2008 Summer Shoes

Summer is a great time to be creative with your personal style.

Pick your favorite from our list of 2008 summer shoes and dress your feet this season.

dress shoe
Frye Jace Algonquin Oxfords
For a smart seasonal look, swap your black dress shoes for a camel, cream or light brown leather pair, like these Frye Jace Algonquin oxfords. These cognac-colored kicks pair the classic cut of an oxford with Frye’s signature Western-inspired design. Wear these 2008 summer shoes for a day at the office or a night on the town. They will go perfectly with beige slacks or a white linen suit.
Price: $198 at FryeBoots.com

beach sandal
Lost Enterprises Clove Sandal
Flip-flops are a summer staple that will take you from the backyard to the beach in cool, casual comfort. These Lost Enterprises Clove sandals were designed in true surfer style and will keep your feet cushioned between suede straps and super sponge EVA soles. Wear these must-have 2008 summer shoes for bonfires, barbecues and other loungewear-appropriate events and pair them with shorts, jeans or swim trunks.
Price: LostEnterprises.com

casual sandal
Steve Madden Brdwalk Sandal
Steve Madden’s Brdwalk sandal is a great option when you want a laid-back look with a sophisticated twist. A leather sandal with a rubber sole, the Brdwalk combines the style of a dress sandal and the functionality and comfort of a flip-flop. Keep these 2008 summer shoes casual with shorts or jeans, or dress them up by pairing them with linen trousers and a dress shirt. White is a hot summer color that matches nearly everything and leather is a stylish option that is easier to clean than canvas.
Price: $39.95 at SteveMadden.com

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Shoe of the Week: Manolo Blahnik Leather Criss Cross Pump

Carrie Bradshaw made Manolo Blahnik a household name, and judging from the hotness of each and every one of his shoes, we’re not complaining! Take these beautiful 4 inch stunners for example.

The shiny gold metallic material oozes glamor, while the criss cross peep toe straps ensure just enough naughtiness without showing off all the goods (this applies to more than just your shoes, ladies!)

They are pricey at $665, but we’ve managed to find a couple lookalikes that come pretty darn close without breaking the bank.

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The $5,000 Wardrobe

The Perfect Plain Brown Loafers

In Part 9 of "The $5,000 Wardrobe," we spend $365 on some good-looking loafers.

Dressing up is usually pretty easy: Throw on a suit, lace up your black leather oxford shoes, and away you go. Dressing down, however, is where things get tricky, which is all the more reason you need a pair of plain brown loafers. They look as good with blue jeans as they do with corduroy or flannel trousers, and once you break them in, they'll feel almost as comfortable as your favorite pair of sneakers.

Leather loafers ($365) by Cole Haan.

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Customize Your Shoes Online

Shoe lovers no longer have to dream of having the perfect shoe.

They can make it a reality thanks to companies like Steve Madden, who are offering customizable shoes online. The sites let you choose from color swatches, different styles and heels to find your perfect sole mate. High-end customizing retailer Tupli is a favorite of celebrities like Susan Sarandon, but with prices ranging anywhere from $750 for shoes to $1,450 for boots, you may want an option that’s easier on the wallet. Try stevemadden.com for customizable shoes starting at $90 — we love all their sexy heels. For athletic footwear, head to nikeid.com and vans.com, where you can create your own pair of sneakers for as low as $50.

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Trend For Less: Must-Have Mary Janes for Under $100!

The Mary Jane shoe has been reborn into so many new forms that it’s barely recognizable anymore.

Its original chunky soles and thick straps are a thing of the past, and this fall tons of sleek and chic new styles are being unveiled. From sexy peep-toes to fierce cobalt blues, here are our favorites for the new season:

Mix tough and romantic with these pink heels, Charles David, $94, piperlime.com.

Get noticed with a peek of patent, Enzo Angiolini, $99, Nordstrom.com.

Basic black goes with everything, Xhilaration, $20, target.com.

Get a pop of color with these cobalt blues, Jessica Simpson, $73, lovemyshoes.com.

Go wild with a sexy croc embossed pair, Payless, $20, payless.com.

Take the comfortable approach with wedges, Aerosoles, $89, aerosoles.com.

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Shoe of the Day: Christian Louboutin Platform Maryjane

There are times when I come across a shoe that is so beautiful...

that I stop and contemplate using my rent money on them. Christian Louboutin’s Platform Maryjane is such a shoe The sultry height and signature red sole are balanced perfectly by the modest buttoned strap, and the platform adds an updated, modern appeal. The finish on the black leather is not too matte but just shiny enough, giving them an unexpected level of versatility. If I had them, I would live in them, because I would have to.

What: Platform Maryjanes by Christian Louboutin
Price: $730
Where in the Hive: bookmark/196633
Where to Buy: barneys.com

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Dress Shoes For Under $150

Being a sharply dressed man costs money. Nice suits are expensive, quality shirts aren’t cheap, and handsome ties go for a pretty penny. You can’t cut corners on these pieces -- and you definitely shouldn’t -- but your dress shoes are a different story. Tasteful, high-quality dress shoes come in a variety of styles and in a variety of prices, which means you don’t have to break the bank to get good-looking footwear. That’s right; affordable options exist that allow you to save some coin but still dress to impress. And with a little maintenance, these less expensive models can go the distance as well.

Here is a list of classy dress shoes that won’t break your bank account the next time you’re in the market for some new fancy kicks.

Florsheim Welles
Cost: $110
Don’t let the low price tag fool you; with the Welles shoe you really are getting the most bang for your buck. Available in either rich burgundy or black leather, this shoe offers a classic take on the traditional oxford. The leather’s matte finish provides a sophisticated look, while the subtle stitch details and tapered cap toe give the shoe a stylish, modern update. And along the bottom, the buffed leather sole lends an additional touch of class by giving the shoe a refined, smooth appearance. On the whole, the Welles is conservative enough for the average Joe and mod for those who like a more contemporary look.

Kenneth Cole Great Cause
Cost: $130
The designers at Kenneth Cole hit the nail on the head when they named this one. The Great Cause gives you high-fashion design at a wallet-friendly price. One word describes it best: sharp. Couple the shoe’s slender curvature and build with its ornamental stitching and you get one of the most contemporary oxfords available; the Great Cause is on par with today’s top Italian models. What’s more, the leather heel is sleek and compact, creating even more visual appeal. If you want to walk among the upper echelons of footwear fashion, the Great Cause is the shoe for you.

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Vancouver Notes: Shoe In

Simple, comfortable summer wedges.

Our obsession with all things Erin Templeton—meaning her bags, shoes, belts and hats—can now be satiated under one roof at her newly opened eponymous store (511 Carrall St., 604-682-2451, erintempleton.com). Stock up on accessories such as the popular slouchy Bitch hobo bag, the recycled leather Obi belt, or her newest offering, the Knotty Wedge (left, $265)— simple, comfortable, happily on trend, and only available here.

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Six of the best... Wedges

So many wedges so few summer days. We've distilled the vast array available on the market to six of the very best. In the mood for perspex? We suggest Russell & Bromley's silver metallic shoe to get the party started. While if you're more of a traditional girl, why not try Office's espadrille for size. Of course, a wedge special wouldn't be complete without a piece from Salvatore Ferragamo – the legendary cobbler who pioneered the cork wedge by sewing together corks from wine bottles and lining them with leather as a result of war shortages. (Who said fashion wasn't born out of necessity?) Today, the Ferragamo wedge is slightly more sophisticated, in sumptuous red suede no less. And if that doesn't satisfy your summer shoe cravings, there's always that old faithful, Chanel. Now all that's left for you to do is tidy up those toes with the summer's sexiest nail shades and you'll be walking tall.

1. Red suede wedge, £199 from Salvatore Ferragamo
2. Striped wicker wedge, £45 from Shelly's
3. Silver perspex wedge, £195 from Russell & Bromley
4. Cork cut out wedge, £310 from Chanel
5. Tropical print espadrille wedge, £34.99 from Office
6. Wooden wedge, £60 from Faith
Click here for stockists

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Loving Louboutin

Christian Louboutin shoes

As Paris Hilton says, "Christian Louboutin shoes are my favorite," and she is not alone. Lindsay Lohan, Carmen Electra, Jessica Simpson and more adore this French designer's shoes. But his high-fashion heels come with a hefty price tag, so if you can't afford the original, we found some alternatives your wallet will appreciate.

The Original
Christian Louboutin peep-toe slingback; $640
Christian Louboutin platform leather pump; $710

The Alternatives
Steven by Steve Madden Lusta: in white; $128.95
Steven by Steve Madden Lusta: in red; $128.95
Steven by Steve Madden Lalo: in black; $128.95
Jeffrey Campbell: leather pump in taupe; $74.95
Jeffrey Campbell: black patent-leather pump; $74.95
Steve Madden Pawla: in white patent leather; $93.95
BCBGirls Tane: in red; $98.95
Stuart Weitzman Exsling: in black crepe; $268.95
Boutique 58 Peris: in gold leather; $128.95
Boutique 58 Peris: in silver leather; $128.95
Steven by Steve Madden Quentin: in black; $123.95
Schutz: leather and cork peep-toe in black; $89.95
Nine West Elsa: in black suede; $65.95
Jessica Simpson Amy: in white patent; $82.95

Special thanks to Koi Restaurant at 730 N. La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles and Zappos.com (Eonline.com) Click in above... or visit our home-page for more celebrity trends [here]

Caring For Dress Shoes

You can tell the measure of a man by his shoes. Given the high price of quality leather dress shoes, let’s take that concept at face value. Durable, comfortable, stylish dress shoes range anywhere from $100 to $500. And if you’re going to be dropping the cash on a pair of high-end shoes, you’re going to need to take good care of them. With a little know-how and a few extra bucks, preventive maintenance can make those expensive leather shoes last longer.

Use water repellent

Before taking your new shoes out on their first walk, be sure to apply a coat of water repellent to the leather. After the initial application, habitually reapply it as instructed. Most experts recommend that you use a water-based repellent to seal the leather because it allows it to breathe and the moisture inside it to escape. Moisture impacts leather’s elasticity, so keeping moisture balanced is a must; too much moisture causes the leather to stretch, while too little moisture causes the leather to shrink. In both cases, the leather becomes ugly and loses its original fit. For as little as $8, a can of spray-on water repellent can dramatically increase the comfort and the lifespan of your leather shoes.

Tip: Wipe your shoes with a clean, warm sponge before adding additional coats of repellent; this will warm the leather, making it more porous and improving its ability to absorb the product, and prevent trapping dirt between the leather and the repellent.

Use shoe polish

A good shoe polish keeps leather shoes shining like a new dime. Polishing your shoes regularly does two things: It covers and repairs the damage of daily wear and tear and it nourishes and moisturizes the leather, keeping it flexible and healthy. Experts recommend using cream-based polishes and carrying your shoes with you when you purchase polish to ensure you get the one that best matches your shoe tone.

Tip: Buff the polish off your shoes with a pair of panty hose to get an optimal shine.

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Hot Finds - Butterflies

Time to shed your cocoon—these be-winged beauties will have you aflutter for spring

Wing Walker

THE FIND Leather flip flops from Urban Outfitters
THE PRICE $34
BUY ONLINE urbanoutfitters.com
WHY YOU WANT IT Your inner Earth Mama will be a happy hippie in these butterfly flats; the handcrafted look of these leather thongs pairs perfectly with a '70s-style maxidress.

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Hot Finds - Black & White

See everything in black and white with these high contrast accessories.

Check Mates

THE FIND Peep-toe slingbacks from Jessica Simpson
THE PRICE $82.00
BUY ONLINE piperlime.com
WHY YOU WANT IT You’ll feel like Brigitte Bardot (or Jessica Simpson) in these eye-popping peep toes; the classic checks will take you from denim mini to little black dress.

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Hot Finds - Fitness Fanatic

The latest, greatest gear will help you get an all-star workout every time.

Portable Personal Trainer

THE FIND Nike + iPod Sport Kit
THE PRICE $100 Nike Air Zoom+ sneakers; sensor, $29; armband, $29
BUY ONLINE nikeplus.com sneakers; sensor; armband

WHY YOU WANT IT Get in shape with the world's smallest trainer—one that fits in your shoe. The wireless Sport Kit measures running time, pace, distance and calories burned. The sensor fits into the sneaker and sends data to your iPod Nano (sold separately). Download free DJ mixes or coaching sessions with Lance Armstrong (from iTunes).

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Editor's Tips: Red Hot

Fashion director Susie Sheffman shares her tips on incorporating this season’s hottest colour into your wardrobe.

How to Wear It

The easiest way: a bright lipstick.

Tip: “Red lends itself best to strong shapes and slick fabrics like patent,” says Sheffman. “It looks best with some sheen.”

Susie’s must-haves: “A patent handbag or a red patent platform pump like Stuart Weitzman’s.”

Stuart Weitzman, $350. At Browns across Canada, brownsshoes.com.

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Tips for Wearing Heels

Have a love/hate relationship with those high heels? We're here to help with advice on slipping into high style comfortably.

COMFORT IS KEY"
Every person has a different issue with their heels," says Megan Cleary, a shoe specialist and the author of The Perfect Fit: What Your Shoes Say About You. "When you get home, walk around the house a bit. Anyplace that you feel a little bit of pressure, that’s gonna be a painful spot. So that’s where you want to go in and strategically pad up your stiletto with a gel pad or some moleskin. You can cut it up and put it where you want, like where your little toe is. You have to do your own padding."

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THE ULTIMATE SHOE GUIDE

From square-to flats to tall, over-the-knee boots--see our favorite footwear from fall's biggest trends.

Details
Patent leather pumps, Gucci, $495; http://www.gucci.com/ or 800-234-8224. Featured in September 2006.

BUY ONLINE at www.gucci.com

[ Price and availability are subject to change ]

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Fashion Loves

Lady in red

No longer reserved for the 6 o’clock news, red is right for any modern woman who dares to be bold.Editor’s Tip: Look for red burning up everything from coats to dresses and gloves to shoes. Stock your closet with shades of crimson, cherry and flame to create a fashion inferno. Aldo shoes, $120. Visit aldoshoes.com or call 800-326-2536.

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Obsessed with Designer Shoes

Cinderella knew something all women know: the value of the perfect pair of heels.

"I don't know who invented the high heel,but all men owe a lot to him." - Marilyn Monroe

While most women don't chose shoes based on their life-altering potential, there remains an unmistakable bond between a woman and her footwear. In short, women are shoe-obsessed.

Psychologists have vigorously sought the hidden meaning of shoes, ranging from phallic symbols to secret vessels. Some claim that the female shoe-collector is a frustrated traveler, while others believe she is symbolically searching for enlightenment. It may even be simpler than that, says fashion critic Holly Brubach. A new pair of shoes "might not cure a broken heart or soothe a tension headache," she writes, "but they will relieve the symptoms and chase away the blues."

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Working-Girl Must-Haves

Stylish essentials to get you through the day.

It’s tough waking up before dawn, battling rush-hour traffic, and having to do it all with style. While we can’t help you with the first two dilemmas, fortunately we can assist with the third. The following essentials will ease the stress of style setbacks, allowing you to arrive at work looking utterly fabulous.

Wear-with-Everything Black HeelsWhat doesn’t go with a pair of classic black heels? They’re the perfect backup when you can’t decide which shoes match your pantsuit and you’re late for work yet again.Stuart Weitzman shoes, $255. Visit stuartweitzman.com. (fashionmagazine.com) Click in above... or here for more celebrity trends