Budget Footwear

Shoes can make or break an outfit, but they don't always have to be the center of attention. Each of these pairs of shoes from the Simply Vera by Vera Wang summer collection may look boring by itself, but when you see the entire outfit, they make so much sense and exude such great, casual elegance.

There's a patent thong (Milly had these on all her models for Spring); a strappy t-strap sandal (to keep you light on your toes); and a chunky heeled t-strap sandal (yes, these are making a comeback!). Architectural. Versatile. Comfortable. That's what makes these styles shine.

Sure, they're not "eye candy" on their own, but they perfectly complete each look by creating the right silhouette and line. Oh, and the simpler the shoe, the frothier you can get with your outfit.

So while it's fun to tout the latest "it" shoe or sex kitten stilettos, homage must be paid to the basic, less glamorous shoes of the fashion world, too. They may not always be flashy but they are the unsung heroes of our wardrobes. (Of course, it also doesn't hurt that all these styles are now on sale - and when the price is right, we are happy shoppers.)

Left to right: Simply Vera Vera Wang Acclaim Patent Thong, $59.99 Now $29.99; Simply Vera Vera Wang Axiom T-Strap, Was $59.99 Now $34.99; Simply Vera Vera Wang Evident T-Strap, Was $69.99 Now $24.99.

Our second installment of "Name That Knock-Off" puts this sinfully seductive python peep-toe bootie up on the chopping block. So who did Forever 21 copy this time? (Here's a hint: We mentioned the original lust-worthy shoe back in May.) Keep reading for the answer!

We've been fans of these $1,150 Christian Louboutin Ariella Studded Boots since we spotted them on Rachel Bilson (other celeb fans include the Olsen twins, Beyonce, and Nicole Scherzinger). Her look is cute, albeit a tad boring. We think our budget savvy readers could do so much better styling these Studded Platform Heels from Forever 21 instead. For summer-ready style, pair your studs with a flouncy or flowery dress, cinch with a fly belt, grab a clutch and call it a day.

Forever 21 Studded Platform Heels, $22.80

The original Havaianas sandal is now available at Forever 21. At $16, it's kinda pricey for a piece of plastic but millions swear by them for comfort and style. I think their eye-popping ads in recent fashion mags are so stunning and hypnotic, I might just jump on the Havaiana bandwagon, too.

P.S. Havaianas are also available at Urban Outfitters, and right now when you buy one you can get a second pair half-off. Good to know, right?

Do you live in your Havaianas? Are they really the world's best rubber flip-flop?

And now for a new installment on The Budget Babe we like to call, "Name that knock-off"! All you have to do is guess which designer got knocked off. There is no prize this time around besides the satisfaction of knowing that you have a keen eye for fashion. So here goes: Who did Forever 21 copy with their cream patent peeptoe shoe featuring a triangular heel?



Give up?

We might as well call ourselves the Budget Shoe Blog, because lately we're all about finding cute, affordable shoes for summer. Right now, Aerosoles.com has dozens of styles up to 65% off, many of which are real leather and are actually comfortable enough to keep up with our busy lifestyles. We'll let the photos that follow do the talking, and you can let your fingers do the walking. Click, buy, hurray!


"Hyperactive" embellished sandal. Perfect for vacations; wear day to night. Available colors: Pink, black, or white leather. Was $59.00, Now $39.99


"Knew Wave" asymmetric strap heel. Funky, love the purple. Available colors: Purple or black crinkled patent; silver leather. Was $79.00, Now $39.99


"Radiant" wedge. Height and comfort! Available colors: Black,white,orange or purple fabric. Was $89.00, Now $39.99


"Rediscover" flat sandal. A modified version of the gladiator that will be in style for many seasons to come. Available colors: White, gold, silver or black leather. Was $59.00, Now $39.99


"Trap Door" leather sandal. One of my favorites - I could style it in so many ways. Available colors: Pink, black, white or mid brown leather. Was $79.00, Now $49.99


"Speed Trap" t-strap heel. Tres glam, especially the royal blue. Available colors: Orange, black, blue or brown leather. Was $79.00, Now $29.99


"Spritzer" heel. Adorable bow and contrast trim. Available colors: Light purple, black or gray combo. Was $79.00, Now $29.99

Related posts:

• Old Navy's Must-Have Summer Sandals
  
• Readers recommend the best shoes for spring
  
• Love it or Leave it? The Fringe Sandal

I adore The Sartorialist. I just haven't mentioned him before because I figured that if I did, you'd never have a reason to come back to my blog. And while that might still be the case, I absolutely couldn't go another day without mentioning the stellar photograph you see above. The outfit is by no means perfect, but I was immensely proud of myself for recognizing the gold sandals on this stylish gal's feet (drum roll please): The Jessica Simpson 'Zahara' Gladiator. Don't pretend like you don't get giddy, too, when you spot a familiar designer on The Sartorialist (or elsewhere in the blogosphere). There's this little rush you get - a mini fashion buzz - when you can say to yourself, "I've seen those! I know who the designer is! I know what she's wearing!" Am I making any sense at all? P.S. This is my last post on gold gladiators, I promise.


Jessica Simpson 'Zahara' Gold Gladiators at Nordstrom.com, Was $68.95, Now $33.90

Source of image on left: The Sartorialist, 5/23/08