Category: ‘shoes’

You probably thought it was lots of practice and maybe a prayer that’s been keeping you standing tall in those strappy five-inchers you love, but according to today’s New York Times it’s actually revolutionary technology that’s ensuring you don’t topple over.

Apparently, the use of a very special polymer and crafty scientific methods has allowed designers like Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and many more to make shoes that soar above the rest. And you don’t have to understand the physics (because I certainly don’t) behind Louboutin’s 160-millimeter platforms to appreciate them – now more than ever, chic women are obsessed with ultra-high heels and moreover, extreme, and sometimes slightly scary, designs. The question is not will your sturdy stilettos survive, but can you survive your stilettos?

Luckily, we’ve got some suggestions as to (somewhat) more sensible shoes. These very sexy Pelle Moda platforms stand at almost 5″, but the stacked heel makes them easier to walk in. For a sleek party shoe, try Cole Haan’s metallic sandal – it incorporates Nike Air technology for extra comfort and ample style.

Check out more in the way of party shoes and possibly a cocktail dress to go with them.

Call me crazy, but my idea of a perfect outfit almost always focuses on the shoes.  I like to pair them with simple black dresses, the better to offset an interesting statement heel.  Enter Modern Vintage shoes, which hit just the right, fun note – even Heidi Klum thinks so.  The model is teaming up with the brand’s founders to release a collaborative collection in early 2010.

I love the line’s two-tone Zoom pumps, which will get me through a day of work straight into a cocktail party, and the particularly funky Thalia heels (which also happen to be deeply discounted at the moment).  The Modern Vintage Livia boots are super sleek, and in my opinion, will long outlast the bootie trend.  Last but certainly not least, the Evandra mary janes perfectly embody this fun brand, with a look that’s both old-timey and totally contemporary.

Now what these shoes call for is a little accessorizing that can stand up to their distinct look – I think a brooch and a perfect pair of earrings will do the trick just right.

We’re quite impressed, not to mention relieved, by J. Crew’s Marlene crisscross heels. They perfectly execute that sought-after illusion: the hidden platform.  With a 3 1/4″ heel and the aforementioned quarter-inch platform neatly tucked away in the front, the shoe stays trim and elegant while giving you a lift – without making you feel like you’re about to topple forward.  The Marlene shoe was created because, as Jenna Lyons (J. Crew’s creative director) says, “We all want to wear high heels all day but we can’t!”

Truer words were never spoken.  Don’t worry, we’re here for you – we’ve got more comfortable high heels to help get you through the festive attire season.

The holiday collection from Christian Siriano for Payless just launched, hot on the heels of Target’s holiday dress debut.  We’re impressed – the shoes run the gamut from very pretty (like the Carolina pump, above) to fairly fashion-forward.

I’d be happy to wear these Micola flats to a family holiday dinner, all the while being secretly pleased about the extraneous, stylish zipper detail.

Okay, so this Geneva zip front boot doesn’t exactly scream “Christmas breakfast,” but it’s still an awesome look, holiday or no.

I love a pair of open-toed shoes that look right with opaque tights, and because of its wide ankle strap and back zipper, this Elisa Strippy sandal is just the ticket.

While we’re loving all things Siriano, we understand if you need some variety.  Check out our guides to party shoes and booties to supplement your holiday shoe needs.