What comes around goes around – and the platform sandal clearly isn’t going anywhere. Something that has changed for Spring (and it’s not just the fact that you’ll be seeing more and more slim, pointy toed, and lean-heeled pumps): the mood of the platform. It’s no longer harsh and severe, a look we’ve gotten used to the past few years, but easy and breezy, with a mellow pitch and a laid-back attitude right out of the Summer of Love.

Case and point: the latest from Chloé, Paloma Barcelo, and Céline. Their heels may show off some heft, but these are inviting, not intimidating.

Chloé’s rugged crisscross-strap platforms ($895) are a throwback to the brand’s classic aesthetic – and the carefree seventies, while Paloma’s ultra-affordable take ($307) on the woven wedge succeeds in making studs feel fresh. You probably didn’t think you could take fuchsia satin into daytime picnic-territory, right? That wasn’t until Céline took the opulent material into their effortless hands – not that you would want to risk getting grass stains on these lush ivory platforms!

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I have to apologize in advance to my back and my bank account. With these butterscotch cork confections, Lanvin is about to kill both – and I’m going to let them do it with a smile on my face. Is it worth the pain and price? Hell, yeah!

In fact, these dangerous beauties will go with everything in my closet – they are neutral, casual, and not trend specific. Not that that helps my case, since I certainly won’t be wearing these everyday or even all day long when I do. But a classic shoe like this has staying power, and that helps me justify breaking the bank. On a side note, when did cork and leather become more expensive than gold?

I guess shoe love doesn’t have to make sense. These have all the elements that make me say, “yes, please!” Sly slits on the wedge makes cork stand out, and the whipstitching is a genius touch. A detail like that (along with the unfussy snap closure on the strap) makes it possible to wear a mega-hot shoe during the day without looking out of place. Sky-high as these are, these pumps exude super-easy effortlessness, made to enhance your everyday wardrobe without forcing your to over-think when it comes to coordinating. On Luisa Via Roma for $1,545

Pair with: Nothing says casual daytime glamour like a pair of tip-top wedges and a polished pair of shorts. Stella McCartney’s bright deckchair-striped shorts have the tailoring of a trouser and the vivaciousness of fun summer gear. On Net-a-Porter for $825.

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Is it a classic motorcycle boot or a feather duster? I love Bruno Cucinelli, but these boots are downright silly. I’m all for a little flair where you least expect it, ankles included, especially when a stylish attention-getter is executing the look. With minimal accessories and tights tucked in, these boots could be fun for an untamed fashionista who knows how to handle them.

But, ultimately, what’s the point? It’s a good thing that this frothy explosion of ostrich detaches, since it will only take two wears to destroy it. Each time you attempt to stuff your feet into the boots? Another feather – or ten – surely bites the dust. Take off the fluffy collar and you have just another plumage-free, utilitarian boot that lacks worthwhile detail (especially for this price). When it comes to these boots, heavy on whimsy and light on common sense, you are damned if you do and damned if you don’t. The verdict? Don’t even bother. At Bergdorf Goodman for $1,435.

The post Bruno Cucinelli Feathered Motorcycle Boot: Don’t Ruffle These Feathers appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Literal camel toes. I kid you not. I see that Margiela is perhaps being subversive here, but you’re the one who has to walk around in these with a straight face. I cannot look at these without the mental image of thin tight pants and a wedgie. Or a cloven hoof beast. Even if you want to be out there, these are not cool. They are really unsettling and nag at your instincts of disgust.  And do you really want the kind of attention from men where they act like teenage boys and make “tee hee” sounds at you? At Luisa Via Roma for $945.

The post Maison Martin Margiela Tabi Calfskin Boots: Bad Animal Instincts appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Color, color, and more color from Jimmy Choo! Don’t think you have to wear neutral nude shoes with a colorful dress, a punch of contrasting or complimenting color will make it so much more interesting. I am crazy about Choo shoes lately, especially the pink croc embossed pump and had a difficult time deciding which color shoes I’d wear with the Sass & Bide dress. Which pair would you choose?

Sass & bide. On Net-A-Porter for $795.

Yellow Wedge. On Net-A-Porter for $595.

Pink Croc effect. On Net-A-Porter for $750.

Scuba. On Net-A-Porter for $795.

The post Color me brightly with Choos! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

You think that pumps can’t be all that different but leave it to Alexander Wang to show us that not all pumps are created equal. The Ali has a geometric top with mesh sides in a sage that is refreshing and versatile. The stiletto has a tapered edge on an eye catching textured wood heel. I am imagining easy wear and comfort with the suede and mesh – I can almost forgive the wobbly high heels. You can’t have it all but this one comes pretty darn close. At Barneys New York for $435.

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Admittedly these are the ugliest things I’ve ever seen but nostalgia has a way of messing with your brain to think sentiments and love means the same thing. You know how hard it was to convince my mom that my life depended on having a pair of Reebok hightops?? Mine were just white, but my present self would tell my teenage self that standing out of the crowd is, in fact, a good thing and that these multi-colored numbers are totally rad! Even if the colors don’t really go with each other. I would love to have these, just to have, I’m not sure even my present self has the guts to wear these out and pretend I’m rocking them. Limited edition exclusively at Luisa Via Roma for $346.

The post Reebok Limited Easytone Freestyle Hightops: Flash Back appeared first on Shoe Snob.

By now we have our winter shoes covered, or you’d better because, otherwise, what have you been wearing? The weather may not agree, but designers help remind us: it’s time to look towards brighter days.
Make an appointment for an uplifting pedicure, as your warm-weather winter escape approaches – just not before you scoop up some sandals! Unlike more serious shoes, you can score great sandals at each and every price point. And don’t let the prices fool you – my favorite is the affordable Diane von Furstenberg pair!

The $500 Range
Giuseppe Zanotti Roll Sandal: When it comes to flat sandals, this makes for a luxe purchase, but we’re not talking about a trendy shoe. Gladiators are no passing fad; since they don’t go away, consider this a sound investment.
At Barneys New York for $550.

The $400 Range
Dolce & Gabbana Leopard-Print Leather Sandals: Putting a super-fun spin on the comfy flat, yellow leopard will put some spring in your step. Mix these skinny thongs up with something offbeat, like a punchy floral print or glamorous jewels.
On Net-a-Porter for $485.

The $300 Range
Acne Fleur Leather Sandals: Calm, cool, and collected, I’m loving Acne’s mellow take. Cloudy blue hues soften metallic gunmetal, and patent set against matte leather makes for a pleasing mélange.
On Net-a-Porter for $350.

The $200 Range
Diane von Furstenberg Klee Toe Ring Flat Sandals: Are her shoes so good now, or what?! It’s all thanks to DVF’s fabulous new designer, Daniel. Nude gets a shot of energy, thanks to a splashy hot-pink patent sling-back strap.
On ShopBop for $198.

The $100 Range
Pour la Victoire Bryn Buckle-Detail Sandals: Two tones of color at one-half the price! Pour la Victoire is a great go-to for Frugal Snob sandals, and these nude daytime flats have both depth (via the red trim) and edge (courtesy of the boldly buckled straps).
On Bluefly for $109.99 (from $224).

The post Top 5 Sandals at Every Price Point: We’ve Got You Semi-Covered appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Sea foam-colored shoes normally aren’t at the top of my shopping list, whatever the season. But now at second glance, these offbeat Burak Uyan ankle boots are striking my fancy. Maybe it’s that sudden 30% that has me doing a double take (knock a few hundred bucks off the price and it can change everything). Either way, now the hue seems like an intriguing choice in a galaxy of strict neutrals and all-out brights; it’s the best of both worlds, a color without being a COLOR.

This is an ankle boot with sandal-like appeal. It’s in the streamlined fit that promises to fit like a glove, the sly, triangular cutout right below Uyan’s trademark golden push-button hardware. The pebble-textured leather eludes to some rusticity and makes the color appear more natural, and the contrast-stitched front seam draws your eye to the feet. Usually, I’m not a fan of seamed boots, but this one is so strong, unique, and purposeful, I’m saying yes. Call it the effect of the sale’s red line! On Net-a-Porter for $647.50 (from $925).

Pair with: Think surf and sand. Vince’s leather blazer, in a shade of creamy tan, will make your booties look effortless. Scrunch up the sleeves and think nothing of it for ultimate nonchalance. At Bergdorf Goodman for $995.

The post Burak Uyan Textured-Leather Ankle Boots: What a Difference a Sale Makes appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Whether you’re going Frugal or Snob, you can’t go wrong with either of these pumps. There are times when a shoe can’t compete with the expensive original, and others when all the elements – and possibly more – are in the more cost-effective edition.

Suede upper with a cork wedge: these Jean-Michel Cazabat pumps ($295) own the same look for a third of the price! So there is a slight difference between these and Yves Saint Laurent’s Maryna pump ($795). The YSL wedge’s wood has a light wash for higher contrast against black suede. It might make for a fresher take, too, but I’m loving the distressed cork on the Cazabat (it has hints of painted gold for intriguing texture). It’s got a carefree wear-with-anything feel that I’m all about.

So perhaps it’s not the price that will tip you one way or another. When it comes to suede-on-wood, I’m leaning towards the rough and tumble wedge – the friendly price tag is just a bonus!

The post Jean-Michel Cazabat Tabia Cork Wedge Pumps vs. Yves Saint Laurent Maryna Pumps: A Run for Your Money appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Jealousy-inspiring these high-tops are not. And who would ever think these were by Giuseppe Zanotti, he of the most enviable, sexiest snake-embossed platforms and sandals? Clearly, kicks are not his forte. I have to be frank: these sneakers are so ugly it hurts my eyes to look at them.

It’s not that I have anything against sporty shoes (Miu Miu’s glittery, Converse-style take is adorable!) – it’s that I have something against shoes that function as a visual assault. Exotics tend to make for a tacky look on straightforward athletic-wear, especially when you choose rich aqua-green faux snakeskin. Add that pointless zipper, revealing a floppy leather gusset, and the outcome is like something out of a science-fiction movie involving renegade reptiles and algae-like slime. A D-grade for this B-film monster. On ShopBop for $650.

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Anyone else suddenly have the urge to take a dip? These wedges actually look like they themselves were dipped in cool, refreshing swimming pool water! Wheat-colored espadrilles can be so blah, but woven hemp that’s riding an electric wave? Surf’s up!

Once again, Brian Atwood proves he has a witty and fearless way with color combinations. Walking the line between city and surf, this daring blend is enough to energize your feet right into Resort wherever you are. Deep purple suede means these can even be taken out for evening cocktails, while the conversation-worthy platform means these will spice up a pool party. Either way, this espadrille is a breath of fresh ocean air. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $550.

Pair with: Bring a touch of disco-chic to your poolside look and sport Clube Bossa’s ruched halterneck one-piece as if it’s a flamboyant bodysuit. On Net-a-Porter for $565.

The post Brian Atwood Alysha Colorblock Suede Platform Pumps: Blue Lagoon appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Well aren’t these a site for Santa’s eyes? The Pour la Victoire Colorblock pumps are just fantastic. They take bold colors and secure them on a giant wooden platform in an exciting and fun way. These are the perfect shoe to pick up for a vacation and dance on a boat in (cause that’s immedietly what I thought of when I saw them… I don’t know why). I would buckle myself in these and put on a bright Rory Beca dress for an evening out. For a day look I would pair them with some pants by Sonia by Sonia Rykeil and a sweet, simple tank by Tibi. These shoes are bold and command attention but do it in colors that whisper. Also, the ankle strap is detachable, so if you are feeling brave, go without and wear it strap free! If you are looking for a subtle way to pack a tall punch, pick these up at Neiman Marcus for $295.

The post Pour la Victoire Colorblock Pump: Hike up Your Spirits appeared first on Shoe Snob.

You know you should never buy shoes that hurt your feet within the first five minutes of wearing them, but do you stay true to this rule? The temptation of a beautiful heel can be strong, but I’ve learned the hard way. This also happens to rule out most shoes for me. The good news? Not only do I love the way they look, the Givenchy babies make the grade and stays on the list.

A wide strap accentuated with buckles makes a big visual statement, resulting in multi-seasonal sandals that essentially go with everything. That thick strap also functions like a harness to hold your foot in place, so you don’t slide forward and you’re not putting pressure on the balls of your feet. Enough said! These are comfortable and sexy, complete with a timeless rocker vibe that never hurts your style. Don’t even wait for Givenchy’s sandals to go on sale; they are worth every, single penny. On Net-a-Porter for $880.

Pair with: Black shoes always make me hanker for a pop of color courtesy of my bag. Proenza’s smoking-hot dash of coral python puts a new spin on the PS1, this one in a fresh tote style.
Proenza Schouler Python PS1 Tote, $4,250.

The post Givenchy Buckled Leather Sandals: Walk This Way appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Well if these aren’t the perfect holiday party pump I’m not sure what is. The B Brian Atwood Fredrique glitter-coated cork pumps are just delicious. They have a classic shape that is covered in gold glitter and stuck on a covered cork platform and heel that is just to die for. I love the undercarriage of these shoes. They are completely covered in the textured color. This makes them look seamless and elegant. Normally this glitter look tends to look loud and even sometimes tacky, but the bronze color keeps these classy and subtle. Have a boyfriend/husband work holiday party to go to? Slip these on with an Elizabeth and James dress for a seasonal sexy look that will get noticed for all the right reasons. New Years Eve with the girls will be perfect with these glitter heels and a Herve Leger hot little number.

Don’t have the $1500 to spend on one night? Rent the Runway baby! These shoes will have you shimmering into 2012 with style.

$326 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

The post B Brian Atwood Fredrique Glitter-Coated Cork Pumps: Holiday Heaven appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Pair with: Keep it chic – and cheap – with a snappy, candy-colored satchel. Zara’s Rigid City messenger bag lets them know you’re in the business of having fun with new silhouettes and color mash-ups.
At Zara for $79.

The post Diane von Furstenberg Elan Leather and Rubber Wedges: Modern Love appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Just like people, I love my snake in every color.  And when it is all on one shoe, it’s like the merriest party of all. Well, sure it could be bad in patchwork form but Proenza Schouler does me right with sandals that showcase the skin in all it’s glory with technicolor fabulousness. It works because the background is mostly gray and the strategically showing of bright red and yellow is placed on the topside where it gets most notice.  The rest has sprinklings of color so as to not inundate the senses. This is a lot of fanciness for sandals which makes these my go-to-go-out shoes when my feet and back need a break. At Barneys New York for $650.

The post Proenza Schouler Slingback Wedge Sandal: The Amazing Technicolor Dreamshoe appeared first on Shoe Snob.

One of my favorite things to wear this time of year is soft, snuggly sweet suede. I just love it. It makes me feel like the seasons are changing and it has a cozy appealing aspect to it that makes me want to cuddle up with whatever suede pieces I have in front of a fire. The Cole Haan Marisa Air Buckle Pump is perfect for those nights where you’re going to go to a nice cozy dinner with a special someone. Throw these on with some bright red Current/Elliot pants and a sweet Aiko sweater for a perfect winter’s eve. These shoes give you the option of wearing to work or play, dressed up or down and some in griege and black- which will go with virtually everything making these perfect go-to pumps for the season.

$328 at Zappos.

The post Cole Haan Marisa Air Buckle Pump: Sexy Suede appeared first on Shoe Snob.

shopbop.com

How rare is it to find a pair of flats that stands up to their high-heeled counterpart? An unusual occasion, indeed, but Camilla Skovgaard has managed to make magic happen.
I can’t decide which of these sisters I love more, and it’s not just the flat sandals’ high comfort level that’s making my decision difficult. I’m talking all about looks!
The flats ($412) are way chic and seriously cool. Unusual lines and a sexy ankle strap set the tone for a mix of black-on-black leather and pony-hair. There is a lot going on – in the way I like – and these sandals have a dressed-up vibe most flats never achieve.
But there’s always the temptation to amp it up and these stiletto booties ($575) will do just that. Commanding ankle straps, and a confident shade of punchy purple spices up the scene even more. Strategically placed cutouts increase the heat even more. The verdict? If the flats came in a bright, bold hue, they would win first prize, hands down.

The post Camilla Skovgaard Tongue Stiletto Booties and Flat Sandals: Are You Flying High or a Low Rider? appeared first on Shoe Snob.

If you are looking for a fun alternative to the booming wedges that are on every corner, try the Rag & Bone Durham booties on for size. These cute tan and brown little guys have button strap closure, elastic paneling at the sides and a 2.25” heel giving you a little boost without hurting your back come 5pm. These are the perfect shoes for a laid back weekend look that you can Christmas shop all day in and still be comfortable. I’d throw these on with some GoldSign leggings and Free People button down top to go poking around the shops in. Boots like this can be worn day after day and only look better with time. If you’re looking for a different bootie this season, you may want to give this a whirl.

Ssense for $495.

The post Rag & Bone Durham Booties: Cool Casual Kicks appeared first on Shoe Snob.