Shoe-bang

I’m starting this blog off with a subject dear to my heart. Shoes. High heeled, round-toed, suede, skin, practical, impractical, wonderful, colorful shoes. And if this spring’s crop of designs is any indication, my accessory of choice is reining high on the list of this season’s most important must-haves.

It goes without saying that a girl simply can’t ignore the importance of a great pair of shoes. Evidence of this notion appeared recently when a top shopping magazine devoted 11 pages to shoes. Yes, 11! Can you imagine? In the world of magazines where pages are like gold, this speaks volumes.

And that’s just the beginning. A short time ago I was on a photo shoot where I had pulled an enormous amount of spring shoes. To say I was giddy was an understatement. I had silver Jimmy Choo stacked heels, hot pink Prada platforms and the most inspiring pair of sky-high espadrilles straight from the aisles of Target. And that was only the beginning. After diligently assembling them by color, style and row, I stepped back to discover that my carefully chosen assortment had a definitive theme. Bigger is definitely better.

Which leads me to spring. It’s no secret that some of the most predominant womenswear trends in 2007 are begging for scene-stealing shoes. Minis with pleating and texture—thank you Gucci— call for big, fat wedges done in fantastic materials like linen, PVC, and suede. Try these by Marc by Marc Jacobs. I cannot imagine a better treat then a pair of two-toned, patent leather sandals with a chunky, 4 ½ inch heel. Genius.

And then there are the metallics. Shimmering dresses with draping and ruching from the likes of Stella McCartney and Zac Posen. These looks call for bright infusions of color in the form of fuchsia, purple and red. Pair them with a neutral clutch and your shoes will really pop.
It bears mention that blending pattern on pattern has become a popular theme. Though it takes a little practice choosing what works, once you’ve found the right combination the outcome is fresh and modern. Take these woven, printed shoes by Betsy Johnson. Feminine and pretty they’ll enhance any of the new romantic silhouettes. The trick is to combine the print with a neutral background to ensure a pleasing combination of colors. And a quick note of interest: it’s best to keep similar trends together. For instance, these shoes would not work with the bold canary yellows and vibrant pink fuchsias were seeing in the stores.

How do these trends translate for day-to-day dressing? Let’s just say it’s all about the right pairing. If you gravitate towards full skirts and cotton fabrics than the canvas Christian Louboutin’s are perfect.

These rope-covered platforms are the quintessential season-to-season staple and remain a constant classic. And if $310 is a little steep, then take time to wander the stores, as there are an astounding amount of styles with a similar feel. Alessandro Dell’Acqua’s spring collection also bears mention. When a designer’s philosophy states that, “every woman should be desired” it comes as no surprise that his collection will draw attention. This season he’s offering a brilliant assortment of animal prints and criss-crossed strapping, which pairs perfectly with evening black and gold.

Whatever your need, fashion’s current mood demands height, drama and presence. Bring on the wedges and platforms. It’s time to clunker around town in the season’s best accessory. With dresses getting higher and pants getting wider you can’t ignore the call.