Trend Envy: Show a Little Ankle

These shoes are made for stylin'

By Yelena Moroz
Published: Apr 16, 2008

Regardless of what your boyfriend or husband might say, you can never have too many shoes. A man with three pairs of shoes (black, brown and sneakers) just doesn’t understand that each subtle detail plays a monumental role in conveying a particular look. This is especially true for spring’s it styles—Grecian-inspired flats, ornate heels, T-straps, and simple sandals—all of which, coincidentally, pay tribute to your ankles.

Let’s start with the gladiator flat. Unlike Birkenstocks, which seem to have taken America hostage, these delicate styles are all about graceful details that would make even Aphrodite jealous. Just take a look at Prada’s leaf version. The sylvan motif brings in a natural element without looking a bit pagan. Gladiator flats can be worn with virtually anything: long dresses, mini skirts, linen pants and skinny jeans—making them invaluable when packing for a vacation.

Want some height? Add pizzazz to any outfit by choosing a heel or wedge with intricate straps and hardware. These black patent leather Lanvins look edgy, thanks to the ring detail and ankle embellishment. Michael Kors, on the other hand, uses spaghetti-thin strings that give off an ethereal vibe. And the pom-pom-like flowers on Stella McCartney’s sandals will make you feel seriously spunky.

T-straps are also a great investment this season—just make sure to choose an ultra-tall version to elongate the foot and leg. These shoes are best when worn with leggings or a mini. Avoid calf-length skirts, however. Instead of mimicking the long legs of Giselle Bundchen, you’ll end up looking stocky. We also discourage wide leg pants that don’t skim the ground, unless you want to look like you’re walking on stilts.

And if you’re worried that all the details will leave you fretting when it comes to coordinating, play it safe with a simple leather style that embraces geometric lines, like this pair from Alberta Ferretti. The clean silhouettes are chic, making them a no-brainer alternative to flip-flops.

Surviving New York City rent when sample sales happen every weekend has Yelena Moroz in a bind. But, hey, who said keeping up with fashion is easy?

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