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Spring Shoes 2009
2009 Guide to Spring Shoes for Women, Men and Kids

By Desiree Stimpert, About.com

As far as 2009 Spring shoes go, it's all about the details. The platforms are a little bit thicker, the heels are a little bit higher, and the accents are a little bolder.

And even though men's and kids' shoe trends don't change quite as much as women's do, there's still a lot of great styles to choose from.

Here are some of the top styles and hottest trends in Spring shoes for 2009.

Top Spring Shoe Styles and Trends for Women

platform_shoes.jpgImage: Zappos.com
Not a lot of surprises this year. Gladiator sandals, which took the world by storm last year, are topping the charts again this season, and platform shoes are still going strong as well. Even those cage shoes and collar sandals that started popping up last year have finally arrived as full-fledged, mainstream trends.

In fact, the season's only real "comeback" is the wedge heel, which we haven't seen in abundance for the last couple of years.

Below are some of my top picks in Spring's top styles for women, and if you'd like more details on the details, be sure to check out this in-depth look at the hottest Spring Shoe Trends. Pictured: Report 'Downey2' (Buy Direct)

Top Shoe Brands and Designers

brand_name_shoes.jpgImage: Endless.com
Of course, it would be nearly impossible to list every popular brand and designer here, so instead I've listed a few long-term favorites, many of which have turned out some of this Spring's hottest styles. And even if your favorite brand or designer isn't listed below, I think you'll enjoy my top picks from all of these popular labels. Pictured: Jessica Simpson 'Lizza' (Buy Direct)

The Colors of Spring Shoes

spring_shoes_colorsImage: Shoes.com
Light neutral shoes have taken center stage once again, but that doesn't mean fans of vibrant colors are totally left out. Pink and orange footwear is especially hot this Spring, and there are plenty of other colorful choices as well -- they're just not as omnipresent as they were last year. Below I've got tips on how to wear the season's hottest neutrals, and because I'm personally such a fan of color, I'm including a few of my favorite orange and pink styles as well. Pictured: Guess 'Naga' (Buy Direct)

Spring Shoes on a Budget

spring_shoes_on_sale.jpgImage: 6pm.com
Whether you believe owning the newest designer styles is essential to your well-being, or you view shoes as merely a necessity, there are lots of ways to save money on footwear. Below are a few articles that will help you find shoes for less, no matter what your budget is this Spring. Pictured: Carlos Santana 'Cage' 48% off at 6pm.com (Buy Direct)

Special Occasion Shoes for Spring

special_occasion_shoes.jpgImage: Endless.com
For many of us, Spring is one of the busiest times of the year, filled with proms, graduations, weddings and other special occasions. You know what that means, right? You got it: new shoes -- or maybe just a new look at shoes you already own. Below are a few tips on choosing shoes for many of Spring's most special events. Pictured: Pelle Moda 'Rhine' (Buy Direct)

Spring Shoes for Men

spring_shoes_mens.jpgImage: Zappos.com
From season to season, or even year to year, men's shoes don't change nearly as dramatically as women's styles, but there are always a few subtle details that fashion-conscious men will want to know about. I've highlighted some of the season's finest men's styles in the articles below. Pictured: Sperry Top-Sider 'Largo Espadrille'(Buy Direct)

Rain Boots for the Whole Family

spring_rain_bootsImage: Nordstrom.com
I'm sure there are some places in the world where Spring doesn't necessarily mean a lot of rainfall, but for many of us, Spring and rain go together like peanut butter and jelly. But don't let it get you down, because after one look at these rain boots, and everyone in the family will be longing for gray skies. Pictured: Kamik 'Bohemia' (Buy Direct)

Spring Shoes for Kids

Whether they're running around the backyard at a family get-together, or participating in more organized Spring activities, your kids (and their shoes) are going to get a workout once warm weather hits. These articles will help cover their footwear needs. The rest is up to you. Pictured: Aster 'Aster USA 2' (Buy Direct)
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