Posted in A Day in the Life, Fashion, Shoes, Shopping, tagged access hollywood, dsw shoes, Fall shoe trends, kit hoover, shoe expert kara birkenstock, Shoes, style expert kara birkenstock, your gal kara on September 27, 2012| Leave a Comment »
A Day On Set: Access Hollywood & DSW Shoot
I had the pleasure of working with the lovely Kit Hoover from Access Hollywood yesterday! We gabbed about Fall shoe trends from my favorite place, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse!
Kit and I had a blast talking about all the must have boots and pumps – from western booties to ladylike heels, DSW is your go-to spot for all your Fall footwear needs! Check out Access Hollywood next Thursday, October 4th at 7:30pm to see the segment. Happy Shoe Shopping!
Posted in Awards Season 2012, Fashion, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, tagged burgandy trend, claire danes, emmys 2012 best dressed, emmys 2012 fashion review, emmys fashion, heidi klum, julia louis dreyfus, julie bowen, kat dennings, seafoam, shoe expert kara birkenstock, sofia vergara, style expert kara birkenstock, tina fey, yellow dress trend on September 24, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Emmys 2012 Best Dressed
TV’s biggest stars did not disappoint last night on the Emmy’s red carpet, proving that you can still be elegantly chic in 100 degree weather! Perhaps it was the scorching temps that inspired our favorite celebs to don the colors of spring and summer? No matter the reason, the following style savvy divas brought an unexpected, fresh take to the Emmys red carpet, and did so in flawless fashion!
Yellow was the biggest trend on the red carpet, with stars like Julianne Moore and Kaley Cuoco rockin’ this bold color. But it was Emmy winners Julie Bowen and Claire Danes who really took home the citron cake last night!
Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series winner, Julie Bowen, wowed in a fluorescent yellow Monique Lhuillier gown with cascading ruching. Her sexy hair and bronze skin added to the sheer perfection of her ensemble.
Mom-to-be and Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series winner, Claire Danes, looked striking in a canary Lanvin strapless column gown and Barbara Bui heels.
Shades of green were also a highlight on the Emmys red carpet. Heidi Klum was in true supermodel fashion, looking stunning in a sheer seafoam gown by Alexandre Vauthier. Her thigh high slits were complimented by metallic Charlotte Olympia sandals.
Modern Family star, Sofia Vergara, showed off her best assets in a dazzling Zuhair Murad gown that fit her like a glove! Topping off her emerald ensemble with over 175 carats of Neil Lane jewels, Sofia demonstrated once again that curvy women really do have more fun!
With the start of fall officially on Saturday, it was no surprise that the jeweled toned hues of the season would make an appearance on the red carpet. 30 Rock funny lady, Tina Fey, looked gorgeous in autumn’s “it” color – burgundy. Her strapless Vivienne Westwood gown was a sophisticated choice, with a corseted bodice and ornate gold embellishments.
2 Broke Girls star, Kat Dennings, was ravishing in a wine hued goddess gown by J. Mendel. Her fair skin, raven hair and matching lips were the perfect complements to this beautiful look.
Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series winner, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, wore a custom Vera Wang mermaid gown in a rich, copper shade. Her ultra-feminine dress with sheer overlays was reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour.
Posted in Fashion, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable fall fashion, ankle boots, best new shoe trends 2012, best way to wear leather, burgandy trend, cable knit sweater, chelsea boots, fall 2012 shoe trends, fall boots, fall fashion must haves 2012, fall fashion trends, Fall shoe trends, granny chic, ladylike fashion, leather accents, leather dresses, menswear inspiration, oxblood, style shoe expert kara birkenstock, western boots on September 21, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Fall is officially here! No matter how unpredictable the weather has been where you live, it’s time to start transitioning your wardrobe for the season ahead. There is so much to look forward to this autumn – from refined, ladylike pieces to those with bold, menswear inspiration. Adding new items to your closet can be a daunting and expensive task, especially when there are so many beautiful options to choose from. Luckily, I’ve broken down the season’s strongest trends below, with tips on how to incorporate them with the clothes you already have!
Burgundy
Burgundy, oxblood, wine, plum, or garnet – no matter what you call it, this rich hue is a fall fashion favorite! A chic blazer or sheath is a stylish and versatile choice for sophisticates, ideal for the office or a night on the town. A pair of jewel toned skinnies is a great alternative to blue jeans, and can be paired with a simple tank or a dressy blouse.
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Wear burgundy pieces with both neutral and vivid colors, such as black, ebony, green and gold. Stunning accessories are also a simple way to make an outfit, from top handle handbags and t-strap pumps to sparkling baubles.
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Leather
Leather has always been an essential item in the world of fashion. For fall however, the supple fabric is getting a feminine makeover! No longer tough or overly sexy, this season’s leather is ladylike and very wearable. Leather accents on an everyday top are an unexpected and modern twist, an easy choice for layering under a suit for work or with pants and heels for an evening look.
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Leather skirts are also on trend, from fuller a-lines to sleek pencil skirts with geometric illusions that help to define your waist. The key to wearing leather is to mix materials – a tweed sheath with leather detailing is the epitome of understated elegance.
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Granny Chic
The Granny Chic trend is all about covering up, a welcome return to the demure days of fashion’s past. Taking cues from Nana’s closet, this look is refined and modest. Chunky, cable knit sweaters (both oversized and cropped) are perfect for those chilly autumn days. Pair them with jeans and leather riding boots and you’ll have your go to get up for the season!
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Blouses and dresses with high necklines, knee length hems and long sleeves are both prim and polished. Add a bit of drama with ornate floral designs and embellishments. Intricate textures such as tweed and brocade also pair back nicely to both casual and dressy outfits.
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Ankle Boots
This fall, the must have shoe to add to your collection is a pair of Ankle Boots! For a fashion forward vibe, opt for the Chelsea Boot. This mod style has a laidback, 60s inspiration, and is paired best with skinnies, cropped pants, or a mini with tights.
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Western Boots are also making a statement this fall, with leather and suede options in all colors. This casual shoe is best with denim, but you can also offset an ultra-girly ensemble with chunkier styles. For the most classic look, a Stiletto Bootie is sexy and versatile, perfect with everything from pants to dresses.
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Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, Travel, tagged best flip flops, designer collaborations, designer shoes for less, missoni loves havaianas flip flops, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, summer must have items, summer sandals 2012, your gal kara on July 10, 2012| Leave a Comment »
GAL Find – Missoni Loves Havaianas
Don’t these fab sandals just scream summer!? My latest GAL find are these bright, limited edition “Missoni Loves Havaianas” flip flops (Nordstrom, $70).
A stylish combination of two of my favorite brands, these are definitely on my summer wish list! Not only are these flip flops comfortable, water resistant, and super chic, but they’re an affordable designer shoe that won’t break the bank. Rock these iconic Missoni printed thongs with everything from a bikini and shorts to a maxi dress. They’d also be the perfect shoe to pack for your summer getaway! Look at the cute travel bag that comes with each purchase!
This GAL find is selling out fast, so scoop them up while you can! Happy Shopping!
Posted in Charity, GAL Charity, Shoes, tagged charity, donate shoes, gal charity, shoe expert kara birkenstock gives back, soles4souls, style expert kara birkenstock on June 7, 2012| Leave a Comment »
100 “Likes” = $100 for Soles4Souls = 100 Pairs of Shoes For Those in Need
I love to support charitable organizations like Soles4Souls, which is a renowned non-profit that collects shoes for those in need around the world. When I first learned about Soles4Souls, I couldn’t believe that 300 million children across the globe are without shoes!
Shoes are a basic and essential need for everyday life, but many of us take them for granted. As a fashion expert, I know I can say that I own far too many shoes! This is why I strive to give back, by donating my gently worn or new shoes to Soles4Souls.
In an effort to raise awareness about this wonderful organization, I decided to start a campaign on my Facebook fan page. For each new “like” on www.facebook.com/yourgalkara, I’ll donate $1 to Soles4Souls.
My initial goal is to gain 100 new “likes” so I can donate $100 to the charity. This $100 will provide 100 pairs of shoes to those in need! It’s that simple! Please show your support by visiting my Facebook fan page and clicking “like.” Help me to spread the word so we can make a difference in this world, one pair of shoes at a time!
Posted in Beauty, Charitable Finds, Family, Fashion, Gift Guides, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, tagged celeb inspired fashion, celebrities that give back, fashionable mothers day gifts, go red for women products, jean roth, josie maran, josie maran model citizen, last minute mothers day gifts, mothers day gifts under $100, pure argan oil, rotem gear le, shoe expert kara birkenstock, soho living bamboo candle, style expert kara birkenstock, TOMS hearts MOMS, TOMS mothers day shoes, TOMS shoes on May 4, 2012| 2 Comments »
Mother’s Day Gifts Under $100
This Mother’s Day, a memorable gift doesn’t have to cost a fortune. No matter if you’re shopping for your mom, wife, or female role model in your life, the following gifts will surely bring a smile to her face! Show her the love and respect that she deserves with these thoughtful gifts under $100!
Unique Fashion
Unique fashion finds are hard to come by, but with the new Rotem Gear LE collection, you’ll find handcrafted artisan items that mom will absolutely adore! LA based designer Jean Roth has expanded her eclectic assortment of graphic tees to launch this limited edition line of tops, cardigans, and scarves that are inspired by the beauty of nature.
This Burgundy Scarf ($32) is made of soft, silky pima cotton, and the delicate Agapanthus design is derived from Roth’s own botanical photography.
What also makes this a GAL find? This luxurious scarf (in green) was recently gifted to the most stylish celeb mom on the planet, Sarah Jessica Parker! Use my exclusive coupon code GALKARA to save 10% through May 13th!
Natural Beauty
Give mom the gift of natural beauty that gives back, with Josie Maran’s 100% Pure Argan Oil Model Citizen Editions ($52). The eco-conscious beauty mogul has teamed up with her closest model friends to create three limited edition versions of her most popular product.
Maran’s revolutionary Argan Oil is luxurious, lightweight, and 100% organic, and can be used to moisturize, heal and condition everything from your face and body, to cuticles and spilt ends. Maran, along with supermodels Petra Nemcova and Angela Lindvall, designed special artwork for bottles of her 100% Pure Argan Oil.
For every bottle purchased, 10% of the proceeds go to organizations in need, including Women for Women International, Happy Hearts Fund, and Healthy Child Healthy World. Each Model Citizen purchase also comes with a bonus gift from the Josie Maran Cosmetics collection!
Heart Healthy Chef
The American Heart Association’s “Go Red For Women” campaign has been raising much needed awareness of heart disease in women since 2004. Empower mom to take charge of her heart health with a gift from the Go Red shop!
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The Go Red Rhinestud Apron ($29) and Eco Utensil Set ($25) would be perfect for the master chef in your life. While she cooks up a storm, she’ll be reminded to put her cardiovascular health first! The “Go Red For Women” campaign will continue to educate mom and give her the tools she needs to lead a heart healthy life. To save an extra 10% off your purchase, like the “Go Red For Women” Facebook page!
Feel Good Footwear
Every woman likes a great pair of shoes, but mom will really love that her gift of TOMS Shoes will also help a child in need. Continuing on with their world renowned efforts and brand mission of One for One, TOMS Shoes is now available in chic wedges and ballet flats.
These Black Canvas Wedges ($69) are the perfect combination of style and versatility. Mom will surely appreciate the comfort of the medium heel and soft, suede insole.
If she’d prefer a flat, these two tone Burlap Ballet Flats ($79) will be her new go to shoe. The classic colors and blend of natural fabrics can be worn with everything from jeans to a dress!
For a limited time, TOMS is also offering an online exclusive version of their classic style with a loving message for Mother’s Day! The TOMS Hearts MOMS shoe ($54) is available in navy and white, and for every purchase, TOMS will give the same pair to a mom in need across the globe.
Spa Scents
If mom can’t get to the spa, the soothing scent of this SoHo Living Bamboo Candle ($9) will instantly take her there from the comfort of her home! There’s nothing like a warm, flickering candle to help you relax and feel rejuvenated. 
The clean and tranquil fragrance of this affordable candle rivals those that cost five times the price. And since they’re made of a long-lasting paraffin wax, mom won’t have to worry about being left in the dark as these beauties burn for up to 60 hours (really!).
Posted in Charitable Finds, Family, Fashion, Kids Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, tagged affordable fashion, avon empowerment necklace, celebrities that give back, celebrity products that give back, charitable finds, design your own shoes, fashionable charitable finds, iheartkids, milk & honey shoes, reese witherspoon, save americas mustangs. rachael ray, shoe expert kara birkenstock, shop for a cause, soles4souls, style expert kara birkenstock, three dots scarf, yum-o organization on March 30, 2012| 5 Comments »
Fashionable Finds That Give Back – Spring 2012
While we all love to shop for the latest trends and fashion finds, it’s empowering to know that certain purchases can make a difference in the world. We should all strive to be socially responsible shoppers, and with so many products available, it’s now easier than ever. Here are a few of my favorite fashion finds that really give back!
Avon Empowerment Necklace
Avon Ambassador and Oscar winning actress, Reese Witherspoon, recently unveiled the “Empowerment Circle of Support Necklace” ($5, Avon.com) to raise funds for the Avon Speak Out Against Domestic Violence program. The delicate silver-tone necklace features the infinity symbol, representing the unlimited potential a woman can achieve without violence in her life. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the necklace will be donated to the Avon Foundation, for programs dedicated to ending domestic violence against women. This beautiful piece of jewelry is an affordable way to support this worthy cause affecting women all over the globe.
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iHeartKids Tee
Soles4Souls and iHeartKids have teamed up to help those in need of one basic necessity, shoes. The two organizations recently launched the T-Shirt Project, a design competition giving kids of all ages the opportunity to submit their unique artwork for consideration. A colorful collection of some of the best drawings is now available for purchase online! A portion of the profits from the limited edition iHeartKids Tee ($20 -$22, iHeartKids.com) will benefit Soles4Souls. By purchasing one shirt (available in kids and adult sizes), five pairs of shoes will be given to deserving people all around the world.
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Three Dots Scarf
Three Dots (a fashion brand known for their luxurious contemporary knitwear) and Saving America’s Mustangs have come together to bring much needed awareness to the mistreatment of wild horses in the USA. By purchasing their American-made, Watercolor Silk Scarf ($60, ShopThreeDots.com), half of the purchase price will be donated to Saving America’s Mustangs. Funds raised from the sale of this versatile scarf (available in two colors) will go towards the preservation and protection of this iconic American animal.
Rachael Ray’s Milk & Honey Shoes
Foodie and TV Personality Rachael Ray teamed up with Milk & Honey Shoes to raise money for a cause close to her heart, the Yum-o Organization! Rachael combined her two loves (shoes and food) to create this fabulous chocolate brown platform pump with snakeskin print. For each purchase of “The Rachael Heel” ($195, MilkandHoneyShoes.com), 100% of the profits will be donated to this wonderful organization that empowers kids and families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking.
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable fashion finds, best new fashion trends, big floral prints, bright jewelry accessories, color block handbags, shoe expert kara birkenstock, silk wide leg pants, spring 2012 accessory trends, spring 2012 fashion trends, spring 2012 fashion under $100, spring 2012 shopping, style expert kara birkenstock on March 16, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Spring 2012 Fashion Must Haves Under $100
Fashion must haves come and go, but one thing you can count on is my round up of affordable options so you can be stylish without breaking the bank! Color is back this spring, in fun and whimsical ways sure to brighten your mood and lift your spirits! Whether you try one or all of the following trends, rest assured that your purchase will take you all the way through summer with these versatile fashion finds.
Silky Wide Legs are the new “it” pants for spring! This flowy silhouette is the perfect combination of style and comfort. With the ease of a maxi skirt but the versatility of a pant, these must haves will be your go to slacks for the season. Opt for lightweight materials in wide leg, flared or trouser styles in bright solid colors or festive prints.
Pair these blue tribal pants ($89, Nordstrom) with a fitted tank and wedges for a cool, laidback vibe.
Or tuck a structured blouse in to these classic polka dot palazzos ($88, Nordstrom) for a chic office look. Remember, it’s all about proportion so wear fitted tops to balance the roominess of the pants. Also, choose wedges or heels to lengthen your look!
Bold Floral Prints will be everywhere this spring, from flirty dresses and tops to fashion forward pants. While small, dainty flowers are still in, it’s all about big florals to make a bold, eye catching statement this season!
This Asian inspired, pink Kimono Blouse ($59.50, Victoria’s Secret) is sweet and sexy, and would look great with skinny jeans and heels. The billowy blouse is easy to wear and an ideal lightweight cover-up for the warmer months ahead.
This multi-colored, floral sundress ($59.50, Victoria’s Secret) would be perfect for a tropical getaway, or even a springtime brunch with friends. The smocked, strapless style is super comfortable while the fit and flare shape complements all figures.
Spice up your springtime wardrobe with Bright Accessories! Festive jewelry in colorful shades are a great way to mix it up and show off your personality through fashion.
Add a dash of sass to your everyday look with these tri-colored Sea Shell Earrings ($5.80, Forever 21). These vibrant earrings will add a splash of color to everything from jeans and a tee to a pretty maxi dress.
You can’t go wrong with bangle bracelets, and this multi-colored set is no exception! Available in 4 color ways, these affordable bangles ($6.80, Forever 21) are just the right accessory to complete any look!
There’s no better way to incorporate the Color-Block trend into your spring wardrobe than in a new handbag! Classic shapes are getting a modern update with refined color combinations and a dose of the hottest hues of the season.
This structured ladylike purse ($32, Lulu’s) is neutral in shades of brown and tan, while the hint of orange adds just the right amount of color for spring. Made of vegan leather, this color-block bag looks and feels way more than it actually costs!
For a versatile handbag that will go with everything, try this black and tan satchel ($42, Lulu’s) with gold hardware. This two-tone bag will take you from day to night, and is large enough to fit all your essential items!
Posted in Awards Season 2012, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Style Tips, tagged celebrity red carpet style, jennifer lopez oscars 2012, meryl streep lanvin oscars 2012, michelle williams oscars 2012, milla jovovich oscars 2012, octavia spencer tadashi shoji oscars 2012, oscars 2012 best dressed, oscars 2012 fashion trends, oscars 2012 red carpet arrivals, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock on March 1, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Oscars 2012 Best Dressed
The hottest celebrities hit the Oscars red carpet in impeccable style Sunday night, drawing a memorable close to tinsel town’s award season! On Hollywood’s biggest night, the best dressed stars channeled the simplicity and glamour of the 1920’s film era, paying homage to the silent but golden winner of the evening, “The Artist.”
17-time Academy Award nominee Meryl Streep was an image of Oscar gold in her custom, eco-friendly Lanvin long sleeve gown. The deep neckline and asymmetrical draping added to the drama of the Best Actress winner’s look, while her Salvatore Ferragamo peep toe pumps and Lanvin clutch were the ideal touches to complete her ensemble.
Best Supporting Actress winner Octavia Spencer was the belle of the ball in a creamy metallic Tadashi Shoji gown with dazzling embellishments. “The Help” actress wore Tadashi to many red carpet events this award season, but this short sleeve gown took top honors. I love how the perfectly placed crystals cinched in her waist to show off her beautiful, curvaceous figure!
Best Actress nominee Michelle Williams ended her awards season run on a high note in a gorgeous silk and organza Louis Vuitton strapless gown. Her fiery orange dress featured a feminine peplum waist, one of the hottest fashion trends for spring. The “My Week with Marilyn” star finished off her exquisite look with a 30-carat brilliant cut necklace and vintage brooch by Fred Leighton.
Presenter Milla Jovovich looked elegant in a silvery white, sequined Elie Saab Couture one shoulder gown. The “Resident Evil” star topped off her look with Jacob & Co. jewels and an Edie Parker clutch. Although it was her first walk down the Oscars red carpet, Milla looked like a pro as her delicate gown sparkled and showcased her slim frame.
Presenter Jennifer Lopez definitely turned heads on stage in her sexy and shimmery Zuhair Murad long sleeve gown. The plunging neckline and seductive cutouts complimented JLo’s flawless figure, reminding us why only she can pull off such a daring dress. Wardrobe malfunction aside, nobody can doubt that Jennifer looked stunning in this body hugging gown!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable shoe trends, ankle strap heels, celebrity shoes for less, color block shoes, dsw, endless, payless, platform pumps, shoe expert kara birkenstock, shoes for spring 2012, spring 2012 fashion trends, spring 2012 shoe trends, style expert kara birkenstock, wood soled heels on February 23, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Spring 2012 Shoe Preview
The warmer months of spring are just around the corner! To get us inspired for the pleasant weather ahead, it’s time to reveal some of the most desired shoes for spring 2012. The biggest footwear trends will make all fashionistas smile, with bold colors, boho materials and versatile styling. There’s a must have shoe for every woman, from confident trendsetters to refined sophisticates. Ladies, it’s time to put your best foot forward by stepping out in the following spring shoe trends!
Color-Block
If you’re a trendsetter, color-block shoes will be your favorite trend for spring! This standout look combines colors in fun, geometric designs. Whether you prefer sandals or stilettos, there is a color-block shoe for you!
Make a statement in these sexy cobalt and fuchsia platform pumps (Payless, $29.99), which would look great with an LBD.
For a flirty feel, pair these coral and lime wedges (Payless, $54.99) with a girly, floral dress.
Add a pop of color to your favorite jeans and tee by sporting these teal textured loafers (Payless, $44.99) with black and coral trim.
Wood Soles
If you’re a bohemian girl at heart, you’ll love the 70’s inspired wooden platforms, wedges, and sandals for spring! These funky shoes are the perfect combination of fashion and function. Not only will they go with everything, but the neutral colors will lengthen your legs making you feel tall and beautiful!
For a relaxed look, pair these woven brown sandals (Endless, $99) with shorts and a tank.
For a disco-chic feel, try these multi-colored snakeskin peep toe pumps (DSW, $89.95) with a pair of silk wide leg pants (another huge fashion trend for spring!).
And for the ideal go to shoe for every occasion, wear these taupe leather wedges (Endless, $87.99) with everything from denim to a printed maxi!
Ankle Straps
If you’re a classic fashionista, you’ll absolutely swoon for ankle strap heels! A ladylike rendition of the stiletto, these shoes are elegant and sophisticated. For the most feminine look, opt for a thin ankle strap.
These nude and black patent beauties (DSW, $59.95) would be a stunning choice for the office or a springtime wedding.
For a bolder look, try these geometric textured platform sandals with a wider ankle strap (DSW, $69.95). The color combo is classic while the tribal texture gives the shoe a distinctive edge.
For a trendy but sporty look, these heels have a thick elastic ankle strap (Nine West, $89), making them a stylish and comfortable choice for busy gals on the go!
Kara Birkenstock 