Fabulous Footwear Trends For Spring/ Summer 2011

Fabulous Footwear Trends For Spring/ Summer 2011

Fashion this year has three major themes -  retro-cool with a 70s vibe, a ‘Madmen’ inspired 60s look and sophisticated biker-chic.  These trends are replicated in the fabulous footwear stalking catwalks and fashion mags for 2011. This year, it’s all about height:  high-heeled clogs, extreme heels and platforms elevate footwear to a new level; kitten heels bring a sexy, coquettish look with a cute 60s vibe.   Even this season’s boots are on a higher plane.

When you think ‘clogs’ you imagine clumpy, wooden, uncomfortable and – quite frankly dangerous – footwear.  This year Chanel and Louis Vuitton, among others, have revitalised the image of the downtrodden clog.  This year’s clogs are dramatic – high or kitten heeled, tasselled, studded or bejewelled; wooden-heeled with studded soles – a stylish, modern twist.  The uppers are soft linen or calfskin, leather and fabulous.  Fashion Divas will wear the clog high but if the fully covered style doesn’t work for you, the trend will continue in a sandal variation.

Kitten heels are making a comeback and are a more comfortable (and stable) alternative to the other trend – killer heels – but wear them with a warning: unlike the high heel, kitten heels add no definition to the calf and, without the rest of the 50s/60s look, they can be the downfall of an outfit.   The kitten heel is a girly look and shoes must be feminine, dainty, pointed, yet simple – a minimalist look is best, in neutral, earthy or monochrome tones.  The joy of the kitten heel is it is versatile – light for warm weather; casual for daywear; suitable work-wear or sexy for a social event.  New styles will link to the 70s revival and be worn with hippy-chic outfits.

If the kitten heel falls too flat for you, this year will be dominated by extreme high-heels, inspired to a degree by Lady Gaga’s outrageous footwear.  Height will not only be in the heel -  soles will also be platformed, adding those extra few inches and balance to the very thin stiletto heels.

Chunky heeled platform sandals are another of this season’s stylish, sexy must-haves. Go for monochrome, multi-coloured platform sandals or studded platforms -  they’re all fabulous.  Strappy high-heeled sandals  with multiple narrow straps (for an extra degree of femininity) also enhance the beauty and musculature of the leg and are another versatile, glamorous option.  Wear them with skirts, shorts, dresses as well as trousers.

Multiple straps are repeated in the motorcycle chic trend in this season’s feminine biker boots.  Harley-style, high-heeled, multi-strap-and-buckle biker boots were one of the highlights of London’s Fashion Week.    The 70s look also encourages the thigh-high boot as part of a seductive and provocative outfit: pointy-toe thigh-high boots  add a touch of glamour to any outfit.

The hottest shoes for spring/summer 2011 not only look comfortable but manage to bring a breath of fresh air in their design and colours.   As with the clothing trends, glamorous, feminine styles are the way ahead.  Step out in style this season!

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