3 (More) Irresistible Spring Shoe Trends

By The Inside Source
April 8, 2010

We already covered a few of our favorite new footwear trends. But you know what they say about shoes—you can never have enough of them. So in the spirit of spring, we're kicking off our winter boots (and kicking up our strappy heels) in honor of three trends—patent leather, fringe and cork soles—that are definitely shoe-ins this season.

Patent Leather

Karl Lagerfeld (Photo by Nathalie Lagneau/Catwalking/Getty Images), Alexander McQueen (Photo by Antonio de Moraes Barros Filho/WireImage)

Generally considered a bit wintry, patent leather is oh so right for spring when shown in open or sandal-like styles. Both Karl Lagerfeld and Alexander McQueen showed black numbers that hit at the ankles, a look that could seem harsh but was lightened by high heels and cutouts, in the case of the former. This style looks best when worn with full mini skirts, shorts or skinny jeans, as long as the bottom you wear balances out the strong shoe choice.

Get the Look on eBay:

From left to right:

New Burberry Black Patent Leather Heels (buy it now price, $179) These platform-style, open caged-toe black patent leather heels show just enough skin to make them warm weather-appropriate.

New Gunmetal Red Patent Leather Strappy Heels (buy it now price, $99) A patent leather pair in a red color this strong seems almost dressy, but the buckle adds a casual touch.

New Jimmy Choo for H&M Blue Patent Black Leather Heels (buy it now price, $141.88) Classic black makes the wild shade of blue feel more sophisticated.

Fringe

Isabel Marant (Photo by Nathalie Lagneau/Catwalking/Getty Images), Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2010

Fringe is a fashion statement that's here to stay. Take a quick look online and in stores and you can still find a myriad of accessories bearing the Western influence. What has changed for spring are the ways in which you can wear the look. Isabel Marant and Dolce & Gabbana showed heavily fringed boots paired with mini dresses and shorts. These are extreme examples of the boho-inspired look, but it's easy to find tamer options that have plenty of fringe benefits.

Get the Look on eBay:

New Gucci Suede Ankle Wrap Fringe Low Heel Sandals (buy it now price, $295) This brown suede sandal has a low heel and simple fringe detailing around the ankle—an effortless look.

New Barbara Bui Short Suede Fringe Shoe Boots (buy it now price, $495) These stacked heeel, suede booties transition easily from spring to fall.

New Sam Edelman Utah Fringe Boots (buy it now price, $79.99) A traditional Western look without a Halloween vibe.

Cork Soles

Stella McCartney (Photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images), Derek Lam (Photos by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images and by Kristian Dowling/Getty Images for IMG)

Cork is lightweight but substantial, a bit beachy and super comfortable. Stella McCartney, the queen of eco-friendly fashion, showed simple, ankle strap, all-natural cork wedges in neutral colors, while Derek Lam used cork heels to soften up intricate, strappy shoes.

Get the Look on eBay:

New Santini Mavardi Cork Wedge (buy it now price, $98) The beauty of a simple leather ankle strap cork wedge is that it will go with any summer outfit you pair with it.

New Christian Dior Startlet Cork Wedge Shoes (buy it now price, $495) White paired with cork just looks fresh. The little bow on this platform cork wedge adds an extra-flirty feel to a summer dress or skirt.

New Clarks Miami Beach Leather Cork Wedges (buy it now price, $32.97) The taupe-y shade is a great neutral color, and the three inch wedge offers the perfect amount of height.

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