If you've been outside as of late, it hits you like a 100 degree New York City day- summer is here, and fortunately for the fashionable, the weather is not all that’s hot this season. From flats to flip flops, to five inch heels, this summer, shoes are all about the gladiator sandals, feminine touches, and chunky, say-something platforms that turn any casual stride into a catwalk strut. No matter what your preference however, here are a few summer suggestions to help get your shoes on the road.
Gladiator sandals? Not only are they a must-have this season, they can add a little somethin’-somethin’ to an otherwise casual outfit, yet still maintain a laid back cool. On the dressier side, platform gladiators could bring even Achilles to his knees. They add instant funk, an edge - without gushing too much, they are just plain hot. If you're looking for flats try the “Sweet Thing” by Kenneth Cole New York or for something a little more understated, try the Gilda by Sam Edelman. . And for the trade secret? H&M currently has a great pair, at an ever better price.
If you're ready to turn to the dark side however, I wouldn’t be doing gladiator heels justice if I didn’t introduce the piece de resistance. Christian Dior is leading the way with their Extreme Dior Gladiator Platform. This shoe is not only gorgeous, but it will make a staple in your wardrobe just as it did in the Sex and The City Movie.
Want Carrie’s staple without making a dent in your wallet however, Zara Boutique makes a Dior inspired pair that does not miss the mark. I snagged a pair myself, and life has not been the same, but if gladiators all together are not your thing, far less severe then gladiators are fresh prints and feminine bows.
Pairing feminine shoes with a sundress just screams summer and if this is more your speed, try these on for size. These Bottega Veneta wedges come in a soft baby blue and the braided satin adds just enough girlish charm. . For girls who just want to have fun? Try Bruno Frisoni’s leather sandal with the striped bow.
Luckily for those who aren’t big fans of bows, this season’s trends also allow for a shoe more daring. Platforms have been in for quite some time and it looks as if they’re here to stay. Giving a little oomph to almost any outfit, from jeans to flirty frocks, platforms can literally and figuratively give you that little boost you need. Look for shoes that will make a statement but buyer beware: platforms can sometimes come off the wrong way, i.e. chunky 5 inch stiletto heels on a platform – no go. What you do want to look for however looks something like Christian Louboutin’s leather and wood platform sandal. The thick heel and wood accent helps to take the edge off of a serious shoe so you can look sophisticatedly tall, and not trashy.
Sometimes while we want some added height, summer essentially is about down-to-earth beach fun, and you can’t come much closer to the ground then with a classic flat. Move over supermarket plastic flip-flops – there a new crop in town that dares to face the fashionista’s dilemma of style or substance – in one. Strappy classic flats are here… and lets hope they stay a while. Look for flats with more then just a thong strap, Dolce Vita adds metallic embellishments while Luichiny adds a flower appliqué .
Summer shoes give you choices. Whether you choose to stand tall in platforms, stay grounded in flirty flats or go way back and party with the Greeks, these stylish summer shoes are meant to shine. No longer are shoes just for your feet to stand on, they can enhance and even be the focal point of an outfit, especially in hot weather when we tend to skimp on the clothes.
Luckily for the fashionista, she already knows to look for ways to contribute to her outfit. And why not invest? Shoes are the one size that will never change!
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