Spring 2008 Fashion Shoes

Bright Colors Abound

You may have noticed the abundant colors splashed on everything from handbags to trench coats this year. Nothing is off limits; even the most unexpected elements are being treated to a coat of vibrant color. This year, that applies most especially to footwear. The season's best, most coveted shoes are driven by enigmatic hues that instantly perk up any outfit.

It's not just color that makes the grade this year, though – it's also artistic flights of fancy that have people taking a closer look at those sandals and platforms. Whether delicately dressy with elegant rhinestones or shockingly bold with sculptured heels, all of spring's hottest shoes are head-turning, trend setting pieces destined to be classics.

But It's Not Just Color…

Practically speaking, those electric blue platforms probably don't belong in the office. That's good news, because it allows you to expand your spring 2008 fashion shoe collection and indulge in some glamorous, versatile neutrals. The newest neutrals are rich and classy, combining understated colors with dynamic details. The result is something much more intriguing than the basic shoe.

Details, Details, Details

Never underestimate the power of details when it comes to wowing the world with your footwear. Indulgent materials like snake skin are suddenly slithering onto everything from snazzy platforms to cute flats, rhinestones are all over the most glamorous gladiator sandals and even flip flops have taken a decidedly dressy turn. Look for them to be heavily detailed, with floral embellishments, brightly colored soles, printed designs and other intricate additions (like zippers, as seen on Christian Louboutin's sexy leather platform sandals) sure to make them stand out from the pack.

Celebrities and Spring 2008 Fashion Shoes

Take your cue from Hollywood's biggest celebrities. Not only do they instantly set trends, they take fashion risks and often (though not always!) pull them off. Who's wearing what this season? Read on for the details…

• 21 star Kate Bosworth attended a Toronto film premiere wearing a hot pink minidress and a stunning pair of dark blue satin heels. The combination was unexpectedly stunning, and the heels helped add some sophistication to a youthful outfit.

• The always elegant Diane Kruger flaunted some serious style savvy backstage at Chanel in Paris. Her flared, shoulder-baring black dress was accented by decadent, bright yellow strappy heels.

• No one set trends this year faster than Rihanna. At the launch of her umbrella line in New York City, the songstress pulled off a fitted black jacket, sheer black tank, black dress shorts and bright orange heels with ease. In this case, the shoes threw a shot of color into the mix and brightened it up instantly.

• Miley Cyrus is more than just Hannah Montana to youngsters and an icon to teens. She's also quickly proving herself quite the fashion maven, showing up at Nickelodeon's Teen Choice Awards in a sparkling Stella McCartney dress and satin magenta peep-toe heels.

Shopping for Trendy Shoes

Though it's almost impossible for a fashion addict to resist a good trend, keeping up with said trend isn't always an affordable task. While shopping at high-end retailers like Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Barney's and Neiman Marcus is an outstanding way to get acquainted with glamorous styles from the world's biggest designers, for many it's just not a sensible option.

If you want to indulge in some of the season's biggest footwear trends without breaking the bank, you might want to check out stores that offer big-name designers are reasonable prices. Options include Loehmann's, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Filene's Basement, to name a few.