Become a Nudist.

Think of the many situations in which you would grab a black shoe because you needed to wear something “neutral” with your outfit. Spring 2010 turns this boring idea around – nude is the new black.

From toenails to lipstick, from handbags to stilettos - nude is everywhere! Luckily, nude also transcends into the world of ladies footwear. Gone are the days when basic black was just ‘acceptable’! Black shoes for spring and summer should be used as sparingly as possible. After all, we live in South Florida – we should embrace all of the colorful possibilities that exist here. Throw on a summer maxi dress and pick out a gorgeous neutral wedge. Why be ‘safe’? There are many times when safe = boring.

What about your lovely legs? Wouldn’t you love a few extra inches in length – even if it is an illusion? I would say: yes! Nude tone heels give your bare legs an extra few inches in length – visually extending your gams into uncharted territories! Nude stilettos with a black dress? Tres chic. Classic. Perfect!

I have located some options for you – priced low to high – to fit every occasion. Remember, price is not everything. I have owned plenty of high-end shoes only to have them relegated to the back of my closet because I was not really in love with them. Do not be seduced by a designer name. Many new vegan-leather shoes offer the same great look with a much (MUCH!) lower price.

However, a neutral shoe can be worn with just about anything – making it a great investment piece for you.

Check out the naked bunch:




Above is a lovely neutral option from Ports 1961 (available at shopbop.com) for $750. Yes, a steep price tag. But (and there is always a but), this shoe is extremely well-made and will last you many years. The neutral leather and interesting knotted design have so many looks – dress it up with a glam white dress like the one shown, throw it on with a colorful dress for a party, or wear to work. The possibilities are endless. This is a splurge, but a useful one =)



Ah, Mr. Brian Atwood. He makes the most gorgeous shoes known to (wo)man. Look at this pair above. Liquid nude patent leather. Hidden inner platform, subtle rounded toe. Perfection. Comfort. Imagine them with a pencil skirt or a little black dress. Purely elegant, yet modern. This is a perfect basic, a wardrobe essential! Available at www.intermixonline.com for $575.

Strapped for cash?



Here is a more economical option. These are from Aldo, and purely gorgeous. The pricetag is even hotter: $75. This shoe is an absolute must for spring and summer. Throw these on in lieu of your basic black pump. These also feature a platform and slightly rounded toe. Available at www.aldoshoes.com for $75.

Feeling funky?



Chinese Laundry have been making great shoes for the past few decades, and in 2010 they have outdone themselves once again. Here is the hottest trend AND color of the season: Nude and the Ghillie Tie. This is a more casual option – wear with rolled up boyfriend jeans or a skirt. Sexy and feminine. Also, 100% vegan materials. Available at www.piperlime.com for $90.


Want a wedge?



Try ‘Feaver’ by Steve Madden, available online at www.stevemadden.com for $99.95. Although this wedge is a neutral blush-tone patent leather, it is studded with nailheads which toughen up the look a bit. Edgy is good!


Are you a recessionista? Try the ‘Loyola’ by Paprika, available at my shoe store, ALL SHOES $8.88 in Deerfield Beach, FL. This faux beige patent leather is gorgeous and features a front zipper – cute, right? The best thing about this shoe – it is only $8.88! Allowing you to try a trend for a small monetary commitment – always in style!

The finishing touch?



Chanels new (and soon to sell out!) nail lacquer, Inattendu. Available at Chanel counters nationwide for $24. Keep your nails short this spring – try one coat topped with two coats of clear shine for a long-lasting and hip manicure. Also fabulous? This color makes your fingers look that much longer – added bonus! Perfect for your pedicure as well - no clashing colors if you decide to wear contrasting shoes.

Go on ladies, get naked feet this spring!