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.

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If you thought Alexander McQueen’s now-famous Fashion Week pumps were monstrous, get a load of these crazy, ultra-glam shoes from Louise Goldin for Topshop. We got a sneak peak of the upcoming collection, thanks to Mykromag, and although it’s clear you could seriously injure someone while wearing these, we still think they’re pretty darn cool. This fashion-forward designer knows that extreme footwear is it right now – just be careful when crossing your legs, ripped tights don’t go with these heels.

It may be difficult to find equally spikey shoes right now (we’ll see if Goldin’s line starts a movement come spring) but you can’t go wrong with some trendy studded styles. Dolce Vita’s Trinity pumps are chic (and the studs won’t break the skin) while Steve Madden’s glitzy gladiator heels will certainly jazz up any ensemble.

For some slightly less daring designs, be sure to check out our guides to the best in platform shoes and high heeled boots.

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The fashion industry may still be suffering as a result of our floundering economy, but according to the Los Angeles Times, shoe sales seem to be on the rebound.

Designers have only gotten more creative with their footwear, and from studded bondage shoes to unbelievably high heels, styles are getting increasingly extreme. Supposedly, many women feel that investing in an expensive “standout” shoe is more prudent than shelling out for say, a faux fur vest. So, buyers are tending to go for crazy, aggressive platforms and bizarre not-shoe shoes to make plainer ensembles more eye-catching. After all, who could forget Alexander McQueen’s twelve inch lochness monster pumps at Fashion Week?

Need your own pair of fun, festive footwear? We like L.A.M.B.’s interesting but understated cut out bootie and Frye’s studded take on the Deborah boot.

If you’re on the prowl for more statement shoes, we suggest you take a look at our guides to the best boots, platforms, and party shoes.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Spend your money on a steal that looks like a splurge. We’ve got designer deals galore in the Taste Test archives.  And for more picks, check out our guide to party shoes and flat shoes.

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From their famous boots to fine leather loafers and sexy sandals, I think we can all agree that Frye’s shoes are amongst the best in practical and chic footwear. 6pm is offering select styles from their summer and fall collections at half off this week, so get clicking, these pairs are already flying off the shelves.

Frye’s fun short boot ($134 from $298), with playful pleated detail, features a cushioned wedge heel for extra foot support.

The classic loafer ($76 from $168) gets a stylish update with a hip harness ring as embellishment and an array of color options.

With a leather corked footbed, these super-high strappy sandals ($103 from $228) make looking slim and tall easier on your soles.

If these picks don’t tickle your fancy, we suggest you look into new platform shoes or flat boots.

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Ann Taylor LOFT: Take an extra 25% off sale items

Kohl’s: Up to 50% off selected coats and accessories for the family

Lord and Taylor: An extra 15% off regular and sale items using the code NOW

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The Italian luxury brand, Salvatore Ferragamo, is attempting to vamp up its online image with a hip new site that offers e-commerce, WWD reported today. The internet store is already offering everything from fabulous shoes to drool-worthy leather bags and accessories in Italy and the UK, and will open soon in the U.S.  It’s all part of the company’s efforts to rule the digital realm like they’ve ruled the realm of shoes and purses. “The desire to shop should not be limited by time and place,” CEO Michael Norsa said about the site’s launch – we’ll definitely second that one.

Ferragamo footwear sure makes our hearts beat fast. So make like the Fiorentini in one of their gorgeous loafer-inspired pumps, or just get a more playful version of the look with a very affordable alternate pair of pumps from Chinese Laundry.

Luxury doesn’t always have to break the bank, which is why we’re put together guides to the best in cheap shoes, pants, and handbags under $250.

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This morning the Telegraph reported, with not a little bit of disgust, that clogs are going to be in this spring.  And indeed, the offending shoe did show up on a number of recent runways, including Chanel’s.

I don’t think, personally, that the clog is the arbiter of a fashion apocalypse.  Worn well, it can actually be a cute, rounded-toe finish to an outfit.  Go white and studded with this Matisse shearling clog, which shouldn’t be worn bare-legged but would look great paired with dark denim.  Or change up your winter boots look with Penelope Chilver’s clog boot, which is both cozy and fashionable.

Wondering what to pair a clog with?  Our top picks include skinny jeans, plaid shirts, and cozy cashmere to tie it all together.

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