ah, spring. i’m so not a fan of warm-weather attire, but the shoes? they’re another story entirely. i get absolutely giddy when my favorite shops start to break out the sandals in january, and i start counting the days until i get to wear my peep toes for the first time each spring. truth be told, i end up a little overwhelmed by my choices…in the best possible way, of course.
but i think i’ve finally narrowed it down to my favorites of the season. i’ve tried (so very hard) to minimize the splurge factor, so most of these are under $100, and each and every one will bring some serious spring style to your closet. this list is far from exhaustive (it’s a great year for sandals), but there isn’t a pair here that wouldn’t be extremely welcome at my house.
if you’re the type to pick one classic shoe to get you through the season, this cole haan ($108) is it. sleek and simple, these will blend with any style you’ve got going. but look closely, and you’ll see just a touch of inspiration from those oxford brogues we’ve been seeing everywhere. add the nike air technology, and your long summer strolls will be utterly effortless.
these sweet mini-wedge espadrilles from marais ($92) just remind me of childhood…in the best possible way. i’d love to see these paired with skirts and dresses, sure, but they’d be equally cute with cutoff denim.
for something a little edgier, i fell hard for these bright blue gladiators from aldo ($60) when i first spotted them. i got the chance to test them out (yes, my job is awesome), and i can tell you they’re one of the most comfy sandals i own, and the construction is really impressive for the price. i’ve developed a whole new affection for aldos after trying these. rock them with your spring shorts, and release your inner badass.
i hardly know where to start with these studded snakeskin flat gladiators from modern vintage ($225). they’re a bit of a splurge, i know, but look at them! the snakeskin straps, the studded vamp…it was too much for me to resist. these might just top my list this year. (you can, incidentally, get a similar look for less here…not as wonderful, but under $100 is always nice.)
sigh…these rachel comey margot sandals had me at hello. again with the mini-wedge and the bright, cheery color…i have a feeling these wouldn’t leave my feet all summer! i’m sorry to tell you they’re a definite spluge at $275, but nab 20% off with code SPRING10 for the time being.
and last but not least, we all need a little something to kick around in when our pedicure’s lagging. these striped yellow cordones from TOMS ($69) are an adorable alternative to those little leather oxfords we’re seeing everywhere, and a nice change from the keds of yore. plus, you get do-gooder bonus points, as TOMS still buys a pair of shoes for someone in need for every pair they sell. (update: the powers that be just emailed to let me know they’re discontinuing this color, so act fast if you love the yellow. if you miss out, the red version is sticking around, and it’s just as cute!)
happy friday, everyone…i hope there’s some shoe shopping in your future this weekend!
