Princess Grace

Just opened at the Michener Museum is a new exhibit all about the life and times of Philly gal Grace Kelly.  From Philadelphia to Monaco: Grace Kelly Beyond the Icon traces the unique path Grace Kelly took from Philadelphia to Monaco, inviting viewers to discover the life of Grace Kelly (1929-1982) beyond the fairy tale. This exhibition brings us up close to the stage and screen legend, fashion icon, princess, United Nations advocate for children, and international spokesperson for arts and culture.

Did I mention fashion icon?  Because she didn’t mess around, fashion-wise.  “Romantic simplicity” is a term I’ve heard used for her style, so in her honor here are some shoes she might have enjoyed:

Romantic and simple!  The Malika2 by B Brian Atwood is a pointed toe pump of nude leather overlain with black floral lace.  The 3.25-inch heel is solid black—nice contrast, I think!  Yours for $325 from Bloomingdale’s.

The Jewelery Couture Bow d’Orsay by Valentino uses the same nude and black palette as the Malika2, but in a very different way.  The body is covered with black satin, and the peep toe is adorned with a gold and crystal bow.  The heel is 4.25 inches tall, and there’s a half-inch platform as well.  Also available in all gold; your choice for $995 from Nordstrom.

The Davida by Badgley Mischka is a vision in blue.  (Or black, or white, or gold, or silver.)  The satin outer finishes in little folds above the peep toe, bound on either side by beautiful jewels.  The finishing touch is the 3.75-inch heel.  Love!  Find them at Macy’s for $225.

If the Zenadia Soir Jeweled Velvet Cutout Pumps by Paul Andrew isn’t fit for a princess, I don’t know what is.  The red velvet outer is meticulously crafted (look at the pointy shaping!) and decked out with rhinestones and sequins… these are just too beautiful.  Find them at Saks for $1295.

From Philadelphia to Monaco: Grace Kelly Beyond the Icon runs from now until January 26.  Tickets are $18 for adults ($16 for college students with ID) and include admission to the rest of the Michener.