Last time we talked about dresses, and particularly dresses suitable for both work and fun in the spring and summer.  And, knowing me, one of the things I found most attractive about wearing dresses is that we would have a chance to show off our cute summery shoe collection.

Well, I’ve been scoping out lots of shoes, and believe me, it was an enjoyable chore.  There are tons of gorgeous shoes out there, in every imaginable color and style.  It’s not, however, always easy to find something suitable for work.  I love the look of those super-high heels, but if you’re anything like me, a couple of hours at a party, dinner or club is about all the time you can spend on those stilts.  Flip-Flops are my go-to summer shoes for casual wear, but they have no place in the office or other work environment, unless you’re a lifeguard.  Even backless slides with heels, or mules aren’t a good choice for work.  That constant flap-flap sound is annoying and out-of-place in a professional environment.  Eliminating all of those categories still left me with a great variety from which to choose.

Again, I’m starting out with my big splurge, and like so often, it comes from www.katespade.com.  I love the beautiful and feminine styles here, even if they are a bit pricey.  This gorgeous patent pump in cobalt blue http://bit.ly/VLYekP has a moderately high 3.5” heel and gold bow at the toe to add to its perfection.  While they may not be for everyday wear at $298, these would be fantastic for an important meeting, a professional (or romantic) dinner, or just on a day when you need a personal pick-me-up (I know I have those days) and want to feel extra-pretty.  Just a tip, particularly with stunners like these, wear something else for the walk to work and slip them on when you want to make the big entrance or impress the boss.  Just the thought of a scrape on those pristine heels makes me shudder.

If you like the professional look of a pump, but your job doesn’t quite support the Kate Spade price tag yet, try these Vince Camutos from www.nordstrom.com for $97.95.  In Misty Blue patent leather http://bit.ly/YBJ1Uh with a heel height of around 3” on a ½” platform, this is a shoe you can live with (and work in) while still looking stylish and up-to-date.

For those of you who do a lot of walking on your job and require a cute little flat that looks good with a dress or skirt, take a look at this one from Jessica Simpson http://bit.ly/129BqAw and www.dillards.com for $79.  In a snakey print with a pink patent toe cap and rubber sole, this is not only a shoe but a great accessory.  Just remember, flats can tend to get scruffy looking, so be sure to keep them cleaned up and get the right fit so they don’t get all out of shape and sloppy.

For $89 this colorful www.ninewest.com wedge http://bit.ly/YXkeIi is a sure winner.  The 3-1/4” wedge is manageable, and the wide ankle strap and rainbow hue will attract lots of attention, both envious and admiring.  Don’t forget that pedicure!

This next strappy sandal from www.dillards.com is a good look for work, as well.  The chunky heel is only 2.75” high for comfort, but the mocha/gold/coral color combination http://bit.ly/YWvLWY and the barefoot look make it cute and attention-grabbing, too.  Coral toenail polish to match the double ankle strap would be a big wow! at $119.

Www.nordstrom.com offers the “Neely” sandal in a basic black patent, but that’s where the “basic” ends.  The slingback, peep toe and print raffia wedge http://bit.ly/129oxXl bump it up a notch or two on the fashion scale.  This is a great summer shoe for wearing with almost anything, and it would be an asset to both your work and travel wardrobe.  We even kept the price under $100 (barely) at $99.95.

One of my favorites, this ankle strap sandal http://bit.ly/15OCmtd  from www.macys.com and Guess screams “SUMMER” to me.  Although it is 4 inches high, the chunky heel offers more stability than those wobbly stilettos while still giving us the long leg line everybody wants.  I like the fresh blue and white color, the heel, the sassy ankle strap- - - in fact, I like everything about this shoe.  Even the $110 price tag isn’t too daunting for this amazing look!

Michael Kors shows this classy and flirty hot pink patent sandal http://bit.ly/XCm57a at www.lordandtaylor.com.  The iconic “MK” logo is featured on the slingback strap, and the 3” black heel is work-friendly.  Again, under the $100 mark at $98.

Finally, I’ve included a couple of finds from www.dsw.com to show that there are great shoes available on a working-girl’s budget, too.  I thought this coral and black shoe http://bit.ly/13nyOhR was adorable for only $34.95.  The ankle strap is of stretch fabric, accented with a big coral button, and the shoe is constructed of man-made materials, but it looks adorably young and chic with its’ 3-3/4” covered heel.  If you have an outfit that screams for a pair of coral shoes, it can be done without too much guilt at a price like this.

For just $59.95, dsw is also offering this green and black patent leather Tommy Hilfiger wedge sandal http://bit.ly/XCCUyK with back zip and 3-1/2” heel.  The wedge provides the comfort and stability necessary for a long work day, and even a career girl just starting out can look great at this price.

Hope these examples whet your appetite to find some fantastic additions to your shoe wardrobe this spring.  Don’t settle for the same ugly black pumps, or, heaven forbid, dumpy loafers or tennis shoes day after day.  Even if you have only one or two nice pairs of shoes for work, make sure they’re always clean, in good repair, not worn-down or scraped-up at the heels, and that they fit.  People do notice your shoes.  Be sure you’re noticed in a good way.

‘Bye for now.  See you next time.

Happy shopping!

Gabby