Summer Sandals and Shoes
Weighing In on Gladiator Sandals
When I listed them as one of the worst shoe trends of all time, I made it pretty clear that I wasn't a fan of gladiator sandals. But I know that a lot of people are.
Two years ago, I posted a poll asking how you felt about them. Early on, the results were overwhelmingly negative, but as time passed and the trend towards Roman-inspired footwear grew, the tables turned. The screenshot below shows that at the time of this posting, the results indicate the vast majority of respondents love gladiator sandals.
So now that they've become a full-fledged trend, how do I feel about them?
Well, I'm still not crazy about them. But, it always helps when there are more styles to choose from. In fact, since there is a plethora of gladiator-inspired shoes available this season, I was actually able to put together an entire list of styles I don't hate -- some of them I actually even like.
Hot Footwear Find: Kenneth Cole Sandals at Nearly 50% Off
Don't miss the rest of this week's Hot Footwear Finds.
Ombre Shoes
I've also seen them referred to as having "degrade" uppers, but that's my least favorite term for the effect. It sounds odd, and makes it seem as if shoes have been humiliated in some fashion.
There's something about this effect that's a little too reminiscent of "Dynasty" and other 80s fashion trends for my liking, so it's not my favorite trend in the world.
But done well, these shoes do have several things going for them: they're more versatile than they're single-shaded counterparts, they're visually interesting; they have a certain built-in sex appeal; and they're a great way for the patternphobe to break away from solids without commiting to a print.
Nine West Brights
While just about every brand has offered up a rainbow of colorful footwear for us to choose from, one label that's done the trend particularly well is Nine West. From eye-popping patent sandals like the ones shown here, to vivid satin pumps, they've truly outdone themselves.
For more from Nine West, or to see some of the season's most colorful footwear, be sure to check out the following top picks.
Eco Shoes from Simple
And if all of that isn't enough to pique your interest, they also make incredibly cool-looking, affordable shoes, like the "Satire" hemp sneakers shown here.
These shoes come in lots of great colors and patterns, and if hemp isn't your speed, they're also available in cotton canvas.
For more on environmentally-friendly footwear, be sure to check out this article on some of the biggest names in Eco Shoes.
Think You Know Sex and The City?
Okay, I know this will shock and horrify my fellow shoe lovers, but I'll come clean. I never watched Sex and the City.
I've heard lots about the shoe-obsessed ways of Carrie Bradshaw et al, and I've seen enough photos from the show to know they had some killer wardrobes, but that's about it.
Oh wait, I also know that Sex and the City: The Movie is due to be released on May 30.
In anticipation of the grand event, About.com's Guide to Fashion (and diehard SATC fan) Cynthia Nellis has created this Sex and the City Fashion Quiz.
I've heard it's even difficult for fans of the show, and I scored only 4 out of 10 correct. Thankfully, there were a lot of shoe-related questions.
How Often Do You Wear Flip-Flops?
There are thongs, and there are flip-flops.
Both are thongs, both are sandals, and both may even make flipping and flopping sounds when you walk in them, but there is a difference. For me, that distinction lies in how casual the shoes are.
Generally speaking, if they're made of rubber, plastic, or any other material you don't mind getting wet, they're flip-flops.
Having said that, how would you respond to the following poll?
Poll: How often do you wear flip-flops?
5 Reasons to Love Silver Sandals
Metallic sandals are hot this season, especially natural metallics like gold and silver. While I enjoy both shades, I've always been more of a silver girl myself.
There are many reasons to love silver sandals, but here are my top five.
1. Silver Sandals are Versatile
Silver sandals can be paired with a plethora of warm weather colors, and work especially well with white, pastels, blues and purples. Read more...
Havaianas : A Brazilian Delight
If you love Havaianas (and who doesn't?), you have to check out About.com's Brazil Travel Site, where Guide Patricia Ribeiro has written a great article about the famous Brazilian flip-flops that the entire world has flipped for.
Not only does she tell the interesting history of the brand's place in Brazilian culture, but she shares great trivia facts, like how surfers would remove the straps and put them back on with the soles top side up.
When you're done getting the scoop on Havaianas, be sure to check out the rest of her site too. The gorgeous pictures and passionate writing will make you want to grab your own Havaianas and hop on the next flight to beautiful Brazil.