At first glance I fell in love.

The strappy design and minimal appearance of Louis Vuitton’s RTW sandals are classy.

But that sculptured heel, with its understated approach… and what looks like a little animal paw, I was unsure how I felt.

Then I discovered there are similar versions with other types of animal heels, possibly a zoo of choices.

But on to the shoes! I’ve been looking at all kinds as my shoe shopping isn’t really dictated by the season. More like what grabs my attention.

Like this black suede boot from Diane Von Furstenberg. I’ve been thinking of a suede boot for a while, but we get our fair share of rain here and it remains on my list of must have items still. It’s called ‘Guardian’ and looks stunning.

If price were no object, I might go for the incredible looking Skyscraper Shoe by Vivienne Westwood. I’d almost be willing to give up half my shoe collection for a pair of these. Little things like eating, bills, and guilt keep me grounded. but I love the description for these;

“Cause visual vertigo and watch others swoon over the arousing architectural allure.”

I’m a huge fan of L.A.M.B. and thought the ‘Peppa’ looked kinda spicey! Love the peep toe and t-strap design combination. And 20% off! Hmmm.

Sometimes a shoe that’s more sexy and flirty or more fun than the more practical. Like this one from DSquared2. I’m not sure if it’s all the buckles, the way it’s designed, or the silver heel. But it looks to have just enough glam and couture to make me want it.

Still missing from my closet is a pair from Giuseppe Zanotti, which makes me a little sad. I believe this one is called ‘nero’ and if you ask me it’s one of the more classy stilettos I’ve seen in some time. I wish I had a black tie function to attend soon so I might be able justify getting these. These would look so great with a gown at a swanky party of some kind. Note to self, more scratch and win tickets.

Confession time – I’m also in love with this pair from Alexander McQueen. I can’t put my finger on it, but I could see Uma Thurman wearing them in a future Kill Bill episode. Dress to kill! Speaking of confessions, almost half the time I buy high heels I don’t have anything in my closet to go with them. You think I’d learn. Sound familiar to anyone reading?

I hope you all have a happy holiday with friends or family and get yourself something nice. And Happy New Year!

The Shoe Goddess – Weekly shoe roundup

Sea of Shoes – Nickolas Kirkwood for Rodarte Spring 2011

SheThinks – What gives with women’s shoes?

FashionSquad – Tribute to leopard

Vogue Diaries – Street style

WhoWhatWear – Obsessesion du jour, Fall footwear

The Beauty Shop – Fashion Spotlight, Red Accessories

Style Bakery – Hottest bags of the season

Daily Pump – The MVP of Every Woman’s Closet

Inspired by the famous Christian Louboutin’s infamous red sole, the “Louboutin Manicure” was developed by Charles Worthington salons in London.

After applying the top of the nail with the clients’ color of choice, a bright red creme is applied to the underside. The effect mimics the most common Christian Louboutin heels, all of which have black leather and scarlet soles. The only down side (besides the idea of black nails) is you need to have long nails.

There’s always the option of a nude nail polish on top and red on the bottom.

The (mostly male) Trade Union Congress states the stiletto is demeaning to women. If we thought so, we’d let you know about it. But why are you sitting around discussing women’s shoes? Is this really the best use of your time?

Apprentice winner Michelle Dewberry also thinks its ridiculous and commented

 ”…these union officials should be spending their time dealing with more important issues. Heels are sexy, they boost your confidence and they are empowering to women.”

So what’s your opinion? Vote below!

There was an interesting addition to Beyonce’s T-strap Dior shoes at the BET awards in Los Angeles. I know its hard to look past the dress, but try. Mizz Knowles platform heels have a beaded accessory on the heel, similar to what you might see on an ankle strap of some sandals.

Here’s a close up so you can get a better look at her heels;

I’m not sure how I feel about this look. I’m kind of on the fence on this, but hope to see more if this, if its done right. Probably in a minimalist way, but I’d have to see to judge. I thought I had already posted this but it appears I was wrong, and for that I apologize!

And another shot of Beyonce’s high heels from the side as she works the red carpet;

I would love to know what you think of this – haute or not?

Or if it inspires you to come up with your own ideas or trends. Send a pic if you have, or leave your thoughts below.

Mwuah!

Here’s a great way to give your shoes a new look – shoe clips by Absolutely Audrey. You can choose from a wide variety of styles and designs, from bows, buckles, flowers and more. Designs can also include pearls, rhinestones, crystals and enamels. A great looking way to make your shoes look new again.

This Nicole Miller maxi dress is stunning in fuschia and has a knot detail halter with button closure around neck and draped fabric down front to create a luxurious look.

 
And this amazing maxi makes my top picks - the flamingo paisley chiffon halter dress from Badgley Mischka.

To get the look just right, its all about the shoes.

Take a look at this pair for Report Signature that goes by Pamona, with side cutouts and adjustable ankle straps;

The Report Pamona is an affordable pair and great addition to every womans closet. These would probably look great with jeans another day too.

Have you ever seen a pair of high heels that make you melt? You’re about to! This pair of Cesare Paciotti black suede cut-out sandals is the kind of dream shoe that makes want to sing. But now I just need to find a way to get them in my closet.

But this pair of sandals from Fendi might just be the show stopper you’re looking for. It boasts a 4” heel, rhinestone detail, and is every bit stylish and class.

The Flamingo maxi dress from Hype provides a flattering and sexy look. With spaghetti straps and a deep plunge, its bold blue and gold accents and beautiful print are stylish and in!

The print on this Custo Barcelona is gorgeous! I fell in love with it the moment I saw it.  They’re almost sold out so act fast! I have no idea how to describe the print but its definitely unique.

Another Custo Barcelona print that is as elegant as it is sexy. A Peacock-inspired pattern on the bust and daisy-inspired pattern on the skirt make this a smart stylish buy.

Well would you take a little looky what we found here! On my internet travels for clothes, shoes and, oh, I don’t know, anything else that I care to covet, I came across this little gem of a discount at this gem of a store.

They have such a masive array of products that cater for all price ranges I spent a good few hours of today browsing and wishing pay day would roll on just a little bit quicker!

My top 3 list at chickdowntown.com at the moment:

-Alexander McQueen scarf for $237 – this is a style that’s been seen on all the A-listers – what I wouldn’t give to be one of them, if not just for their access to the hottest trends around!

-Mink Pink Smooth Sailing Dress $55.00 – gorgeous simple dress and with a price tag that is far more in my price range!

-Rachel Leigh Millies Clip On Ivory $145.00 – cutest retro clip on earings. Possibly ever.