Stepping Out Well-Heeled

By: Sharon Mosley

Getting tired of sweating out the cold weather in all those stuffy boots? Then just take a look at the latest shoe trends that are popping up this spring. They’re delicious eye candy for winter weary soles. Here’s a sneak peek at what the well-heeled will be wearing in the warmer days ahead:

Being transparent — Want a pair of shoes that will go with just about anything no matter what color you’re wearing? Then pick up a pair of pumps or sandals detailed with clear vinyl straps or Lucite heels. Get the vibe of the swinging 1960s with these fun see-through sandals that will instantly transform your wardrobe.

Shine on — Iridescent is the way to step it up this spring. Think watery waves of blues, pinks, whites and coral that shimmer in a holographic patent leather pump. Very futuristic. Shoes also glisten in metallic hues of gold, silver and burnished bronze.

Pointing the way — Yes, pointy toes are guiding the trendiest shoe styles this spring. After a few years of lagging behind rounded toes, footwear designers are making it a point to update both heels and flats. These shoes are a must to try on before buying. Comfort is still key whether you want to wear the latest trends or not.

Architecturally speaking — Build up your shoe collection with new shoes that are pieces of sculptural art. Many of these shoes may also be decorated with embroidery, encrusted with jewels or decked out with ribbons and bows. You may be tempted to treat some of these artistically-designed shoes like pieces of art on display in a gallery, only in your own home or closet.

Mix it up — Footwear takes another cue from the art world this spring with designers using a mixed media approach combining lots of contrasting textured materials, colors and even prints to make shoes that make a bold statement. Think snakeskin with mesh, cutout leather and even lace.

Walk like a man — Whether it’s a spectator loafer or a lace-up oxford or a smoking slipper, the menswear-inspired shoe is one of the season’s favorite silhouettes, and most likely one of the most versatile buys for spring.

Focus on heels — From chunky heeled sandals to stiletto heeled booties to pointed Lucite wedges, the heel is the focal point of many of spring’s trendiest footwear.

Up to your knees — Forget those knee-high boots you’ve worn all winter. What’s a spring and summer fashion “must-have” shopping list without a pair of new sandals? The latest look this year proves to be the knee-high strappy gladiator sandals. What a great way to fight those winter shoe blues!

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