shoe trend for s/s 2010

by Roxanne C.

As winter gives way to summer in the approaching months, things heat up in the fashion scene where designers have their models strut down runways with their upcoming Spring/Summer 2010 collections. This new season is all about bringing out the exhibitionist, the glam-queen, in all of us.

The main focus is on height and that is where platforms and towering heels come in. Almost every in-house designer, save for the legendary Manolo Blahnik, has got these stacked heels worn confidently before their audience. From Donatella Versace’s “Alice in Wonderland-“ inspired shoes, Fendi’s soft, chiffon drapery masterpieces to Alexander McQueen’s eccentric “Armadillos,” this trend is pretty hard to miss.

Versace S/S 2010.

Fendi S/S 2010.

As incredulous as it may sound, clogs are in. No really, they are. Well, at least the two bigwigs Karl Lagerfeld and Miuccia Prada seem to agree. While the former accessorises with transfer tattoos, the latter adorns swallows to remind us of the magic of spring and summer. They both successfully transform the notion of old cellulite-ridden grandmothers washing clothes in back alleys to alluring maidens sashaying down the sidewalks.

Miu Miu S/S 2010.

Another sizzling trend is the peep-toe. Whether it’s caged booties, sandals or high heels, your toes need to be seen! Cut-outs and plenty of straps also provide a breather for your feet, so make sure you book an appointment with your pedicurist early.

Marchesa Louboutin S/S 2010.

Ankle boots are making their headway this season and various versions are springing up, high-heeled or flat-soled. From the checkered Pollini with a ribbon tie at the ankles to Lacoste’s classy attempt at corsetry, your money will definitely be well spent. An alternative to this would be to pair socks with your laced cut-outs. It’s also a great way to hide that nasty ankle cast you have to wear from a badminton game fracture.

Lacoste S/S 2010.

Welcoming the warmth from the dreary cold this season are bold embellishments, colours and prints. The bejewelled chunky heels from Prada, the lime green oxfords from Paul Smith, the striking contrasts in Proenza Schouler’s sandals and the bright yellow DSquared2 platform boots should be enough indication to go by. Steve Madden’s ethnic bohemian flats garnished with gems are perfect for a full day’s shopping at the mall on a relaxed summery day.

Proenza Schouler S/S 2010.

DSquared2 S/S 2010.

If you had fallen victim to the gladiator trends from last seasons (hint, it’s not a bad thing), don’t put them back in your shoe cupboard. So say Gucci, Anna Sui and even the clothing brand Topshop, among the many who can’t bear to discard this staple. This season, however, the traditional gladiator is met with a twist. Metallics, plastics, wider straps and buckles all add never-seen-before character to the equestrian necessity. A few other trends not retreating to the shadows of your wardrobe are the fringe, ruffle, stick-thin heels and the well-loved Mary Jane.

Anna Sui S/S 2010.

It’s kind of like a buffet party and each trend is a dish. It’s hard to decide which you’ll like best and the easiest way to know is to try everything once. When you finally know your favourite, invest in good quality so that it lasts for many seasons to come.

More pictures can be seen at hapsical.