Jack Rogers thong sandals: The flip flop grows up
It’s summer, and there’s nothing better than tossing off your big winter shoes and letting your toes breathe. But just because it’s warm doesn’t mean you can go around in flip flops — at least, not in those rubbery ones; keep those for the pool and beach. For grown-up outings, go with a pair of Jack Rogers Navaho thong sandals
Jack Rogers sandals are a Preppy staple for summer. Made of soft leather with just a wee heel, they are a flip flop that is nice enough to wear to the club. The also have a campy, retro look that works well with this summer’s sheath dresses.
Jack Rogers Navaho sandal, available in six colors at Nordstrom (and at least a dozen other places on the web) for about $89.00.
Ann Taylor Loft has chic sandals that won’t put you in the poorhouse
I spend a lot of time looking at shoes online, and this summer I’ve been lusting after some great embellished sandals. But I can’t justify $200.00 for a shoe that is only wearable this summer, and may not even last until Labor Day.
Ann Taylor Loft agrees. They have a nice selection of strappy embellished sandals, all for under $50 (many are under $40, even). And right now, sandals are buy one get one 50% off. Perfect.
ATLoft shoes are well made and sturdy; these sandals come with a cushioned footbed and rubber sole, which gives them a little more structure than a shoe with so little to it might normally have. But these are pretty shoes, not walking shoes, and you should keep that in mind when you wear them.
Sonja Bejeweled Sandal, $44.00. Available in saddle brown (shown) and bronze.
Markon embellished sandals green up your feet
Summer is right around the corner, and now is the time to pick up some cute sandals, if only to get you through that last run of snow and cold. Gladiator sandals are back this season, but they can be hard to wear if you don’t have slim, tanned legs. Opt instead for a strappy flat sandal with some cool embellishment; like gladiators, these are more interesting than your usual flip flops or slides, but they are practical and versatile. And the heel strap makes them easier to walk around in.
Markon Ena sandals, $45.00 at Piperlime. Also available in silver, blue, and brown (but really, the green is the prettiest).
Put a spring in your step with bright Old Navy flats
I’m a big fan of simple, easy-to-wear clothes, pieces that don’t require a lot of thought or color coordination early in the morning. Because matching this blue and that green can be hard before that first (or third) cup of coffee.
But I also think that too much black or gray or basic denim is a wee bit boring, and a nice pop of color — in a scarf or bag or shoes — is a simple way to brighten up even the most streamlined basics. If you tend to shy away from bright colors and bold patterns, I have the shoe for you!
These satin flats, from Old Navy, come in eight colors and patterns (including both a graphic and floral black) and are the perfect foil for your jeans or skinny black pants. And for $19.50, they are an easy way to add some pop, or to road test brighter colors and bolder prints.
Old Navy printed satin flats, $19.50.
Jessica Simpson silver sandals are the perfect compliment for your navy pieces
Navy blue is the perfect summer alternative to black — sophisticated but not uptight. Pair your navy pieces with some fabulous silver shoes for a look that is polished and hip.
This spring, gladiator sandals are still big; look for cool flat options, rather than the bondage-y heels we saw last year. This pair, by Jessica Simpson, is high on shine but still sleek and simple. And at $73.00, they’re a steal.
Wear them with jeans or navy capri pants, or with a dress or skirt. For a longer leg line, keep skirt hems above the knee.
Jessica Simpson Zahara sandals; available at Zappos.
SJP’s Bitten ballet flats
I cannot tell you how happy I am that the ballet flat is here to stay; ballet flats are the perfect day-to-evening shoe, particularly for those of us who aren’t heel girls. A ballet flat is also an excellent commuter shoe for those of you who don’t want to wear out your Manolos walking from the subway to your office. And a ballet flat dresses up even the most casual jeans and a tee, without leaving you feeling like you’ve suddenly overdressed for play group.
Perfect.
What could be MORE perfect? These satin ballet flats from Sarah Jessica Parker’s Bitten line; they come in five colors, including the pink pictured here (which appears, on the Internet at least, to be a nice subtle pink, not too bubble gum). But the BEST part is this: these pretty flats retail for $8.98.
The downside is that you will need to find a Steve & Barry’s store to actually BUY them, but I think it’s worth the effort. And for nine dollars, you can buy all five colors! I plan to.
Sam Edelman, I think I love you
Color is back for spring, which makes some women nervous, I know — but a pop of color can take your every day wardrobe pieces and give them a fresh, funky edge. Think about a bright bag or shoes if you don’t want to commit to anything more obvious.
I love these Sam Edelman flats because I love the way that they incorporate color and texture into a simple, sleek design. Because they have a basic brown component, they can work with your neutrals, and the pink isn’t TOO over-the-top. But look! There’s a little flash of orange and turquoise and red! And the pink gold chain detail makes them incredibly luxurious, even if you’re just tossing them on with your jeans.
Sam Edelman Carmen ballet flat, $95.00 at PiperLime.
Gap knotted suede flats welcome spring a little early
I have a deep and abiding love for flat shoes; a great flat can be sexy and practical all at once, which is what I’m always hoping for in my everyday shoes. Right now, the Gap what may very well be the BEST flats EVER.
These knotted suede flats come in eight colors, including bright springy green and a cheery red. The fairly low vamp (the part that covers the top of your foot) is balanced by the bow, which gives you enough coverage to make these completely office-appropriate. And the knot is a feminine touch that’s not TOO frilly.
But the BEST part is the price: $39.50. You might want to get a pair in EVERY color.
Think about it …
If you can get past the “Jessica Simpson” part, the shoes are really cute
I’m not a big Jessica Simpson fan; I like to think that it has less to do with her personally and more to do with the fact that I am nearly 40 and she’s a part of a culture that I am literally decades too old for. But I did watch a couple of episodes of her reality show, with ex-husband Nick Lachey, and I wasn’t entirely impressed by her.
And so when I heard that she was going to have her own line of shoes, I may have rolled my eyes and imagined dozens of pairs of platform pumps, which — sure enough — make up the bulk of the Jessica Simpson line. BUT! Then there are these totally cute and totally comfortable and totally un-slutty ballet flats! Who knew!
Levee by Jessica Simpson; available in various colors and prints, at Zappos and Heels.com (among other places).
Tribecca’s perfect pink shoe
I’m a flats girl, all the way, but there are times when I wish I were someone who could wear heels without falling on my ass. Because every so often, a girl really needs a great heel. Perhaps in pink! With a bow! And a sexy ankle strap!
Just like these.
I love the detailing on these shoes; I love that the wee bit of platform makes them higher without requiring that you ACTUALLY balance on the four inch heel. I love the pink satin, which is equally appropriate with jeans or your LBD. I love the bow, which is sweet and classic, and the ankle strap, which is a little bit S&M.
Tribecca Social Event platform pump, $59.99 at Heels.com.