Last season’s shoes went dominatrix with boots and pumps sporting cut outs that exposed the foot in a unique bondage style.  Even the colors and fabrics were somber – blacks, leathers, and browns.  Spring 2009 sees footwear lighten up considerably.  The sexy cut outs are still there, but they are more refined and allow the woman to appear more vulnerable and less dominating.  The rounded open toe and stiletto heel concept is still with us, but it is more colorful, playful, and artistic than before.  We are also seeing the gradual re-inclusion of buckles on the ankle.  I am predicting buckles will be a huge trend for fall. Remember you heard it here first!

Miu Miu toned down their cut outs but added delicate ankle and t-straps, and in keeping with the handbag trend of 2009, Miu Miu used reptile skin in a variety of colors and patterns, balancing the bold look with the simple cut of the shoe.  Their collection includes a pump that appears to be made of burlap sack with a black satin and burlap ribbon adoring the back.  The look is very interesting and different – like something Carrie from Sex and the City would wear.

Versace kept the cutouts but blinged out their collection with silver embellishments and a bright yellow sole.  Their show stopper was an amazing gold pump constructed of zippers. 

There is always a designer that swims upstream against the trends and this season it is Dolce & Gabanna.  D&G threw caution to the wind and everything they had lying around the workroom onto their shoes. Floral appliqués, beads, shiny sequins, and faux jewels literally dripped from massive platforms and super chunky heels.  They mixed colors to create platformed sandals in black/pink/white and another pair in mauve/blue/black.  The resulting collection is not for the faint of heart, but perfect for anyone who marches to the beat of their own drum…and has excellent balance!

Relative newcomer Omelle raised the bar with a collection that could only be described as architectural.  Now, I admit that architectural is a style usually applied to apparel, not shoes, but there is really no other way to describe the convex heels, modernized high spats (as seen on the Drew), or the looping side detail seen on the aptly named Artist.  Even the materials in the Omelle collection smack of architecture – leather, wood, metal. 

Whether they choose to follow convention or blaze a new path, designers are certainly paying more attention to the shoe than ever before.  It is important to choose a well made shoe when wearing high heels because the arch determines your comfort level for the day.  A perfectly arched shoe feels as good as wearing flats, and with the amount of sexy, colorful, dynamic shoes to choose from this spring, you should have no problem looking fabulous and comfortable all season long.