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Shoe Fetish

By February 6, 2015 No Comments
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who love shoes and those who don’t give them much thought. I happen to be in the first category and not just because I own a uniform company but also because I think footwear can make or break any look. Colorful sneakers can spice up jeans and a t-shirt or add play to a slim-fit black suit. By the same token, a pair of boots with a flared skirt or a more formal dress can add just the right bit of funk and vibrancy.  While many of us have not been paying as much attention to our footwear since we’ve been knee deep in galoshes this winter, the spring promises to set our feet free with gladiator sandal boots, “flatforms” and cut-out flats.
 
Nearly everyone who is anyone in women’s shoe design seems to have a version of gladiator boots. It is rare that fashion from 2000 years ago comes back in style but get used to seeing these nearly knee high, sandal-like boots. There are lace –up versions, zippers and some with straps. Adding a little twist to this seriously retro look, Alexander McQueen’s stunning cut out gladiator boot version is probably destined to become a fashion museum piece one day.  However you can still get in on the trend without it breaking your bank account.  For under $100 you can get this simpler flat from Sam Edelman that debuted last summer. I’ve also noticed lower versions that come up just past the ankle. Check out this star studded pair made by Fausto Puglisi. Not for everyone, but if you want to make statement, the Fauto’s will certainly accomplish that!
Thakoon, Whistles and others are working the flatform, a flat, platform sandal. From what I’ve seen they range from this espadrille type from Chiko Mela ($105) to a more all purpose Leather Crisscross from Prada ($795) to ornate versions with patent leather, snakeskin, gold straps and this gladiator type of flatform from Rick Owens                                                   Prada

Cut out flats were never really out but they are most definitely in.  Check out these two beauties from Freda Salvador. Playing on the oxford shoe theme, the black patent leather with stud buttons kinks up the boarding school look a few notches and the patent snake skin disguises the original conservative nature of the shoe.

 

 

Fabrics are in some cases replacing leather. I’ve noticed shoes made entirely from cloth or satin. Check out these green Louboutin’s and white Miu Miu’s.  All wrapped-up and hopefully somewhere to go…

Given the myriad of fashionable footwear for women this spring, it would take a great effort to look like you were wearing last year’s shoes.  But, no matter what you wear, keep in mind that your feet are just as important as the rest of you, especially to people who will quite literally stare you down. So next time you have a date or meeting, put a little bit of fashionable spring into your step.