The Lady and the Tiger

The 5 Top Trends for Ladies Shoes 2011

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Is there any subject more near and dear to a lady's heart than that of ladies shoes? Shoes are a favourite fashion accessory because shoes fit, no matter the size of the lady.

2011 has been a banner year thus far for ladies shoes. The shoes that are out for Spring and Summer are available in different styles with some frankly mouth-watering colours. I have also seen a preview for Autumn and Winter styles.

Wooden Platforms

The 1970s have influenced this year's chunky shoe category. The platform has been streamlined for 2011 and updated. All the funkiness from the 1970s has been retained with sleek styling for the new century. The colours run to earth-tones and the platform sandal pairs well with the slimmer capri's that will be fashionable this year as well as the ultra-slim cigarette pant. Wooden platforms also pair well with jeans, whether skinny jeans are worn or flared jeans.

A new twist on the platform is the flatform. The flatform debuted on the runway with the showing of the spring fashions. Think of a ladies shoe with all the comfort of a flat with the edge of a platform. Flatforms keep the entire foot at one level, unlike platforms, so if you are looking for height in your ladies shoe, but have trouble pitching forward, then this is the shoe for you.

Espadrilles

The espadrille is back. All that was old is once more new. The espadrille has also gotten a make-over and is so much more than the shoe favoured by those in the Junior League and soccer moms dressed in khakis and polo shirts.

The revamped espadrille has been redesigned in a ballerina flat manner. They are cool, cotton, and available in a variety of colours and patterns. Ladies should have no trouble finding espadrille flats to match all their outfits.

Sandals

Sandals for 2011 are in a variety of shades. Not quite neon, not quite pastel, the colours for 2011 are bright-hued and are reminiscent of candy. Ladies should pick up pairs in enough colours to match all their spring and summer outfits.

Boots

When cold weather strikes, boots will be back in fashion. This year the trend is on boots that cover the calf. Whether ladies choose chunky-heeled, stiletto-heeled, or flat-heeled boots, boots will be the choice for fall or winter. Popular colours will remain in the neutral palate to match the rust colored palettes of fall.

Loafers

Loafers will be hot year-round during 2011. For spring, this men's-inspired ladies shoe will be available in a wide variety of bright hues and colours, including lime green, baby blue, and bright pink. This palette enables them to be paired with capri's, shorts, jeans, or slacks for office wear. In the fall, the colours will turn back to the camel and rust palette, but the heel will elevate. Leather loafers with a tapering heel will be front and centre for wear with jeans and slacks. Think Katherine Hepburn with an updated chic look for 2011.

Enjoy the summer with the 5 top trends for ladies shoes 2011 - and remember: Comfortable shoes are good shoes!