These Antik Batik "Squaw Spartiates" gladiator sandals feature seed bead embellishing that's fanciful and unique. Splurge on this foot candy for $205 at Net-A-Porter.


The Blowfish "Lawless" gladiator sandal delivers the same bright beading and hot strappy style for a lot less. Save on this multicolored gladiator at Macy's, where it was originally $69 and is now on sale for $50.99.

I'm usually rather critical of the alice + olivia for Payless line, but I think these "Beatrix" Platform Patent Sandals from the spring '09 collection are pretty fun. With their wacky colorblock coloration and manic mod styling, I think these shoes would look smashing with a Twiggy-esque shift and kohl-lined eyes. What do you think? Haute or not?

Shop it: alice + olivia for Payless Beatrix Patent Platform Sandal, $38 at Payless.com

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Creative colorblocking gives the subtle illusion of a corset on these alluring dresses for spring. Would you wear one?

[1] Liberty's Ride dress, French Connection, $188
[2] Sweetheart dress, Twelve by Twelve, $29
[3] Zipper Linen Dress, Charlotte Russe, $24.99
[4] Merona colorblock dress, Target, $39.99

If you love gladiator sandals, you'll love the latest crop of multi-colored ones, like these Nouer III sandals by Matt Bernson ($170 at Jildor). They make brown look so boring!


Holy copycat! No, you're not seeing double, though the "Barbyy" sandal bares a striking resemblance to Matt Bernson's beauties. Scoop up this "look for less" for $79.95 at (surprise!) Steve Madden.

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Among all the florals that designers sent down the runways for Spring 2009, some of the freshest prints for me were modern and abstract in their execution. I love the girly ones, too, but florals that are blurry or painted with wide brush strokes have a great energy about them that makes them particularly fashiony and sexy. The way Emanuel Ungaro styled an abstract floral skirt seems particularly perfect, and I think I may have found four alternatives that could help you achieve a similar look. Question is, would you wear one?

Keep reading for details (I don't want the brand name or price to sway your decisions!)