If there’s one breed of shoe that shouldn’t require you to spend a fortune, it’s without a doubt the espadrille. It’s summer, it’s relaxation…it’s rope! I’m all for a great investment wedge every now and again, but when it comes to the breeziest of warm-weather peep-toes, you can happily score a price that’s breezy, too.

Pelle Moda nails the vibe of laidback sweetness, as well as a price that can’t be beat, with their Ider espadrilles. In washed-out gray-blue or natural taupe, these tweed and raffia wedges possess the aura of a shoe far more expensive. With (removable!) grosgrain ribbons, which match the sole, they reference ballerina toe-shoes – without veering off into costume-land. As light and airy as a summer breeze, and way prettier. On ShopBop for $165.

Pair with: Go carefree with Joie’s silk Layana shorts. With a tribal-inspired ikat pattern and grosgrain-tie waist, they are a casual, on-trend match for these espadrilles. And the price point matches, too. At Barneys New York for $158.

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And so is Jennifer Lopez. Busier than ever (between juggling American Idol, twin toddlers, multiple careers, and a young boyfriend), the 42-year-old happens to look fresh and fancy-free in all-out neon.

For a while now, we’ve been talking about the imminence of two spring trends: the pointy-toed pump and eye-catching fluorescence. Now we can see them both in living color. Making an appearance on a Brazilian talk show this week, J.Lo brought them in spades.

What to wear with Michael Kors’ acid-yellow crepe dress? Well, aside from an armful of Hermès, that is! (Her Collier de Chien cuff makes a perfect bold topper to a slinky, long-sleeved look.) Don’t do it halfway; contrast your color with hot-pink shoes. Her oil-slick Casadei pumps have patent-leather shine, a rod-thin metal stiletto, and color that is packed with confidence. Just like the woman wearing them. When you think J.Lo glow, it’s usually all about her tan skin. Not this time!

Steal the Look: Jennifer’s piping-hot look can be yours. Pick up her Michael Kors dress ($1,995, at Neiman Marcus). Then pair it with Casadei pumps in silk ($677, on Farfetch), a patent peep-toe variation ($770, on Luisa Via Roma), , or change it up with the lime-green pair ($740, on Luisa Via Roma). Mix it up with Eddie Borgo’s overlapping-triangle bracelet ($551, on Luisa via Roma) or A.L.C. Jewelry’s silver-and-resin screw-top cuff ($375, at Barneys New York), for an original spin on the look.

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With clean, modern glamour and a splash of exoticism, Giambattista Valli delivers the ideal wedge sandal for fun summer outings. Funky and spunky, these platforms are just grown-up enough to deliver some sex appeal.

All the elements are here: sultry black satin makes a touchable alternative to leather, which would be too earthy and expected for such a design. Metallic gold straps, knotted across the toes, lighten things up and set the scene for the intriguing lacquered detail, jewel-like buckles that make you look twice. I love the bright turquoise loops (enter the fun!), which suit the embellishments’ tribal feel. Topped off with sensually thin, wrap-around ankle straps, you’ve got the precise amount of spice. This is a recipe that works deliciously. On My Theresa for $1,095.

Pair with: Don’t carry a clunky tote with these considerable platforms. Keep the look light with Victoria Beckham’s unadorned leather pouch. Bright orange sets off turquoise details beautifully. On Net-a-Porter for $650.

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Oh, dear. I think I can officially say that celebrity-designer collaborations have gone too far. “No one man should have all that power,” you say, Kanye? I think a more important statement might be: maybe this man should not have all this power. Or at least the ability to convince fabulous shoe designers to create $6,000 monstrosities for him.

Maybe I’m being a little harsh. Kanye does seem to be serious about his love of fashion, as well as his desire to make it as a designer. But it takes more than love and desire. Sometimes, it simply comes down to a matter of good (and in this case, questionable) taste. The level of Giuseppe’s workmanship is clearly high, and the excessive amount of vanilla beads possesses a wedding cake-like allure. But the problem here is excess – and the fact that even if I might want to eat these sandals, I certainly don’t want to wear them! It’s just too much. The insanely chunky ankle-straps are bound to weigh even the heartiest of feet down. Needless to say, they also bring down my spirits. On Luisa Via Roma for $5,810.

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When I tell people my name, it’s usually met with some amount of confusion. When they think of “Kelly Cook,” the image of a bubbly cheerleader comes to mind. I still feel a disconnect with this name. In high school I was kind of the opposite of a cheerleader; I was that girl in black who never wanted to get dressed for PE.

But maybe the name is growing on me and the connotation is instilling some of that cartwheeling, three-cheers spirit in me. Cuz these high-spirited raffia platforms with exaggerated pompoms are really calling my name! Well, it helps that Charlotte Olympia (always one to bring sophistication to retro whimsy) set the poufy balls in black, not some over-the-top configuration of orange and red. Plus, the black Xs match my general attitude of irreverence. You might not be able to leap like one, but there’s no doubt nearly 6” of height will make you feel as powerful as head cheerleader. On My Theresa for $1,369.

Pair with: A pleated skirt shows you’re a team player! Joseph’s accordion mini brings an extra dose of sass to these saucy shoes. At Barneys New York for $375.

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These canvas wedges by RED Valentino are the perfect neutral pumps for all your warm weather needs. The contrast between the leather and canvas makes these fancy yet fun and totally wearable with anything in your spring wardrobe. The neutral colors make these a go-to shoe for those nights you don’t feel like fussing around. They would look amazing with a Lanston romper on a warm night. They would also look great with some perfect peach DVF pants and a Rory Beca tank for a sophisticated polished look. These wedges are totally wearable and preppy with a twist of laid-back summer style.

$425 at Neiman Marcus.

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Coco Chanel’s iconic cap-toe shoes were inspired by men’s spectator shoes, which came into life as cricket footwear in 1868. Over a hundred years later, the contrasting toe is still going strong! This spring, perhaps even stronger than ever. I think Coco herself would approve of the 21st century interpretations, from multi-colors to fresh fabrics to lovely treatments of leather:

1. Carven Linen and Patent-Leather Slingbacks: This playful lady loves color and knows how to mix it up. Two of my favorite shades get grounded by linen and a fluffy black bow. Carven will earn big points with the GCB.
On Net-a-Porter for $665.

2. Yves Saint Laurent Colorblock Sling Pump: Count on YSL to cleverly meld disco flavor with chic suede. For two trends in one, this towering, colorblocked platform packs a punch, but it’s the toe I can’t take my eyes off.
At Nordstrom for $995.

3. Louis Vuitton Merry-Go-Round Pump: “Merry” doesn’t even cover the half of it! I saw my favorite cap-toes on the carousel runway at the Paris show in October. With sweet pastel leather and a snappy shot of steel, these beauties are at once feminine and badass.
At Louis Vuitton for $1,000.

4. Manolo Blahnik Quilted Cap-Toe Flat: For the traditionalist, a mature and refined rendition of the ballet flat. This angular cap-toe is as classic as they come.
At Neiman Marcus for $675.

5. Chanel Patent Calfskin Two-Tone Pump: And then there’s the house that started at all. It doesn’t get more quintessentially cap-toe than a pump in the grand tradition of Mademoiselle Coco, and this one couldn’t look more modern.
At Chanel for $750.

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I’m slightly obsessed with these. Camilla Skovgaard’s take on the white shoe is dégagé: relaxed enough to keep you looking cool as the temperatures climb. Lizard-embossed leather is just fine with me. I don’t actually want to spend a fortune on white shoes, especially ones destined to get as much wear as these.

Angular cutouts reveal enough of the foot for these to be considered sandals, but you get coverage, too. Conforming cozily, they’ve got just enough of a sturdy-bootie essence to offer long-wear stability (the straps are thick, so you’ll feet will never end up pouring out uncomfortably). Casual enough for shorts and steamy enough for nightlife, it’s hard to think of anything these dirty-vanilla heels won’t go with. Off-white with hints of gray tonality, the lizard print will pair well with your entire summer wardrobe.

Breathe street-chic life into a figure-sculpting cocktail dress, waltz these into day with airy florals, or emphasize a harder edge with chunky sterling jewels…the possibilities are endless. On Net-a-Porter for $590.

Pair with: Upgrade them to the max with an investment-worthy crocodile bag in a candy-bright color. Take your pick between Barneys New York’s yellow clutch ($6,800), Zagliani’s violet satchel ($7,519), Tiffany & Co.’s aqua shopper ($8,500), Nancy Gonzalez’s hot pink shoulder bag ($2,950), and Reed Krakoff’s tangerine tote (a whopping $11,000).

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These pumps are polished yet fun and are a great choice for spring. The MICHAEL Michael Kors Seville platform pump mixes leather and patent leather in two contrasting colors (vanilla/dark khaki or black/vanilla) resulting in a two-toned tall heel with sass. The studs and straps make these sexy for spring wear, yet the colors make sure you stay classy all night long. These would be perfect with a red hot Townsen dress for an added element of vamp. These should be worn with something that shows a lot of leg so they don’t cut you off too short. With either color you choose you get the pop of white which always makes things feel like summer. Pick them up at Neiman Marcus for $175.

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I have been watching the many fairy-tale dramas that are on these days. Now I’ve got happily-ever-after endings on the mind, so here is one fantasy that can be realized: mirrored shoes that will always tell you you are the fairest of them all (please, just let me believe!).

One thing that’s not in my imagination? These shoes are hot for summer! An overload of shine makes a shoe too theatrical for daily wear, but adding a measured touch in an unexpected way delivers reflection that will catch the right kind of gaze. Even better, there’s no villain in this story: a mirror’s job is to reflect what’s in front of it. Like a chameleon, shoes don’t get more adaptable than this when it comes to coordinating.

1) Bottega Veneta Karung and Metallic Leather Sandals: Just a flash of shine as you walk away and a sliver around the ankle, done with trademark Bottega refinement, make these karung sandals truly refined. On Net-a-Porter for $820.

2) Givenchy Metallic Leather and Suede Sandals: Gold and silver possess earthy ease thanks to woven straps and an emphasis on the bareness of your foot. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $880.

3) Yves Saint Laurent Tie-Up Satin and Suede Platform Pumps: Printed suede, satin, a bulky platform, and a gold toe-cap sounds like a recipe for chaos, but these make for a harmonious blend. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,295.

4) Ancient Greek Sandals Ikaria Metallic Leather Wing Sandals: Take your glimmer with a sense of humor and make like a Athena in these cool flats that are ready to take flight. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $245.

5) KORS Michael Kors Atherton Two-Tone Sandals: With a hint of athleticism and a dose of nude leather, metallic just got a whole lot more approachable. On Shopbop for $275.

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This is the most colorful shoe collection from Bottega Veneta I’ve seen so far! Not only are each of the Cuir sandal’s three renditions brimming with juicy color, this shoe bursts with lighthearted, good-time spirit.
Vivid shades and a lacquered wedge bring a playful twist to this classic platform shape. The brand was obviously intending to take it nice and easy – all that serious Bottega Veneta leather and wood (which, of course, I still love) would be way too heavy. I’m really appreciating the lighter, brighter mood they’ve embraced as of late! And the neutral bodies, accented with casual gunmetal studding and a touch of braiding, bring a sense of substance to flirty hues of bright green and red. Naturally, I’m partial to the hot pink. It’s such a dazzling contrast to somber brown leather, which is why pink and brown is an eternally chic duo.
Available in Cioccolato, Nero, and Dakar at Bottega Veneta for $820.

Pair with: Wear each and every one of these colorful numbers with Lanvin’s versatile silk-gazar dress. The bountiful bubble skirt balances out a platform shape.
On Net-a-Porter for $4,350.

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This fantastic wedge by Jimmy Choo will have you looking perfectly put together without trying too hard. The mix of exotic snake-print leather and braided espadrille make these fun, flirty, yet luxurious. These are the perfect vacation shoe because they will kill about 5 birds with one stone (a phrase I’ve never quite liked because I can’t really relate to needing birds to die- let alone more than one at a time- but you get my drift). When you pack these babies in your suitcase you will not only get a night out shoe to wear with a sexy dress by Issa, but you will get a slider that can be worn to the pool to wear with your new fabulous DVF bikini and matching cover up dress. These shoes are laid back enough to wear to breakfast but fancy enough to wear dancing. Pick them up at Bergdorf Goodman for $385.

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Softness comes to sculpture with this architectural beauty. This is quintessential Jil Sander: a strong sense of minimalism delivering a high sense of stylistic integrity. The mix of almond-y wood, accompanied by a white rubber sole, and black linen makes for an irresistible combo. One that’s not just cute, it’s comfy. The cushy platform delivers some sportiness that will keep the spring in your step, while the caressing upper panels are chic all the way.

The vamp strap is buttery soft; the scalloped shape hugs your feet. I’m always a sucker for a sweet ankle strap, and this one makes for a perfectly dainty topper, but the way it attaches is a bit tricky. With little to hold it up, it tends to slip and slink down your Achilles. But it’s worth it. I’m willing to mind the strap for sandals this select. At Barneys New York for $595.

Pair with: A dress that pops with cool suede of bright Kelly green. See by Chloé’s retro mini is a welcome revamp of the spring sundress. On Net-a-Porter for $765.

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Pink plus leopard equals terribly tacky? Not in the meticulous hands of Monsieur Alaïa! Back in fall, he delivered ultra-chunky, lug-soled booties (which I wore to death during Fashion Week in September). Now this leopard has changed its spots – and it’s right on time.

A true-to-life-meets-cotton candy palette makes for a nuanced look, and the precise silhouette drives the elegance home. The delicacy of the sandal is key, elevating a wild print from streetwalker to chic-walker.

Thin, curve-hugging slivers of straps allow for a full view of your foot, an erotic zone for many. If that’s not incentive to chuck the chunk, then I don’t know what is. It’s high time for me to ditch the clunky platforms and embrace the stiletto! Will you be showing off below the ankles this season? At Edon Manor for $1,650.

Pair with: L’Wren Scott’s blue pochette ($1,800) is powdery, not prissy. In glazed eel, this is a sleek way to double up on pastels this season.

The post Alaïa Pink Leopard Sandal: An Elegant Sufficiency appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Well here are some cheery flats to brighten up your summer wear. The madewell belle by sigerson morrison® randy neon sandals are a fresh way to start off the season. They take the bright neon trend to the streets and combine it with a classic t-strap cut making these the perfect way to try out the colors. Wear them with a simple black sun dress also from madewell for a laid back day look or with some Vince jeans and a Joie top for a bright and fun look for a dinner out. These sandals could go from the beach to the bar one night and from a date to the dance floor the next. Pick them up at Madewell for $175.

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I don’t think it would be fair to just call this a sandal. Not only is this one of the most beautifully constructed shoes I’ve ever seen, it breaks visual boundaries. We already knew the man had a way with accessories, but Reed Krakoff’s latest architectural lines are more on par with contemporary art, sculpture, and furniture than a spring sandal.

No attention to detail has been spared. With a T-pin closure (T for Tina…Duh! Clearly, Reed made this shoe for me) and cutout block heel with lacquer finish, it’s insanely beautiful! Notice the bridle leather looped effortless through the cutout heel; and the way the stitching brilliant completes the strap. Finally, Reed brings new meaning to the term “jewel tones.” Vibrant cobalt and emerald is a most sophisticated color combination.

I can’t think of anything that won’t go with these shoes – it must be a sign that I need to have them. At Reed Krakoff for $750.

Pair with: I also intend to deck my arms in enamel bracelets throughout the coming months. Hermès Point d’Orgue bangles ($450-$700), J. Crew’s two-tone ovals ($35), Bottega Veneta’s cuff ($5,250), and Aurelie Bidermann coral bracelet ($1,700) will all pop alongside these terrific (with a capital T!) shoes.

The post Reed Krakoff Cut-Out Heel Covered Sandal: The Right Kind of T-Zone appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Possibly my most favorite wedge yet- the DVF beige opal wedge is as pretty as a picture. These textured leather wedges are beige beauties with cross -over detail on top and gold tone zip closure on back. They have a 1” platform and a 4.5” heel making these perfect when you need a little height but don’t need to vamp it up too much with a heel. I’m much more comfortable wearing wedges with more casual looks than I am with heels for some reason. I would throw these on with an adorable romper by Zinke for a long lunch during a vacation somewhere fabulous. These would also look great with a pair of red hot Kimberly Taylor pants and a Joie tank for a polished warm weather outfit that’s fun and flirty at the same time. Pick these fantastic wedges up at Ssense for $295.

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Army-green for summer? Oh, yes! (Or maybe I should say, “Sir, yes, sir!”) This latest shade is more sage than military – at least it sounds prettier! I love it because it’s both a color and a neutral. It works with white, beige, black, brights, and prints alike, since most florals have a hint of green somewhere.

Sage seems to be the shade of the season, not only in the realm of accessories, but with ready-to-wear, too. Looks like I’ll be breaking out my Essie polish – their appropriately named School of Hard Rocks is the perfect variation to offset these sandals.

1) Givenchy Corinne Leather Wedges: The military hue is perfectly suited to these unfussy platforms, ideal for the tomboy who rolls in high style. On My Theresa for $1,255.

2) Alexander McQueen Skull Peep-Toe Platform Pump: Soft suede and an undying silhouette get an edgy upgrade in a rough-and-tumble color, topped with a don’t-mess-with-me embellishment. This skull even has a mohawk! At Bergdorf Goodman for $965.

3) Ancient Greek Sandals Myrtis Leather Slingback Sandal: The brand may hark back to primordial styles, but there is nothing ancient about this shade of green – a great way to refresh the gladiator sandal. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $195.

4) Givenchy Cutout Leather Sandals: Maybe it’s their inherently badass take on heels, but Givenchy has quite a way with sage. These artsy cutouts are so of the moment, yet they’ll cruise you into September. Just be warned, not the most comfy shoe out there. On Net-a-Porter for $975.

5) Ralph Lauren Collection Jesalin Canvas Sandals: A classic combination taken right out off the low-slung trousers of soliders. Army-green and studded canvas look way better on our sandals than their belts! On Net-a-Porter for $695.

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Spring just officially began, and now I have nothing but Easter eggs on the mind. The hues of pretty painted Easter eggs, that is. So I was inspired to perform my own egg hunt and find the very best pastel-hued shoes around! We already know pleasurable pales are a big trend; now it’s time to put your feet to work and spring into action.

1) Miu Miu Patent-Leather Sandals: Green takes a soft and subdued turn in this spring-perfect shade, bringing blooming delicacy to the classic strappy sandal.
On Net-a-Porter for $695.

2) Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Patent-Leather Sandals: Speaking of classic! The Tribute isn’t going anywhere, but in sugary bubblegum pink, your look will be riding high.
On Net-a-Porter for $795.

3) Acne Pistol Short Boots: Ease into warm weather with a new pair of spring boots. In breezy baby blue, these will look whisper light with white skinnies and denim cutoffs.
On My Theresa for $565.

4) Giuseppe Zanotti Lavender Scale Pumps: Giuseppe’s curvy bombshell pumps get a touch of innocence, thanks to a palette of luscious light lavender.
On Ssense for $695.

5) Robert Clergerie Debaa Platform: Sometimes a sandal should be nothing but sweet. Although they look great in turquoise, knotted yellow straps are a precious match for a woven-rope wedge.
At Barneys New York for $595.

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These two toned trendy wedges will take you all around town looking sharp. The buckle straps give these a warm weather feel while the textured leather adds a luxury element to the cute strappy little guys. The Chloe black and brown wedges will look great with everything that makes you think of summertime. These would look amazing paired with a pair of J Brand skinnies and an Equipment blouse for a warm night out. They can also be dressed up for a date with a LBD by Riller & Fount and a Charles Albert cuff. Tall but wearable, these versatile buckled beauties are a great buy for spring.

$795 at Ssense.

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