Good or bad (and sometimes downright bizarre), the fur-adorned shoe is this season’s big story. While it used to be reserved for cozy moccasins and severe-weather linings, fur is now a decorative flourish seen on every style of fall shoe. In some cases, the tuft makes sense – as a warming rabbit cuff, as exhibited on Yves Saint Laurent’s smooth and curvy platform, and a soft flourish of embellishment, a la Alexander Wang’s boudoir-meets-street shoe. But as it goes with all trends, some designers have taken the concept a bit too far.

A fur-doused sneaker is a definite no-no, especially when the juxtaposition is this intense. It looks like someone shoved a little critter into Dioniso’s distressed Converse-style shoe. Diego Dolcini’s and Gucci’s booties are even more exaggerated – when the fur, whether it’s fox or alpaca, consumes the entire shoe and sends the message that you stomped a small animal, you know something has gone astray.

I appreciate Manolo‘s attempt at making the shoe look like a fur-trimmed coat or wraparound stole, but the oddity of the snakelike shape outweighs the novelty. Misplaced embellishments, as seen on Rene Caovilla’s Swarovski-bedazzled sandal, turn fur into an arbitrary and unnecessary addition. There is enough going on without it, even for the flashiest of showgirls.

You can see which side of the fence I’m on here – I’m all for a lovely garnish of fur when the purpose and proportions are well-conceived. But this trend is so persnickety there are definitely more misses than winners.

Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Leather and Rabbit Fur Platform Ankle Boots at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,995.

Alexander Wang Simona Fox High Heel Sandals on ShopBop for $895.

Dioniso Painted Canvas Rabbit-Fur Cuff Sneakers on Luisa Via Roma for $445.

Diego Dolcini Suede and Fox-Fur Boots on Luisa Via Roma for $1,107.

Gucci Alyona Fur-Trimmed Ankle Boots at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,590.

Manolo Blahnik Suede and Rabbit-Fur Ankle Boots at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,295.

Rene Caovilla Swarovski and Fox-Fur Sandals on Luisa Via Roma for $1,681.

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There is nothing like going back to the basics when it comes to an everyday wear shoe and the Prada Bi-Color Platform Pump puts the perfect amount of modern twist on a classic shoe. The blush leather with back patent leather accents give you the color block trend but in a shape and in colors that you can get away with wearing to work as well as play. The reasonable 4 1/2″ heel makes these sexy, but not too risk-ay for the daytime. I would pair these with a black drape skirt by David Lerner and a By Malene Birger silk blouse for a perfectly chic professional yet happy hour wear-able look.

$720 at Bergdorf Goodman

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Does anyone do details like Bottega Veneta? It’s their attention to the intricate that makes their accessories (you know how I feel about the bags!) consistently note-worthy. This Jackson Pollock-inspired print could only work on a thin, strappy sandal where it enhances rather than overwhelms the shoe. Any more material, and it would be sheer excess. In delicate doses, it feels as fresh and modern as a Pollock painting did in 1950. I don’t know whether to wear it or frame it!

The Peridot Pollock silk sandal has taken the abstract and made it accessible. A style like this is wearable, but what I really love is the texture and fluidity this print has. The sprinkled spray multi-colored paint pattern is divine chaos. The close-toe is an unexpected treat for this bare look, and the added gemstones further enhance their appeal – you’ve got to look closely to notice them, so these jewels are classy, not crass. Intrigue, elegance, and sophistication: Bottega doesn’t cease to thrill. At Bottega Veneta for $780.

Pair with: A shoe that hints at the wild requires a bag that is most restrained. Sedgwick’s minimal, whipstitched fall styles are sleek but not too shy. Mabel, $124-$286, and Georgia, $178-$410, clutches.

The post Bottega Veneta Peridot Pollock Print Silk Bejeweled Shoe: The Painterly Touch appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Sparkle-packed booties need streamlined details. Emma loved the ruffled version of Miu Miu’s glitter booties, but I prefer the harness-style for these suede-adorned shoes. Sequin-effect booties don’t need all the extra fuss – glitter is actually enhanced by fluid, low-texture detailing.

A slightly curved heel and low front feels refreshing. I still love my chunky platforms and wedges (I can’t resist a good six-inch heel), but a slightly more feminine shape is so appealing at the moment! I was wary of that bent, almost serpentine heel until I tried them on – I was suddenly sold on the interesting silhouette and dipped in silver sequins, the shape is so glam. The harness-shaped buckled and fat crisscross front straps keep the booties from being too girly, not to mention from sparkle overload. While Net-a-Porter has it in ultra-femme peach, I prefer the black for a sharper disco look. On Net-a-Porter for $890 (in peach).

Although it’s sold out online, you can get the black version at Neiman Marcus stores. Call Katie to purchase: 214-363-8311 ext. 2415

Pair with: Bring minimalist angularity to high-impact shoes with Neil Barrett’s asymmetric-front, leather-paneled miniskirt. Exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue for $755.

The post Miu Miu Glitter and Suede Peep-Toe Bootie: All That Glitters appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I am loving this interesting take on the ankle boot. This Balenciaga number is unique, sexy and certainly not your run-of-the-mill option for fall footwear. The entire boot is covered with soft leather and outlined in black piping which makes for a chic and eye-catching piece. I wouldn’t strap these on for everyday wear so to not wear out the “wow” factor, but you could certainly get away with wearing these to work, out on a Saturday, or on a day date to go look at the fall foliage as the time is approaching… I feel like just yesterday I was giving my favorite picks for summer sandals… tear.

Wear these to work with a Zero + Maria Cornejo dress to look polished, yet trendy, then throw on some black leggings and a MINKPINK striped blouse and head out for an after work cocktail (s).

These are soft enough to be work in late summer/fall and will keep you cozy come colder weather. Pick them up at Barney’s and get pretty in pipes.

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An abstract flower in bloom, with reference to Christian Lacroix’s explosively voluminous cocktail dresses of the 1980s. Sergio Rossi’s sculptural design has major flare and major hotness. This wild wave of sizzling pink suede on a classic, minimal pump is a throwback to the decade of excess, yet the shoe is so innovative and paired-down, it looks 21st century-fresh. It’s in the black piping – snaking around the mysterious floral detail and against the black leather-covered stiletto, the detail is perfection.

Rossi would agree this is definitely an evening shoe (unless your day look happens to be “walk of shame,” and if so, that’s a whole other discussion!), but it’s not as specific as you might think. Like a bright bag or a big necklace, a shoe like this makes a fine focal point against a neutral dress. Looking ahead to holiday drama, this matte pump asks for a sparkling accompaniment. But just one! After that, I would worry about getting too busy with such a statement-maker shoe – you’ll be going full-blown flamenco. On Luisa Via Roma for $900.

Pair with: Comme des Garçons’ elegant black wool barathea dress is a simple standout, thanks to a curvy silhouette with a feminine skirt, mimicking a flower petal. At Bergdorf Goodman for $700.

The post Sergio Rossi Suede Ruches Stiletto Pumps: This Bloom Goes Boom! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

This is what I call, the perfect weekend shoe. Yes of course you can throw these on to work, or to a wedding with the right dress (I’m thinking something like a Halston Heritage one shoulder number to a late summer affair) but really these are the perfect shoe to throw on for a Friday movie date with a hot pink Tibi sweater and some laid back J Brand boyfriend jeans. Then on your Saturday night out you can throw them on with a sexy button up dress by Rebecca Taylor with a Madewell belt. Come Sunday; toss these on for a run to the store in David Lerner leggings and a Soft Joie tee and you have yourself a shoe that’s just taken you from Friday fun to Sunday shopping in style.

With their soft suede and versatile taupe color, the Elizabeth and James wedges are easy to wear, easy to wear anything with, these simple slip-ons are an easy buy.

@ Bergdorf’s for $275.

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We know opposites attract, but few opposing forces go together quite as well as the shades of black and white. There’s a reason everyone seems to look better in black and white photographs – it’s an utterly flattering pairing. It’s a timeless mix (it can’t ever go out of style. Just ask Coco Chanel), but this season, designers seems to be all about the austere color contrast, mashing up the Oreo-cookie shades for shoes that are bold yet neutral. You can save the colors for your clothes, but with these top picks, your feet will make the real statement. Who needs color anyway when ebony and ivory looks this good? Just keep the rest of your look light and easy – you probably don’t want to channel Cruella De Vil!

1) Yves Saint Laurent Robyn Suede and Patent-Leather Wedges: These skewed Mary Janes are cute and girly in the front; then kick your heels up for a patent-leather surprise. Sculpted white wedges have the effect of glamorous seashells that really pop against black suede. On Net-a-Porter for $945.

2) Esquivel Linea Striped Leather Brogues: Such a classic, almost conservative shoe deserves an element of the offbeat. A bold swipe of white, as if a painter took a crisp roller to your brogues, satisfies your craving for the avant-garde. On Net-a-Porter for $920.

3) Alexander Wang Caroline Platform Booties: This milk-dipped slingback is an innovative revamp of the classic Chanel spectator bootie. Just watch out for scuff marks on that pristine white toe! On ShopBop for $525.

4) Belle by Sigerson Morrison Spotted Calf Hair Wedge Ankle Boots: Sometimes black and white doesn’t have to be bold and graphic. Softly flecked spots make these geometric calf-hair booties totally intriguing. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $375.

5) Salvatore Ferragamo Houndstooth Printed Python Pump: Ferragamo has just reinvented houndstooth with their fall collection. Stark shade contrasts, multiple print scales, and mysterious python make these a must. At Nordstrom for $950.

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You might not be able to toss your Hunter Wellies just yet (and if you have the crocodile-stamped Jimmy Choo edition, why would you want to?), but here’s an all-weather boot that actually looks luxe. A PVC bottom means protection from the elements, though with a soft felt shaft, these aren’t for torrential downpours. But average wet days? Bring ‘em on! This boot is a big step up from run-of-the-mill rain boots, thanks to the wrap-around multi-strap and buckle detail.

Salvatore Ferragamo has put an equestrian take on protective galoshes. Brown PVC and heather oatmeal felt makes for a lovely color contrast, but for a less plastic look, go for the more muted, more leather-like black and dark gray version. Now if I were to get nitpicky (who, me?!), the center seam irks me, but for a meager $363, I’ll keep my complaints to a low “ehh” and let it go. On Luisa Via Roma for $363.

Pair with: I’m looking forward to a pair of leggings and a warm sweater to finish the cozy look. A hand-knit cardi-coat by Claudia Schiffer ($1,895) and David Lerner’s leather-insert leggings will do the trick ($242).

The post Salvatore Ferragamo PVC and Felt Boots: Weather or Not appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Buy any pair of the It-girl-worthy shoes at Saks Fifth Avenue and get a chic sweetheart bracelet with your purchase (while they last, of course). On top of it, Brian will be hosting a Tweetstakes from August 25th through September 14th. Or host your own Tweetstakes on your Twitter handle! Just tweet “RT #Bobssesed for the chance to win a few of Mr. Atwood’s favorite things: a Jo Malone candle, Vosges chocolates, and a handwritten note from the man himself.

There are enough B Brian Atwood styles to suit any and all Shoe Snobs, but what’s the best-seller? The Blayne Shoe is a brilliant combo of butter-soft suede, wild snake-texture, and a killer front platform that makes for a modern mix. And don’t forget to check out the glammed-out video! At Saks Fifth Avenue for $350.

The post B Brian Atwood Official Release: The Time Has Come! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Ultra-soft taupe leather, with a reinforced peep-toe opening that fits like a glove, sits on a just-over 4” heel. These pumps are made for comfort, which is essential for a busy goddess (and aren’t we all?). So simple in the design – though added touches like a layered mini-platform and a jutting heel to mimic the wing create even more interest – yet so dramatic in the concept and form. At Barneys New York for $725.

Pair with: While a languidly draped dress a la ancient Greece might be a tempting match, you don’t want to overdo the volume. Rag & Bone’s “Verona” dress has all the goddess feel, but structured straps and a short length to highlight the shoes. On Ssense for $495.

The post Balenciaga Tube Slingback Pump: A Different Kind of Nike appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Looking for a shoe that can translate from day to night without looking borderline inappropriate in the office yet still looks sexy in the moonlight? Well try the Lanvin Asymmetric Platform Pump on for size. The suede platform pump is a rich red (also comes in black) and will put the va-va-voom back in your step with the cut out asymmetric style yet still keeps it classy with the closed toe and reasonable (and wearable) 4 ½ inch heel. Wear these to work with a BB Dakota black dress and a Day Birger Et Mikkelsen cropped blazer then come 5 pm, lose the blazer and pop on some red lipstick and you’re good to go. Work hard and play harder in these pumps. $785.00 at Barney’s.

The post Lanvin Asymmetric Platform Pump: Put the Wow Into Your Work Wardrobe appeared first on Shoe Snob.

There’s something about this Costume National ankle boot that I really love – and I’m pretty certain it’s the sum of the parts. I love the platform, and how its hue contrasts the upper; I love the strap that wraps around the ankle not once, but twice, giving these structured shoes an almost undone quality (and then has that touch of silver hardware); the top-stitching detail on the sides; the tapered high heel; I especially love the amber tone that’s been dipped and distressed in deep chestnut at the seams and toes for some serious character; and I truly love that it flashes just a hint of skin at the top. This is classic, modern, feminine – all in a rugged kind of way.

This boot is the anti-peep-toe version of the Giuseppe Zanotti boot that recently caught Tina’s eye. Now my eye’s been caught. So what do you think: show off a sliver of ankle or a flash of toe? At Barneys New York for $880.

Pair with: Thakoon’s woven dress, full pleats of black, gray, and coral acrylic stripes is an irresistible dress that can handle the shake-up of a textural brown boot. Style the rest with rustic accessories and undone hair. On Net-a-Porter for $1,450.

The post Costume National Strap Ankle Boot: Strap Happy appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Do you ever get those days when you just want to feel pretty? It may be a crappy day at work, or maybe you just went through a stupid breakup, or your cat died, whatever the case may be, the Valentino patent leather round toe bow pumps will make you feel as pretty in pink as possible. The signature bow sits perfectly on the 4″ stacked patent leather pump making these classy, chic and ladylike. Shoes like these can go from work with a pair of Halston Heritage slim pants and a Derek Lam button up to a Friday date night with a Tucker pocket dress and sweet Isabel Marant cuff.

Be a fair lady, feel pretty, and pick these up at Saks Fifth Avenue for $775.

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$1,645 at Alexander McQueen Boutiques worldwide and online here.

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The Pedro Garcia Christel Backless Booties are the perfect end of summer transition bootie. The soft suede on the heavy ankle cuff combined with the gold toned buckles whispers fall yet the open toe and open buckled-back still gives the carefree summer vibe. These multi-season pumps stand 4.25″ high making these everyday wearable and versatile regardless of season. For a late summer look, pair these with a pretty little Blu Moon dress and a Club Monaco silk blazer. For fall, slip these on with a pair of jeans by Mother and a cozy cable-knit cashmere Ralph Lauren sweater. These boots will take you from sweet summer days to fabulous fall evenings with ease.

Ssense for $440.

The post Pedro Garcia Christel Backless Booties: Transition Bootie appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Don’t even think about Wranglers or ranches, holsters or saddles. Or even Jessica Simpson in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” And most certainly not Daisy Dukes! Modern cowboy boots are shrunk down to bootie proportions, which fit perfectly with loose-fitting maxis and casual skirts. By borrowing the cowboy boot’s pointed shape, stacked heel, and (usually) pull-tabs but adding street-smart elements of studs and embroidery or simply skewing the form, you get a hardened resilience without going hard-edged.

1) Joie “Garth” Buckle Booties: Ushering in the trend, Olivia Wilde paired hers with a maxi dress by the same designer, not to mention fringe and leather to spare. On ShopBop for $295.

2) Golden Goose 107 Short Cowboy Boots: A slice of Americana, Italian-style. Severely distressed leather booties (with a rather severe price tag to match) by the European label would offer instant tough to even the most demure of girls. At Barneys New York for $1,235.

3) Rebecca Minkoff Suede Ankle Boots: A higher heel and stitched pull-tabs sets these simple booties apart from the pack. Perfect for your gauzy printed skirts that have lots of flow. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $350.

4) Cobra Society Hand-Woven Wool and Brushed-Leather Ankle Boots: West goes east! The wool that adorns these brushed leather boots is hand-embroidered from Morocco. The cowboy style just got a bit more exotic. On Net-a-Porter for $795.

5) Frye “Billy” Short Cowboy Boots: There is always the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” approach. A classic brand, a classic boot. Styled smartly, these will be an ironic nod to the ranch. On Zappos for $142.80 (from $248).

The post Top 5 Cowboy Booties: Lite Ranch Dressing appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I am in love with this color lately. The rich blue is so eye-catching that I can’t get enough of it. Though these are definitely more for summer, there is plenty of time to get your moneys worth of wear out of these. Standing at 5.5 inches, these patent leather blue beauties would be perfect paired with an adorable yellow (my favorite summer wedding color) Tibi one shoulder dress for a late summer wedding or for your best friends birthday dinner with a Shery Bodell silk romper (oh sale!). These shoes are attention grabbers without being too loud or tacky. There’s a very small window when you can get away with wearing blue patent leather shoes so don’t miss it and pick these up at Luisa Via Roma for $695.

The post Sergio Rossi 140mm Patent Slingback Pump: Blue Crush appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Mega height? Check. Mega impact? Check. Mega lust-ability? Check! Charlotte Olympia’s wild wedges have rendered me speechless. I’m having visions of David Bowie performing “Ziggy Stardust,” of Freddie Mercury writhing on stage in one of his infamous jumpsuit, of Vivienne Westwood hitting the town as a young woman.

Total 1970’s London, these mighty high (6” to be exact) wedges look even taller thanks to the dazzling effect of contrasting black suede and liquid-y gold stripes. To top them off, Olympia clearly knows how to create an oxford-inspired, lace-up front that is anything but dowdy. Sharp and clean, with smart little tassels completing the laces and a pointy toe for complete sleekness, they leave the focus where it should be: on the solid-gold panels that scream modern glam-rocker. On Net-a-Porter for $1,040.

Pair with: Get the full London look with skinny leather pants by none other than Burberry London. The iconic label continues to take a delightfully rebellious turn, as seen on this very sexy pair of pants, designed to show off your shoes. On Net-a-Porter for $1,595.

The post Charlotte Olympia “Martha in Stripes” Suede and Leather Wedges: Olympia Scores the Gold Medal appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Diane von Furstenberg continues to deliver seriously well-priced shoes that don’t skimp on style or quality. Just when I thought I was ready to take a breather from color-blocking, up walks these transitional wedge sandals, which refuse to skimp on multiple, eye-catching elements.

I’m loving the contrasting red suede strap, which turns an otherwise chunky look into a hot shoe, while the thick band of tan leather (a little peek-a-boo heel never hurts, either) keeps the foot stable. A dark, naturalistic wooden heel is so soothing. But it’s the red banding, set off by a pickled trim, that is the main focus, elevating these wedges into the assuredly chic range. Essentially, the “Olivia” is a versatile shoe with enough details to show off confident style yet light enough on the flair so they’re easy to coordinate. What more could you want for under $300? On ShopBop for $295.

Pair with: Pick up the hints of suede with Pierre Hardy’s two-tone suede bags, in shades of burgundy, navy, and black patent-leather. Wear them casually with the optional crossbody strap with these mixed-material wedges. Pierre Hardy Two-Tone Suede Tote, $1,050.

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