Spring Shoe Trends 2011

Hot Shoe Trend: Florals for Spring 2011

Shoes with zippers, bows, brooches, and other feminine details are also out in abundance this spring, but it's shoes and sandals with floral embellishments that are really making headlines. Whether you're looking for evening shoes, or casual shoes, if you're into flowers, you're in luck: this spring, rosettes, poppies, and lilies can be found on heeled pumps, high heel sandals, and wedges, as well as on flats and thong sandals.
Flowers may be delicate in nature, but as shoe embellishments, they can be very powerful,and they can take a simple outfit to a whole new level -- they can even add a bit of personality to a pair of jeans or shorts.

What s Light and Dark and Red all Over? Spring Shoes for 2011

For the third year running, it's neutral shades that are taking center stage in women's shoes. The main difference for 2011 is that medium-toned and dark neutrals, like brown and black, are nearly as prevalent as lighter neutrals like taupe, sand and cream.
If it's an actual color you're after, we'll be seeing lots of reds and pinks. But, if you see a pair of purple, green, or blue shoes that really capture your attention, don't shy away from them. One of the nice things about everyone else being shod in neutral colors is that any color at all will stand out from the crowd. This means that you don't have to resort to jolting patterns or too-high heels to get attention.

2011 Spring Shoes Trend: Natural Elements

Since neutral "non-colors" are so hot again this year, it only stand to reason that they're bringing with them another round of natural elements, like raffia, jute, cork, shells, and wood.
Of course, you don't have to swathe your feet in neutrals to take advantage of this trend, as there are plenty of colorful espadrilles, wooden-heeled platforms, and shell-embellished sandals to choose from too.

Wedges and Chunky Heels for Spring 2011

After a few years away, wedge shoes and sandals started making their return a couple years ago -- and for 2011, they're a full-fledged trend in spring shoes.
In addition to the fact that many women find wedges more comfortable than stilettos, those big wedges beneath our feet provide lots of space for designers to work with. This season, that space is ideal for showcasing all those natural elements like rope, jute, and wood.
Another emerging trend in women's shoes is the return of the chunky heel. I've seen them ranging from fairly-low to sky-high, and again, for lots of women, these are easier to wear than stilettos. But be forewarned, shoes with really chunky heels don't just look heavy, they are heavy. Be sure to try them out before committing to a long day (or night) in them.

Low Heels, Mid Heels, and Kitten Heels for Spring

I know a lot of you have been waiting for this announcement, so I'm happy to report that heel heights are actually coming down in the spring of 2011.
Now before you fans of 5-inch heels start to fret, let me calm you by saying that you'll still have plenty of selection. But for a change, those of you who wouldn't dream of wearing heels over 4-inches will once again have a plethora of new and trendy styles to choose from, including ballerina flats, kitten heels, and even a great assortment of mid-height pumps and sandals.

Full-Coverage Shoes, Sandals and Booties for 2011

Designers have found a way to extend the life of booties by cutting away parts of them to make them suitable for warmer weather. Also over the last few years, strap-laden, t-strap, and full-front sandals have become increasingly popular. What all of that means is that lines have actually blurred between what is a bootie and what is a full-coverage sandal.
Fortunately, the technicalities don't matter much, as long as you know that this new breed of high cut shoes is hot again for 2011, and that you know what you like. Whether that's heavily-strapped, high heel sandals; or booties with open-toes, cut-away sides, or cut-out heels, this is a trend that will take you from winter to summer in style.

Returning Shoe Trend: Woven Uppers

Shoes with woven uppers have become such a warm-weather staple, that's it's nearly impossible to consider them just a "trend" anymore. That being said, the spring of 2011 will be bringing with it another heaping helping of sandals and shoes with woven uppers, and braided straps.
While some of these woven shoes are made up of very delicately woven skimpy straps, the majority of them have wider straps, and consequently, a heavier look. Those styles will work best with shorts, and shorter skirts and dresses.

Women s Trend in Spring Shoes: Ankle Straps

You can't have all those t-straps, embellishments, and weaving without having at least a few ankle straps in the mix. Ankle straps serve the practical purpose of helping to keep your shoes in place, but they also visually bring a little something extra to sandals and pumps.
I'm especially fond of the wider ankle straps that have been gaining popularity over the last few years, as they're the ideal place for added embellishments and interesting accents.