Pastels hues are as sweet as candy, and while that’s nice and all, isn’t fun when they have a little edge? We don’t want a sugar overload after all! To satiate our sweet tooth in dentist-approved doses, choose shoes with chunky heels, exotic skins, and just a little touch of metallic. Take springtime shades from saccharine to sexy. Check out how the Easter egg-inspired palette looks on highly sculpted and studded shoes:

Balenciaga Revers Pumps: An edgy shape like this turn-over flap bootie makes sweet as honey pastels more palatable. Cotton candy pink has never looked so delicious. At Balenciaga for $835.

Diane von Furstenberg Jujette Asymmetrical Sandals: DVF likes banana cream as a summer treat, but on a snake-embossed sandal with asymmetrical straps, this treat might not be all sweetness. On Shopbop for $298.

Ruthie Davis 150MM Jupiter Leather Sandals: Spiked studs decorate the ankle strap of this aqua sandal, but the ultimate shine on this platform is the platform itself, coated in mirrored gold leather. On Luisa via Roma for $1,094.

L.A.M.B. Jazmyn Sport Sandals: Count on Gwen Stefani’s label to inject some sporty perforated leather into this baby blue, snakeskin sandal. This is colorblocking and material mixing at its most daring. On Shopbop for $295.

ASOS Hackney Heeled Sandals: When you put these shoes on, the only visible pastel is the light pink strap, but it’s still nice to know that you’re walking on an airy blue sole, isn’t it? On ASOS for $76.30.

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Olivia Palermo is chic as usual while out and about with her main squeeze Johannes Huebl recently in NYC. Even while dressed down, Olivia nails the laid-back luxe look in a Zadig & Voltaire vest, skinny jeans and a pair of Report ankle boots. These buckled beauties are a great option at a great price ($99.95)! They come in black, dark brown and burgundy and have a shaft height of six inches and slide right on with east. This is a great buy and won’t bust your budget! Nordstrom for $99.95.

The post Olivia Palermo: Relaxed in Report Jude Ankle Boots appeared first on Shoe Snob.

I love this collaboration! Missoni, the Muzungu Sisters, and C.B. Made in Italy all came together to create these handcrafted unisex loafers. The limited edition smoking slippers are covered in Missoni fabric and come in three different patterns (all available on Motilo for $529.05 or £330). The project combines the craftsmanship of Milan’s Cecilia Bringheli and the classic fabric of Missoni (these swatches would have been tossed had it not been for this endeavor). Best of all, 10% of the proceeds go to the Small Steps Project, a volunteer organization that provides shoes to impoverished children who are forced to live on public dumps around the world.

My one gripe is the price. It’s way too high, even excluding the portion donated. Yes, it’s Missoni, but it’s just fabric. What gives? For Frugal Snob options, check out Charles Philip Shanghai’s loafers on Net-a-Porter (starting at $135). Constructed in wool, suede, and even matte-satin, there are styles for every taste. The stripes and tassels are cute, but the leopard-print are to die for. All are perfect for a refined fall look.

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At Sole Society. Sign up and follow our Fashion Insider closet on Sole Society for more frugal fun shoes every month!

Audrey wedge sandals $49.95 here.

Josslyn booties $59.95 here.

Like SOLE SOCIETY on Facebook– best trendy shoes at the craziest prices. You won’t regret it another shoe splurge, ever again.

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Pumps from stiletto kings like Christian Louboutin and Brian Atwood are necessary presences in any true snob’s shoe closet. That doesn’t mean, however, you have to fork over triple-digit dollars for a slick, shiny, glossy heel worthy of your hottest date night. Give your Maniacs and Pigalles a rest, and snap up Semilla’s frugal steals instead. Hey, patent leather is patent leather, and they have nailed the addictively amped-up silhouette. A lightly tapered toe keeps it chic, and over 5.5” of heel with a generous platform means you don’t have to sacrifice towering height for a nice price, either. In chestnut-brown, jet-black, dusty tan, and forest-green, you can indulge in a full fall palette’s worth of shoes, guilt-free. On Luisa Via Roma for $279.

The post Semilla Patent-Leather Pumps: High Heels and Low Price Tags 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.

I love Pierre Hardy’s extravagant canvas wedges, with all their curvy, layered, stripy goodness, let’s be real: they are more for looks than they are for real life. When it comes to comfort and price, Kate Spade wins the battle of the rainbow stripe. Leave it to her (that’s right, you heard me!) to present us with a painless frugal option – yes, these wedges are more cuteness than edge, but they’re also a lot more wearable.

Rather than going for sensational all-over color, the strappy yet simplistic nude top allows for a lot more versatility, but the hypnotically colorful platform is super-fun. This is an espadrille with an advantage on the competition – jute has never looked so festive, though there’s nothing circus-y about them. With the Lindsey, you’re at liberty to pile on the color, or even better, get wild with a big, bold print.
At Neiman Marcus for $275.

Pair with: Be prepared for fun in the sun with a boldly accentuated straw tote, one of my favorite spring staples. The ones by Lanvin ($1,190), Jimmy Choo ($895), and Valentino ($3,745) all have fabulous flair.

The post Kate Spade Lindsey Striped Espadrille: Earn Your Stripes appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Whether you’re going Frugal or Snob, you can’t go wrong with either of these pumps. There are times when a shoe can’t compete with the expensive original, and others when all the elements – and possibly more – are in the more cost-effective edition.

Suede upper with a cork wedge: these Jean-Michel Cazabat pumps ($295) own the same look for a third of the price! So there is a slight difference between these and Yves Saint Laurent’s Maryna pump ($795). The YSL wedge’s wood has a light wash for higher contrast against black suede. It might make for a fresher take, too, but I’m loving the distressed cork on the Cazabat (it has hints of painted gold for intriguing texture). It’s got a carefree wear-with-anything feel that I’m all about.

So perhaps it’s not the price that will tip you one way or another. When it comes to suede-on-wood, I’m leaning towards the rough and tumble wedge – the friendly price tag is just a bonus!

The post Jean-Michel Cazabat Tabia Cork Wedge Pumps vs. Yves Saint Laurent Maryna Pumps: A Run for Your Money appeared first on Shoe Snob.

You already know as well as Tina and I do along with any shoe snob worth her salt, that Miu Miu has full-fledged glitter fever. It’s only logical that Topshop (as famous for their highly…shall we say?…designer-inspired pieces as they are for surprising originals) would hop on the sparkle train and throw some glimmering confetti of their own around.

The pleasing twist? Topshop’s variation isn’t a vivacious party bootie or a strappy evening shoe. These are kick-around, beat up-and-go boots (guilt-free at this price!) that you can wear with your most worn-in of sweaters and distressed of jeans.

They are similar to Barneys Co-Op’s ankle boots, but if you ask me, way better. While Barneys made the body of the boot a too-perfect suede and sprinkled the glitter over the back, Topshop nailed it by offering a washed and worn leather. Best of all, that glitter heel makes for a scintillating little bombshell every time you take a step.

Distressed brown looks offbeat with bright gold – think rockabilly chic. But it’s the navy blue complimented by a confection of New Year’s Eve-worthy glitter that’s the one to watch. At TopShop for $160.

Pair with: Get in a good high-low mix while you highlight the seams of the boot. Unttld’s Shoreditch jacket is made of ultra-soft nubuck, with boldly minimal details: asymmetrical drape, geometric seams, and an open, billowing front. On Ssense for $1,750.

The post Topshop Amber Glitter Heel Boots: A Little Spring in Your Step appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Mega-steal alert! Like shocking, double take-inducing steal! Vera Wang’s line for Kohl’s is insanely accessible as it is, but when the designer’s goods go half-price we’re talking Payless prices. From the nineties. These sherpa-lined Simply Vera booties are the simply best shoes under $55 anywhere.

A little rugged (lug sole, chunky buckles, and total outdoorsy influence) and a little femme (obviously the slender 4.5”-heel changes the game, taking them for ultra-casual to wildly versatile), these can be your go-to, beat-around winter heels. Cozy-soft sherpa peeking through the center slit adds an unexpected and cold weather-ready touch, and for faux leather, Vera’s distressed texture doesn’t ring entirely untrue! Don’t even think twice – jump on this deal pronto. At Kohl’s for $54.99 (from $109.99).

Pair with: Keep your head as toasty as your tootsies with Alexander Wang’s thick wool hat. A slouchy knit of red and black infuses his signature downtown look. Did you ever think a well-priced wool hat would cost three times as much as your boots?! On Ssense for $145.

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Possibly my favorite items in the entire (400+ pc) collection, the rainboots and umbrella from Missoni for Target will cure any rainy day blues for me!  We are getting samples for preview this week so I’ll be able to report on the quality but having purchased many other Target collaborations (McQueen was a favorite!), I don’t think you will be disappointed!  The collection is so well thought out– whimsical ballet flats, ladylike pumps, and chic rain-boots, what more can a girl ask for?!

At Target locations and Target.com September 13th.

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Knee-high leather boots with a curved toe. Lug sole. Tonal gray suede underlayer. Slightly chunky heel to give you just enough height. Made in Italy. And sold at Barneys! You’re eyes are not deceiving you. There are, indeed, two different boots here – and for two very different prices! But who could tell? Even the snobbiest of snobs might have a hard time here. If these boots were people, they would be twins who look exactly alike but insist they’re fraternal.

Snobs, take close inspection – after you do a double take or two – and harness all your designer-discerning capabilities. Which cozy winter boot costs a pretty penny and which ones are the steal at nearly half the price?

A) Somebody has inherently expensive taste! These comfy everyday boots cost over a cool grand. Designed by the long-standing house of Walter Steiger (founded in 1932) means you’d be wearing the covetable original – even if nobody knows but you. Walter Steiger Back Zip Kneeboot. At Barneys New York for $1,095.

B) Barneys New York designers must be in cahoots with their buyers because this is a total copycat shoe. Perhaps the Frugal Snob wins here – what’s the point in paying double when they look pretty much exactly the same? This is a great opportunity to smarten up and catch a bargain. Co-Op Barneys New York Layered Knee Boot At Barneys New York for $595.

The post Walter Steiger vs. Barneys Co-Op: Battle of the Twin Boots appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s usually a toss-up between Sam Edelman and Jeffrey Campbell for the Frugal Snob’s number one trend-conscious cobbler. I’m an Edelman girl myself – they are seriously the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. Their leathers are so thin and baby-soft, even the high heels cradle your feet with no unpleasant pressure points or hard edges digging in.

This year, Sam Edelman sandals have successfully usurped my shoe wardrobe. I have two pairs of flats, and they’ve been practically implanted to my feet for a couple months now.The multi-buckle detail, as seen on the “Grenna,” ($100) is a signature look: just enough chunk for a suede thong sandal. The ankle-cuffed “Grady” ($90) is even funkier, meaning it will work with your more fashion-oriented outfits, unlike most flats that are strictly casual.

Chloé fans should get all over the “Wess” wedge ($225). Sure, it’s edgy and snob-approved (I might even prefer the coyer buckle cuff to Chloé’s endless wrap-around strap), but I cannot stress the comfort level enough. This leather is supremely thin, so it’s super-pliable and, again I must underscore the word, soft! So it’s probably not the best quality out there, but for this kind of price you can tolerate an early retirement.

A Frugal Snob’s dream! I vouch for these steals. Not only are they worthy of a try-on, you will thank me when you don’t even want to think about taking them off.

The post Sam Edelman Sandals: The Allure of Edelman appeared first on Shoe Snob.

It’s no coincidence that each and every fall, we witness the return of the leopard-print trend. That’s because it never really goes out of vogue! Why would it? There is no greater, more stimulating, sizzling neutral than the well-orchestrated leopard print. Especially when it’s introduced through the high-heeled pump. You get to show your wild side, without going buck wild.

Giuseppe Zanotti turns up the heat on his dyed calf-hair peep-toe ($850), a five-inch heel that’s sure to make you one leggy jungle cat. Brian Atwood‘s pump ($770) is more paired down, though just as glamorous, while Pencey‘s pony-hair slingback ($285) is a frugal snob take with the same amount of spot appeal. Want to dignify your animal print? Jimmy Choo‘s kitten heel ($795) says “purr,” not “roar!” Get your paws on them now and wear them forever.

The post Leopard High Heels: Fall’s New Spots appeared first on Shoe Snob.

How refreshing is it to see the over-the-top, Hollywood-fabulous pair go Frugal Snob for our sake? It also shows the duo is with the times, as every bona fide American designer has a more accessible sister line these days. The results are edgier and actually street-friendly (not just red carpet and gala-appropriate, which doesn’t quite translate to real life).

Platform pumps (On Bluefly for $147 (opposed to $245 elsewhere)) with a thick, ruched sling is both ladylike and city-smart. Nothing worse than when your heel slips out as you walk and you’re forced to drag your feet close to the ground as if you can’t walk in heels. The sandals’ (On Bluefly for $165 (opposed to $275 elsewhere)) layered sole gives triple the texture and elemental interest that makes the shoes look higher than their pleasing price point. A fun wedge, but watch out! Set on a 6″ heel, you can’t have too much fun.

These bargain-style prices are unbeatable for the high-end styles. Whatever names you choose to call them by, Badgley Mischka delivers.

The post Mark & James by Badgley Mischka: Frugal and Fab appeared first on Shoe Snob.

There’s no need to nitpick when it comes to buying ballerina flats. They serve a certain purpose – think comfort and ease for dashing around, running errands. It’s not like buy them to wear to the Met. Which is why when you’re faced with the quandary of saving or splurging on the ballet flat, I’m all for snapping up the cheaper option. Like Jessica Simpson‘s “Leve” flat. It has the exact same style (box toe, pleated upper with cute bow) as the pricier Repetto “Bolchoi” flat for a heck of a lot less money. Sure, Repetto is the classic French flat, but in this case you are literally just paying a couple hundred more for the name. Not worth it, especially when you want something comfy and cheap for traveling – and when you have no room in your luggage, you can just toss them, guilt-free – which is exactly why I bought the Jessica Simpson flats.

Both hers’ and Repetto’s a rubber sole for stability and that little lift of a baby heel. And the less costly “Leve” even has leopard lining. Obviously, the Repetto is higher quality, but for their purpose, Simpson’s ballerinas will do just fine! They do for this snob!

Repetto “Bolchoi” Pleated Leather Ballerina Flats. On Net-a-Porter for $305.

Jessica Simpson “Leve” Flats. On Amazon for $26.99-$59 (depending on color and sale price).

The post Repetto “Bolchoi” Pleated Leather Ballerina Flats vs. Jessica Simpson “Leve” Flats: Frugal Snob Wins! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Some think that buying the very latest shoes or outfits right out of store windows means they’re the true tastemakers. Not so! Without satirical acumen, one could be decked in off-the-runway luxury and look like a mess. The real test of a style champ is to look like a million, even on a budget. Metallic leather platforms can easily cost triple the price of these Halston Heritage sandals. For a mere $118 you still get the height, shine, and sizzle – a lot more bang for your buck. Gold is my favorite metallic tone for the summer – nothing shows off sun-kissed legs better. So, snap up these vintage-inspired sandals at a real seventies price. On The Outnet for $118.

Pair with: Nothing like a pair of super-tight, bum-lifting black pants. Cambio‘s top-stitched black Ponte knit pair look much more expensive than their frugal snob price. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $104.99

The post Halston Heritage Metallic-Leather Platform Sandals: No Fool’s Gold Here! appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Shoes for under $50 that aren’t Payless? Actually cute and wearable, too? Sounds like something out of shoe mythology, but thanks to the ladies behind must-read fashion site Who What Wear, the option is very real. The W3 by Who What Wear collection is veritable assortment of all the shoes that should be in a snob’s closet (or anyone’s, for that matter): the black stiletto ankle boot, platform-front nude pump, tan wedge ankle-strap sandal, snake-effect peep-toe pump, classic black peep-toe pump (very Louboutin), and finally, black glitter pump, just for kicks. Daily shoes for everyone that won’t cost a pretty penny – perfect for all you girls with champagne taste who happen to be on a beer budget.

We all know money can’t buy style, but in this case, very little money can buy you a high dose of style. On JustFab for $39.95.

The post Frugal Snob: W3 by Who What Wear Collection: Frugal Snobs Need Shoe Love, Too appeared first on Shoe Snob.

Utterly charming. And completely affordable. Frugal Snobs, delight in Nine West’s newest offering: a “Shoelaborations” debut of three footwear styles designed by Sophie Theallet. A favorite of Michelle Obama and a protégé of Azzedine Alaïa for many years, the French Theallet wove an adorable tale of “Sophie from Paris Takes a Trip to NYC” for her story board to draw inspiration for her whimsical and girly take on summer essentials: a Pila ballet flat, a Mary double platform sandal and a Tinna raffia wedge (two satchels, as well as a charm necklace and bracelet round up the line). Having seen the shoes at a presentation recently, I can attest to their texture and feminine color palette that is decidedly all Sophie. I love the flats and the T-strap heels in particular; they were designed for the different facets of the Sophie Theallet woman. At around $100 a pair, they’re the perfect shoes to wear without worry. Stock up for rainy days!

Pila ballet flat, $79, Mary platform, $109, Tinna espadrille, $109, available in May at select Nine West stores and at ninewest.com

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Jeffery Campbell really knows his way around a wedge and the Alexa Wedge bootie certainly demonstrates that.

These canvas, khaki, lace up beauties seem insanely high, but are actually only 3″ with a 1″ platform. What I like about these booties is that they are casual, yet sophisticated and could be worn with a plethora of outfits. They would look good with shorts, a romper or even a casual dress. Personally, I could see myself wearing some boyfriend jeans, ribbed top and a chunky bracelet or two with these booties.

The best part about these is that they are a nice way to try out the wedge bootie look without breaking the bank. These are only $140 which is a great price for something that you could get a lot of miles in!

Check them out at ssense

The post Jeffrey Campbell Alexa Wedge Booties: Frugal and Fabulous appeared first on Shoe Snob.