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Derek Lam Calf Hair Pace: Derek Lam’s Pace heel gets wild with giraffe print. Ironically, the heel’s not very tall, making it a great on-the-go summer sandal. Exclusively at Barneys New York for $545.

Anyi Lu Ballet Flats: All of the Fall 2013 shoes will be going for top dollar. If you steal some deals now, you’ll have enough saved up later for the brand new must-haves. At Bloomingdale’s for $255 (from $425).

Avec Moderation Calf Hair Dress Slippers: The Tuscan brand’s decadent flats come in everything from python to satin to of course, calf-hair. On Farfetch for $321.

Paloma Barceló Calf Hair Wedge Sandals: While the rich feel of calf hair is an autumnal staple, you can enjoy the textured style during summer when it’s on top of a rope-covered wedge! On NET-A-PORTER for $305.

Charlotte Olympia Kitty Cat Calf Hair Slipper: When better than summer to sport Charlotte Olympia’s playful designs? Her cute kitty flat gets a jungle makeover with chic leopard spots. At Bergdorf Goodman for $825.

The post Fall Trend: Animal Print Calf-Hair Shoes appeared first on Shoe Snob.

The official footwear of summer is the espadrille, and these beautifully crafted Valentinos are the best of the best. Not only are they what you wear on the beach, they’re what you wear when you want to feel like you’re on the beach, so landlocked Snobs will love the tropical style. With flat and wedged incarnations, you can go all season long with nothing else. If you can’t splurge on a Valentino, check out the Frugal Snob options below – they have just as much flair!

Valentino Macramé and Mesh Espadrilles: Romantic red macramé and trim makes these comfy flats surprisingly racy, proving that you don’t need height when you have heightened drama. On NET-A-PORTER for $595.

RED Valentino Flat Canvas Bow Espadrille: Perfect for sweet sailors or Snobs who want to look like sweet sailors! Pair them with a cute mini and make your way out to sea. At Neiman Marcus for $250.

Valentino Camo Lace Espadrille: Valentino’s camo collection made the army print pretty, and with lacy espadrilles, his mission continues. At Nordstrom for $595.

Valentino Lace-Covered Espadrille Wedge: Think espadrilles are too casual for your glam style? Think again – with a little lace and a feminine ankle wrap, you’ll be the belle of the beach ball. At Neiman Marcus for $495.

Bettye Muller Espadrille Slip-On: Nude shoes will match most anything, so if you’re the kind of girl who leaves packing to the last minute, there’ll be no worry about mismatched outfits. At Neiman Marcus for $150.

Jacques Levine Zora Eyelet Espadrille Penny Flat: Are you more of a boardroom babe than a surfboard one? Patent leather accents dress up these eyelet espadrilles à la “Penny” loafers. At Neiman Marcus for $120.

Soludos The Simple Sandal Espadrilles: These are just what you need if your feet long for a break from sandals. Plus, if you like to run around sightseeing, the ankle straps will keep you tied in for the ride! On Shopbop for $45.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Meg Slip On: Itty bitty bikinis mean that you have tons of opportunity to accessorize. Jewels, animal prints, and bright colors are all welcome. On Zappos for $75.

The post Valentino Covers Your Espadrille Needs appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Best Orange Shoes: Absolute Peaches appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s been eight years since I’ve bought a pair of Guccis, and even those I never wore much. Their bags have been on a serious upswing, but I’m all about their shoes this season. I could pretty much stock my entire wardrobe with them – there’s something for every occasion. The color block suede sandals (on NET-A-PORTER for $650) have an ankle strap that’s sexy but demure and perfectly graphic for spring. Then, there are the espadrilles (at Neiman Marcus for $440) – an easy style that can go from day to night and rotate from outfit to outfit, making it a true vacation shoe (gotta do what it takes to make everything fit into one suitcase…or two!). The platform cork wedge (on NET-A-PORTER for $895) is a little more glam with gold studs and bronze leather (a definite motivator to get that spray tan in check). And last but not least is Gucci’s d’Orsay peep toe (on NET-A-PORTER for $750) with a webbed heel (and more studs!). This shoe is pure molten hot with a must have stiletto and gold tip that makes the ultimate statement – don’t mess with me or my Guccis.

The post Gucci on My Mind: Back in the Groove appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I’m the first to celebrate this new deluge of shoes that have all the height and none of the pitch (or pinch!). There’s something about flats that just misses the mark with certain looks. Sometimes you need that extra elevation to properly display your outfit, so here are my five favorites for the job. With all of the va-va-voom you expect from heels but only minimal pain, every last one of these will end up in my closet by the end of the season!

Lanvin Snake-Print Wedge Sandals: Even wrapped in a grosgrain bow, these sweet as pie cork wedges can’t escape the venomous touch of scaly snake-print. You won’t do much slithering at this height, but you’ll definitely charm. On NET-A-PORTER for $845.

Carven T Strap Platform Sandals: These Carven sandals may be mixing colors and medias, but the message is clear: wear me all the time, everywhere! On Shopbop for $620.

Miu Miu Suede Wedge Sandals: Thanks to its subtly sloping pitch, these give 5 and a half extra inches to your frame. Think of all the things you could do with that (like finally reaching that top cabinet!). On NET-A-PORTER for $750.

Alexander McQueen Skull-Chain Espadrille Wedge Sandal: Espadrille wedges are typical summer fare, but with McQueen skulls the weave has new wings. At Neiman Marcus for $615.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Wedge Sandals: A wedge with edge! Or rather, a wedgette. Bottega’s rich brown intrecciato leather coats these with slicked-up sophistication for a heel hybrid that will quickly convert strictly stiletto ladies to the dark side. On NET-A-PORTER for $850.

The post Maximum Height, Minimum Pain: Tall Orders appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Yellow traffic lights may warn you to slow down, but the hot hue has me hitting the gas at full speed! The yellow trend is going strong for spring and has me craving even bright, fuller tints. I can’t get enough of them – neons, lemons, anything vibrant and citrusy! Just steer clear from wearing all black and looking like a bumblebee. Here are shoes for every occasion the diehard yellow fever fanatic might encounter:

Stella McCartney Faux Leather and Mesh Wedge Espadrilles: Spring break is almost here and what better way to let loose than in neon yellow mesh espadrilles? On Net-a-Porter for $430.

Rebecca Minkoff Bettina Neon Flat Sandals: Another great shoe for a beachy vacation! With the glare from the sun, you’ll need the most vivid sandals to stand out. On Shopbop for $165.

Ash Bowie Suede Wedge Sneakers with Canvas Inserts: Kind of a bold color for an already bold shoe, but with the proper styling, this zesty yellow is just what the doctor ordered. On Shopbop for $195.

McQ Alexander McQueen Studded Pointy Toe Flats: Yellow is considered a mood and confidence booster, so in these flats, you’ll literally be the life of the party. On Shopbop for $375.

Boutique 9 Justine Pump: The highlighter yellow shade of these Frugal Snob picks is patently perfect for a night out partying – anyone feel like going to a rave? At Nordstrom for $119.95.

The post Top 5 Bright Yellow Shoes: Walking on Sunshine appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Soludos Woven Striped Flat Espadrilles at shopbop.com for $36.

Charles Philip Classics Striped Flats at shopbop.com for $135.

Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Striped Canvas Booties at shopbop.com for $475.

The post To Stripe or not to Stripe? appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Get your credit cards ready, snobs. It’s the sale you’ve been waiting for all year! Net-a-Porter.com only goes into markdowns twice a year and when they do, they go straight to half off- they don’t mess around! Get your favorite bags, shoes, clothes, and jewels on sale now!

Shop Net-a-porter.com End of Season Sale here.

The post Net-a-porter END OF SEASON SALE! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

These multi-strap studs are a tall drink of espadrille and lambskin. The Balenciaga towering wedges have textiles and studs that will add an edge to any outfit. The leather is soft and fabulous and comes in a light clay color that can be worn with a pair of J Brand pencil leg jeans and a Joie top but still has the height and the shape that can be worn with a Madewell colorblack dress for a summer date on the town. The espadrille gives these a summer vibe and a hint of softness with the toughness of the style. Wedges are usually easier to work with as far as dressing them up or down and these are no exception. Pick up the Balenciaga bad boys at Neiman Marcus for $935.

The post Balenciaga Multi-Strap Stud Arena Espadrille: Textile Towers appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Loud and proud is a must for summer shoes. Floral patterns used to be reserved for the gray-hairs, but remember: ultra-kitsch can also be ultra-chic. It’s all in how you handle them. Wear these sandals wisely, and don’t mix prints unless you know what you’re doing (stripes and florals always work well). And don’t force edginess when you’ve got an optimistic shoe. Feel free to keep it cute and pretty – a nice and easy solid, flouncy dress always needs a shoe that stands out.

1. Giuseppe Zanotti Floral-Print Platform Sandal: Giuseppe has taken an uncharacteristically gentle approach with this sophisticated, watercolor-esque print. The satin may have sweet, gentle ruching, but that heel could kill.
At Neiman Marcus for $750.

2. Sergio Rossi Floral-Print Canvas Wedge Sandal: This juicy tropical print is pure vacation. I appreciate how this offbeat floral zooms in on the blooms and shows off their intriguing natural details.
At Neiman Marcus for $730.

3. Jimmy Choo Polar Tropical-Print Espadrille Wedge: A classic slingback espadrille gets upgraded with a seventies-inspired print. Make sure these look modern with a pair of dark-rinse drainpipes and bold jewels.
On Net-a-Porter for $395.

4. Red Valentino Daisy-Print Platform Sandal: I highly recommend hopping on the daisy train! This perky print can easily shake up a simple frock, but try these retro sandals with a bright crop top and matching high-waisted skirt for a look that’s right now.
At Neiman Marcus for $450.

5. Oscar de la Renta Floral-Print Fabric Pump: Oscar could make the dowdiest of florals look glamorous, but these timeless pumps need little help. The crisp punchiness of this pattern means you can mix and match with verve.
At Bergdorf Goodman for $695.

The post Top 5 Floral Prints: Blooms That Go Boom! 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.

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.

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.

Coachella is on in full force right now (in between it’s double whammy of weekend shows, to be exact), so even if you missed Snoop Dogg last week, you might still be able to run over and at least catch a glimpse of in in-crowd wearing their most vivaciously casual, hippie-dippy, and vintage-rocker looks. And if you can’t, why not dress the part anyway? In honor of music festivals, a comfy selection of shoes that welcome you to dance in the grass all day:

1. Burberry Textured-Leather Ankle Boots: A little urban and eternally hip, the black leather ankle boot is a festival staple. Wear Burberry’s sleek yet casual booties with a flowy mini-dress or a pair of shorts to keep them light and easy.
On Net-a-Porter for $695.

2. Jimmy Choo Zampa Suede Moccasin Ankle Boots: Moccasins can feel like goofy slippers, but when Jimmy Choo does them, they will bring you down to earth in a really good way.
On Net-a-Porter for $650.

3. Ralph Lauren Eralita Woven Raffia Wedges: Stilettos will sink in the field, so a chunky wedge is the way to go if you crave height. Pale-pink raffia is sweet – be sure to wear these with something unexpected, like a splash of black leather.
On Luisa via Roma for $749.

4. Bryan Blake Suede and Calf Straps High Sneakers: The frugal rendition of Isabel Marant’s sought-after sneaker is ideal for kicking around as you chase your favorite bands. A hidden platform infuses height without forgoing all-day comfort.
On Luisa Via Roma for $354.

5. Chloé Susan Beige Studded Booties: Now reaching cult status, these tri-buckled booties have studs to keep you stimulated and timeless rock ‘n’ roll allure.
On Ssense for $1,295.

The post Top 5 Coachella Kicks: Stomping Ground appeared first on Shoe Snob.

If these don’t scream summer, I don’t know what does. The J.Crew Sardinia wedge espadrilles are a fun, flirty and fabulous way to step into spring/summer. Nothing says warm weather like espadrille. As soon as I see it come on the shelves I know the grills will soon start to fire and I will start hitting the gym like a lunatic. These wedges combine the seasonal texture with canvas colored in great summer colors like nautical stripes, cool tan, bright coral and sunshine yellow. The 3 1/8″ jute heel will give you enough height to pull off shorter pieces but aren’t too high to wear all day long.

I would wear the striped pair with a happy little Splendid dress to a friend’s bridal shower for an effortless simple look. I would wear the yellow with a pair of Acne shorts and a Marc by Marc Jacobs lace top for a sweet day out shopping. These shoes tie around the ankle for an ultra fem finish that will keep you lacing them up all season long. J. Crew for $118.

The post J.Crew Sardinia Wedge Espadrilles: I smell Summer appeared first on Shoe Snob.

These wedges bring to mind Louboutin’s tromp l’oeil ribbon espadrilles in red, but I’m actually loving Michael Kors’ take even more: “tie me up, tie me down” straps around the ankles are always a crowd-pleaser in my book. And as much as I can appreciate Pop-Art effects, I like the fact that these have real topstitching, making for a summer-appropriate, organic feel.

I can’t help but think how hot these are going to look with my new tan (thanks to the Mexican sun, I am now very, very tan). Normally, I’d turn right to another shoe at the mere thought of a 5.5” heel, but with that wedge and platform, these are honestly easy-walkers. Also, the straps are designed so they are wide at toes, which relieve cramping and offer support.

I might grin and bear it during the more rigid autumn season, but no pain for me in the summer! This is the time to relax and revel in happy feet. I always do, but when the mood is loose, I don’t mess with painful shoes. On Net-a-Porter for $995.

Pair with: I love a bright tote with a neutral espadrille. I’ll take Bottega Veneta’s bright-orange leather and snakeskin tote with these, please! Bottega Veneta Leather and Snakeskin Tote, $3,880.

The post Michael Kors Leather Espadrille Wedge Sandals: Loosen Up and Tie the Knot appeared first on Shoe Snob.

These fantastic wedges are colorful and fun yet utterly classy. The Rebecca Minkoff Marie Leather Colorblock Espadrille Wedge Sandals have chic contrasting leather and a textured espadrille platform making these perfect spring pumps. The heel and platform together measure a good 5″ to give you an adequate boost and the soft leather straps will wrap around you to keep you in safe and snug. These would take you all around the world this spring looking chic. Pair them with anything from a Landston boyfriend romper to some crazy printed jeans by Current/Elliot and a simple tank by Enza Costa. Bright, cheerful and fantastic, these shoes will put the spring in your step for the season.

Saks Fifth Avenue for $350.

The post Rebecca Minkoff Marie Leather Colorblock Espadrille Wedge Sandals: Cutting Edge Corals appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Frugal Friday: Pelle Moda Ider Tweed Espadrilles Have Layers of Allure appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Jimmy Choo Poplar Snake-Print Espadrille Slide: Flawlessly Fun appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Nothing says summer like Nautical stripes. Typically, espadrilles are the season’s usual but there are plenty of surprises this summer when it comes to stripes. Here’s five examples of stripes taken to the next level:

1) Soludos Woven Striped Flat Espadrilles: Add summery stripes to an espadrille flat, and you’re headed straight for the sun and surf. Soludos does this pair casual and cute.
On ShopBop for $36.

2) Osborn Striped Multi Flats: These multi-color striped flats are a stand out way to take comfort to new heights, without the height. Slip this pair on for all-day wear with a pop of color.
On Shopbop for $170.

3) Pierre Hardy Stripe Platform Sandal: Mixing broad and thin, the Pierre Hardy platforms dare to take prison stripes and turn them unexpectedly chic. The varied stripe-widths and adorable ankle buckle belong anywhere but behind bars.
At Barneys New York for $595.

4) Giuseppe Zanotti Striped Sling Back Pumps: Add a little leopard and bright yellow snake to stripes and you’ve got a whole new animal. This wild and hot pair will spice up any summer night.
On Shopbop for $750.

5) Charlotte Olympia Meredith Striped Canvas Wedge Sandals: Keep the top demure and sweet with a bow but embellishe the monster wedge with boldness. That’s what Charlotte Olympia does here with this ‘50’s style ultra-wedge.
On Net-a-Porter for $945.

The post Top 5 Nautical Stripes: Espadrilles and Heels and Wedges Oh My! appeared first on Shoe Snob.