Spring 2011 footwear / shoe trends

Both of these shoe trends are included not because they're new shoe trends for 2011, but because they're shoe trends from 2010 whose elements will still have an impact in 2011. You'll see elements from both remain popular in 2011, particularly in certain countries, as they remain a part of the overall tastes. Clogs, in particular, have peaked as a trend so we're not recommending these two as big investment pieces, but pieces you can hold on to or whose elements shouldn't be disregarded altogether.

Clogs: women's shoe trend

I've always felt that their name carried an unfair weighting against them. Clogs. Say it; it sounds clunky, awkward, uncomfortable. And I have to confess, as a chap, it appears that as footwear goes, clogs must be just as uncomfortable to wear as their name makes them sound; wooden soles? Make mine leather, thanks. But awkard names and the potential for awkward walking hasn't stopped the rerise in the popularity of clogs; a populaity that you can expect to only increase. And a popularity that will see the trend carry over from Summer into Autumn / Fall 2010


Clogs, but not as you imagine

Imagine clogs and, if you're anything like me, the accompanying mental image contains not just clogs but the odd windmill. Rest assured though, if traditional Dutch footwear isn't your thing it's also not the style of clogs that are on trend. Instead we need to look to other parts of Europe to draw inspiration.

Swedish clogs, with their wooden sole and leather upper, have had the largest style impact on the trend. And it's such a combination of materials that you want to be wearing should you invest in a pair of clogs. Of course, the upper doesn't have to be leather; the pair of Chanel clogs featured above combine a wooden heel and sole with a studded, linen upper.

Clog styles to wear

Clogs are unlikely to be in short supply, but along with the good there'll be plenty of bad. Some advice, if I may:

Clogs with heels only. And not just any heel, but one of good proportion.

Simple really. But let me illustrate.

Here's another pair of Chanel clogs, this time with a calfskin and wooden heel combination. Visually appealing.

Clog variations
If a more traditional, fully covered clog doesn't quite do it for you, do look at other variations. For example, high-heeled sandals but with clog-style studs. The overall shape can be less clog-like - but the hint of the clog trend is still there, making them a great alternative.

Kitten heels: women's shoe trend

Kitten heels are like the ugly step-sister of the heel family; they don't lengthen the legs and define the calf, or generally make you feel like a million dollar sex-bomb. Separate them from the ladylike elegance of the '50s and '60s and all you're left with is a stunted and somewhat unattractive piece of footwear.

But fashion is fashion, and what goes around comes around. So are kitten heels destined to make a comfortable yet potentially unwelcome return? The answer is yes; like it or not, you'll be seeing plenty more of the kitten heel as a 2010 and 2011 fashion trend. And with the kitten heel being the perfect accompaniment to ladylike '60s dressing, you might even decide to jump on the bandwagon yourself. Read on as we help you make up your mind.


Kitten heels: women's shoe trend

Kitten heels are like the ugly step-sister of the heel family; they don't lengthen the legs and define the calf, or generally make you feel like a million dollar sex-bomb. Separate them from the ladylike elegance of the '50s and '60s and all you're left with is a stunted and somewhat unattractive piece of footwear.

But fashion is fashion, and what goes around comes around. So are kitten heels destined to make a comfortable yet potentially unwelcome return? The answer is yes; like it or not, you'll be seeing plenty more of the kitten heel as a 2010 and 2011 fashion trend. And with the kitten heel being the perfect accompaniment to ladylike '60s dressing, you might even decide to jump on the bandwagon yourself. Read on as we help you make up your mind.

What is a kitten heel?

Kitten heels occupy the space between flat shoes and sex-bomb high heels. They're a small slender heel of 5cms (2 inches) or less. The heel usually curves inwards from the back of the heel, giving them a bit more stability than a stiletto.

The kitten heel trend

While you could whack a kitten heel onto virtually any type of shoe and say it's a la mode, that would be something of a stretch. As a 2010 and 2011 shoe trend the kitten heel is linked quite firmly to the return of the silhouettes of the 50s and 60s: from the full-skirted prom styles to the figure-hugging sheaths, the kitten heel is a natural partner for any Mad Men-esque outfit. As such:

-Look to shoes that are dainty, yet sophisticated. That means kitten heels with pointed toes are preferable.
-Feminine details like bows can add to the effect but keep it relatively simple and don't overdo the girlyness.
  If you want a pair that will work for both modern and retro-inspired ensembles, go for pairs that are simple and minimalist. Try leather pairs in neutral tones, earthy tones or shades like grey or black.


Kitten heel sandals

Moving into Spring 2011 will beg the question: how will the dainty kitten heel translate to the warm weather?

The beauty of both the minimalist and ladylike kitten heel is that they are light enough to transcend the seasons, particular when it comes to office and night time occasions. But for casual Summer daywear, the kitten heel sandal is a more suitable option. Flat sandals are still an unwaveringly chic staple for the warmer weather; but if you do want to try kitten heel sandals look for sophisticated, strappy styles or more interestingly detailed styles that hint at hippy '70s inspirations - like those at Missoni (below).
source: fashionising

Posted in: Fashion Trends