot 4 u)!   

Brunch with Girls:

This is the perfect casual shoe for brunch with the girls.  There are COUNTLESS outfits that I could suggest.  My heart is set on a romper!  I love them, for the most part they are flattering on every body type as long as you get the RIGHT SIZE!  Find a nicely patterned romper & some wooden & gold bangles.   

Splurge:

The splurge shoe is by Stuart Weitzman

Here are some deets on the shoe:

·         The shoe is called “Tricity”
·         It is made in Spain of Italian material
·         It was originally priced at $298, but currently discounted to $199 at Neiman Marcus

You can buy the shoe here Stuart Weitzman Tricity

That may not be splurge price in regards to our traditional splurge shoe, but for a sandal I never really understand paying hundreds of dollars for them ESPECIALLY when you live in an area where you get all four seasons.  Now that I am in Florida I may consider spending a little extra on sandals, but in NC no way! 

How to wear it:

Work:

Although this shoe is nice it has an older, trendy look to it.  You know, the manager in her 30s that still has an affection for fashion and the means to support it?  I would dress her in colorful knee length A-Line skirt and a simple button up shirt.  If the skirt & shirt are both solid color pieces a decent size staple necklace is appropriate, with small studs and hopefully her wedding ring! 

Date:



Brunch with Girls:

I think wearing some nice linen wide leg pants (your choice in color none could really go TOO wrong) and a tank top with a jean jacket would be cool.  Layer a few rope chains and throw on some big face shades with your oversized bag and off to Briggs you go (hometown shout out) delicious food go see them Brigs Restaurant! 

NFL/NBA Lockout

Months ago I put my stance down on the lockout—now the NBA has joined in with the lockout.  Again, I say these athletes are abusing their bodies every time they play and each game they play could be their last.  I say high risk—high reward.  More importantly, don’t forget about the people who fill the stadiums, buy the jerseys and foam fingers, the people that pay THE SALARIES—the fans!  I found a blog post that really touched my heart about why the fans should be the reason the lockout ends.  Check it out—and grab some tissues! Fans First!

I am proud to be AmeriAKAn (skee wee)

Since the 4th of July was this past Monday I thought it would be cool to write about the 4th, but also tie in sports.  one of my fellow interns named Bobby at the ESPN Wide World of Sports suggested that I feature the MLB Stars and Stripes special edition hats on my blog.  

The NY Yankees hat is my favorite, but I can’t tell my nanny (grandma) that she is a hardcore Mets fan!
These hats are $36.99 before tax and are pretty cool.  You can purchase them here Stars & Stripes.  

Make sure you check out Bobby’s blog, he is discussing sports from an unfiltered standpoint with facts to back it up.  He is pretty hilarious & is serious about his sports, follow Bobby’s blog Real Talk, From Outta Left Field or on twitter Bobby Cash!


Last thing guys…I picked up a part-time gig with Sephora, I predict more make up posts in the near future!

Xoxo,

Vykky