Ivy, Our Groovy Intern!

SPOTTED: A new face has been seen around the Groove office.  In the marketing department, with the sales team, and even the design department?  Who is this mystery girl and what is she doing at Groove? You'll have to read on because I'll never tell!

                    XoXo,
                    Groove Girl

I am so happy to be the newest Groove Girl and to be part of the Groove family, even if it is only for a month.  I can't believe it's already over, I feel like the time passed way too quickly!  I really have the sense of belonging here because all of my colleagues are so nice and helpful.  They are always willing to explain or teach me things, I really have fun with them.  They During my internship I worked with the Sales, Marketing, and Design departments and learned so much.

One of my favorite parts of my experience was working with the design department.  I learned how to research the newest and upcoming fashion trends for the coming seasons.  For example, one day we went to South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island (some of the biggest shopping centers here) to help clearly define the current fashion trends.  Shopping for trends is a lot like window-shopping.  It was my first time shopping from a professional standpoint, but it was really fun!  We figured out who/what are top sellers and researched where that style came from.  When I got back I took all my observations and information and make my very own trend board (design team has so many and constantly updating/making new ones)!

I Made This! 

Another highlight during my internship was working with the Marketing department.  Prior, I really didn't have any idea what marketing was.  To me sales and marketing were basically the same thing.  Now, however, I have learned that in marketing it is important to focus on promotions and advertisements, social media, and of course the customer.  I learned how to get into the consumer's mind and see what effects their buyer behavior and habits.I also helped make Instagrams, pins, a press release, and promotional material for email blasts.

GG the Fish

I really enjoyed taking pictures on the balcony and posting them to Facebook with Jacquelyn.  Jacquelyn and Natalie have a lot of creative ideas and know how to find inspiration from the surroundings. From working with marketing I found that I am a creative person and really enjoy creative stuff.  Btw, I love their pet beta fish, GG (short for Groove Girl of course!) who lives in Jacquelyn's pen holder on her desk...how cool!?!

That's Me Packing Up Samples! 

Sales is interesting to me, mainly because I was not very familiar with it.  I understand the whole sales process better now.  I learned how a sales representative communicates with potential customers to make a sale.  We also rearranged the showroom (I loved playing with all of the shoes)! I also helped pack sample shoes for a major trade show!

Outside of working with the various departments, I really enjoyed being at the office because of the cool location!  I always mentioned to Yuchi and Monica (in the design dept.) that the location of our company is amazing! Our location, in Huntington Beach, gives us a lot of resources.  Our showroom overlooks the ocean and surfers.  There are a lot of stores downstairs and I love the California style.  There are also a lot of restaurants with great Mexican and American style options.  Monica even tells me that she sees dolphins when she walks around during lunchtime...I haven't seen them L!

The Groove Girl Family!

The Groove Girls really act like they are a family.  When Katrina had her birthday, we all signed a card and went out to lunch to celebrate.  Jessie would cook Chinese dumplings and other authentic foods...she's such a good chef!  I got to grab dinner or lunch with almost everything and I tried so many different foods from sashimi to barbecue and Mexican.  I feel like Groove Footwear is a fast-growing company bound for success not only because everyone works so hard, but because they are such a supportive family.  I know that the days I spent in California will be my best memories ever! We did so much in such little time, I can't wait to come back again!  Thank you so much to my new Groove family for teaching me so much and taking such good care of me!

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Grooving at the MAGIC Show

SPOTTED: In the scorching desert heat on the Las Vegas strip, thousands of fashionistas flock to the convention centers.  Under the bright lights, hundreds of exhibitor's booths are being set up. What are they all preparing for? Read on my friends, because I'll never tell!

                XoXo,

                Groove Girl

As we arrived on Sunday afternoon to the Las Vegas Convention Center we knew the WWDMAGIC trade show was finally here.  We joined the hundreds of exhibitors and vendors as we sought out to find our booths.  Being one of the biggest shows of the year, we made sure to triple check our packing lists and duffle bags to make sure we had every shoe and style to show.  In a few short hours, all of our hard work was finally about to pay off!

One of the biggest shows of the year, MAGIC MARKET WEEK is often described as the Fashion Week of trade shows.  WWDMAGIC is the centerpiece of MAGIC MARKET WEEK and an industry powerhouse for creating connections, introducing fashion trends, and driving commerce within the women's fashion market.  At the show, over 30,000 buyers shop around for the latest trends and hottest styles.  Exhibitors from around the world show off their extravagant booths, hand out swag and showcase their newest lines.

Our marketing department spent weeks getting our newly redesigned booth ready for the show and did a fabulous job!  We really appreciate all of the positive feedback and complements throughout the show.  In case you missed us, our Tiffany Blue booth was draped with a whimsical sheer white fabric and inviting ruffled curtains separated by sparkling chandeliers. 
We got our order forms ready and set up our photo booth with our mustache props (if you stopped by the booth, be sure to check out the Facebook album to get a copy of your pic!). As we unpacked all of our duffle bags and unstuffed shoes, you could feel the excitement and anticipation for the attendees to be let in.  

Walking in to the first day of MAGIC, it was almost overwhelming!  With several new faces and so many new shoe styles, the Groove family sat down to discuss what was about to unfold.  Our designers pointed out which new styles we had and the fashion trend in which they drew inspiration from.  The 4 main trends for our new Spring '14 line is Classic Americana, Tribal Patterns, Geometric Shapes, and Carnival Inspired Colors.  

Our Spring line plays with bright colors, new textures and materials (like elastic and lace), subdued gladiator and comfy casual.  Shortly after set up the crowds filled in and the show had begun. These were some of our top shoes that you all couldn't stop raving about!

Before we knew it our booth was full of interested buyers and store owners with arms full of sample shoes and Spring '14 must haves.  We could hardly keep them on the shelves!  One of the most exciting parts was when we saw our featured denim star flat in the Footwear News August edition!!!  Keep an eye out for Groove Footwear in future editions and other magazines!

When the final day arrived, our voices were fading and our feet were getting tired, but being such a passionate group we never skipped a beat! All in all, the show was a major success and we are super excited to have so many of our shoes out there in your stores! Thank you so much for all of your love and support over the past week.  We can't wait to see you at the next show!!

The Groove Family

What to look for next?!?

::: Words from our intern, Ivy!  She can't wait to tell you about her experience with us :::

:::  Wondering what a Vegan shoe is? Stay tuned for an informative post about this shoe trend :::

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Groovin at the Mansion

The ESPY's Pre-Party at the Playboy Mansion

SPOTTED: Colorful lights in the trees and mansion walls, shuttle busses and limos, bunny tails, ears, and...corsets? Where did we find Groove Footwear shoes?  Keep on reading because I'll never tell!

                XoXo,

               Groove Girl

Pulling up to the mansion a beautiful white peacock has taken refuge from the camera flashes and crowds in the tree.  Right below her, on the red carpet, celebrities and athletes pose for the camera and answer reporter's questions.  As the party bus shuttle make it's way around the infamous fountain in the driveway, the view of the Playboy Mansion is picturesque (just as I always imagined...I loved The Girls Next Door and know this grand view anywhere!).

I have finally arrived to the ESPY's Pre-Party and make my way through the perfectly trimmed hedges.  It is almost overwhelming at first.  Right in front of me is the famous sculpted rock pool, complete with waterfalls and, of course, entrance to the Grado!  There are lights dangling in the trees and bushes setting the scene for a magical, almost unreal, night.

Across from the pool is a huge stage where guests sit and watch the live performances.  I am reminded more of being in a Vegas club, rather than outside in the Playboy mansion's backyard!  In their own raised, and roped off sections, I spy Snoop Dogg (or should I say Snoop Lion now??) and Jamie Foxx.

Walking through the crowd I meet several professional athletes and bunnies.  I found a group of them and took some pictures.  One of the girls complemented my outfit (dress code is cocktail attire) and my shoes!  I couldn't wait to rep my Groove chunky and spiked 'Lexus' platform heel, and was SO excited when a Playboy bunny loved them!!  I can't wait to wear another fun Groove pair to the next Playboy party!  Hmmmm...which will it be? The 'Velvet', 'Bailey', 'Venice', or the 'Topanga'?!? Well, you will just have to wait and see!

Have you worn your Groove shoes somewhere cool? Let us know and I will feature YOU in my next post and on Facebook!

What to look for next?!?

::: Let me introduce you to our new intern, Ivy!  She is getting a hands on experience here at Groove and can't wait to tell you all about it! :::

::: While we are still working on the kinks and bugs, our website will be completed by the end of the month! :::

::: I have Vegan friends, but Vegan shoes?!?  Check back to hear more about this growing trend! :::

::: Do YOU want to be a part of Groove Footwear?!? Here's your chance!  We are looking for Groove Girls on campus who want to be one of our Brand Ambassadors! Keep and eye out for our internship application SOON! :::

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Groovy Patio

Our Patio Makeover! 

SPOTTED:  They have been spray painting for hours, dozens of packages arrived to the office full of...cushions? What on earth is going on at Groove? Keep on reading you do-it-yourselfers, because I'll never tell!

XoXo,

Groove Girl

P.S.  Be sure to check out our sneak peak at our Spring '14 collection on our Facebook Page! 

It is officially summertime and that means sun, sand, of course BBQs! In honor of our summer Patio Parties we will be doing weekly, we decided to give our patio a makeover! As much fun as it was, there was a lot of work involved as well and us groove girls weren't afraid to get down and dirty! 

We LOVE our patio furniture, however, being right on the water really has taken a toll on it all.  It is because of this we kicked off our shoes and threw on our Sophie shorts to get down and dirty with spray paint!  Judging by the days the spray paint stayed on my skin, this paint job will last for a long time.  A fresh coat of paint is all we needed for it all to look brand new again!  

Next step in our patio makeover was adding some color!  We ditched the old beige cushions and upgraded them to a beautiful teal (and super comfy) set of cushions for the couches and chairs.  As for the dinning table, which didn't used to have seat cushions, we added a fun orange and white geometric print cushion!  

Last stop....SHOPPING!  We had so much fun running around to different stores collecting decorative accents, like succulents, candles, vases and bright orange pillows.  Throw in a couple bunches of bright flowers and our job is done!

All in all, our patio has been completely transformed (and now I wish I could just set up my desk at one of the couches I love being out there so much hehehe).  We are super excited to start up our Patio Parties again this summer!

What to look for next!

Our website's facelift is nearly completed! Wanna know how we Don't miss out on all of the deets! 

Meet our newest intern!  Check out what she's up to and how it's all going! 

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Groovy Fall Trends

SPOTTED: Runways lined with celebs, stylists, and fashionistas as blurs of emerald green, deep red, rich browns and crazy patterns stride by.  What are the exciting fashion trends for this Fall'13 season? You'll have to read on my fashion-crazed friends, because I'll never tell!! 

                 

                   XoXo,

                  Groove Girl

p.s. heard of any other Fall '13 trends?? Keep me in the loop and tell me about them in the comment section, Girlfran!

http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--fall-2013-fashion-trends-autumn-winter-2013-fashion-25144.html

As you learned when you started picking up your first copies of Teen Vogue and CosmoGirl, you must know of the season's trends ASAP....aka months beforehand.  Now that summer is in full swing, you are finally able to show off your bright pedi and rock those summer sandals! You have carefully planned and pieced together your summer wardrobe, so, naturally it is time to read up on the upcoming Fall '13 trends!

I looked to the stars...well, to find out who is responsible for their impeccable style and wardrobe of course! The stylists of Drew Barrymore, Megan Fox, Tyra Banks and Halle Berry have been sharing their thoughts and observations for the upcoming Fall '13 trends.  Some of them I saw coming, others I was really interested to read about, but regardless I am excited to tell all of you...obvi!

Phillip Bloch, Christie Maruka, Laura Solin, and Sarah Ellison Lewis are some of the celebrity stylists speaking out about their overall feel for the footwear trends this Fall.  While they each have their own opinions about some of the emerging trends, there are several that they all agree on.

http://www.furinsider.com/great-gatsby-vogue-magazine-may-2013/

One of my favorite upcoming trends is Back to the Past.  Personally, ever since I read The Great Gatsby in school when I was younger, I have always been intrigued by the Roaring 20s.  So, I am very excited to hear about how the newly released "The Great Gatsby" is a huge fashion movie and major influence for fall.  Laura Solin and Phillip Bloch both agree on this.  Bloch pointed out that the movie came out after all of the Fall fashion shows, however, it is going to have such an impact we will still be seeing it's influence in 2014.

http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/life/fashion/2013-nyc-fashion-week-fall-fashion-trends-675958/

Another reemerging trend from back in the day is the influence of minimalism and nature from the 1930s and '40s.  Christie Maruka agrees that stilettos and 1940s inspired heels are coming for Fall, as well as Sarah Ellison Lewis.  Lewis knows that minimalists (like Jil Sander and Margiela) have already been incorporating this trend in their collections, but says that they are refining them for more simplicity because "less is more, more than ever".  One of my favs who rocks the minimalist look the best is none other than the fabulous Gwyneth Paltrow (if you needed someone to stalk to help you master this new look, check her out in Tom Ford).

The next trend you need to know for your Fall '13 wardrobe is the colors, textures and materials we'll be seeing.

http://bluebergitt.wordpress.com/2012/09/05/in-color-fall-winter-2013-14-fashion-trends/

I was not surprised that the most talked about colors are rich, bold and dark for the fall.  Emerald green, wine hues, grays, rich browns and coffee colors are going to fill the streets come fall, but some fun pops of fuchsia, orange and blues will keep a little summer in the air.  As for the textures and materials we will be seeing are all about patterns, color combos, prints, fur trim and velvet...yay! When done right, I love the luxury of velvet.  Solin doesn't think that solid colors will be able to compete this season and Maruka agrees that colors are used to create moods and mixing the textures, embellishments and patterns can create any vibe from sophisticated, to sexy luxury, to rock and roll!

Some other trends on the way is menswear inspired footwear...heels, thigh-high boots with cutouts, work boots with feminine personality are some looks we'll be seeing.  Lewis even mentioned wearing outfits like men's pajamas and Hanes T-shirt dresses.  International street-looks and sneakers (flat, heeled, sporty, or classic) are going to stick around. However, Bloch believes that the metallic wedge sneaker is on its way out because it was too overdone and too trendy dies fast.

Some other trends that are believed to be on the outs is color blocking and understated looks that are too dainty. Maruka explains that the colors are deepening for fall and the look is becoming more luxurious and feminine, the neon trend will also fade away.  On the other hand, some styles are so strong, she also says that designers will want to keep them new, fresh and updated...so keep an eye out for some styles to be re-created and expanded this Fall '13.

Well there you have it!  A quick overview on the upcoming Fall '13 trends from the celebrity stylists themselves.  We have a lot to look forward to in the next few months and I am very excited for the rich emerald colors and Gatsby looks.  Until then, put on your neon (hey, it makes our sexy summer tans look that much more awesome!), grab the gals...or your hubbie, and go see "The Great Gatsby".

What to look for next week?

Our new website! We will be launching the newly remodeled Groove Footwear website any day now!  It took a lot of patience and planning, but we are super excited to see how it turns out!  Stay tuned next week for a behind-the-scenes look at the whole process. 

Our 'Share to Win' contest will be ending this week!!! Make sure you share at least one post from Groove's  Facebook  so I can put you in the drawing to win a pair of shoes for you and a friend! 

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Groovin With the One's Who Make It All Happen!

SPOTTED: Fabric swatches, a wall of shoes, a tons of sketches and excited chitchat.  Where am I? Read on my friends, because I'll never tell!

         XoXo,

         Groove Girl

Now that you know a little bit about what goes on outside the office, I am going to give you an insider look at what goes on in our office.  Groove Footwear would not be the shoe company it is today without the creative minds of our fabulous designers!  Our designers not only look to the world for inspiration, but also  draw inspiration where they see footwear fashion moving forward in the future. They use their creative license to incorporate their own individuality into the designs too (how fun does that sound!). 

From the fabric choices, to the material used to make the sole, details and decisions are always being made and changed to create the perfect silhouettes for all you fashionistas out there! 

Designers on a day-to-day basis go through a lot to make sure when you put that shoe on it fits and looks perfect. They spend many hours going through revisions with the manufacturers, detailing each inch of the shoe. From the width of the heel to how long the strap is around the ankle, they pay close attention to ever aspect of the shoe. 

Like I said, our designers get their inspiration from every part of the world! From flee markets in Morocco to a little shop in east London, our designers love looking to the different cultures of the world. When creating a new design, our designers look at international styles and global trends, worldwide news, influential fashion blogs and magazines to develop their shoe designs. When asking one of new upcoming designers how she designed her “Bristol” wedge that has received fantastic reviews at the FFANY (Fashion Footwear Association of New York) tradeshow, Monica stated passionately:

 “I wanted to create a transitional wedge to be worn with a dress and jeans. I always keep the “Groove Girl” in mind to create a young and funky design she would love to wear.”

Monica, as well as our other designer Laura, say that keeping international styles and trends in mind is key to creating the perfect statement shoe. Laura stated:

“Color is a key component to the design process and like to interpret this idea in each of my styles.”  

All in all, designers are the cornerstone to any shoe company, helping it stay current with the trends so you can treat your feet to fantastic fashion footwear! 

What to Look for Next Week:

The final days of our 'Share to Win Summer Kick Off Contest' where you can win 2 pairs of free shoes!  You've read this weeks post, so now get on Facebook and start sharing Groove Footwear's posts to WIN! 

Finally, and I know you're all waiting, the interview with the awesome designers who helped dress our Groove Girls from our photo shoot! 

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Groovin to a New Place!

SPOTTED: Girls in wedges, dresses, and chic shades in Newport Beach...carrying a couch? Boxes, bags and furniture fill the driveway.  What is going on in the beach house on the golden coast? Better read on, because I'll never tell!

         XoXo,

         Groove Girl

As I mentioned last week, I have moved from my Newport Beach house to a new spot a little further away from the office.  For the past week, or so, I have been moving everything from my old house with my roommate after work.  I must admit, we looked a little ridiculous moving furniture and boxes out of the house in our heels (hey, I like to wear a cute outfit to work!), but we got it all done.  Now, I have to focus on moving in to my new home.  This is where Groove Footwear's Pinterest boards have been just what I needed for a stress-free move.  

These pins that I used were SO helpful and pinspiring (hehe get it!?), that I wanted to drop some knowledge on you all...but really, these are genius.  The main obstacles I had to hurdle first was the kitchen, closet, and bedroom.  The first pin you have to know about is for the most important items in my room...my shoes duh!! Just as any other fashionista in her twenties, I have my fair share of shoes.  I was so overwhelmed when I kept finding more and more shoes after I already filled up my limited closet space!  I saw this pin on Groove's Dream Closet board and decided I'd try it out.  Two words...LIFE CHANGING.  I did two rows of shoes on the floor and two rows of tension rods above them (like what you hang a shower curtain on).  Not only does the closet look really organized and nice (I fit about 10 pairs in each of the four rows!), but it amazed me how easy and cheap this was! It is way cheaper and nicer looking than buying shoe racks or bins for them all.  

There are tons of great pins on Groove's boards, it was hard for me to pick which ones to share...so definitely check them all out for yourself! This other pin is for my next favorite place in the house (besides my cozy, comfy bed), where my other important things live...the kitchen! I absolutely LOVE to cook...never without my friend Vino of course :) The problem with moving into a place with a smaller kitchen is the lack of space to keep all of my pots and pans.  This pin blew my mind! How I never thought of it before is beyond me....it is so simple and obvious! Using magazine organizers to hold and divide your pots and pans!!! It looks effortless (and it was!), but it is also a super frugal idea! FYI: Ikea also has a similar product that holds the pans and lids vertically.  I got a few for my Tupperware lids! Mind blown? I thought so. 

The last featured pin is not exactly a moving, or organization idea, but I still think its amazing and have to share...obvi!  As I mentioned, I love to cook (it's probably my favorite hobby) and I hate when a recipe calls for fresh herbs, but only a small amount.  The grocery store only sells it by the bushel and I hate seeing it go to waste!  That is why I am in love with this pin!  I can have my own organic, homegrown herbs AND I don't have to worry about under/over watering them!  I recycled some of my wine bottles and threw in some rope...voila! P.S. it also makes my kitchen smell so good!

Would you like to have more 'featured pins' posts? Lemme know what you want to read about in the comments section below! 

What to look for next week!?! 

Don't miss out on your chance to win FREE shoes for your and a friend!!! Make sure to like our Facebook page and posts so that you can share some of our stuff to enter to win! Contest ends July 1st!!!

Are you an outgoing, smart, shoe-crazed college student?? We will be accepting applications for our Groove Girl internship program starting tomorrow! Don't miss out on a great opportunity, college credit, and super fun experience this fall semester! Keep an eye on our Facebook to know more deets!

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