Plus Size Womens

Shoes encyclopedia (2)

In this part, I'd like to talk something about shoes' styles, materials, and details. 

Above the knee boots
What: Every socialite and off-duty model was photographed in her over-the-knee quilted Chanel boots last year. This year, above the knee boots are most popular in heeled versions (rather than small or flat heels) with suede the material of choice. 

Verdict: Hot. Perfect over tights, long socks, jeans or pants. 

Lace-up Shoes and Boots
What: Laces and tie-up details are another continuing trend in 2008. 

Verdict: From Victorian influences to sexed-up school mistress heels, laces are lingering for a little longer and offer quite a few options of styles and heel-hights.

Fringing and Folk-Inspired
What: It's the new foho: folk-inspired with an ethnic twist. Fringed boots are the defining feature of the trend, with other details like studs and tooled leather adding to the crafty, bohemian feel. 

Verdict: Short fringed ankle-boots in leather or suede can look sexy with bare legs or tights. They can add a ruffian charm to a sophisticated outfit, or be thrown together with an everyday outfit for casual chic.

Open-toe shoes with tights
What: It used to be a massive faux-pas, but these days it's not just OK - it's fashionable. Open-toes or peep-toes with stockings, socks or tights underneath. 

Verdict: Works wonderfully with like colours, especially black on black - but daring contrasts can also look great. It also means your Spring / Summer shoe collection can be worn in the colder months. 

Mary-Jane with a Twist
What: The high-heeled Mary-Jane was a big shoe trend last year; but they were mostly sleek, feminine styles in patent leathers and with rounded toes. 2008 sees Mary-Jane back with a twist; or, lost of twists as seen down the runway. Double or even triple buckles are one common defining detail; bright colours, luxe fabrics or sharply pointed toes are other examples. Whatever it may be, the bottom line is it must stand out. 

Verdict: High-heeled Mary-Janes strike a combination of school-girl sweet meets sexy vamp. 

Reptile leathers
What: Alligator, crocodile, lizard, snake... reptilian skins are a major trend choice for 2008's footwear. 

Verdict: The feeling of reptile leather is that of something exotic and luxurious. In 2008 its use is in the most classic of ways; subtle, refined and yet bold. Avoid gaudy snake prints and cheap imitations; whether real or faux, it's all about the quality. 

Colours: Two-tone and multi-colour
What: There's no excuse to be boring with your shoes when it comes to colour. At least, not anymore. The Autumn / Winter 2008 runways had barely a plain shoe in sight, with two-toned or multiple color taking over. Different elements of a shoe can be different colours, for example contrasting straps or heels. 

Verdict: Don't think that a multi-coloured shoe can only be worn with a plain coloured outfit; use them to add colour and style to pretty much anything. For the colours themselves, they can be anything from bold bright colours through to classic shades of grey and black.