The Great Gatsby has the fashion world in a ‘20s tizzy, but this flapper fringe is not the look. Even in the famous era of excess, I can bet Fitzgerald himself would tell Charlotte Olympia to tone it down. As if covering the entire wedge in bright pink strands wasn’t enough, there’s a pompom on top. When you strut in sky-high shoes, you want to inspire awe, not fits of laughter. For a great pair of Olympia wedges, check out the black and gold Carmens (on Matches for $889) Tina and I bought. Leave Gigi for the Moulin Rouge. Available at Bergdorf Goodman for $1,085.

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This style is a little confusing to me. The awkward mix of masculine and feminine seems incongruous, but I guess that’s the appeal. I would stick with ladylike pairings to add a sense of delicacy to these chunky heels. While they’re seen most often in the office, try to have fun with them when you’re off the clock. If you decide to jump in feet first into this trend, here are my top picks to keep you ahead of the curve.

Bottega Veneta Leather Platform Pumps: With these hefty platforms, you’ll grow another six inches in seconds. Wear with a pencil skirt for a cheeky play on secretarial style. On NET-A-PORTER for $950.

Alexander McQueen Suede and Perspex Pumps: Don’t dig your heels in with these on – you’ll want them the gold metallic-dipped perspex to be seen. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,795.

Gucci Straw and Studded Leather Loafer Pumps: Gucci should’ve just stuck with the horsebit hardware rather than overwhelming the already unusual style with a barrage of silver studs. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $795.

Fendi Flappers Lizard-Print Leather Loafer Pumps: If you’re tired of your boring work shoes, give your look some new life with colorblocked lizard print. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $795.

Carven x Robert Clergerie Buckled Loafer Pump: Those large buckles and cleat-like soles don’t help to underplay the masculine vibe, making this the hardest pair to pull off. Dare you try? Pre-order at Barneys New York for $1,025.

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Move over, sequins! There’s a new trend in town – mirror embellishments. Why simply shine when you could reflect? Just remember to save those mini skirts for another day, especially when you’re wearing Andreia Chaves’ “Invisible” shoe (at Sole Struck for $3,995). You’ll have a hard time checking your makeup in the geometric facets of these mirror balls, but this is art! Function has no place in this fun house.

Marni Black Leather Mirror and Wood Sculpted Platform Sandals: Who needs a hall of mirrors when you have a heel of mirrors? On Ssense for $1,075.

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Brian Atwood is always doing well for himself, but lately it seems that everyday I see someone rocking his stratospheric platforms. In NYC yesterday, Oscar PR Girl strutted into our lunch wearing Atwoods, and now actress Teresa Palmer has followed suit. While it’s no secret that Brian makes the sexiest shoes on the market, these bejeweled beauties are on another level – literally! Teresa’s black Clizias are double platforms (a personal favorite) with the top covered in lush suede and the bottom in sleek leather. Its graduated gold disks pop on the t-strap like jewels for your feet. The style also comes in fuchsia and colorblocked purple, but when you already have such strong embellishments, color almost seems excessive. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,200.

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The neutrality of nude pumps makes them essentials, but in springtime, a little dose of color is also an essential. So pick up some peachy pumps that will give you a slice of citrusy orange color without overdosing you on sweetness. When you feel like reaching for those go-to tan heels, pick the peaches instead. Use them in an understated peaches and cream combo, or for a more daring outfit, pair them with brights like turquoise earrings and a yummy yellow mini!

Diane von Furstenberg Opal Leather Wedge Sandals: Architectural designs like this normally go for much more. DVF is giving us a true frugal find that will stun with its combo of dark wood and light-colored leather. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $295.

Alejandro Ingelmo Flavia d’Orsay Pumps: With the sleek metallic strips and sexy cutouts, these peachy pointed toes are a clever take on the d’Orsay. On Shopbop for $795.

B Brian Atwood Mirante Cage Sandals: Precious pastels get a little edgier with a metal heel, studded trim, and a snakeskin cage. On Shopbop for $495.

Santoni Slingback Pump: You don’t always need 5-inch stilettos to stun. This ladylike slingback is perfect for a Georgia peach who has to run from work to home to a gorgeous evening gala. On Farfetch for $507.87.

Stuart Weitzman Flatty Raffia Braided Wedge Sandal: With an even subtler pitch, these raffia-accented wedges are for petite beach babes who want a little boost. At Bergdorf Goodman for $345.

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Gladiators have never been so chic. As the trend has fought its way through the years, the height of the shoes has grown steadily, evolving from simple flats to elaborate knee-high booties. On days when you need to let your inner warrior out of her cage, there’s no better alternative. Don’t even think about wearing boots in the summer. These knee-grazing numbers will give you the look of strength without an accompanying heat stroke.

Alexander Wang Martha Cutout Leather Knee Boots: For the modern, urban gladiator. Even if she doesn’t win the battle for the subway seat, she’ll be relatively comfy standing atop these thick black heels. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,200.

Altuzarra Leather Gladiator Over-the-Knee Boots: The Ancient Romans may not have worn stilettoed sandals like these, but fashion has come a long way! At Saks Fifth Avenue for $2,715.

Jimmy Choo Mogul Studded Suede Cage Sandals: With these thin, laced-up straps, the sex appeal of caged shoes is on full display and so are your gams! Don’t worry – even if you’ve been skipping the gym, these heels will have your calves looking perfectly toned. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,495.

Versace Caged Stiletto Heels: Who better to take on the gladiator style than a storied Italian house like Versace? The cages may not go all the way up to your knees, but with the hefty pointed platform and the Medusa medallions, this shoe is just as loud and proud. On Shopbop for $2,150.

Stuart Weitzman Sandals: All right, let’s include one flat option. The gilded cages are just what we need to make up for the missing height of a heel! At Bloomingdale’s for $398.

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Move over Christian, Nicholas, and Brian! There’s a new name on the lips and heels of celebs – Rupert Sanderson. He may not be a new designer to us (his company has been crafting gorgeous shoes for over a decade), but his fan base has been multiplying lately like no other. The latest actress to step out in his fancy footwear is Freida Pinto, who wore her flame-colored dress with Rupert’s playful black parrot-accented Yani sandals (at Bloomingdale’s for $750) in London. Check out some other big name stars rocking the designer’s latest creations!

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Bored of studs but still want heavy metal hardware? You’re not alone. From flats to heels we’re putting the metal to the pedal with metal plates and accents on shoes that could easily double as weapons (used only in self-defense, of course). Whether they’re tall or small, these shoes turn heads by being a step ahead of the rest. Pair them with Maison Martin Margiela’s curved mirror clutch (on NET-A-PORTER for $1,345) for a look worthy of battle.

Giuseppe Zanotti Reptile-Print Leather Metal Ankle Strap Sandals: It would be remiss not to mention Zanotti multiple times in these lists. Metal appears on so many of his shoes this season, but he has far from cornered the market. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,350.

Valentino Embellished Leather Sandals: Valentino is also plating his pieces, albeit more often in the back than in the front (I guess it just depends on whether you’d like your hardware to be upfront or behind the seams). On NET-A-PORTER for $995.

Sergio Rossi Leather Sandals with Metal Heel: We’re seeing a lot of high polish, sleek metal heels, so Rossi’s hammered style stands out from the already unique crowd. On Shopbop for $995.

Esteban Cortazar Metal Ankle-Cuff Leather Sandals: Cortazar takes metal to new heights with his sexy ankle cuffs. Unfortunately they’ve sold out, but how could I exclude them?? On NET-A-PORTER for $755.

Dukas 130MM Glitter Doll Heel Pumps: The design of Dukas’s doll heel pumps is like a cheeky (literally) reference to the famous leg lamp from A Christmas Story. Love them or hate them, the shoes are conversation-starters, especially in mirrored metal. On Luisa via Roma for $807.

Giuseppe Zanotti Metal T-Strap Sandal: All it takes to elevate the flat is a simple striking detail. At Barneys New York for $850.

Lanvin Leather Sandals: Bring these on a sunny vacation to the tropics and you might blind anyone tailing you, but at least you caught their attention, right? On NET-A-PORTER for $795.

Versace 10MM Metal Fringe Leather Flats: Roaring Twentie’s style fringe gets a modern update on flats that would look just a great with a bikini as they would with a summer dress. On Luisa via Roma for $1,437.

Maison Martin Margiela Sandal with Metal Ring: I wouldn’t stay out in the sun too long in these red-hot cuffs for fear they would start to feel just as scalding, but as long as you’re not lounging on the beach all day, the subtly seductive rings will make you the coolest Snob in sight. On Shopbop for $670.

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Today is the first day of spring, and while the weather may not reflect that everywhere, your shoes can certainly do the job! Romantic ruffles are just the airy frills to start of the season with. Wear these shoes with bright, girly dresses, but nothing too poufy – you’ve already got enough embellishments and volume with the pumps. Here are the most frilled-out finds for spring:

Nicholas Kirkwood Ruffle-Trimmed Suede Pumps: Black may not scream springtime, but Kirkwood’s statuesque platforms show off their fun side with wavy appliqués. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,095.

Nina Ricci Patent Leather Platform Sandals: Chunky heels and perforation bring some sass to the pink platforms. This style is sure to ruffle some feathers, but all good fashion does. On My Theresa for $882.

Balenciaga Ruffle Trim Bootie: Balenciaga’s peeled back layer is the boldest style here, so shy Snobs, kick off your cooled heels and get into the groove. On Farfetch for $705.24.

Giuseppe Zanotti Chiffon Ruffle High Heel Sandals: These chiffon ruffles will be your closest companions for special spring events like garden parties or your best friend’s wedding. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $499 (from $850).

Casadei Peep Toe Pump: Flirty frills here give way to suede seduction with these lace-trimmed ruffles. Pair with some white to evoke a subtle, yet sexy French maid style. On Farfetch for $731.63.

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Some aliens like E.T. are adorable, huggable creatures, but most we’ve dreamt up are fierce, unstoppable entities and these white hot Giuseppe Zanotti sandals (On Shopbop for $1,250) definitely fall into the latter category. Decked out in pyramid studs, shimmering crystals, and razor-sharp spikes, a Milky Way white alien attack has never looked so dangerous. With heels like these, you need to know how to have fun mixing and matching, so here are my picks for bringing these outer space beauties a little more down to earth:

Evening: While Christopher Kane’s silk-organza dress has a floral print and ladylike silhouette, the edgy cutouts and black splotches feel otherworldly, making it a great pairing for our Giuseppes at an evening event. Exclusively on NET-A-PORTER for $3,080.

Cocktail: Cosmic purple plays off of the extraterrestrial vibe, while the crisp silhouette of Victoria Beckham’s mini dress ensures that this look will be anything but cheesy. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,995.

Casual: To scale it back a bit, throw on T by Alexander Wang’s black shorts (on Matches for $211) and Maison Martin Margiela’s asymmetric lilac top (on Farfetch for $556.32). The shorts will show off your legs while the shirt will show off your daring side.

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Salma Hayek wore some sexy Alexander McQueen Skull pumps to the 2013 Independent Spirit Awards on February 23. These black-suede, bad-ass pumps have gold-tone studding and skull with cut-glass detailing and a sky-high heel to send you into the rafters. These are obviously statement shoes, so wear them with a short LBD and some statement jewelry to really make them pop. Or go Selma’s route and pair them with a feminine, sweet dress to counter-act the edge. Personally, I would end up looking like a confused pirate if I tried to pull these off, but if you’re like Selma and can rock skulls with a straight face, pick these up at FarFetch for $892.

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Perfectly pedicured feet are a must for warm weather – that’s the only thing I’m OCD about. I need to have sandal-ready feet at all times. But beyond that, there is, of course, the footwear. Pretty sandals like these just can’t be passed up when the temperature hits 70 (or 60 degrees for you extreme weather girls!). Pair any of these shoes with loose waves, simple makeup, and a loose, languid dress for a look that will keep the fun going all summer long.

Vera Wang Annie Metallic Sandals: These Vera Wangs combine mirrored leather with brushed exotic snakeskin for an unexpected mix that will win the gaze of all eyes on the beach. On Shopbop for $198.

Rag & Bone Sigrid Sandals: Probably the tamest of the bunch (and also one of the better-priced), these shoes can go from day to night with only the quick change of a dress. On Shopbop $290.

Schutz Alexia Sandals: Metal serpentine shoes are having a moment right now. On heels, they’re pure sex, but using snakes to accent simple flats is more of a surprise. On Shopbop for $210.

Esquivel/Irene Neuwirth Elizabeth: Okay, let’s go down the list – metallic, color-blocked, perforated, and bejeweled. For all of those features, this shoe somehow finds a balance between bright and understated. At Barneys New York for $1,200.

Alaïa Metallic Leather Sandals: Alaïa’s love of laser-cut makes an appearance on these Grecian goddess sandals. Oddly enough, the pattern tones down the look, coming in blush-colored suede. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,668.

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Bejeweled sandals can get tacky quickly, but these Miu Mius strike the balance between gaudy and good taste by sticking to just one metallic shade. Barneys calls it pale gold, but it looks pretty well tanned to me! One of the great things about these shoes is that you can downsize on your jewels when wearing them (helpful if you’re on vacation – don’t want to risk losing valuable pieces at the beach!). With the glitter and chunky gems, it looks like everything found during the Gold Rush was poured onto the diamond-shaped central embellishment, but if you wear them with something sweet and simple like a long white dress, your look will be a solid gold hit. Available at Barneys New York for $595.

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Against all odds, lucite shoes are becoming a trend to reckon with. My favorites are Valentino (decked out with glam crystal rockstuds!). They’re like Cinderella slippers if she had gone to the club, instead of to the ball. I hate single soled shoes, but wedges make them much easier to maneuver around in. Rich, red suede gives the stylized clear wedge an element of sophistication that will have less adventurous Shoe Snobs feeling more willing to go lucite. The slightly rounded toe also shows off the cold material’s softer side. But I’d rather go dark – the black bootie’s ankle strap has that ‘90s feel that I love. These are the perfect compromise for the platform girl who’s having a hard time easing into trendy single soled shoes. If that’s you, be sure to try them on for size! Inquire at Valentino.

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…that transparent PVC should have a much bigger space in our closets. Think about it – clear matching everything. I don’t know why we don’t see more of it! I guess the challenge in fashion is to make sure it doesn’t look cheap, but these pieces are more than up for that test. Whether you want to go full monty (I’m looking at you, MM6) or subtle with strips, these PVC accessories have you covered – well, sort of.

MM6 Maison Martin Margiela PVC Ankle Boot: These clear cut boots would look great with a pair of skinnies. It’s spring – why hide those perfectly manicured feet? At Neiman Marcus for $455.

Valentino Naked Rockstud Lucite Wedge Sandals: The secret to keeping plexi shoes from looking like stripper shoes? A wedge! The more sensible style gets a jolt with fun PVC. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,095.

Gianvito Rossi Suede and PVC Pump: The appeal of this pump comes in its contrasting textures – similar to Louboutin’s ubiquitous Un Bouts, they’re rich, red suede cut up with slick PVC. On NET-A-PORTER for $625.

Valentino Small Lock PVC Shoulder Bag: Some women are afraid of rocking transparent bags because they want to keep their personal essentials private. But look at it this way – this is another excuse to buy cute pouches! Pre-order on Luisa via Roma for $1,854.

Lanvin Women’s Studded Waist Belt: If you want to go to the dark side, this wide, black-tinged belt can take you there. Plus, with all of the heavy brass hardware, you can cut back on bracelets and other jewels. At LN-CC for $815.

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We’ve been seeing a lot of cowboy boots around lately, and depending on my mood, I’m either excited about this or disgusted but no matter what the fact remains – I don’t live in Texas, so where could I wear them? But I’ve sought out a solution to my geographic fashion challenge. Five solutions, actually – these boots give you the cowboy feel without going the whole hog (except for maybe the Lanvins, but hey – true cowboys don’t always fit the mold):

Étoile Isabel Marant Dicker: When I think of these boots, I can’t help but picture Katie Holmes. She’s been photographed in them a million times, proof of just how comfortable and versatile they are. At Barneys New York $600.

Chloé Susanna Studded Leather Boots: Even on half buckled moto/half cowboy boots, Chloé brings feminine ballerina pink and decorative stud detailing. The combination makes them magically perfect for both a weekend on the ranch and a day in the trenches during Fashion Week. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,345.

Acne Alma Brushed-Leather Ankle Boots: The forward-pressed heel gives this shoe an intriguing silhouette, but the creamy brushed leather is what makes me want to get in the saddle. On NET-A-PORTER for $530.

Christian Louboutin Chelita 85 Metal-Detailed Leather Boots: These are for all of the urban cowgirls who need to sprint from borough to borough, all the while giving off a tough chick vibe. On NET-A-PORTER for $1,795.

Lanvin High-Heel Cowboy Boot: Okay, so these are outright cowboy boots (if cowboys wore heels, that is), but if you know me, you know I’m happy to give Lanvin ample leeway. At Neiman Marcus $3,200.

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Manolo never left them behind, but pointy shoes are making a big comeback. They’re a staple now really, with rounded toes starting to look out of place and outdated even. One of my favorite things about pointed toes is that their edgy, modern aesthetic allows for a shorter heel without looking overly sensible. The sharp tip is so dangerously stylish it could get away with murder. Here are my top 5 pointers this season:

Valentino Crystal-Studded Suede Pumps: The point of impact on these Valentinos comes crystal-coated. With the sleek, snug ankle straps, they’d be perfect for a night of dancing. On NET-A-PORTER for $995.

See by Chloé Metallic Leather Sandals: This is exactly what I mean – no one would call these shoes sensible and boring, but they are super comfortable! A delicate balance has been struck thanks to the dramatic metallic point. On NET-A-PORTER for $295.

Alexander Wang Emma Ankle Strap Pumps: Of course, Alexander Wang had this trend dialed in since day one. Vine-colored patent leather that vines around your ankles twice for double the style. On Shopbop for $545.

Gianvito Rossi Ankle Wrap Pump: This Purple Rain pump is the kind of shoe that demands attention. Wear them with a mini dress to show off the flared ankle straps. At Barneys New York for $865.

Manolo Blahnik Specchio BB: Be a Golden Girl in Manolo’s sexy mirrored leather pumps. Their classic silhouette gets modernized with a coat of metallic sheen. Exclusively at Barneys New York for $595.

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