I’m not much of a cross-dresser. The trend is menswear-inspired pieces, not full-on menswear. Maison Martin Margiela must have missed the memo with these oxfords. I’ll start by saying that I love the vintage vibe of spectator shoes. The silver-painted panel is an interesting touch, as are the metallic laces, but overall, this is just not for me. I prefer the more feminine oxfords from past seasons. These were made as replicas of actual men’s shoes from the ‘70s and I have to say, they did a very nice job of imitating the look. If only they had done as good a job of making me want to wear them! The brown and gold version is barely more palatable. I’m afraid I’ll remain a spectator. Available in black/silver and brown/gold at Barneys New York for $895 each.

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Summer hasn’t officially begun but I’m lusting for Pre-Fall 2013 shoes from Jason Wu already! From the flat Joni loafers ($795) to the sky-high Jerry pumps ($895), there’s a style for every taste and occasion. The collection was inspired by ‘70s glam and features accents like tortoiseshell heels and loafer tassels. Do the names Jerry, Bianca, and Nico sound familiar? The shoes are named after iconic ‘70s women.  Who was your favorite fashion icon from that era? Collection available at Jason Wu ranging from $795 – $1,095.

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Image Credit: WWD

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.

Okay, not red all over – just on the bottom! Single sole pointy pumps are the style of the moment, but the flats version is just as chic and flattering. It will elongate your legs and add a dash of sophistication that rounded toe flats can’t provide. Diane Kruger proved the point brilliantly in a pair of Christian Louboutin Corbeaus. While she can strut circles around most anyone in a pair of heels, a smart girl knows that when you hit the Manhattan pavement to go shopping, comfort trumps all else. These flats merge spring’s black and white trend with PVC just in time for summer, racily revealing all save for your toes and heels. Paired with seersucker pants, a playful polka dot blazer, and a white hat, I’d say Diane’s style is more than ready for the season ahead. Is your wardrobe? Available on NET-A-PORTER for $595.

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…when the hue is decorating summery sandals like these Maiyets! The gladiator style goes geometric in a shade of green that’s as neutral (read: wearable) as they come. Pair with a full skirt like this colorfully printed Marc by Marc Jacobs (at Neiman Marcus for $90) when you’re feeling bright and flirty. The high hem will ensure that your decorative sandals are getting the attention they deserve, while the bold print will bring them to life. Then again, army green’s natural match is camo, so Blank Denim’s cropped pants (on Shopbop for $88) seem like an appropriate choice. The most natural choice of all? Another piece from Maiyet, of course! Their LBD (at Barneys New York for $1,395) goes wild with a contrasting striped hem. Pieces from the same collection are often designed to coordinate well, so take this style tip from Maiyet and wear the combo all summer long. Available on Luisa via Roma for $1,035.

The post Maiyet Leather Cage Sandals: It’s Easy Being Green… appeared first on Shoe Snob.

If you’ve you ever come home from a sun-soaked vacation only to have friends tell you that you don’t really look that tan, I can’t say I can relate. Kidding, but not really, I am naturally dark so for me I can always use a flash of gold highlights. For those who need to work for it, there is nothing like gold tones to really show off your fresh dewy glow! Next to bright colors and florals, metallics are most definitely summer essentials. Layer on a mix of metals and then step into equally reflective footwear. The price of gold may be up, but the price of these sandals is down!

Badgley Mischka Afton III: Instead of diving headfirst into the gold rush, a raffia wedge like this can give you just a hint of shimmer. On Zappos for $235.

Diane von Furstenberg Daphne Flat Sandals: If you prefer rose to yellow gold, DVF’s sleek sandals will suit your fancy. Flats like these will make you shine bright without overpowering your outfit. On Shopbop for $198.

Rebecca Minkoff Bettina Flat Sandals: Rebecca Minkoff has a similar pair for Snobs who think thong sandals are uncomfortable. On Shopbop for $132 (from $165).

Loeffler Randall Starla Star-Embellished Metallic Leather Sandals: Gold stars orbit around your ankles for added sparkle and shine. The enviable embellishments easily could have looked kitsch, but Loeffler Randall kept them sophisticated with just a light dusting of whimsy. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $175.

Jean-Michel Cazabat Metallic Wooster: Looking for a new cork wedge? The mix of metallics on this tricolor pair is on trend and on budget. At Barneys New York for $225.

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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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There’s nothing like a chain to add subtle sex appeal to an outfit. Whether we’re talking a sky-high heel or a lowly flat, a little metal goes a long way. On Alexander McQueen’s summer sandals (on NET-A-PORTER for $675), the gold trim perfectly accents the signature skull centerpiece. See which other designers are ready to chain you up…

Monika Chiang Domina Chain Cuff Sandals: Chains and cuffs? Sounds like a dangerous situation, but Monika Chiang is just trying to keep you safe atop those nearly 5 inch heels! On Shopbop for $495.

The post Trend Alert: Chain Shoes appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Coachella may be over, but the photos of festival-going celebs will live on forever. Whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing is up to you! Vote for your favorite in the poll at the end of the post. One thing is certain – the stars went dressed down, which is exactly what you should do for a day in the desert. Walking around in a crowded meadow in stilettos? That’s the ticket to a day of hell, and considering what you had to pay to attend Coachella, you want it to be the time of your life. Alessandra Ambrosio went in Isabel Marant’s studded Caleen boots (at Barneys New York for $890). The cowboy-inspired style is perfect for taking a beating while still looking good, so high marks to the model! Check out some other looks after the jump.

Katy Perry’s Dolce & Gabbana outfit and vintage Lulu Guinness bag are pretty outlandish, but then again, this is the same California Gurl who wore a bra that shot whipped cream – short of Lady Gaga, anything goes for this pop star. She at least knew to go easy with the shoes, so these white wedges were just right.

Kristen Stewart has been known to wear Converse (on Zappos for $55) with ball gowns, so does this really surprise anyone?

Ouch. I appreciate that Vanessa Hudgens is trying to get in the hippie festival mood, but the ‘60s are over. The mix of the crazy curly hair, a rosette headband, and a barely there white playsuit are just too much. One thing that is right? Those brown gladiator sandals.

Rita Ora is the face of Superga this spring, so it makes sense to see her repping the brand. Honestly, I’d wear Supergas (on Shopbop for $65) to Coachella even if they weren’t paying me! They’re classic comfort.

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Have you entered the refined world of Aerin yet? From beauty products to blogging to these chic shoes, it’s a ceaselessly stylish place where Estée Lauder’s granddaughter has become a lifestyle guru in her own right (she can do her makeup in just five minutes!). These floral cutouts bloom just in time for spring and summer, and the designs don’t even stop there – zoom in to see flowery striations decorate the shoes, as well. It’s surprisingly difficult to find ballet flats that are both fashionable and functional, so whenever I find a good pair, I snap them up quickly. With some sweet scalloped edging and delicate laser cutting, Aerin has taken the hum-hum flat and turned it into an essential. Your feet don’t need sandals to breathe when they have this airy pair. The red coral is exactly what you need to brighten an outfit, but even the nude will bring summer fun to your wardrobe! Available on Aerin for $228.

The post Aerin Brava Flats: Picking Flowers 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.

Let’s be honest. When it comes to wearing heels, some days are harder than others. For those moments of weakness, we could use a little extra support. Enter ankle straps! They’re like seat belts for your feet, and you always wear your seat belt, right?? If you’re worried about them making your legs look shorter or stockier, then pair them with some skinnies. But try to show them off if you can! Straps like these red hot Alexander Wangs (on NET-A-PORTER for $625) are too chic to be kept hidden.

Gianvito Rossi Strappy Ankle Cuff Sandal: When you go on vacation, leave the nude pumps at home – pack the nude sandals instead! The leg-lengthening effect will be just as strong, even with a cuff. At Barneys New York for $1,000.

Pierre Hardy Ankle Band Back Zip Sandal: A lethal combination of light and dark snakeskin will leave even the strongest feeling weak in the knees. At Barneys New York for $895.

Narciso Rodriguez Ankle Strap Side Buckle Sandal: I loved meeting with Narciso in NYC earlier this week, and this is why – the man is too talented! These emerald python panels will have everyone glowing green with envy. At Barneys New York for $1,050.

Nina Ricci Netted Heel Sandal: Between the thin ankle strap and the grommeted heel, there’s nothing but net. If you’re afraid you can’t pull off the fishnet trend, start with this wider knit. At Barneys New York for $695.

Sergio Rossi Asymmetric Open Toe Sandal: With the sleek gold trim, it looks like these suede sandals have been touched by Midas himself. The full support of the asymmetric straps will make teetering around in 4-inch heels a breeze. At Barneys New York for $735.

The post Top 5 Ankle Strap Sandals: Fasten Your Foot Belts appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Top 5 Knee-High Gladiators: Cage Fighting appeared first on Shoe Snob.

My Tod’s driving moccasins are wardrobe essentials, but as comfy and classic as loafers are, they can start to look pretty boring after a while. Tod’s knows this, which is why they’re starting to do more and more collaborations with companies like Ferrari. While I’m not a big sports car fan (I drive an SUV, which is basically the exact opposite) and I certainly don’t follow anything Ferrari does, this capsule collection has just the pedal-to-the-metal kind of spirit that will get me excited about moccasins again. The genius of these styles is that from the average viewpoint, they’re the usual chic suspects with only itty-bitty Ferrari horse hardware to distinguish them from regular Tod’s. One pop of the heel, though, and your racing stripes and numbers are on display for all to see. The women’s loafers aren’t available on the US site yet so keep an eye out. There will be more styles to come as the season progresses. In the meantime, grab a suede pair for your favorite Man Snob! Available at Tod’s.

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When Coco Chanel donned a gent’s cardigan with trousers and brogues, fashion changed forever. Since then, the menswear style has had its lovers and haters, but this season it’s going strong with a colorblocked kick. I’ve browsed a lot of two-toned brogues, and I have to say that the black and whites are my favorites. They lend some delightful femininity to the manly loafer, and after all, we’re trying to pay homage to menswear, not to actually be men! If you want to dip your toes into the shallow end, Stuart Weitzman’s Guything loafers (on Shopbop for $375) are the girlier of the two pairs with a graphic design decorating the droplet-textured black leather. Saint Laurent’s brogues (at Barneys New York for $790) are more subdued, save for the fact that their white vamp is perforated – a loafer for summer! Pairing these shoes with slouchy pants and a button-up would be too expected. Wear them with a drop waist dress instead for a throwback look that would make you want to head straight out on the floor and dance the Charleston.

The post Black & White Brogues: Stuart Weitzman & Saint Laurent appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Other than my Tod’s driving moccasins, I haven’t worn loafers since the 90′s (when I also sported Richard Tyler pant suits to work!). I could get back into them, though, if there was something unique setting them apart from the typical prep-school style we’ve come to associate with the shoe. Cropped pants would do the trick, but while we’re going outside the box, why not juxtapose it with a flared mini skirt? As long as you keep it from getting too schoolgirl cutesy, the look should get A’s across the board.

Esquivel Leather Penny Loafers: White loafers can definitely veer into old-time nurse/grandmother territory, but with a flick of color decorating the front (the shoes come with three different interchangeable ribbons) and the right style pairings, you’ll be nodding to an earlier time rather than nodding off. On NET-A-PORTER for $750.

Saint Laurent Two-Tone Leather Penny Loafers: There’s nothing exceptionally unique about this pair, but it’s exactly like the one I used to wear all the time and sentimentality always outweighs reason. On NET-A-PORTER for $695.

Stuart Weitzman Mach2 Ombre Patent-Leather Loafer: For all the women who avoid menswear in lieu of more feminine pieces, you’re welcome. Pink ombre? I’m in. At Bergdorf Goodman for $325.

Rachel Roy Lane Snake Menswear Flats: With a perforated metal cap toe, these white snake loafers are perfect for the days when you feel like dressing like a mob boss. On Shopbop for $275.

Junya Watanabe Women’s Mesh Toe Shoes: I said I wanted a loafer that wasn’t like all the others, and Junya Watanabe is known for being about as different as it gets. A mesh toe and d’orsay style brings the prepster basic into edgier blue waters. On LN-CC for $805.

The post Trend Alert: Loafing Around appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I have always been a huge fan of Vans. Over the years, the Cali-based skater shoe company has collaborated with a variety of great brands like Hermès, Supreme, Carhartt, etc, but the newest pairing is especially high up there in the rankings – Kenzo. As a kid in the ‘80s, I had not one but two pairs of checkerboard Vans (black/white and blue/white) as well as one fitted with florals. But Kenzo’s take on the classic kicks is an entirely different animal – a leopard to be exact. The cat’s spots decorate all six shoes, half of which are slip-ons, the other half sturdy lace-ups. The blue pairs are the most like my old ones, but I like that the green and blue combo is reminiscent of trendy camo. And considering Kenzo creative directors Humberto Leon and Carol Lim ventured through the Thai jungle for inspiration, there seems no better a print. Which pair hits your spot? To be available at Kenzo on March 15th.

The post Vans x Kenzo Capsule Collection: Savage Spots appeared first on Shoe Snob.

2013 marks the 60th anniversary of Gucci’s iconic horsebit loafer, and to celebrate the brand has released an avalanche of the classic shoes in all-new colors and textures. I just received a pair from Gucci, and it was a swift reminder of just how chic (and comfortable) they are. Believe it or not, the modern design hasn’t changed in all its years. And when I called it iconic, I wasn’t joking around – Gucci’s timeless shoe has had a place in the MET’s permanent collection for almost 30 years now. Loafers seem to have a reputation as menswear, but these are undeniably feminine in fuschia-colored suede. And if that’s not really your style, the 1953 comes in countless other iterations – suede, patent, animal print, studded, croc, canvas, etc. How’s a Shoe Snob to choose just one?? If you can’t find a pair you like, then I’m not afraid to say you’re just too picky. These were the first things I packed up for Paris – they’ll give my feet a much-needed break from 5″ heels during Fashion Week! Available at Gucci for $495.

The post Gucci 1953 Horsebit Loafer: Saddle Up appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Happy, Shiny Sandals: Summer Fun in the Sun appeared first on Shoe Snob.

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.

The post Miu Miu Embellished Slingback Sandal: Glitter Bomb appeared first on Shoe Snob.