It’s that time of year when young women everywhere, diplomas in hand, take off their caps and gowns and think, “Uh-oh, now I have to get a job!” Maybe you’ve witnessed that look of optimism mixed with fear on the face of your daughter, niece, or little sister. Why not give her a boost of style as she starts pounding the pavement? We all know how feeling confident can give a job applicant an extra edge during an interview. So, help her look and feel the part with a graduation gift that reminds her she has your support every step of the way!

Nothing beats a great pair of shoes when on the job hunt, and no one designs better go-all-day heels than Chie Mihara.

We love Chie’s Frederica because it’s perfectly professional while still allowing its wearer to express her individual style. (It’s guaranteed to make a gal memorable!) Plus, as interesting as the color combo is, the sum still works as a neutral that goes with countless outfits.

Another essential for a graduate-turned-job-seeker is a good bag, and 49 Square Miles Winans Hobo is just the ticket.

Less stern that a briefcase, this wonderfully supple leather bag, nevertheless, has the capacity to hold everything a woman needs in a day. For instance, the Winans easily accommodates file folders containing C.V.’s and work samples, so those documents don’t come out rumpled and dog-eared when handed to a prospective boss.

Sometimes the only thing needed to take a gal from feeling so-so to feeling like a million bucks is slipping on the perfect pair of earrings.

These drop-dead gorgeous Jamie Joseph “Nest” pearl earrings are sure to make your favorite graduate smile, not to mention they are the epitome of versatility—dressy enough for networking but casual enough for hanging out on the weekend. Plus, a nest is a lovely way to remind your gal she can always come home even after she’s out flying on her own wings.

Maybe you’re the graduate and want to drop a few hints? If so, why not create a “favorites” file at Ped or take advantage of Ped’s “share with a friend” feature? Both will allow you to give a nudge to those who may feel flummoxed when it comes to getting you the right gift (hello, Dad).

Of course, if push comes to shove and you just can’t decide what to give, one thing is always welcomed by women everywhere: a Ped gift certificate! No matter what you choose, something from Ped is sure to help your sweet graduate get ahead!

Is everyone out there as happy as I am about spring? When the trees leaf out and the grass turns green, all I want to do is leave my dark clothes in the closet and wear something light and breezy. That goes for my shoes and accessories, too. White, cream, and light metallics are so summery and fresh. (And for those of you who insist on not wearing white until after Easter, well, gals, it’s this Sunday, so you’re almost there…) Think bridal showers. Think afternoon tea parties on the verandah. Think dining al fresco with your sweetheart. Even if you usually wear all black all the time, why not surprise your friends and colleagues by doing the reverse? It’s fun to shake things up! Here are a few of Ped’s favorite ways to lighten the mood:

No, you’re not dreaming—Ped now offers Fiorentini + Baker’s Eternity boot in white (well, blanco in Italian)!!! Don’t you love how it exudes retro flair, calling to mind 1960s go-go boots, and yet is still so modern and badass? Think how cute this style would look with a light cotton dress or skirt! CUTE!

But if you prefer something more traditionally lady-like, Chie Mihara has your number:

Feminine without a hint of prissiness, Chie’s Levante t-strap sandal has such a sweet vintage air with its cream-colored woven leather. I especially like how the toe straps resemble flower petals folding in toward the center. Plus, the lift up front makes this heel a comfortable pleasure to wear.

For an edgier, artier sandal, consider the bronze version of Cydwoq’s fabulous Elect:

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The silvery edges of the faux-crocodile leather take the Elect’s gladiator-esque style into the stratosphere. Wear this number to a gallery opening, and we guarantee all eyes won’t only be on the art!

Maybe what you really need, though, is a new bag to take you through the warm-weather months. Look no further than 49 Square Miles Winans Hobo:

If you haven’t touched a 49 Square Miles bag, you are in for a treat! The leather of this carry-all is as creamy and delicious as its color! Also, although you can’t fully see the shoulder strap in the photo above, it loops through the bag and intertwines like a lovely vine (check “views” at the Ped site to see what I mean).

Speaking of vines, how breathtaking is Jamie Joseph’s Cultured Pearl on a Vine ring?

As lovely as a full moon on a spring night, this ring combines the smooth opulence of a pearl set in 14k gold with an organic vine of sterling silver. It’s the perfect treat for celebrating the return of warm weather!