Fashion Week 2013 has come and gone, leaving with it some endearing new trends for spring. While some are inspired by past periods in fashion history, others are fresh and new for the modern consumer. While many of these shoes are premiering in London, Tokyo, Paris, and Milan, there are more wallet-friendly versions of these brands available for much less. By understanding the types of shoes that are popular this year, you can make a splash without breaking the bank.
Retro Fit
The throwback decade of choice for 2013 is the 1970s. No need to break out the ponchos, this look is strictly limited to shoes. Platform slides in rich, saturated colors are all the rage, as well as flat-form sandals. Wearing monochrome or neutral clothing lets the shoes be the accent on these blocky, inspired shoe pieces.
Flat and Sassy
Not every hot shoe in 2013′s spring season will murder your ankles. Brightly printed flats are huge this year, especially in neon-style stripes. Espadrilles, the casual flat style with a canvas or cotton upper fabric and a flexible rope or rubber sole, are also making big news. Don’t feel the need to run out and find a pair at full price, however. Many are now available on shoes clearance: 40-70% off if you know where to look.
High Sandals
High sandals have been popular in recent years, but they’re making a brand new splash this spring in the fashion scene. This year’s sandals are going one step beyond past years. Instead of a simple gladiator sandal, this year’s high-buckled fashion is going further than ever. High-heeled sandals are in, as are large, bold jewels on the front piece. They may also be worn as boots; Altuzarra premiered a fabulous line of these high-heeled sandal boots.
Wedges
Another 70s-inspired look, wedges are once again back in the game. Prabal Gurung showed a fabulous, futuristic-style wedge in red and white that hearkened back not only to the dance-crazed 70s scene, but also ahead with synthetic fibers and a zipper up the back. Many, such as Prada’s new Space-Age Geisha Flats, walk the line between wedge and platform style.
Chrome and Wood
Mixed media is in. While some designers are finding success in bold prints on natural fibers, others are experimenting in alternate media. Chrome and wood is a popular combination this year, whether by themselves or in tandem with another striking color. This plays into the combination retro and futuristic themes that dominated Fashion Week. This style is a good choice if you want to attract a lot of attention without resorting to bright or bold prints.
Bold Prints
For those who want to make a statement without heading to the hardware store, go for a simple bold print. Stripes in particular are making a lot of waves this year, as on Marc Jacobs’ Graphic Stacked Heels. By using a bright and bold print on an accessory location such as the heel, the eye is drawn to the print without losing the elegant silhouette of the rest of the shoe.