It's a jungle out there
Fashion always sends out mixed signals - that's the beauty of it. One designer's inspiration is another's afterthought, and sooner or later we're all involved in the conversation. Still, while spring brings with it a multitude of footwear styles (be on the lookout for a tidal wave of gladiator sandals, metallics, and platforms), one trend trumps them all: exotic leathers and animal prints. Pay a visit to your favorite shoe emporium, and you might think you accidentally took a left at the savannah. Snakeskin pumps, lizard slingbacks, and leopard-spotted peep toes, they're all there, playing, presumably, on consumer fascination with the environment and all things "green." Or maybe the trend is a sly nod to current economic uncertainties, the creeping sense that, yes, it's a jungle out there. Dress for it. - HAYLEY KAUFMAN
1. Christian Louboutin peep-toe pump, $1,095, at Neiman Marcus. Chloe metallic round-toe pump, $900, at Barneys.
2. Jimmy Choo spotted pump, $545, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
3. Jimmy Choo slingback, $770, available at Gretta Luxe.
4. Azzedine Alaia gold round-toe pumps, $1,350, at Barneys. Manolo Blahnik ankle-strap pump, $745, at Neiman Marcus. 