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.