Those of you who grew up in the USA are probably familiar with the classic middle school science project: the balsa wood bridge.

Jil Sander may be German, but she has clearly drawn her inspiration for her Spring 2008 footwear from this project. Just look at these shoes from her show in Milan

I don’t know. Judging by those models’ toes, it looks like Jil’s shoes aren’t even supporting the weight of one very thin young woman, let along a pile of exercise weights.

5 Comments »

These Prada heels, to be precise:

The Prada Spring 2008 shoe collection was very Art Nouveau, down to these fabulous (and improbable) heels, which are so postmodern and derivative that I’m not sure if they’re supposed to be real shoes or a commentary on the art of fashion influences in footwear. At any rate–extravagant does not begin to describe them. Of course, I love them!

More shiny, flowery Pradavaganza:

I’m not sure what to make of all the crazy spats and tall-boot-sandals (boondals? sanboots? help me out here!), which seem to be completely impractical and just, well, over the top, but in a really creative, glittery way. I may not want to wear them–now–or ever–but they’re sure fun to look at!

5 Comments »

Are you one of those people who never have problems fitting into a tall boot? Never too narrow or too wide for you, always perfect fit? If so, this post is not for you.

Unlike you, I do have problems related to the width of my calf, which is, how should I put this delicately, generous. I’m too lazy to go measure right now, but I’d estimate that a good boot for me would be about 16-16.5 inches wide in calf. Of course, most calf widths these days are 13-15 inches tops–hence, my dilemma. For some of you, actually, 13 inches might be too wide, right? which may also create fit problems.

Personally, I never understood why tall boots don’t come in various calf-sizes, too, just as they come in various lengths. It only makes sense that not everybody would have the same calf circumference, right? I’ve had to return a couple of pairs of boots and pass on good deals on others because I simply would not fit in them–even worse, there was no possible allowance in the design (think gussets) to make at least stretching them a tantalizing possibility.

Well, I used to deplore this state of things until I stumbled over this website for Duo boots, which offers boots in a variety of narrow or wide sizes:

They have a lot more styles than these, which I picked as some of my top contenders (I’ve long wanted a proper equestrian boot). When you purchase, in addition to size, you can specify the width of you calf–how cool is that?

This is a UK-based site, and given the state of the dollar these days, prices aren’t exactly cheap–for example, the first boot in that line-up, a model called Cyprus, is 160 pounds (which is, sadly, $322). Delivery to the US is another stinging 20 pounds, but WAIT: goods delivered here are VAT exempt (a European tax–Value Added Tax–for commercial goods), so in effect, that boot will only end up costing 156 pounds ($314), delivery included. So, that’s not so bad, right? (Cough.) Given how hard it is for me to get boots that will fit my calves, I might just have to suck it and go for it. Plus, they’re really good looking!

6 Comments »

The ads for fall fashion are replete with grays and purples–a sophisticated if somber combination. I find that a purple shoe to accessorize your gray-hued wardrobe is a most satisfying splash of color–and for that, may I recommend this Isabella Fiore ‘Cherise’ quarter-strap pump?

I love the plum satin upper with beautiful and subtle embroidery, and the purple stacked heel. They’re $428 at Zappos.

1 Comment »

The king of subtle he ain’t, but Cavalli sure knows how to make some attention-grabbing pieces:

In a refreshing twist, these Roberto Cavalli boots are flat AND made with ecological fur. The bold details will reveal that you’re marching to your own tune. The only thing that’s less refreshing is the price ($840 at Yoox).

No Comments Yet »