Sexy in Leather and Lace… Indulge

Stilettos

Yes, stilettos are back or did they ever go out of style? They’re once again dominating the runways, and that is to say that the chunky-heeled revolution is (for the most part) over. One thing we are seeing though is a hybrid of platform and stiletto: a hidden platform in the front part of the shoe, with a super-tall stiletto heel at the back. Stilettos are streamlined, elegant, and sexy. The higher they are, the hotter they look, but of course they don’t offer much support for one’s feet. Not that ergonomics is really on anyone’s mind when they’re looking at designer shoes.

Thick, chunky heels

Platforms and thick heels have dominated the past few seasons; and a number of the major design houses have seen fit to carry them on for Autumn/Winter 2008. All those sturdy heels we’ve just invested in shouldn’t go to waste too soon - despite the return of the more graceful stiletto. The definite advantage of shoes with a thick heel is that they’re better to walk in; so make the most while you can.

Tapered heels

Heels, that starts thick at the top and taper down, often with a curve, into a point at the bottom. They’re a sexy, interesting and modern style which can really spice up an outfit. Not as much a classic shape, so buy them if you intend to get a lot of wear out of them over the next few seasons.

Squared-off toes

It’s been a while since square toed shoes have been popular… and it’s now their time to return. Before we all start having nightmares of those awful clunky dramatically-square shoes that were cool way back when, take note on the new squared-off shape. It’s a tapered in toe with a short blunt nose rather than a fully squared toe. A modern alternative to the lady-like round-toed shoe, not as harsh as a sharp point. A subtle squared-off toe is a great option in 2008.

Pointed Toe

It was only in recent memory that razor-sharp pointy toes were in. And yet, here they are again. It feels a bit soon, but with stilettos back in the pointed toe was never going to be far away. For those not game, round-toes are still an option, as is the squared-off toe.

Mary-Jane with a Twist

The high-heeled Mary-Jane was a big shoe trend last year; but they were mostly sleek, feminine styles in patent leathers and with rounded toes. 2008 sees Mary-Jane back with a twist; Double or even triple buckles are one common defining detail; bright colours, luxury fabrics or sharply pointed toes are other examples. High-heeled Mary-Janes strike a combination of school-girl sweet meets sexy vamp. Look for the interesting details which set apart the hottest buckled and strapped pumps of 2008.

Two-tone and multi-colour

There’s no excuse to be boring with your shoes when it comes to colour. The Autumn/Winter 2008 runways had barely a plain shoe in sight, with two-toned or multiple color taking over. Different elements of a shoe can be different colours, for example contrasting straps or heels. Don’t think that a multi-coloured shoe can only be worn with a plain coloured outfit; use them to add colour and style to pretty much anything. For the colours themselves, they can be anything from bold bright colours through to classic shades of grey and black.

Lace-up Shoes and Boots

Laces and tie-up details are another continuing trend in 2008. From Victorian influences to sexed-up school mistress heels, laces are lingering for a little longer and offer quite a few options of styles and heel-heights.

Above the knee boots

This year, above the knee boots are most popular in heeled versions (rather than small or flat heels) with suede the material of choice. Hot. Perfect over tights, long socks, jeans or pants.

Fringing and Folk-Inspired

It’s the new folk-inspired with an ethnic edge. Fringed boots are the defining feature of the trend, with other details like studs and tooled leather adding to the crafty, bohemian feel. Short fringed ankle-boots in leather or suede can look sexy with bare legs or tights. They can add a ruffian charm to a sophisticated outfit, or be thrown together with an everyday outfit for casual chic.