Last year was an uncertain year for us all, obviously, but as we move into December that uncertainty seems to be coming back around for many of us, thanks to Covid. The small joys of Christmas are still on my mind, despite that precariousness, and if there’s one thing that feels concrete for me, no matter life’s circumstances, it’s that Christmas means sparkles. Ruby Shoo’s Rhea heels and Alberta handbag set certainly has sparkles to offer in abundance.

Shoes: Black Sequin Rhea heels gifted by Ruby Shoo
Bag: Black Sequin Alberta bag gifted by Ruby Shoo
Cape: Old season Collectif
Dress: Burgundy Midge Dress gifted by Unique Vintage (A/L)

The black sequin Rhea shoes and Alberta bag set make for an explosion of texture. On the shoes alone the sequins are a clear facet of that texture, sparkling as they do in a pale pink-silver against the black of the rest of the shoe, but there’s also the textured material the sequins are stitched onto, which reminds me of tinsel (that’s the best way I can think to explain it, and even that is inadequate.) Furthermore, the triple-layered bow is made of a lizard effect material (think faux croc, but with shiny tiny dots instead,) with the bow’s centre trimmed by two rows of small silver beads. Beneath the bow is a black faux suede band, which contrasts all the twinkle and shimmer with a matte effect, echoed in the faux suede low heel and a second matching band that curves around the cap of the heel.

Altogether it means contrasting facets compete–suede against sequins, black against silver, beads against bows–creating a party of a shoe that is full of fun for this time of year. When I look at this set I can’t help but feel my sister Sarah would love them, and at least two of my nieces too, and that makes me smile.

On the Alberta bag, the same materials as above create a perfect matching set; the tinselly material topped by scattered sequins covers the bulk of the bag in a large circle on both sides, encircled by the faux suede which also covers the handle, zip pulls, and the removable shoulder strap. The zip and other hardware aspects are gold toned. Inside, there’s enough room for all the essentials I would need to take on a night out or for a daytime event, with more generosity of space offered than a standard clutch bag. Plus, there’s the fact that this is a round box bag, which I must pause to highlight because that kind of bag is absolutely one of my favourites. I have 4 other bags of this shape, most of them faux croc, so it’s nice to add one to my collection which offers something a little different in regards to finish and style.

Turning back to the Rhea shoe, one of the lovely things about it is its modest height heel. I can no longer wear tall heels for any length of time due to suffering through a bout of Plantar Fasciitis a few years back, but the Rhea heel is only 55mm tall, a thick sturdy heel that is easy to walk in. The comfort levels offered are further supported by the cushioned insole, which is covered in a dark floral print. I asked for these Rhea shoes in a size 7, my standard UK size, and they’re a truly perfect fit. They’re so comfortable I’m eyeing up Ruby Shoo’s other low heeled styles to see what else I’d like to add to my collection.

The Rhea black sequin heels come in UK sizes 3-9 (EU sizes 36-42,) and in one other patterned finish. The Alberta handbag comes in this matching black sequinned colourway, or 10 other fabrics and patterns. Ruby Shoo ship worldwide and have stockists all over the globe.

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Disclaimer: The shoes and bag featured in this review were gifted to me by Ruby Shoo with no set expectations. The dress featured as part of this outfit was gifted to me by Unique Vintage in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are truthful and my own, with no input from any of the companies listed or any other individuals. Items marked with (A/L) are Affiliate Links that would earn me a small commission from your order if used. 

COVID-19 NOTE: These pictures were taken alone and safely in a secluded outdoors area with no other individuals present, thus practising strict social distancing measures in an effort to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.