t’s not yet Independence Day, yet already we are starting to get inklings of how we want to look come fall. Now, Yves Saint Laurent gives us more than a hint that the seasons will change before we know it. Their famed “Tribute” shoe has taken a sober turn. It feels like just yesterday we were fawning over the metallic gold sandal. (Well, maybe because it practically was!) From shiny to matte, strapped to laced, so is the natural order of fashion. Here is a sleek, refined, paired-down oxford-bootie that means business. Maybe even too temperate? A thin, concise lace-up front is surrounded by a smooth sea of black leather. Fortunately, the shoe-boot is so sculpted – with a toe that treads the narrow line between pointy and round – that it announces the emphasis is on the intelligent silhouette. And while there’s nothing crazy in the back, a row of perfect stitching sets your heel on a pedestal. Trust me, what looks austere at the moment will be on your wish list come September. On Net-a-Porter for $1,085.

Pair with: You might be serious, but you’re no dowdy librarian! Flirt it up with Fausto Puglisi‘s flared wool-crepe skater skirt, in the transitional shade of pale aqua. Much more schoolgirl than schoolteacher. On Luisa Via Roma for $1,057.

The post Yves Saint Laurent “Tribute” Lace-Up Leather Ankle Boots: A Tribute to Change appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Something you might not know about me: I’m a superhero junkie. Naturally, I think capes go with everything, and I only wish I had the guts to strut around in one. But a cape on a shoe? That hadn’t occurred to me. This is the kind creative genius that can only come from Alex Wang. So beyond thinking outside the box, he is someone who doesn’t even know or care what the box is!

Most recently, his genius has been expressed in the form of a skinny patent leather-strapped sandal with the super flourish of a removable cape. In no way does it interfere with the function of the shoe, unlike impulsive embellishments that make walking impossible. While the shiny black version is too Bat Girl, demurely festive metallic blush is the perfect fancy color for a fancy cape look. Strange, intriguing, exciting – and sure to garner a few enthusiastic remarks, I can’t get over it. As if my reverence of Wang wasn’t high already, this ready-for-take-off shoe shoots the young designer through the stratosphere. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $495.

Pair with: Every provocative superhero needs a slick pair of leggings to dash and flash around in. VPL‘s matte-black “Schlemer” pant is just the downplayed juxtaposition to a metallic heel. At Barneys New York for $119 (from $295).

The post Alexander Wang “Fabiana” Patent Leather Cape Sandals: It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Alex Wang! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Get your Choos on, ladies! If this smoking hot shoe doesn’t inspire you to do some Choos shopping, nothing will. It also might inspire a shadow of fear in some, and rightfully so. With countless skinny straps and a crazy-tall 5.5″ heel in a fleshy nude shade with patent leather trim, it doesn’t get much more va-va-voom than this. So it also looks like it might very well make my toes go numb, cause me to have whiplash, and possibly give me sciatica for life. I’m not scared! A shoe this sexy is worth the pain.

If straps to the infinity power, alternated with hints of suggestive mesh aren’t enough to lure you in, just check out the back. I love the illusion of a shimmering gold stiletto on a platform. This is like two alluring shoes (and a double set of high heels) in one! On My Theresa for $749 (from $1,495).

Pair with: A hot pink dress is a surprising choice, and you simply cannot go wrong with Antonio Berardi. This box-pleated frock brings a girlish element to your sex bomb shoes.

Antonio Berardi Box-Pleat Stretch Cotton-Crepe Dress, $927 (from $1,545).

The post Jimmy Choo “Ellie” Wedges: The Pleasure Principle appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I can always count on Edmundo Castillo to make me do a double take. Sometimes, on second glance, I see where the details are off. It wouldn’t take a lingering look to detect what’s wrong with this picture, as this is no subtle sneaker. The detective work comes in deciphering whether these kicks are adorned in feather or fur. No matter – neither are good and neither make sense.

I have to hand it to the guy for creatively, however misplaced it is. A feather works on a high heel as a flamboyant embellishment, where the flair is apropos. When it’s peeping out of your sneaker, you’re just going to look like you’ve been doing some duck hunting and weren’t watching where you were stepping. The sneaker itself isn’t flamboyant enough to warrant such a flourish, anyway. Off-kilter, the style is too mannish, and the asymmetrical top and wrap-around laces do nothing to enhance it. But no publicity is bad publicity, right? It does encourage me to keep a lookout for what Castillo has up his kooky sleeve next. And that is an achievement in itself. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $595.

The post Edmundo Castillo Feather Trim Sneakers: A Feather in His Cap? appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s no coincidence that each and every fall, we witness the return of the leopard-print trend. That’s because it never really goes out of vogue! Why would it? There is no greater, more stimulating, sizzling neutral than the well-orchestrated leopard print. Especially when it’s introduced through the high-heeled pump. You get to show your wild side, without going buck wild.

Giuseppe Zanotti turns up the heat on his dyed calf-hair peep-toe ($850), a five-inch heel that’s sure to make you one leggy jungle cat. Brian Atwood‘s pump ($770) is more paired down, though just as glamorous, while Pencey‘s pony-hair slingback ($285) is a frugal snob take with the same amount of spot appeal. Want to dignify your animal print? Jimmy Choo‘s kitten heel ($795) says “purr,” not “roar!” Get your paws on them now and wear them forever.

The post Leopard High Heels: Fall’s New Spots appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I know what you’re going to say, suede makes you think of the colder months, not the warm air that is rolling in around us this very minute, but summer is a time to play by your own rules, and if those rules say wear these fantastic suede shoes in the summer because they are that awesome, then by, God, who are we to say no?

The Fendi Gray and Black Suede Cut-Out Platform Pumps are sex kitten fabulous without shouting it with patent, or in your face colors. They just subtly saunter into the room; wink at you (while holding a red lipstick-marked champagne glass) and slide out like a mysterious minx. I would go all out with these with some Kelly Bergin leather shorts and a JCrew sequined tank. You slip into the suede beauties easily with the back-zip closure (which adds even more oomph of sexy). The heels are a reasonable 4 1/2″ with a platform making these curvy cut-outs as sexy as Beyonce in a cat suit. Which brings me to my next task: learning the single ladies dance by my first wedding of the season. Game on.

Pick these up at Elyse Walker for $795 and get.it.girl.

The post Fendi Gray And Black Suede Cut-Out Platform Pump: Summer Suede is A-Okay appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I don’t understand the point of these boots. Isn’t the beauty of flats the fact that they are flat? And these hidden wedges certainly don’t LOOK better than heels. Stuart Weitzman‘s “internal wedge” gives you neither. Not the comfort of flats, nor the sexy appeal of a heel. And the giant fabric panel isn’t helping the awkward look of this boot. For short girls who want height? Forget the flat boot trend, it was never that good, stick with heels!!

Personally, I am loving that flat boots are finally acceptable only because I have to wear flats most of the time. But if my back allowed for heels, I would never wear flats, and surely not concealed heels that pretend they’re flats! I just don’t get it. Are there actually people out there embarrassed by heels? Do you really think you’re fooling people by hiding the heel to make them think you are taller? For sure not women! Maybe they should market these hidden wedge boots for men (ahem, actors). At Neiman Marcus for $595.

The post Stuart Weitzman Internal Wedge Boot: Faux-Flat Attack appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It goes without saying that Parisians have great personal style. Unfussy, effortless, inherent, and most of all, thoroughly chic, we Americans have been trying to mimic their ultimately inimitable way of dressing for decades. So let these smart shoe shots, courtesy of Jak & Jil and my fried Phil the Street Peeper, just be a reminder of how to look cool without ever looking like you’re trying too hard. Not that we needed one!

Is it just me or do Parisian women seem to have the best lanky legs? Or maybe it’s just the intelligent way they choose to show them off – with a blousy skirt (which would verge on dowdy save the flirty length) and big, buckled boots that have a timelessly hip silhouette.

Socks and sandals. Several years ago, they would have conjured up visions of gym socks and Birkenstocks in any snob’s mind. Now, the glamorous and bold wearer of the YSL “Tribute!” Red patent leather stilettos have never looked so effortless. It doesn’t hurt that her feet are in very good company (note the studded sandals and sheer thigh-highs just down the row).

Clearly “Parisian ease” was at the top of Marie Claire editor Zanna Robert’s packing list. With purple suede pumps dressing up studded leather, boyish plaid, a mesh undershirt, and aviators, she nails it. A Chanel bag never hurts either.

We knew Balenciaga‘s punky cut-out boots were having a major moment. What hadn’t yet occurred to us was a pairing with candy pink ribbed socks! Very masculin/feminin – très magnifique!

Easy French style elements list: Céline cape. Check. Givenchy handbag. Check. Ruffled miniskirt and elegantly simple tee. Check, check. Perhaps best of all? Her sculpted wedge booties that add a real sensuality to the whole look, doing justice to her brilliant cape and bringing polish to her undone hair.

The post Seen on the Street Roundup: French Dressing appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I am just l-o-v-i-n-g these for summer-clutch shoes. The color goes with anything, the texture screams warm weather and the red heel adds a subtle sizzle of sex appeal to an otherwise sweet shoe. The Report Signature Juno Platform Pumps are woven straw sitting on a tall platform with leather trim and a patent leather stiletto heel. Fantastic. These are perfect shoes to wear to the 19 weddings you have this summer (oh, wait, is that just me?) or to any occasion under the summer sun. I’m thinking of this Rachel Pally Fortuna dress in the cloud color for my first upcoming wedding with the Signature Juno’s (btw- ladies this comes in five fantastic colors and could be a summer event lifesaver- check it out). For the next wedding I’m thinking of this Alice + Olivia blue beauty with the Juno’s again.

So many weddings, so many dresses, so few shoes needed with the Report Signature Juno versatile pretty pumps saving the day. Best part? They’re only $195 at ShopBop. Sweet summer savings never felt so good.

The post Report Signature Juno Platform Pumps: Woven Summer Staple appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Why, hello, femme fatale! It was only a matter of time before Wang did a comedic take on the furry mule. These are, of course, to be worn with a negligee – full-length and sheer, please. And don’t forget a martini in hand to complete the lounging-in-black-tie look.

So fluffy, I have the urge to reach out touch these fox-fur-enswathed sandals. Indeed, save the four-inch heel, they look like something you might cozy up with in bed. Or at least take into the bedroom! These are most certainly indoor shoes. For something this overtly sexy (the itsy ankle strap only enhances your odds of seduction), I can only imagine the scenarios for which the “Chantal” would be appropriate. So to all the madames out there, here is a pair of decent boudoir heels that aren’t from Frederick’s of Hollywood. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $995.

Pair with: Or go the root of the corset. Agent Provocateur’s “Harri” silk-satin cincher, with a ruffled hem, ought to get the message across if your shoes somehow do not. On Net-a-Porter for $850.

The post Alexander Wang “Chantal” Fox-Fur Patent Leather Sandals: Into the Boudoir appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Giuseppe Zanotti loves the contrast of nature and glamour; he has always been inclined to impart a snake, beetle, even fish bones into his sparkling stiletto design. Now he has taken it to a level of beauty and horror. This creepy-crawly scorpion is way too overt for me. But it’s also WAY hot! Nobody ever said fashion was for the faint of heart (just look at those pin-thin daggers we call “heels” that find ourselves constantly walking around on).

Those who relish in some shock value will love this conversation-piece shoe. Even if you don’t, you have to appreciate the ingenious design of using the insect’s legs as straps, complete with hook-like grasping claws. Straps that completely entwine the foot in all the sandal’s gory glory. Making the gunmetal legs so skeletal in appearance makes for an even higher impact. There’s a chance I won’t be able to look down at my feet without freaking out a bit, but when was the last time a shoe evoked such an emotional effect? On Net-a-Porter for $1,745.

Pair with: These may bring out the animal in you, but you’re still a beauty, not a beast. Keep that in mind with Ralph Lauren‘s purple suede clutch, worthy of royalty. Ralph Lauren Collection Hand-Sewn Suede Clutch, $1,995.

The post Giuseppe Zanotti Scorpion-Strap Sandals: Scorpio Rising appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Out of their architecturally inspired fall 2011 collection, Burak Uyan delivers this ultra-sexy high-heeled sandal. Walk in and you’re wearing a classic, well-sculpted crisscross strapped sandal – camel-nude suede is refined without being overtly traditional. Turn around (or kick up your heels!) and you’re flashing a major metallic heel of laminated calfskin, with cut-outs for an extra peek-a-boo. It’s business in the front, party in the back, for a transitional sandal that’s the best of both worlds. With a tiered platform offering hidden comfort, making this nearly five-incher walkable, you might actually be able to go all day. Hard chunks of symmetrical gold hardware finish off the sandal. Glamorously wearable, these definitely shoes to make an entrance – and an exit – in. On Luisa Via Roma for $1,169.

Pair with: What’s missing from your suede and metallic leather? Python, of course! Pick up R&Y Augousti’s rustic little clutch, for an on-palette hue and on-target price. R&Y Augousti Small Rectangle Python Clutch, $460.

The post Burak Uyan Suede and Calfskin Sandals: Flash Into View appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Just when we thought Missoni had every angle of your tropical escape-wear covered, they’ve released their down-to-earth collaboration with Havaianas. High and low is going to new levels (look out for Versace x H&M come fall, but I digress!) and with a Missoni bicycle hitting Target stores in September, these playful flip-flops shouldn’t come as a big surprise. I love the idea of the classic knit going ultra-casual, but I’m not sure if the zigzags translate so well to rubber. Perhaps because this pattern is more of a surfer swirl than the intricate lines and weaves of the beachwear we know and love. I say, bring these out when you’re splashing poolside with a sleek black or crisp white swimsuit. How do you snobs feel about Missoni in rubber? At Havaianas for $70.

Pair with: A bathing suit like Tory Praver‘s flattering ruched bikini, with subtle zipper hardware, in white or black. “Ami” Bikini Top, $99, and Bottoms, $93, on ShopBop.

The post Missoni x Havaianas Slim Flip-Flops: Missoni Flips Out appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Seeing as though we’re officially only a couple days into summer (although it feels like months now, doesn’t it?), I’m not ready to give up on foot-flaunting sandals. But it also might not be a bad idea to start looking into transition shoes. A snob’s got to stay one step ahead!

Like these Pedro Garcia wedges, excellent nighttime kicks anytime of the year. Chunky dark suede and leather is tough enough to take somewhat of a beating, and a lighter tone cork sole peeking through makes for a subtle variation on the whole color-blocking look. Between the wedge’s firm foundation and the sculpted platform, they will be comfortable enough to go the distance. Cropped pants for work and switch over to skinny jeans after hours. Float from morning to night and from season to season. On Net-a-Porter for $480.

Pair with: Mulberry’s livened-up briefcase-style tote can take you all around town, any time of day. Sure, it’s on the plump size for evening, but your bold wedges can stand some volume. Mulberry “Polly” Push Lock Leather Tote, $1,400.

The post Pedro Garcia “Chabela” Suede and Leather Wedge Sandals: Make the Transition appeared first on Shoe Snob.

In my last issue of Vogue, or Instyle, or was it Bazaar…. Regardless, on one of my mag’s this month I saw a spread about menswear-inspired shoes being huge this fall especially loafer pumps and preppy booties like the Lanvin Pearlized Oxford Bootie. This may be one of my favorites of this seasonal vibe. The grosgrain laces soften the menswear side of this shoe with a soft feminine flair. These patent leather pumps would be absolutely perfect with a sweet wrap dress or with some skinnies and a sharp blazer. For work or a classy play date, these booties may have a hint of a man, but the chic-ness only a woman can hold. I’ve always been a sucker for the pretty boys. At Neiman Marcus for $1,050.

The post Lanvin Pearlized Oxford Bootie: Pretty Boys appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Let’s think back to an iconic Kate Moss moment. Glastonbury Festival, 2009: teeny shorts and toned thighs, a low-slung belt and cross-slung bag, and a pair of very muddy Hunter Wellingtons. Has anyone looked sexier while trolling through dirt? These Golden Goose boots, in distressed black leather with studded ankle straps, have model-rocker appeal. Especially with bold silver zippers up the back (way more directional than utilitarian-looking side zips). And you know I’ll always spring for skin over rubber!

While the thought of pulling on knee-high boots as I marinate in humid, Pacific island heat is ludicrous, it’s in the mid-fifties and rainy over in the United Kingdom. Not to give you a weather report, but tall, well-worn boots are a music festival mainstay. On Ssense for $882 (from $1,260).

Pair with: You know the drill. The taller the boot, the shorter the hot pants – strictly speaking flat boots! Kate’s a fan of frayed gray denim. Follow suit with Siwy “Camilla” cut-offs‘s . On ShopBop for $152.

The post Golden Goose “Rosebowl” Boots: They’re With the Band appeared first on Shoe Snob.

These wrap-around beauties are my favorite so far of all of the wooden wedgies. The Chloé Leather Platform Wedge stands 4″ high with a 1½ platform which is the perfect height to give yourself a boost but not so high that you catch a tail wind in your harem pants and end up flying away. The leather, wrap-around ankle strap is my absolute favorite. Ankle wraps like this pack a punch of sex appeal into any outfit whether it be said harem pants and a tank or even a sweet romper and a sweater. They are peep-toed pretty pumps that can be worn from sun rise to sunset.

Pick them up at Saks Fifth Avenue for $695

The post Chloé Leather Platform Wedge: Wrap Me Up. appeared first on Shoe Snob.

The stingray effect has gone full-force. Not only am I spotting the touchy, bumpy skin everywhere, from clutches to cigar cases, now we have one of our shoe connoisseurs presenting us with leather-like stingray-simulated T-straps. They are as shapely as any 5.5 incher that Giuseppe could woo us with, and they maintain his typical balance of lady of the night and just plain lady. These are ideal for tearing up the dance – or karaoke – floor, jutting yourself up with a few solid inches of height without risking the lack of stability, and playing up your inner cabaret vixen – very Berlin Stories (check out Christopher Isherwood’s book if you haven’t yet for loads of style inspiration!) – without going all-the-way vintage shopper. On Net-a-Porter for $595.

Pair with: Amp up already curvaceous heels and show off your shoulders with Fendi’s heart-neckline dress. Rouched and draped in all the right places, it cements the fact that you’re as really sexy as it gets! At Barneys New York for $2,480.

The post Giuseppe Zanotti Stingray-Effect Leather T-Bar Sandals: Once Bitten, Twice Stung appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Italian men and impeccable style are synonymous. They have a way of exuding the right mélange of gentlemanly panache and rugged edge. They wear splashy colors and flamboyant pairings with assurance we don’t see so often on American men. And sometimes their prowess gives the ladies a run for their money! Even when it comes to shoes. The men of Milan have been strutting their stuff in front of the menswear shows this week, proving that when it comes to dressing with joie de vivre, girls don’t have all the fun. Check out the looks captured by Tommy Ton for Style.com and The Sartorialist.

Guys can color-block, too! And with verve, to boot. Chestnut oxfords, otherwise traditional, are superhero-worthy when the toes are tip in neon acid yellow. Checkered pants pump it up with pattern precision.

It’s all in the details. Wearing a structured black dress shoe as if it’s a sandal is kind of genius. With schoolboy shorts and a summery tunic, the look is somehow effortless. The unlaced right oxford makes it!

Wild things come in threes! Bright pants, structured blazers, pocket squares, ties, and sockless loafers – a trio of men dressed like such dandies sounds like it could be a disaster, but in Italia, it works!

Even mellow yellow Converse sneakers look luxe when color-coordinated, accessorized to the nines and worn with preppy spirit.

The post Seen on the Street Roundup: Milan Manpower appeared first on Shoe Snob.

The Robert Clergerie Oki ankle boots are large and in charge. The pointed toe combined with the wedge makes this a warm weather boot option that could carry you anywhere from a date with someone tall dark and handsome to a shopping day with your friend who’s short, blonde and ugly (just kidding).

These will be best if you keep a casual vibe around them. Pair with some super skinnies and a tank or a button up dress and belt. These will give you a little summer edge without making you look too hard. But keep in mind, if you pair these with something too short/small/dainty, you may end up looking like a Clydesdale. Don’t get me wrong, they are handsome creatures, but I don’t think that would be on my top ten favorite cat calls.

Pick them up at Barney’s New York for $775

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