These are not your Grandma’s boots. And, to a boot-lover like me, that is a good thing.

Gucci Riddle Lace-up Boot $1690 at Saks.com

I love the equestrian-reference of the lower lacing.  Add to that the slightly military-feel of the buckled calf details and you wind up with a boot that is not quite granny, not quite riding boot, and 100% fabulous.

I love how these boots feel like an updated classic. They are just fresh enough not to blend in as just another cookie-cutter granny boot, but are still classy and sexy enough that you can easily get years of wear-ability from them - whether they are matched with casual jeans or a hot pencil skirt.

How would you wear a pair of boots like these?

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Earlier this year, André Leon Talley of Vogue was heard remarking that he was “over the mania of the high, high heel”.  On the Milan Spring 2010 runways, it’s really unapparent that designers took André’s word to heart.  The shoes were still soaring and high, abetted by one and two inch platforms.

Strappy Fendi Sandals for Spring 2010: My favorite part of these wraparound Fendi sandals were the rose-hued clear platform.

Gucci Spring 2010 Heels: Futuristic, sexy bondage heels appeared to be the theme on Gucci’s runway.

Versace Spring 2010 Fantasy Land Shoes: Donatella Versace’s Spring Collection was said to be inspired by the upcoming Alice in Wonderland movie from Tim Burton. This must explain the medley of playful polka dot, geometric, and pastel prints.

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Men’s Spring 2010 Milan fashion week started Saturday.  I have been casually following men’s shoe fashions because our men who come here have largely been ignored.  I wanted them to know that we love them too.  Also, since I have a large foot,  if I am looking for a good pair of trouser flats, I often look in the menswear section. 

What are we seeing on the Milan runway for Spring 2010? 

Jil Sander:  These close ups don’t show it, but this line showed mostly whites and colors that were barely there.  I  love the yellow lace ups.  Would my husband wear them?  At a size 13,  ’fraid not.  Actually, the yellow lace up would probably be the only thing in this line he would wear, if his foot were smaller.

Gucci offered variations on one pair of sneakers.

And variations on a pair of slip ons.

lastly, white driving loafers. 

So what do you think guys?  Is there a pair you love?

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Biker chic has rocked the streets for ages, on kids from punk to prom queen flirting with the wrong side of the tracks. A few seasons ago, grommets, studs, zippers and buckles started making major comebacks. Last season, leather jackets were huge, coinciding with a revival of industrial culture and rise of steampunk couture. Now, you need the shoes to match not jackets, but tiered lace and ruffle dresses, those sexy/scary bondage tape-dresses, and zipper dresses for spring. Good news is, leather biker shoes are available in spades. They’re especially cute, of course, in boots and booties, but make a hot transition into sandals for spring as well.

One warning though, is to be careful with just how much industriality and bikerism you blend into one outfit. You don’t want to look like you’ve been dressed from head to toe by Project Runway’s Stella… or maybe you do. But a little goes a long way, and shoes are the perfect place to concentrate this trend.

Here are my biker faves, starting with Steve Madden’s Ginn, on sale for $169.95:

Gucci’s Babouska shoe comes in variations of boot, sandal and flat. You can purchase the boot here for $448.

Louboutin’s Ariella has been making a humongous splash, and for good reason. Chanel Iman and Rihanna have been seen sporting the higher over-the-knee version, which seems to be difficult to procure for mere mortals.

And for not just looking tough but also being tough, who can forget the original Harleys and Fryes?

Harley’s Simone is $124 on Zappos.

Frye’s Harness Two Rings, meanwhile, is $235.80 on Zappos.

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Saks 5th Avenue continues to put new items on sale over at their website.

Among the items available today are:

Yves St. Laurent Y-strap Patent sandal $311.90 $780.

Certainly, this style is not as universal at the Tribute and Tribute Two, but for those of you that like this funkier interpretation of their platform style, the price really is fantastic.

Gucci Newton High Heel Sandal $295.90 $740.

This two-tone is a lovely, classic style that will be wearable for years.

Dior Whisper T-Strap Sandals $267.90 $670. 

Imagine this with your perfect little black dress… wonderful.

So many sales these days, sigh.

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