Budget Footwear

If you can afford the Sam Edelman chain-toe black flats pictured above, by all means, get them. They're smart, sexy and look great with everything. If, on the other hand, you're merely curious to test out this look—or you don't have the necessary funds—opt for the budget version instead. They're equally chic for a whole lot less cash.

Oh, but first you'll have to guess which is which...

Brights make a bold statement for Spring, especially in primary red, yellow, and blue. We think these ink-blue platform heels are the perfect way to inject some color into your wardrobe when you're feeling like black flats just won't do. So, can you guess which pair will cost you a cool $100, and which pair will merely set you back twenty bucks?

Another season of American Idol is upon us, and that means more Idol fashion: Ramiele Malubay is definitely a contestant to watch for both her amazing vocals and fierce style. Did you see those fly spectator-style, peep-toe heeled oxfords this girl was rocking Thursday night? Love it!

We don't know where she got 'em, but she is definitely tuned in to a hot shoe trend for Spring. We think the peep-toe oxford is spunky, sexy and just a little subversive. The prudent oxford with a high-heel attitude.

Inspired by Miss Malubay, we set out to find some cute, budget-friendly heeled oxfords of our own...here's what we found. Think you'll be sporting this trend?

Amore Oxford Heel at Forever21.com, $24.80.


Black and beige Spectator Oxford Pumps at GoJane.com, $44.90


Perforated Oxford Heel at Forever21.com, $20.80


Madden Girl Red and Black Spectator Peep-toe Heel at FamousFootwear.com, $44.99


Canvas felt Spectator Oxford Heel at Forever21.com, $39.80


Mossimo Delpha Peep-Toe Oxford Pumps at Target.com, $26.99

We find ourselves befuddled by the Spring 08 alice + olivia collection for Payless. Is it awful? Or is it cute in a fugly sort of way? Let's see: The bold and colorful polka-dot ballet flats give off a goofy, circus vibe, while the sneakers have us questioning whether this is a kid's collection, and not a women's line (it's probably targeted towards teens). On the other hand: A stand-out, neon wedge makes our heart skip a beat with it's cheeky drama. The verdict: We're taking a middle of the road position on this one...it's not a nay or a yea, but an "ay." Check out the pics and tell us what you think.

From Payless.com: "The alice + olivia ballet flat marries '60s femininity with '70s sophistication. It's a mashup of bold styles and colorful surprises that can only come from Designer Stacey Bendet," $30


Ballet flat in pink and black, $30


Ballet flat in green and white, $30


"Colorful denim is a do with this spunky, sparkly, metallic sneakers from fashion designer Stacey Bendet of alice + olivia," $30


Editor's Pick: "The Spring 08 Collection from Stacey Bendet of alice + olivia is a mashup of bold styles and colorful surprises. The Aidan is no exception with its feisty fabrication and purely potent 4" platform heel," $40


The Aidan wedge sandal in black, $40


Black Patent Olivia sneaker, $30

Gucci knows how to get a girl's heart pumping - but they could also send her into cardiac arrest should she succumb to paying $695 for the killer gold heels on the left. Keep your cool and still sizzle with the similar-looking gold Nine West sandals featured on the right. For $89, they're equally fierce, but will give you significantly less stress.

Left: Gucci Sevigny High Heel Sandal, $695.00
Right: Nine West Olavera, $89.00

Renowned for their comfort, style and affordability, these chic Perlina wedges feature soft leather uppers and a 5 mm Memory Foam footbed. Your toes will feel like they're floating on air! What's more, the gorgeous 3 3/4" heel and all-over nude color will makes your legs look a mile long. Oh, and they're on sale! Sounds like shoe heaven to me.

>> Perlina 'Buffalo' Natural Wedge Sandal, Orig. $80 On Sale $29.99

We're convinced the wedge will never go out of style - it gives you height, comfort and style. And season after season, designers find new and funky ways to redefine this perennial warm-weather favorite.

Target has a bunch of cute wedges for Spring, including this stand-out, architecturally-inspired beauty: The Xhilaration Tonia Wedge Sandal in Celery Green. Just as celery is a negative-calorie food, this shoe actually pays you to wear it!

Well, not literally, but it's so cheap, it might as well!

>> Celery Green Xhilaration® Tonia Wedge Sandals, $19.99 at Target.com