The Shoes of Spring and Summer

One of the things that has always kept the fashionable Kiffen going in the dead of winter is shopping for spring and summer clothes. This year, the shoe was the standout accessory, with tons of different shapes and styles. No matter what your personal aesthetic, there's a Spring 2006 shoe out there for you.
First of all, wedges are still going strong. The Kiffen does not really approve (they make your feet look large, ungraceful, and clunky, and are not actually any more comfortable than high heels), but if you must, try these relatively sleek Chloe black leather wedges, or go Cleopatra style in these bejeweled Guiseppe Zanotti sandals.

Bright, saturated colors, especially in exotic skins, were also a big story for spring. Alessandro Del'Acqua delivered a stellar collection inspired by Marilyn Monroe that featured classic ankle-straps in red, black, and royal blue croc, and Bottega Veneta showed some fabulous, candy colored sandals.

Multicolored shoes were also a big trend, again done in exotic skins (pretty much anything made in snakeskin, croc, or ostrich is big for spring). Dolce and Gabanna showed a fabulous platform sandal that would be perfect with a slinky little dress, and both Missoni and Pucci showed shoes in their signature prints.
Another huge trend (and a generally chic and wearable look) was black and white or black and cream shoes. Chanel and Moschino did it best, creating one of the kind pieces that will remain stylish for years to come. Chanel's leather bow-tie pump with its white "sock" would be absolutely stunning with everything from a fitted black suit to a denim mini; although it looks odd at first glance, it's a universal shoe.

Moschino's black and ivory shoes are a little less dramatic, but have the same retro but completely modern appeal. The t-straps with bows are feminine and sweet, and the peep-toes are grown-up saddle shoes.

Platforms of all kinds were all over the Spring runways. The most wanted pair among the fashionista set is the slightly pointed Christian Louboutin for Roland Mouret pump, which comes in a variety of colors (but they all have Louboutin's signature red heel). Miu Miu combined two big trends by showing a pair of ankle strap ivory and black platform pumps with a thick, wearable heel. If you're looking for an exotic skin, Sergio Rossi did a strappy platform sandal in luxe tortoiseshell.

Another major trend was ladylike details, such as lace trim, on very simple shapes, like this elegant pump by Jean Paul Galliano for Christian Dior or this stunning beaded boot by Alexander McQueen. Indeed, lightweight boots for summer are becoming a viable option - picture these statement pieces with a basic black or white dress. Valentino also did an extremely feminine pair trimmed with straw flowers that would be perfect with a floral sundress.


Whatever shoe (or more likely, shoes) you pick for spring, make sure it reflects your personal style. There are so many options out there, so why not get something you love?