Shiny happy shoes

By Alisa Welch
July 14, 2008

Remember the Gap commercial a few years ago featuring Sarah Jessica Parker prancing around in a pink cardigan singing ‘I Enjoy Being A Girl’?  It does seem somewhat unfair just how fabulous women’s clothes and shoes are compared with the drab and staid looks that men are doomed to don. Poor boys.

This fall, the collections are full of highly feminine, highly tempting styles designed to exercise your womanly prerogative, especially shiny, shiny, shiny materials used on sky-high heels, platforms and even modest flats.

Pollini's Patent Wedge is a red-hot platform heel straight out of the mod 1960s. The t-strap platforms in glossy red patent leather borrow from the 1960s Pop Art movement and would be perfect to pair with a mini skirt or skinny ankle jeans.

Speaking of hot, Giuseppe Zanotti's Peep-toe Booties are ultra-sexy without tipping over into garish ‘Woman of the Evening’ territory. (It’s a fine line, I know). This Italian designer’s creations consistently echo Italian women’s seemingly effortless appeal, i.e. looking feminine, sexy, and strong at the same time. A similar super-fine look comes courtesy of L.A.M.B. whose “Selene” d'orsay pump combines punk rock elements like black leather, studs, and zippers with curvy lines and generous peep toe for a look that is as chic as it is sweet.

If your tastes run more towards the sweet however, check out Jessica Simpson's Valentine sandal in a trés girly pink satin with a gold buckle and gold chain detail around the platform. For a slightly more professional look without losing any style points, Moschino's Cheap and Chic's Open Toe Cutout Sling Back Pump features metallic leather and satin to bring some shine to your office wardrobe.

Finally, nothing says ''I Enjoy Being A Girl'' more than Dorothy-inspired glittery shoes. Juicy Couture’s Emily Glittered Ballerina flats would be perfect for dancing in your own commercial (not to mention following that yellow brick road).

Wherever your shoes take you, take time to enjoy being a girl. But more important:  Enjoy being yourself. 

Jessica Simpson's Neona ($83)

Jessica Simpson's Neona Open Toe Pumps are a twist on the classic stiletto.  Not only are they perfect for adding that extra shine to your look, they instantly add glam to any outfit. Pick your favorite color from Red, White, Green, Gold, or Black.