If the stylish women of New York City during fashion week were any indication, killer shoes have replaced the handbag as the fashion statement for F/W 2008.
This was chronicled by pioneering street fashion photographer Bill Cunningham in his New York Times column “On The Street.”
Women of all shapes and sizes trooped down to the tents of Bryant Park teetering in gravity-defying footwear such as spiky gladiators and goth-inspired booties with rivets and sky-high heels.
Signs of rough economic times, perhaps?
As with cosmetics, a downturn in the worldwide economy sees a more than significant increase in the sale of accessories, especially shoes.
With designer “it” handbags reaching stratospheric prices, spending US$3,000 for one bag is deemed a foolish move. However, you can buy multiple pairs of Louboutins or Manolos for that amount of money.
Definitely more bang for your style buck.
I’ve always been a shoe addict. I may love some Balenciaga, Chanel or Louis Vuitton bags but shoes are my one true love.
Call it the Carrie Bradshaw Syndrome, after the shoe-obsessed phenom from Sex and the City. I am not ashamed to admit that my first big paycheck was spent on a pair of oddly shaped Costume National slingbacks which still make my heart do little somersaults whenever I wear them.
Shoes are the most democratic pieces in fashion. One can be fat or thin, ugly or pretty, petite or curvy — yet every woman looks and feels fantastic in amazing footwear. A solid pair of shoes changes the way you stand, the way you walk and the way you look.
I also think shoes can make or break an outfit. You may wear something as plain as a white shirt and black skirt, but with the right killer heels, you’ll definitely make a statement.
Preferences in certain shoe styles also speak volumes about one’s taste and personality. Dainty details such as ribbons and lace are signs of lady-like demeanor and attitude. Schoolgirl Mary Janes with huge platforms are for the avant-garde. Bondage-style killer stilettos are for the dominatrix.
Shoes not only punctuate the look, they also define who you are.