Sure, it costs the amount of a small piece of art, but that’s essentially what this captivating sandal-bootie is. Like the mysterious architecture (think wild, sharp lines and a gallery-esque attitude) of Balenciaga’s Chelsea boutique, this shoe is quintessential Ghesquière: bizarre yet strangely appealing.

Blush leather and neutral snakeskin come together in a series of violent gashes and hard geometry – but the result is somewhat delicate, especially as the shape sweeps up into a pair of ankle-caressing wings. The totally offbeat heel extension is unexpected, especially in contrasting caramel, but it’s the only way to finish off such a shoe. A shoe that, even though it’s donning wings, is far more devilish than angelic. At Barneys New York for $2,950,

Pair with: Spice up the afternoon and wear these sandals during the day with Illesteva’s Leonard sunglasses. A round shape in light-pink matte-acetate is current and coordinating. On Net-a-Porter for $165.

The post Balenciaga Winged Woven Sandal: Fallen Angel appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s a puzzle as old as time: how do you chicly dress up the most comfortable pair of flats? Okay, maybe it’s not that old of a question, but it is very hard to find a pair of flat summer shoes that have enough whimsy to act as a counterpart to your gorgeous summer dresses (and I’m not talking about Giuseppe Zanotti’s fabulously adorned flat sandals; I’m talking closed-toe shoes).

Valentino seems to have mastered it, what with their quintessentially Italian way with easy glamour. Take a plain old pair of espadrilles, with classic rope snaking around the sole, and treat them with the most delicate of sheer lace. It’s like a whisper around your foot! (If you’re going to do lace, you might as go straight to the top.) Trimmed in black leather, they have a needed finished look. The result is a wonderfully rustic, walk-able shoe that will happily dress down formalwear or dress up denim and cotton. On Luisa Via Roma for $510.

Pair with: Take a cue from these espadrilles and be easy about it. 3.1 Phillip Lim’s silk crepe de chine shift has captivating details and a brilliant color, so you can be a minimalist with the rest of your look. On Net-a-Porter for $495.

The post Valentino Lace and Leather Espadrille Flats: Valentino Shows Us the Ropes appeared first on Shoe Snob.

These fun-tastic thongs by Cole Haan are colorful, flirty and are on trend with colorblocking galore. Everyone needs a good pair of sandals for summer that you can scoot around in and not worry that they are going to fall off your feet at any given moment. These buckle you right in with leather straps to a snug padded insole. They come in bright yellow or cheerful orange. Wear these to the beach with a sweet L*Space bikini with a cover up by Norma Kamali for a sexy yet practical summer look. Then keep them on and toss a dress by Of Two Minds on for dinner. Day or night, inside or out, these sandals are useful and pretty all at the same time.
Saks for $148.

The post Cole Haan Bridget Patent Leather Colorblock Thong Sandals: Thongs That Are Actually Fun To Wear appeared first on Shoe Snob.

To quote vintage Carrie Bradshaw, the stylish white shoe can be something of an “urban shoe myth.” It’s so hard to find non-geriatric white shoes! But like Carrie’s obsessed-over Manolo Mary Jane, it can be attained – it just has to have the right elements.
And just like with color, it’s all or nothing. There’s no in-between for me: sky-high or perfectly flat, please! (I have no place in my life for midway kitten heels. I make the commitment!) Bleached-out platforms are less clunky when they’ve been punched up with perforated details or cork wedges and quirky power pumps look hot in cool white:

1. Topshop Whamm Espadrille Leather Wedges: Whamm is right! White leather and espadrille rope doesn’t exactly sound like a recipe for a high-impact shoe, but this platform packs heat.
At Topshop for $130.

2. Alexander Wang Multi-Strap Leather Shoes: Crisp and pointy-toed, Wang’s is a sharp favorite. The curving heel and unexpected straps keep the stark shade from looking severe.
On Antonioli for $1,119.

3. Alice + Olivia Jana Slingback Laser-Cut Leather Wedge Sandals: Even though they give a nod to Granny’s doilies, these platforms are anything but old-school. Lacy detailing looks funky on a chunky yet shapely wedge.
At Saks Fifth Avenue for $280.

4. Chloé Criss-Cross Wedge: With a nod to the Summer of Love, these freewheeling sandals have a vintage vibe – perfect for this summer’s gypsy-inspired patterns.
At Barneys New York for $895.

5. Balenciaga Arena Thong Sandal: I love Balenciaga’s thongs for summer jaunts. Skinny straps and hearty hardware make for an effective outcome, especially in easy white.
At Barneys New York for $595.

The post Top 5 Wicked Whites: The Ivory Coast appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I love these flats. Bold neon colors are all over this spring and encorporating them into a flat is a subtle yet edgy way to wear the trend. These flats are electric patent leather with leather insole and pack a pink punch. I tried these on and had people across the store looking my way. Wear these with draped shorts by Malene Birger and a DVF blouse for a fun summer color splash. You could also throw on a pair of white True Religion jeans and a Madewell top for a summer fun look that’s casually chic. These flats are fun, flirty and fantastic for summer. Pick them up at Neiman Marcus for $89.

The post MICHAEL Michael Kors City Flat: Electric Love appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Forget your pre-conceived notions of the Sperry topsider-wearing, Lily Pulitzer-loving, pastel headband-sporting, haughty prepster! Well, for the most part…At the moment, I’m feeling like polishing it up with a wink to New England-socialite style. Emphasis on wink. The best new preppy shoes come with a hearty dose of irony, so it won’t look like you just finished reading The Official Preppy Handbook, circa 1980:

1. Rochas Leather-Trimmed Raffia Loafers: Perform a pattern mash-up by pairing these crisp plaid loafers with stripes or florals for a fully directional look.
On Net-a-Porter for $795.

2. Yves Saint Laurent Maryna Flower-Print Wedges: The preppy lady loves to dress up with a vivid flower print. Oversized blossoms are cheeky, and make a strong counterpart to a blonde wood wedge.
On Ssense for $795.

3. Christian Louboutin Rollergirl Tartan Canvas Loafers: Preppy tartan canvas goes a little badass with chain-trimmed metal toecap, just enough to make them wonder about your true persona.
On Net-a-Porter $995.

4. Manolo Blahnik Pamufac Pump: Nautical stripes plus delicate grosgrain equals a refined pump with a shape that gives a nod to the prep’s original era: the eighties.
At Barneys New York for $655.

5. Balenciaga Arena Buckle Ballerina Flat: Pastel-pink and brogue-esque detailing is classic prepster. But in true Balenciaga fashion, these crackle-leather flats are more than meets the eye.
At Barneys New York for $575.

The post Top 5 Preppy Shoes: Put Some Spring in Your Prep appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Now I know some of you out there are saying- no way Jose. But hear me out- these slip-on’s by Stuart Weitzman combine satin and the look of espadrille that make these the perfect casual summer shoe. These are the perfect option to slip on for a day trip out exploring on vacation when sandals just won’t cut it. Pair these with a pair of MiH jeans and a Tibi tankfor a carefree summer comfort look. They come in sunshine yellow and cream- perfect colors when the weather gets hot. Pick them up at Bergdorf’s for $295.

The post Stuart Weitzman Satin Espadrille Slip-On: Summer Comfort appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s ba-nanas! For the next month, we will be giving away a gorgeous new shoe from Rachel Zoe’s latest collection each week (FOUR pairs total!). Starting off the mega-giveaway with a bang, the bodacious yet wearable Bonnie is up for grabs.

With the perfect combination of a layered, stacked platform and a va-va-voom heel, this is a great summer basic that can party or go to work. A series of python-embossed straps holds you in place, and the moderate heel (thanks to that 1.5” platform) won’t kill your back – but it will still give you a sexy silhouette.

To Enter to win, all you have to do is:

1. LIKE the Rachel Zoe Collection on Facebook

2. Tell us in the comment section (of this post) where you would wear these insanely chic sandals.

I would wear them tonight to a fabulous Argentinian and Spanish wine dinner for my girlfriend’s birthday. I have the perfect bird print mini dress that would kill it with these! The winning snob will be selected at random. Good luck!

The Bonnie is available in black or brown at
Neiman Marcus for $325.

The post Rachel Zoe Collection Giveaway: The Bonnie appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Is there such a thing as ladylike bondage? It might sound like an oxy moron, but with a vision all his own, Alejandro Ingelmo is here to prove otherwise.

The fourth-generation designer, raised in Miami with a Cuban-Spanish background, creates super-sexy, strut-worthy (or perhaps stomp-worthy) shoes as fluidly eclectic as his upbringing. For Spring, he is taking a lighter approach – literally – though his trademark swerving, deeply angled pitch is still firmly intact. Nude-blush softens the heft of a 6” wedge, and patent-leather paneling introduces needed sheen to a flesh-toned shoe. It also breaks up the intricacy of a deliciously dangerous spider web of straps. These suede-trimmed bands hug your feet comfortably – this web isn’t letting your foot slide anywhere! Hey, practical S&M means you can be comfy and sexually deviant at the same time. It’s all about picking your poison, darling. On Ssense for $795.

Pair with: Elect a simple silhouette that’s more “lady” than “tramp.” Like See by Chloé’s crocheted cotton-lace dress. A demure neckline and a sweetly flared skirt will leave the femme-fatale emphasis on your killer shoes. On Net-a-Porter for $795.

The post Alejandro Ingelmo Sand Spider Wedges: Kiss of the Spider Woman appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Anglomania strikes again! For Pre-Fall 2012, McQ still has yet to relinquish their position as one of the best diffusion lines around: essential Alexander McQueen at a nice price with a more casual vibe.

This time, McQ takes it outside, in the rolling hills of England – a tamed kind of wilderness. Think British traditions, like hunting, horseback-riding, and military culture. Smart soles were inspired by traditional school shoes from the 1940s, while oxford perforations complete the uniform feel (perfect for cropped wool peacoats and ultra-mini pleated skirts come fall). Equestrian ankle boots get a biker makeover with chain-link details and tartan creepers get a vixen-ish wink with voluptuous stilettos. Naughty Mary Janes, with angles and curves galore, are even more seductive. McQ might be embracing Victorian flair, but the rebel is still present in McQueen. Just the right mix of polite and rude!

The post McQ Alexander McQueen Pre-Fall 2012 Collection: Devil May Care appeared first on Shoe Snob.

The Nadina platform sandal pumps up the volume for summer style with its stacked wooden platform and 5″ leather heel. This chic and sexy heel comes in blue or green with gold hardware and adjustable ankle straps for a polished look. These pumps would look amazing with a Madison Marcus maxi for a warm summer date night. They could also be paired with an adorable romper by Heather for a night on the town. These shoes have the height and va-va-voom but keep it casually classy with mixed textiles and laid back colors. These are a great buy for warm weather. Pick them up at Neiman Marcus for $150.

The post MICHAEL Michael Kors Nadina Platform Sandal: Pump it up appeared first on Shoe Snob.

See the entire feature here at Barneys New York The Window!

The post My Picks for Barneys “The Window” – Spring’s Best Shoes! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Ever since Barbara Bui opened a boutique in LA, she has become a staple in my wardrobe. It’s hard to believe the French-Vietnamese designer has been producing ahead-of-the-curve gear for nearly 30 years! This spring she couldn’t be more on trend – athletic, bold color, an emphasis on the ankle, it’s all right here – yet these sandals don’t have even a hint of generic blandness.

Instead, biker inspiration (the cushy motor-cross seams and panels) set in surprising stark white with a shock of red is in-your-face hot. You could opt for a slight variation, in all-white or blue, but those don’t have the impact here. And when your details are minimal and the design is essentially simple, impact is where it’s at. These may be sandals with a stiletto, but they aren’t for a prim lady. Bui’s ankle-cuff is strong and assertive. As in, it keeps you stable so you can be strong and assertive. If you feel powerful, then you are powerful! On Ssense for $920.

Pair with: Allow these sandals to amp up bleached-blue denim. J.Brand’s 620 low-rise skinnys are an ideal addition to your summer denim closet, and Bui’s ankle-strap will give them edge. On Net-a-Porter for $175.

The post Barbara Bui Biker Sandals: More Power to You! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

There are sexy shoes…And then there are sexy Italian shoes, existing in an entirely other realm of sensuality. Italians do sexiness with a knowing confidence, and there are few better ways to express it than the leg-lengthening, bum-lifting, confidence-building high heel.
My latest obsession courtesy of the thigh-high boot-shaped nation: a pair I picked up in Milan this week from Le Silla (a favorite of Italian celebs). Naturally, the sparkle, dazzle, and exotic intricancies of this beautiful shoe lured me in, but its comfort (almost inexplicably so!) made me buy without skipping a beat. At least, once I tried it on. At 5″ high, I thought for sure I’d topple over, and layers of mouthwatering beads and jewels don’t read “cushy.” But surprise! The shoe’s last and platform is solid and the sturdy construction held my foot in place with confidence.
I journeyed all over the streets of Milan in them one night and felt like I was wearing sneakers! (Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but that’s honesly how comfortable they are). My Italian romance almost didn’t happen, but now I know it was meant to be: a friend urged me to go in the store and at first I hesitated, as it looked like a cheesy boutique that offered only glitzy shoes and look-at-me bikinis, but I’m so glad I listened!
At Stylebop for $1,070.

The post Le Silla Suede Calfskin Sandal: Love, Italian Style appeared first on Shoe Snob.

First off, I’m just going to disregard Tabitha Simmon’s over-the-top prices, at least when you take into consideration the relative youth of the model-turned-stylist-turned-designer’s line (it’s almost three years old), along with the fact there are no high-end exotics in sight (not that that’s always a bad thing!). Instead, I’ll focus on the enjoyable sense of whimsy this trio of sisterly shoes exudes.

Cited inspirations include: Gothic rockabillys, the ‘60s sexual revolution, and the Victorian era, and I can actually see all of those in these platform sandals. This Renaissance woman certainly has a joie de vivre, and I do like shoes with spirit. Prim-meets-bondage straps create a sense of restriction, while the colors, prints, and details throw caution to the wind. I just can’t decide which of three corseted sandals has more capricious appeal: an embroidered rainbow of hue and handicraft set off with sunshiny yellow ($1,695); a duo of blues ($1,495) setting the stage for dangling fish charms; or a wacky flower-child pattern on jacquard silk that’s so busy it works ($1,450).

What do you think: do Tabitha’s spring sandals have what it takes to lure you in and lace you up or do they fail to make your cut? Available at Bergdorf Goodman for $1,450-$1,695.

The post Tabitha Simmons Anklet-Strap Platform Sandals: Shaken, Not Stirred appeared first on Shoe Snob.

This summer, there’s no excuse not to dive right in. Even if water sports aren’t your thing, I suggest you try dressing the part – rough-and-tumble energy is sure to follow. Whether you opt for a stiletto that merely takes inspiration from those who venture deep under the sea or you snatch up a sandal that’s begging to go to the beach, water won’t be far from your toes this summer, even if that’s about as much as you like to dip!

1. Christian Louboutin Snorkeling 100 Neoprene and Leather Ankle Boots: Louboutin’s juicy citrus take on scuba is particularly appealing for fashion daredevils. His amped-up neoprene looks super-saucy and surfer-cool.
On Net-a-Porter for $895.

2. Loeffler Randall Fawn Sandal: A raffia-lined flat is a chilled-out way to inject the theme. With leather straps, this sandal doesn’t take the trend overboard.
At Barneys New York for $295.

3. Givenchy Jelly Sandal: I’m wary to tread back to jelly territory, but Givenchy’s frugal find puts an ironic twist on the rubber sandal. Military green and zipper texture mean this jelly is for tough girls who like to get wet.
At Barneys New York for $190.

4. Camilla Skovgaard Indochine Leather and Patent Wedge Sandals: These make me want to splash around in the Caribbean ocean, stat. True turquoise takes you to the tropics, while padded straps bring comfy athleticism.
On Net-a-Porter for $600.

5. Alexander Wang Bianca Runway Fishskin Sandal: “Parrot fish leather” sounds as exotic as these sandals look. With airy cutouts and an even airier shade, these merge the breeze with the sea.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $995.

The post Top 5 Deep-Diving Sandals: Take the Plunge appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Tory Burch Emmy Flat Thong Sandal: Cute, striped and the price is right.
These patent leather eye-catchers are perfect for a laid back look or a walk on the beach. Cheery with gold accents and signature, these will be a great buy for any age. ShopBop for $225

Diane Von Furstenberg Klee: Classic Luxury
The DVF Knee’s will go with almost anything you pack if you buy them in gold. They also come in pink making them perfect for those spring colors. These are flats you can wear well into the summer with ease. Zappos for $198

Marc By Marc Jacobs Gipsy Sandals: Hippie Chic
These simple yet cute sandals are perfect for the nights when you just want to throw on a pair of shorts and a tank and head out to the beach to watch the sunset. They are easy on and easy off, lightweight and will go with practically everything- especially a bikini. Ssense for $135.

Burberry Strappy Slingback Sandals: Blue Crush
These shiny finds are great with a pair of capri’s and a tank. They would also be perfect with a bathing suit and a sheer white cover up. With that much color, they can do all the talking. Saks Fifth Avenue for $150

MICHAEL Michael Kors Hamilton Toe-Ring Sandal: Slide in Style
These slide on neutrals will be your go-to footwear when on vacation. You don’t have to bother with wondering if they will go with what you’re wearing because, they will. You don’t have to fuss with straps and buckles after a long day in the sun, you just slide them on, and be on your way in style. Neiman Marcus for $125

The post Sandal Roundup: Top Sandals for Spring Breakers on a Budget appeared first on Shoe Snob.

If you feel like something is missing from your shoe wardrobe, here’s a hint: the key ingredient might very well be spice! No more. Christian Louboutin has brought caliente spice is spades with one of his Spring/Summer 2012 additions, the Torero pump (along with the coordinating Sofia clutch).

His eternal Lady Peep style has been made over yet again, this time reaping heated inspiration from the regal costume of the matador. In grand Spanish tradition, this satin peep-toe is carefully bedecked in a fine arrangement of 3-D embroidery and strass crystals.

I may not be up for a bullfight, but I certainly can see a pair of these prancing through a darkly lit flamenco club in one of the romantic backstreets of Madrid. Pale nude-pink brings sugary sweetness to this hot flavor, but you’ve got to go red for maximum toreador appeal. What else can I say but olé? The fight is on! At Christian Louboutin for $2,995.

Pair with: Keep it exciting and sensuous with a full-skirted cocktail dress. The lace and embroidered satin of Camilla and Marc’s Delroy dress will look enchanting as you dance through the night. On Net-a-Porter for $760.

The post Christian Louboutin Torero Pump: Seduced by a Matador appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I’ve enjoyed a pompom on a shoe when the time is right, and I’ve also found myself getting giddy over some pretty loco creations. But there’s fun-crazy, and then there’s the downright not-right-in-the-head kind of crazy. Never a pair to shy away from adventure, I think Dsquared2 struck the latter with these woven sandals.

The recipe sounds right for a pair of perfectly zany summer shoes: a heaping of scalloped trim, a few measures of crafty trimming and braiding, a full cup of contrast, and a splash of a timeless color combination. But ultimately, these just leave a bad taste in my mouth. Gwen Stefani is probably the only non-Rasta around who can pull off wearing red, green, and yellow without looking like a total poser, and the collection of pompoms, arranged to tickle your ankle, seem more sad than happy. Simply, it’s too much of too many things without any cohesion. What do you think: a Rastafari wreck or a chaotic kick? On Luisa Via Roma for $1,109.

The post Dsquared2 Suede Pompom Woven Sandals: Jamaican Me Crazy! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Sometimes you have to leave it to your pumps to bring the party. I’m still waiting for the chance to attend an Indian wedding, but in the meantime, Christian Louboutin’s intoxicating take on Eastern flavor will serve me well while I keep everything else simple and basic. And when I finally do get that invite, I’ll have the perfect pair of shoes to wear to the lavish affair.

The hand-embroidered cornucopia of details is as robust as a spice market, and setting it on the palette of Louboutin’s classic Lady Peep style ensures the shoe looks fab far beyond Bollywood. Naturally, nude suede allows you more options and it highlights all those colorful crystals, but my eyes desire nothing but turquoise. To go “understated” on any level defeats the purpose here. Festive aqua exudes ethnic charm, whisking your mind away to a place of exotic delights. Just don’t get carried away and go all out with henna! At Barneys New York for $2,795.

Pair with: A collection of sparkling bangles suit the mood without putting you in a costume. Isharya’s frugal find includes a set of six 18-karat gold-plated crystal bangles in royal blue. On Net-a-Porter for $110.

The post Christian Louboutin Bollywoody Pump: Monsoon Wedding appeared first on Shoe Snob.