Spring’s best trend: Shoes

If you want to look hot this spring and be in sync with the latest styles, it’s all about the shoes.

It’s time to kick off those winter boots and slip into some funky footwear. Buying a trendy pair of shoes can instantly update an outfit, so if you are on a budget, invest in some bold shoes to make your basics pop.

Gladiator heels and sandals will be popular this spring. These Grecian-style shoes may sound boring, but they have been popular since last spring. The ankle strap can wrap around anywhere from the lowest part of the ankle to mid-calf, depending on the design.

The only thing to be aware of here is where the strap sits on your ankle or leg. Make sure to look at them in a mirror to see if they are flattering when you try them on.

Sometimes, if you have short legs, this strap cuts off your leg line and can make them look stumpy.

With thousands of different styles, these shoes can range from braided leather or suede fringe to patent leather or studs and clips. Because they are mostly sold in neutrals such as black, brown and beige, they can be paired with any color. And let’s face it, with today’s economy, versatility is a must.

Take this trend the extra step by doing a gladiator platform or picking a shoe with extra accents. I say the strappier, the better.

A great place to find gladiator-inspired shoes here in Bloomington is Urban Outfitters on Kirkwood Avenue. However, with this trend continuously on the rise, you can even find them in places such as Target and Payless Shoesource in College Mall.

But if this neutral footwear is not for you, you can still be hip with this spring’s take on prints and color.

PRINTS

Floral prints are blooming all over heels, flats and even sandals. It seems like our feet want all the attention this season.

Another surprising pattern includes tie-dye. Yes, I am still talking about shoes. It may sound crazy, but I am actually a fan of this shoe. As long as you stick to one or two
colors, you can stand out and still look chic.

COLOR

Lime greens, rosy pinks, electric yellows, bold blues, pretty purples and energizing oranges – the same 1980s colors we saw on the runway during Fashion Week last week in New York are also being incorporated into shoes. All I can say is be bold and go bright.

I guarantee you will be head over heels for this spring’s playful patterns, strappy sandals and chromatic colors. With spring break only two weeks away, it is time to go shopping, throw your hands up and say, “OMG, shoes.”