Product Review: Child Roo Moccasin From Soft Star

Today, I am doing a product review about a pair of shoes that instantly became my little girl's favorite pair. This pair of shoes is called the Child Roo Moccasin from Soft Star. I mean, I can tell because the moment she saw it in the box, she grabbed it from me and she didn't even need help putting them on because she managed to do it on her own. After putting her new pair of Mocs, she asked me to get her dress, a bag, and a hat. My two-year old little girl is growing up fast. Before I go on with my own thoughts about this product, let's get to know a little bit about the company- Soft Star. 

About Soft Star

***Soft Star Shoes are Handcrafted for Healthy, Happy Feet!

We are passionate about minimal footwear for healthy development of bones, muscles and balance. Everything we do, from design to customer service, provides our customers with high quality, functional and fun shoes. Our workshop is located in a loft alongside the Willamette River in Corvallis, Oregon. All of our products are handcrafted to order. We sell our shoes exclusively via the Internet, our workshop showroom and word of mouth. We value our work, we give back to our community and try our best to be good citizens of the Earth. We welcome you to give us a call with questions or suggestions.

Soft Star Shoes has been handcrafting quality, soft-soled shoes since 1984. Tim Oliver and his wife Jeanie started the company as young parents who wanted a soft, quality shoe for their baby girl. As their family grew and moved, so did their business—from a garage in Laguna Beach, CA to the back of an old bus in rural Texas, to  before finally settling into a little workshop in Corvallis, Oregon. The Olivers raised their girls alongside them as they made shoes for mail order companies and local fairs. Over the years they have sold shoes to families, Waldorf and Montessori schools,  celebrities, and even US presidents! (President Ford, to be exact.) 

Handmade

Every one of our shoes is handcrafted at our workshop in Corvallis, Oregon. Our talented elves have been making shoes since 1984 and are dedicated to designing unique and healthy options for minimalist footwear. All Soft Star shoes are designed to mimic walking barefoot to promote balanced and natural foot development, just like people have been doing for thousands of years.  

Once we receive your order, we select and cut the leather, soling and sheepskin and get to work. Our team includes ace leather cutters, seamstresses and bargers who work on your order before the shoes get a final inspection by Tim, our founder. Soft Star shoes are made with a non-lasted technique, meaning the leather will lay softly over the foot instead of being molded into a rigid and constricting toe box. It is normal for the natural contours of your toes to show through the leather. We use this method because it produces the most traditional, softest shoes without added stiffeners or adhesives. ---------visit Soft Star website to learn more about the company's background. 

What's In The Mail?

Child Roo Moccasin- Suede Fuchsia/ Emerald

- Look who's excited to have her new pair of Soft Star Child Roo Moccasin! They are the cutest thing ever and even my dear husband agrees with me. My little girl sure was excited to wear her new mocs when I opened up the box. Once she was all dressed up and was ready to go outside, I was able to snap some photos of her wearing the shoes. And of course, she didn't want to take them off. And I don't blame her. And you want to know why? Because they are super soft and comfortable on her little feet. The inside is soft, plush, and it doesn't give her blisters. Not to mention how cute the style and the color of the shoes! I know! If only these were my size, I would totally wear them. 

-  Another thing you need to know about all of Soft Star's footwear is that they are handmade to order with Eco-friendly leathers, sheepskin and genuine Vibram soles. And, they are Made In USA. Yaye! I am really happy about that. 

- I was told that it will take about a week or so for me to get the shoes since they handcraft them after you placed your order. And they were right about it. I still think they did a great job of making the shoes and able to ship it to me within 12 days. 

- My little girl wears size 6, but when I was told that they can be a bit snug, I wanted to order up a size so it will have plenty of room to grow. I want her to really enjoy wearing this pair of shoes. These are perfect for little ones feet because they don't hurt, they are soft, and comfortable. 

- Did you know that you can also design your own pair of shoes when you order online? Yes, you can do that at Soft Star. You can choose the colors and motifs you like best, or customize with sheepskin innersoles or specific outer soles. That's wonderful! 

- When you shop at Soft Star, you are guaranteed to receive an excellent customer service. I have read a lot of great feedback about their company, their products, and their service. If you are interested in finding out more about Soft Star and their Eco-Friendly, Made In USA, handcrafted products, you can check out their website at http://www.softstarshoes.com/ and shop around! Thank you, Soft Star! 

Even a two-year old little girl can tell how awesome these shoes are!

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Product Review: Chukka Clog Boots By Sandgrens

Earlier, when I think of Clogs I think of grandma. I mean, I think of those days when "Bakya" (Clogs) were such a hit in the Philippines that ladies would want to buy at least a pair of those. You would see ladies clogging their way down the street and hear the clicky-dee-clocking on the pavement. I never wanted a pair because I really thought it was kind of hilarious and not so comfortable to wear. Plus, it was really noisy. But when I learned about Sandgrens Clogs, I wanted a pair. I wanted to know how it feels like putting on a pair of clog boots that are made in Sweden. I wanted to know if is it really comfortable or would I really like the style, the fit, etc. Luckily, Sandgrens provided me a pair of clog boots for a product review. Here are my thoughts, but first, a little introduction to Sandgrens and the pair of boots I received.

About Us

Sandgrens is the Swedish Clog company that focuses on providing the most beautiful traditional Swedish clogs, high-fashion clogs, comfort shoes and clog boots in the footwear industry.

We always craft our footwear using the finest leathers, wooden bases, and metal hardware available throughout the world.

Each line within our brand is created to the highest standards of fashion and comfort, embodying the concepts of luxury, creativity, sophistication and exclusivity. We are creating exceptional wood clogs that are custom-made, timeless and unique and we are absolutely committed to doing so in a socially and environmentally responsible way.

Our Mission: 

We only have one mission at Sandgrens Clogs: Giving you happiness and excellence in the form of Swedish clogs! Enjoy our products!

Here is the pair of Chukka Square Toe Boots I got from Sandgrens

Chukka Square Toe Boots

Price: $219.00 

Product code: 77 Availability: In stock

Color: Black 

Heel height: 2.65” (6.5 cm)

The Chukka clog boots simply offer great clog design; functional, yet chic and fun. You can pair these clog boots with your favorite dark skinny jeans and a ribbed knit top for a nice, casual look or a stylish dress for a more elegant feeling. Featuring a medium-heel Swedish Alder wood base with a square toe and lush Horween Nubuc leather, the Chukka clog boots use both leather laces and staples to create that classic look you want for everyday wear.

I am wearing a size 37 (6 US) and normally I would go with a wider width because I have fabulous wide feet, but these fit just right. Yes, I can still wear a pair of socks with these. 

What Do I Think Of The Boots?

- To be honest with you, I wasn't really sure what to think of the boots. I wasn't really in love with it when I opened up the box. I tried it on and it was a bit awkward. And I thought, maybe it takes a while to get used to wearing a pair of new clog boots. After all, this is really my first ever pair of clogs. 

- Then I gave it a try again and wore it a little bit longer this time and it is amazing at what I feel about it the second time. Because the longer I wear the boots, the more comfortable I get and the more I like to wear it. It's weird, but that's my experience. I am definitely keeping it and will be wearing it more. 

- Because they are clog boots, meaning they are a type of footwear made in part wood, the base of the boots are not flexible. But, it is true, they are comfortable. It says that Sandgrens uses the finest leathers, wooden bases, and metal hardware available throughout the world. 

- Of course you are going to want to know if this pair of clog boots are heavy or not, and they are not! And they don't make a lot of that Bakya noise that we Filipinos are used to hearing. (LOL)

- I wasn't so sure about the stapling around the boots either, but based on what I see with the pair of boots I got, they are not breaking anytime soon. Well crafted, the leather feels soft and comfortable, and I am really starting to love it. Now, when I think of clogs, I am not just thinking about the grandma-ish type of clogs, but the Sandgrens. Thank you, Sandgrens!

Don't forget to visit their website today to learn more. 

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Product Review: Khombu Boots (Fashion For The Elements)

(This was last night's weather)

With the kind of winter we are going through here in Wyoming, a great pair of winter boots is a must. While searching for boots online, I stumbled upon Khombu. Never heard of the company before and didn't know much about them before until now. I contacted them to see if they would like to work with me for a product review and they sent me a complimentary pair of boots. I was really interested to find out how well their pair of winter boots can hold out to freezing cold weather. Well, we are about to find out. 

What is Khombu?

"Launched in 1969 as a waterproof brand designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the name Khombu originated from the Khombu Valley near the base of the Mount Everest. Mount Everest is in the Himalayas, the world's largest mountain range located in Nepal. 

........................................

With a rich heritage in the rugged boot market, Khombu delivers the ultimate in functionally engineered footwear complemented by contemporary styling to meet today's outdoor lifestyle needs."

"Khombu knows what Women want. Women want to look good and feel good even in the extreme weather. Khombu allows women to accomplish this with fashionable boots that guarantee comfort, warmth, and traction. 

There is something for everyone from our classic's, athletic apres ski, and outdoor fashion footwear."

What does the company promise?

- Khombu's goal is to provide innovative footwear with unique features and benefits delivering waterproof protection, exceptional performance, and comfort at a terrific value for Men, Women, and Kids'.

Here is the pair of Khombu Boots I got. 

Mavis (Dark Brown)

- Waterproof Suede

- Comfort Insole with Thermolite

- Moisture Wicking/ Anti-Fungal/ Breathable/ Fast Drying/ Shock Absorbing/ Insulated

- Plush Fur Linings

- Non-Slip Outsole

- Cold Rated to –20 °F

My Review:

- Actually, had these boots came in a few weeks ago where we had some frigid cold weather like below zero, it would have been wonderful to really test out the capacity of these boots. This pair of Khombu boots claims to be cold Rated to –20 °F. I was very skeptical because it doesn't look like anything that would be warm. I have a pair of heavy duty, really heavy snow boots and it is well insulated with lots of cushioning. But this pair of boots has a plush fur lining, which is thinly insulated. The night I got it in the mail, I tested it outside wearing a pair of thin knee-high socks on and my poor toes were cold. I wasn't so impressed. Then I tried it out again and this time around, I wore two pairs of socks. A pair of thin knee-high socks and a pair or really thick and warm wool socks.  So far, it kept my toes warm. 

- Our temperature as of today, the 20th of December is 17 degrees F and I wore the boots with only a pair of wool socks on and it kept my feet warm and comfy. Yes, these are actually some comfortable winter boots. And it is not heavy unlike the other pair of snow boots I have. 

- As you can see on the picture above, our weather last night was freezing cold. I went outside to test out these boots, I walked around in a snow covered ground and stayed outside for a few minutes. Amazingly, I didn't even think about my feet being cold because it wasn't. The combination of wearing two socks together and these Khombu boots works well. For a mild winter, these would be fine without having to wear two pair of socks. 

- You would think that suede and snow don't go well together (which is true), but these boots are safe to be stumping in the snow. The waterproof part also works well. Now I have a pair of warm stylish winter boots that I can wear when I don't feel like wearing my heavy duty one. 

- I just wish these were a pair of knee-high boots as I don't particularly like the calf boots. It makes me feel like it is accentuating my stumpy legs. Plus, with the length of the boots, it is not so flattering for someone short like me. It makes my already short legs look shorter. I am well aware I am a shorty mama, but for a shorty people like me shouldn't be wearing a pair of calf boots. And that's just me being so vain. Nevertheless, I will continue to wear it if it means keeping my little feet warm. 

- I like the design of the zipper pull because it is easy for me to zip the boots up or down. You really get a good grip of the zipper pull. And yes, I do like the design and the color. I like that these days you have the option of wearing fashionable boots while keep your feet warm and comfortable. Because a lot of times, comfort and style doesn't go hand in hand.  But with Khombu boots, you get both. The non-slip sole works really great and that is one of the things you look for in a pair of winter boots. Great traction! 

- One of the things that I also look for in a pair of boots is to make sure that is has plenty of room for my stumpy legs. And I am sure a lot of you can relate with me on this one. I don't have skinny legs so I have to make sure it fits. With my new pair of Khombu boots, I have plenty of room that I can even wear two pair of socks. This one is a size 6, Medium. 

- To be honest, this wasn't really my first choice of boots, but since this was the only one in my size, I went with it. I am still glad I got it because now I have a new pair of winter boots to wear. Let's see how long it will last before it falls apart? I will update this post so you know how durable or not these pair of boots are. So far, it is holding up pretty well and I am quite content. Come back here in a week or two for more Khombu Boots update. Thank you, Khombu! 

- Update: January 9, 2014. These boots need two pairs of thick socks on when wearing outside in a frigid cold weather. They are not well insulated. Wool socks are great to wear with these boots. 

Don't forget to check out Khombu's website at http://www.khombu.com/ and browse around. 

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Product Review: Okabashi Sandals

Today is going to be another warmer day at around 62 degrees with the real feel of 63. You compare that to the weather we had less than a week ago, with the snowstorm, the blizzard and the 20's and 30's weather, that is much warmer. Yesterday, was also a lovely day and I got to wear my new Okabashi sandals. What is Okabashi? Read below for the information. 

About Okabashi

Okabashi is a family owned business that has focused on designing and manufacturing extremely comfortable shoes for more than 29 years. Since 1984, we have set ourselves apart from the other major footwear manufacturers by producing a shoe that is much more than a shoe. Besides being Made in the USA, Okabashi shoe are 100% recyclable, designed with superior foot support and a massaging insole, anti-microbial, dishwasher safe, and backed by a 2-year guarantee. We believe in our product and stand behind it 100%. As you discover our product, you'll quickly see why our shoes are good for you and for the planet.

For Your Well-being:

- Superior Arch Support

- Massaging Insole

- All day comfort

Anti-microbial Agent

Anti-slip

Endorsed by the ACA

For the Environment:

- Made in Buford, GA

- 100% Recyclable

- Contain 25% Recycled Material

- Zero-waste manufacturing process 

- Vegan-friendly

For your Pocket:

- Starting at only $14.99

- 2-year guarantee

- Durable

 The Okabashi sandals I got are the Ocean in Black/Hot Pink. 

Product Details

The Ocean adds contemporary style and a two-color design to our signature foot-bed. This two-piece flip-flop is the ultimate fusion of comfort and sporty fashion.

• Good for You: Massaging Insole, Ergonomic Foot-bed, Superior Arch Support
• Good for the Environment: Made in the USA, 100% Recyclable
• Good for your Pocket: Guaranteed for 2 years
• Signature Microplast Material: contains Anti-Microbial Agent, Anti-Slip, Anti-Odor, Vegan-Friendly, Latex-Free
• BPA Free
• Signature Microplast Material: Anti-Microbial Agent, Anti-Slip, Anti-Odor, Vegan-friendly
• Durable: Waterproof, Dishwasher safe
• 1" heel
• High arch support

- I love the massaging Insole on these Okabashi sandals. It feels so good when you walk wearing these. These sandals are designed with Anti Microbial Agent, Anti-Slip, Anti-Odor, and is Vegan-friendly, and Latex-free. 

- I asked for a size 6 and these sandals fit well on me. True to size. It is also very flexible. 

- Here is another awesome thing about Okabashi. Have you ever had a pair of sandals before that you can wash it in the dishwasher? Well, you can do that with Okabashi. 

- My kids love to wear these sandals around the house even though it doesn't really fit them, because they are cute and comfortable. Although, my little concern would be the fitting of the straps of the sandals. Because I am blessed with wide feet so the sandals are a bit snug, but they are perfect for people with narrow feet. I wish they had it available for wider feet as well. That's my only concern about Okabashi Ocean sandals, but other than that, these are still comfortable on the insole to wear and would recommend it to others. Especially if you needed that higher arch support and has narrow feet. 

- Okabashi is an Eco-friendly product and made in the USA. Let us support American made products. 

- I would love to thank Okabashi for this opportunity to sample their products. Okabashi sandals are 100% Recyclable, 100% USA made (since 1984), 100% comfort, and for less than $20. How can you beat that? That is wonderful!

- To check out the rest of their products, don't forget to visit their website today.

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My SAHM Style: Cold And Rainy Day

I wore this outfit yesterday when my family and I went to the school's Open House visit where my husband and my son go to. Like I said, I now have a Kindergarten student so it was the chance to meet his teacher and the students at school. The night went so well and it was fun meeting everyone. Thank you for the lovely welcome as well. 

We have had some cold and rainy weather this week, but the weather doesn't require wearing a thick coat, yet. I put on a black jeans and my favorite black loose sweater, then added a pop of color by wearing this Warriors In Pink Scarf and my first ever pair of animal printed shoes. On a cold and rainy day, I felt warm and comfortable while visiting everyone at school. My style is more of a low-key and nothing too fancy. I like to be able to put on clothes that doesn't require a lot of fuss, but still look presentable. 

Scarf: c/o Warrios in Pink
Sweater: thrifted 50cents
Jeans: freebie and altered
Shoes: via 6PM $18.50
Total: $19

Day 74/365 of BPC 2013: Salmon-y Mint

It has been a long while since I last shared my SAHM style here on this blog so I thought it is time for another SAHM Style post. Yesterday, was surprisingly warm and beautiful outside that it made me want to put on some color and just enjoy the warm weather. I was supposed to do some house chores and make sure the house is clean before we go back to the old place for a week, but because the weather was so nice I had to take the kids outside. My two kids were able to ride their vehicles- my little man on his scooter and my girl on her toy motorcycle. When my husband came home, we changed clothes and we head to the park. We took turns watching the kids playing at the park while we go for a run around the park trail. And, I finally got to wear my new hot pants from Zaggora today while working out. Oh wow! Talking about hot pants. Anyway, there will be a different post about my review so stay tuned. Right now, here is what I wore today.

Mint Top: Vintage, Thrifted for 25cents 
(one of the many items I thrifted at the rummage sale)

Lacey Shirt Extender: c/o Miss Oops $0

Pants: c/o 10DollarMall $0

MIA Babette Cut-Out Flats: 6pm.com on sale $24.99
Total: $25.24

I busted out my new pair of MIA Babette Flats in Pink Nova that I purchased at 6pm.com. Love it!

I don't know what's up with me, but I like doing the invisible heels pose when taking photos of me wearing flats. Oh well! I like it.

And because I am a mama, here is a (one of the many) photo blooper with my son wearing nothing, but underwear. Well, I had to cover him up with a critter. He loves his picture taken too.

A little sneak peak of me wearing my new Zaggora pants. Hot pants! Or I should say, Sweaty Pants! Product review will be up hopefully soon.

Have a good one!

Feel The "OO" With OOFOS Shoes Product Review

A little over a month ago, I received a package of two OOFOS sandals for me and my husband to sample for free. I didn't know anything about OOFOS footwear before, so I was really interested in seeing the actual product and try it ourselves. 

I got a pair of  OOriginal Thong in Black for the husband and a pair of OOriginal Thong in Fuchsia for me. When I got it in the mail, I immediately opened the box and tried on the sandals. It is so comfortable to wear and it really cushions your feet when walking, so it minimizes the pressure on your feet. And, I love that it also gives me a little boost of height for a short mama like me. I have been wearing these for about a month now, mostly around the house because of the cool/cold weather. 

As expected, I got the Fuchsia pink sandals and it is exactly the same color as what I saw on their website. I love the color Fuchsia. My husband on the other hand wasn't so thrilled the fact that he actually does not like anything flip flop. I forgot that he does not own a pair of flip flops because he hates the style. He said that it feels like flip flops could come off anytime when wearing it. I am like, what? Anyway, he is just being weird and all, but he said he likes the material of the slippers and will wear it next summer. It doesn't really have to do anything with the product, but just my husband who is very particular about what he likes and I do understand that.

Anyway, back to the OOFOS shoes. Like I said it is comfy to wear, the material is soft and I haven't had any blisters or skin reaction to it. I mean, I remembered years ago I had this pair of slippers that were cheaply made and when wearing it for a long while I started having these rashes right where the straps hit, and it was itchy and uncomfortable. With this one, I don't have that problem at all. I also love the awesome design of the insole and the out sole, and it has a good grip so you won't worry about slipping. The shape of the shoes is design to really contours your walk and easy on the feet. I can easily slip it on and off and I am already looking cool with my new pink OOFOS footwear.

Here is an information about the technology of the OOFOS footwear and what makes it different from others.

"The OOFOS brand experience is powered by the cutting-edge proprietary material called OOfoam. Our technology is a combination of compound and our patented foot bed design. Our unique DNA provides an unmatched OOfeel that's energy absorbing.

In fact, test results show OOfoam is 37% more impact absorbing than any existing EVA, the most common material found in footwear.

OOfoam technology:

• Absorbs shock to lessen pain

• Reduces fatigue & restores vigor

• Delivers unparalleled cushioning to recharge & rejuvenate your feet.

I also love that it came with these cardboard hangers where you can hang your slippers so it won't be all over the floor. This way your closet is still organized and you know exactly where to put your slippers when you are done using them. Great thought on that one too!

And yes, these shoes are available in Men and Women's sizes, and these would be wonderful gifts to fill up those gift stockings this Christmas. Isn't it? In that way, you and your family (or friends or special someone) will be ready for when warmer weather rolls in, and be all comfy and awesome looking wearing these OOFOS shoes. 

All in all, I  have two lovely wide feet that are OO so happy to be wearing these shoes. Thank you, OOFOS! To check out the rest of their collection, visit OOFOS' website at http://www.oofos.com/. 

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