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Top Red Carpet Shoes for Under $100

By Desiree Stimpert, About.com

We've seen some phenomenal shoes at awards ceremonies. But, what makes a shoe red-carpet worthy?

A good red-carpet shoe can be a classic style or hint at current trends (without being too trendy). They must be formal. But elegance and sex appeal are factors, too. However, that describes a lot of shoes, not all of which would be red carpet material. There must be something special. They need to be all of those things and have that "wow" factor as well. Here are a few examples -- all under $100.

1. Jonathan Kayne "Maui" - These Shoes Should get an Oscar!

kenneth_cole_shoes.JPGImage courtesy of Shoes.com
When you look at the "Maui" it is hard to imagine how these come in under one hundred dollars. Flashy and sexy, these sandals feature 3.75" stiletto heels, Swarovski crystals, and lots of skimpy straps -- and they're available in black or silver. Wow.

2. RSVP "Kathryn" - Sexy Slide Sandals

Sexy, simple and stunning, these slide sandals have 3.25" heels and large bows adorning their vamps. Available in fuchsia, red, black or white, these lookers ring up at less than $80. Aside from the price, the best part about these shoes is that they're manufactured with Foot Petals(tm) comfort cushions built into them.

3. Nina "Peppino" - Striking T-Strap Sandals

It wouldn't be a list of affordable and glamorous shoes without at least one pair of Nina Shoes. In fact the real problem with this brand, is narrowing the choices down. I've chosen the "Peppino" because it combines sex appeal with classic elegance - plus there are great color options. With diva-sized rhinestones and the sexy t-straps, these striking sandals are worthy of an award themselves.

4. Kenneth Cole "Rags to Riches" - Elegant Pumps

nina_shoes.jpgImage courtesy of Zappos.com
While you definitely do see a lot of strappy sandals on any red carpet, sometimes the look you want is a little more classic, and a little less revealing. That's when shoes like this pick come into play. With all the sex appeal of their strappy counterparts, these open-toed pumps are elegant and dynamic -- and they're less than $80 (US). With satin uppers and 3" heels, these stunners come in several versatile colors.

5. Caparros "Mayflower - Simply Elegant

Caparros offers a large selection of affordable shoes for special occasions. While many of them are more senior-promish, these silk slingbacks ooze elegance and sophistication. Not bad for shoes that are less than $60. The large center brooch definitely steals the show, and the color choices are classic and versatile: platinum, champagne and black.

6. J. Renee "Diva" - Gorgeous & Affordable

One of my favorite shoes of the season, the J. Renee "Diva" is a perfect choice for under $90. The style of the shoe is great for nearly any dress, and each of the four color choices (gold, copper, black or anthracite) is very versatile. With 3" heels and a t-strap made from rhinestone circles, these shoes are sexy without being overdone. I love them.
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