Judging by the name, you’d think it’s a peep toe pump, but the shoe actually gets its name from the perforations that cover the cream-colored leather on the sides and vamp. Not only is it a classy, oxford-inspired look, they”ll help keep your feet cool in the hot weather. Covering the toe box, edges, and the entire heel is smooth, shiny black leather. The black leather is also cut with a zig-zag edge right at the toe, and all along the edges, which is a nice detail, but not frilly. The insole and outsole are both leather as well, so the Peep will conform to your foot for comfort, and after a little scuffing, will give you a little traction when you walk. At three inches, the heel is high enough to give your legs a long, lean look without being too high for the office. If you prefer, it’s also available in a blush option. You can seldom go wrong with Kate Spade shoes. The Peep Pump is $298 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

The more I see them, the more I’m starting to like Butter shoes. This Butter Singer Pump has a lot going for it, even with such a simple design. It’s a beautiful aloe color rather than black, white, or gray, but it’s not bright or garish, and fits great with the summer season. The pump itself is a classic shape, with a rounded toe, and 3.5-inch heel. The upper is made of soft Nappa leather, which has a bit of a sheen to it, and the interior is also lined with leather, so the shoe is sure to fit well and be comfortable. The best part, though, is the bow embellishment on the vamp. It’s a beautiful, feminine bow, made from velvet ribbon in canary yellow, which perfectly complements the soft green of the pump. The Singer also comes in camel leather with a black velvet bow, or a daring fuchsia and orange multicolored option with a white grosgrain ribbon bow. On sale, it’s marked down from $259 to just $142.97 at Endless.com.

It’s funny that this shoe is made by Poetic Licence, because they really took a lot of license in making it. The Poetic Licence Playland Peep Toe Pump is…well…it’s hideous. It’s like they took a bunch of remnants that were sitting around the warehouse, and decided to throw them together into one fugly shoe. That whole recycling thing works well when Crayola does it with all the leftover colored wax to make black crayons, and it works really well when Dum Dums does it to make their mystery flavors from the remnants left in the machines after producing single flavor lollipops. But note to designers—leave the remnants on the floor and start from scratch because if this is the result, it’s not even worth the trouble. Not only would I not recommend this shoe for work, I wouldn’t recommend it for anywhere. Just to illustrate, I chose the black option, and if you look closely, you’ll see that the fabric is woven in a checkerboard pattern. The Playland could have actually been nice if they’d stopped there. But no, they decided to add on a translucent gold lucite heel, and then attached that horrible green and red cherry-looking thing to the vamp, which I guess is supposed to be whimsical, but just looks awful. But this isn’t even the worst one. The Playland also comes in brown, where the fabric is actually a checkerboard of brown and silver, with a red lucite heel and the same horrible cherry thing. But the worst one of all? The red one, which has a blue lucite heel, and blue leather trim all around the edges, which clashes with the green leather in the cherry bomb trim. The entire shoe is a bomb. Don’t let me catch you wearing it. I can’t even believe Poetic Licence has the audacity to charge $129 for this shoe at Endless.com. Maybe those aren’t cherries, but the balls the company has to try to pass this off as acceptable footwear.

This sandal is strappy, but austere. Not too much, not too little. I mean, I wouldn’t go walking for miles and miles in them, but with just a 1.5-inch heel, they’d manage just fine for a day at the boardwalk, or even an evening out. Pair them with shorts or capris during the day, or slip them on with a light skirt at night, and they’ll look great either way. The upper and sole are both leather. The strap is knotted right at the vamp, and then adorned with small silver- and gold-tone metal rings for a bit of shine. The adjustable buckle is also gold-tone metal, and gives you a custom fit. The heel is wide enough to provide stability, too. If you’re game to try it out, it’s on sale, down from $350 to $240.06 at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Now, as I’ve said before, when I’m looking around at things to feature on the blog, I do take into account the reviews people leave for them. Even if something looks really pretty, I’m not going to write about it if it’s crap. I don’t always have the opportunity to personally try out everything I include here. Are you kidding? If I did, I’d be writing this from a cardboard box. Some things I own, some things I plan or want to own, and some things I try out at the store if I can. And other times, I rely on recommendations from friends, or, as I mentioned, on the reviews other shoppers write. That said, this Franco Sarto Tonga Low Heel Sandal did not get a very good review online. Why am I still including it? Because the reviewers were, well, not too bright. Look at this sandal. Does it look to you like it’s made for walking? I didn’t think so. In addition, one of the complaints was that the shoe slips and slides a lot. That really sounds to me like either the person bought the wrong size, or they didn’t have the buckle fastened tightly enough, or both. But hey, it’s going to be up to you whether you try it out or not. As far as looks go, it’s a cute sandal. The upper is leather, while the sole is rubber, so the sandal will conform to your foot, and you’ll have flexibility and stability. The 1.5-inch heel is a little kittenish, but wider than usual, so that will also add to the stability with walking or standing. The straps are smooth, leather, the toebox is sueded, and the heel is covered in patent, giving the shoe a nice combination of textures. It goes for $79.95 at Endless.com.

If you want to go a little lower in the heel, check out this Nina Duane sandal. The heel is just five eighths of an inch high, and is covered in the same orange patent leather as the straps and toe box. The lightly cushions footbed is covered with a reptile-embossed leather panel in a muted gold. An adjustable buckle allows for the perfect fit, and the leather sole will give good traction after proper scuffing. While I do like the rhinestone-encrusted embellishments at the vamp, they concern me a little because they’re barrel-shaped, and not flat on the bottom. It seems like that might be uncomfortable on the top of the foot. If that section of the strap is loose enough, it shouldn’t be a problem, but you don’t want it to be too loose, or the shoe won’t fit properly. Just something to keep in mind. In addition to orange, the Duane comes in black or pink patent, gunmetal or silver metallic smooth leather, or a brown speckled leopard print leather that is just hideous with the rhinestone embellishments. Avoid that one, but try any of the others for just $79.95 at Zappos.com.

You know, now that I look at the sandal again, it wouldn’t even be flattering from the front with that high ankle cuff. Not only that, the vamp and toe straps are also thick. This sandal is fine if you’re going to fight lions at the Coliseum. For walking around and trying to maintain a feminine look? Not so much. If you decide to go against my sage advice and get the sandal anyway, it’s made from leather adorned with polished stones and shiny studs. The sole and lining are also leather, so they’re probably comfortable. But so are the flip flops I wear around the house, and you don’t see me out at the mall in those. The ankle buckle is adjustable for a custom fit. But you know what else I just thought of? Wear these sandals, and you’re just asking for a blister on the back of your heel. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. The Coco is usually $310.95, but you can get it for $236.32 now at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

This is a slight improvement on the style. The Marc By Marc Jacobs 693179 Sandal has no back panel to give you blisters or cankles. Everyone will be able to see your slender ankle tapering down into the Achilles tendon. It does, however, still have the ankle strap, but at least it’s dainty and not like a cuff meant to hold a ball and chain. The upper is made from nubuck leather, with teardrop cutouts to give it an even more feminine look. Instead of a bulky buckle, the ankle strap ties with a grosgrain ribbon in the same color as the sandal. The sole and lining are also leather, and it all sits on just a .75-inch heel. Yes, I know, I usually list items less expensive than the featured item here in the budget saving alternative area. But since I hate the Coco so much, I think you should go with the Marc Jacobs one instead, even if it is a few dollars more. Marc’s sandal also comes in pink, but it’s a little too Pepto for me. Stick with the green. It’s $239.95 at Endless.com.

Ok, this one will not only save you some money, it will make you look fabulous. The Gwyneth Zaire Sandal is a more fanciful take on the gladiator sandal. The bottom portions of the straps are metallic gold leather, but laced through them are dainty, woven metal straps, interlaced with small chainlink and short rhinestone links. The ankle strap is adjustable by simply hooking the crab claw clasp through different links. Finally, the woven metal straps are adorned with oval shaped, amber stones. The sole is leather, and there’s a heart-shaped cushion in the footbed. I probably wouldn’t wear these on an everday basis, but for dressing up at night? Definitely. The Zaire also comes in gunmetal silver, which I find pretty drab. It’s on sale, down from $137.95 to just $75.87 at Endless.com.

I’ve written about the Stuart Weitzman Mocarena before, but it was in December, it was cold, and it was a suede option. It also bears mentioning again that Weitzman made a douchebag move by also making a variation out of elephant hide. Yeah, because they aren’t endangered enough. Jackass. Don’t buy that one. Anyway, I thought this one bore repeating for a few reasons. Moccasins are in again, and these are super cute in the two-tone, summer colors. The bright red patent leather is gorgeous, and is accented by light beige panels on the vamp and the back of the heel. Plus, mocs are great casual shoes. They go with jeans, shorts, even skirts, depending on the style. Their flat heels—this one is three-eighths of an inch—make them super comfortable for walking, too. The interior is fully lined with leather, and the sole is flexible rubber for even more cushion and comfort. The Mocarena patent leather moc also comes in black with the same beige accent panels, but I think the red is the way to go. Get it for $285 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Speaking of summer trends, not only are moccasins in, but metallics are too, especially metallic silver shoes. The Laura Brandon Faina Moccasin combines the best of both worlds. It’s not just metallic, but sparkly too. It’d be great with a nice pair of linen shorts for an evening out, but you could get away with wearing them during the day. The vamp is adorned with a wide strap which is clasped with a silver-tone metal buckle in the middle. The upper is all leather, and so is the lining. Around the top edges, the Faina has a boat shoe lace detail, which just makes it even more of a summer shoe. And it’s on sale! It was $89.99, but you can get it now for $44.99 at heels.com.

Hey, remember these?! I remember just about every girl having them when I was in middle school, and although they’re available in a variety of colors, pink was always my favorite. The Minnetonka Thunderbird Moccasin is perhaps the closest thing to a true, traditional moccasin you’ll find. Ok, maybe not, but just work with me, ok? It’s made from soft leather that will only get softer with wear, and eventually conform to the shape of your foot. Trust me, I’m speaking from experience here. It has a boat shoe sole, which, to be honest, I’m not that crazy about as far as looks go, but it is very flexible and comfortable. The insole is all leather, and is cushioned for comfort. The best part is the vamp. Along with the fold-over, fringed flap, and the tied lace, the vamp is embellished with multi-colored beads in a sort of Native American thunderbird design. This shoe is a classic. In addition to the pink, it also comes in natural, red, and white. Get a couple of pairs since the Thunderbird is only $43 at Zappos.com.

The Giuseppe Zanotti E90250 Jeweled Sandal combines several elements into one beautiful shoe. The delicate straps on the upper are metallic leather, in a deep, silvery color. They attach to the vamp with sturdy grommets. The vamp is made from suede in a fiery orange, adorned with a contrasting zig-zag stitch around the edges. The top of the sandal is embellished with a variety of stones in different sizes, shapes, and colors, all surrounding a large pyramid-shaped stone in the center. I love it. The footbed, and sole are also leather, and it’s all on a flat heel. These shoes are not made for walking, but for looking good. They’re quite a deal, too. Usually $649.95, they’re only $233.98 right now at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Wow. There is no mistaking that these sandals are orange. The orangest orange you can get. They remind me of those gummy orange slice candies, they’re so orange. But the reason I like the Nanette Lepore Play Time thong sandal is the vamp. First, the strap has petal cutouts on the sides, which not only makes the sandal prettier, but gives you a little ventilation, which you’ll appreciate with the synthetic upper. Even better is the cluster of embellishments on the top of the vamp. It’s not just rhinestones or beads, like most shoe designers use. Lepore has incorporate seashells, which makes this the perfect summer sandal. You’ll also find turquoise beads, metallic gold beads, pearlized and matte coral beads, and pearls. You wouldn’t think it all goes together, but it does, beautifully. The sole is made from the same synthetic material as the rest of the sandal, so you’re really paying for that embellishment, and the name. It also comes in black, turquoise, and clear. The Play Time sandal is $98 at Zappos.com.

I like Carlos Santana’s music ok, but I love his shoes. I doubt he’s actually the one personally designing any of them, but whomever he hired kicks ass. This Carlos by Carlos Santana Tahiti Flat proves it. The sole and upper of this thong sandal are man made, so it should appeal to vegans. Where it really stands out, though, is in the vamp embellishment. It’s adorned with clusters of multi-shaped, multi-faceted, clear and solid beads and stones, all in several shades of orange and dark yellow. It’s also available in a beautiful turquoise. Get both colors since it’s only $49.99 at heels.com.

It does have the traditional fabric upper, but it’s in a pretty multi-shade pink and white print from the vamp straps, to the slingback, to the covered wedge and platform. The tea rose pink and white together is a fresh, bright combination that can easily go from day to night. The slender ankle straps are white, and the footbed is edged with braided rope. The lining and sole are leather for both comfort and quality. The 4.5-inch wedge heel tapers down into a 1.5-inch platform, which offers a bit of an offset to the heel. Because they’re made by Burberry, they cost more than traditional espadrilles. Get them for $495 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Now, this shoe I would reserve for evening, and I have to admit, I probably wouldn’t have thought to make an espadrille with sating, but it seems to work. The Pura Lopez M206 Espadrille Wedge has a shiny satin upper of thin straps woven together in a delicate T-strap design. The ankle strap closes with a dainty, adjustable buckle. All the straps, and the footbed are lined with leather, and the footbed is also edged with satin. It all sits atop a braided jute wedge heel, and a rubber sole which provides traction and stability. The 1.25-inch offsets the 4.5-inch heel. In addition to this gorgeous lavender color called lila, this espadrille comes in makeup, which is a blush pink color. The best thing about this shoe? The price is greatly reduced. Normally $299.95, you can get the Pura Lopez espadrille for just $113.98 at Endless.com. Apparently, it runs about a half-size small, so order accordingly.

Want to be a little flashier when you go out? I said flashier, not flasher. Get your mind outta the gutter. Where do you go out?! Anyway, I’m diggin’ this Miss me Heart-12 Open Toe Slingback Wedge in fuchsia. The synthetic patent straps add shine to every step. The ankle strap adjusts with a silver-tone metal buckle, and the vamp descends into an open toe, so make sure your pedi is fresh. You could probably get away with wearing this one during the day, but with a five-inch heel and 1.5-inch platform, I think it’s best suited to warm evenings out. Get it for $59.95 at Endless.com.

The Bianca is a delicate, strappy, yet simple sandal, with one T-strap, and an ankle strap that closes with an adjustable buckle for a custom and secure fit. The upper is all silver patent leather, and sits on a leather sole with a half-inch heel. The part of this sandal that stands out is the T-strap, which is adorned with little metal and crystal flower appliqués, for extra sparkle. The flower petals are gold-toned, which both contrast and complement the silver straps, and make this the perfect sandal for the metallic trend. Not only that, it also comes in metallic fuchsia, and black patent. Get the Bianca for $265 at Endless.com

Budget Saving Alternatives

You know I love Kate Spade, and sometimes it means I miss out when my size is gone or what I want is sold out, but I usually wait to buy her stuff when it’s on sale. Otherwise, I’d have to give up eating or, you know, live in my car. You can get in on the metallic trend for less with this Corso Como Fossol Sandal. No, that’s not a typo. It’s Fossol, not fossil. I have no idea. Ask them. Anyway, the Fossol is also a pretty T-strap, flat sandal in shiny silver, although constructed slightly differently. The ankle strap still has an adjustable buckle, but it’s more toward the back than on the side. The leather footbed is lightly padded for comfort, and is also perforated to help keep your feet cool. Like the Bianca, this T-strap is also adorned with sparkly embellishment, this time in the form of rhinestones in several sizes and shapes. If the metallic trend isn’t for you, the Fossol also comes in flat black and caramel. It’s just $89 at Endless.com.

If you prefer the strappy sandal without the sparkly embellishments, check out the Unisa Laporsha sandal. The upper is still silver, but it’s one hundred percent synthetic leather, so it’s an animal-friendly option as well. The three-quarter inch wedge heel is covered with pebble-patterned synthetic patent leather in bright white, and the footbed is covered in cork, which will put some spring in your step and some comfort under your feet. The outsole is flexible for even more comfort and ease in walking. The ankle strap fastens with an adjustable buckle. It’s also on sale. The silver Laporsha is usually $49, but you can get it right now for just $29.99. It also comes in gold, but that one is still $49. You’ll find them both at Piperlime.com.

Let me start by saying the Kayenta is super comfortable. The forefoot straps are made from synthetic webbing. You don’t want to wear leather shoes when there’s a distinct possibility of your feet getting wet. And Teva made it better by adding Microban Zinc anti-microbial protection, so no matter how wet these sandals get, or how often, they won’t get all musty and yucky smelling. If they’re exposed to salt water, though, I’d wash them with fresh water after wearing them to keep them in good condition. The midsole is constructed from sponge EVA for cushioning and comfort, and the rubber outsole adds to that comfort, plus it’s non-marking. The outsole is also abrasion resistant and non-slip, which is great on a boat. A hook and loop strap allows for a custom, and secure fit. In addition to this pretty blue jewel color, the Kayenta also comes in chocolate chip, harvest pumpkin, lily white, walnut, and black. Choose the one that fits your style for just $69.95 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

When it comes to outdoor clothing and shoes, you know you can’t go wrong with Columbia brand. I prefer the Kayenta because it’s open-toed, although I may consider this Columbia Sportswear Kaweah Flip Flop now that I’ve discovered I actually like flip flops. The Kaweah isn’t a true flip flop, though, since it has a heel strap. That’s a great thing to have on a pair of boat shoes, though. It’ll keep them on, even if the boat is rocking on the waves, and offers a little bit of ankle stability, too. The sandal is cushioned for extra comfort, much better than any flat-bottomed flip flop or sandal you might wear. The top band is made from neoprene, the same stuff they make scuba diving wetsuits out of, so it can get wet, and it’ll dry quickly, especially because it’s perforated. The rubber sole offers more cushioning and non-slip stability. Because the footbed is made from Techlite (I have no idea what that is, but it sounds very high-tech.), it molds to the shape of your foot. Wait, I don’t think you want to use the word molds when you’re talking about sandals to wear around water. How about conforms? Much better. I love the Kaweah in this blue, but it’s also available in a pink/gray combo, and black. Get it for $59.95 at Endless.com.

Now, I’ll be honest. I’d never heard of the Keen brand until I started looking around at other water sandals. The Keen Waimea H2 is kind of funky looking with that weird toecap, which I’ve never seen on any other sandal, but the more I look at it, the more it makes sense. Sandals are great for keeping your feet cool in the hot weather, for helping your feet dry quickly after you’ve been in the water, and for showing off a good pedi. (By the way, don’t forgo the pedi just because you’re going to be on a boat or in the water as opposed to strolling the boardwalk. Being around the water is all the more reason to keep your feet in top condition, and well moisturized.) But that toecap will also offer your delicate toes some protection, which is great when you’re trying to keep your balance on a rocking boat. Trust me and my oft-stubbed toes on this one. The Waimea would be better if it also had a heel strap, but we can’t have everything, I guess. The straps are made from quick-drying polyester, while the footbed is constructed from EVA for cushioning and shock absorption. The Waimea also has an AEGIS Microbe Shield-treated lining for anti-odor, anti-microbial protection. Again, no stinky sandals. Just rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water. The midsole contains cork for more cushioning and water resistance, while the outsole is non-marking. I’m sticking with my suba blue theme, here, but it also comes in a violet/black combo, and an option they call rice bag, which has a multi-colored checker pattern top strap. Get a couple of pairs since they’re only $50 at Zappos.com.

These aren’t regular, rubber-bottomed flip flops, I know. If you can’t bring yourself to go all the way casual with the flippies, these are a good compromise. They’re leather, with a leather sole, and they have just a little bit of a heel to them, so they’re still a little dressy. I love the loopy design on the vamp—very feminine. The footbed is lightly padded, too, so you can dance the night away without worry. And it’s on sale! The Maureen is normally $89.99, but you can get it now for $44.99 at heels.com.

Now we’re talking comfy! This Havaianas Top Crystal Flip Flop is casual, comfortable, and perfect to wear to a wedding with the three little crystals that adorn the top of the strap. The molded rubber upper will conform to the shape of your foot, and the midsole offers a little bit of shock absorption for even more comfort. The rubber sole is flexible and sturdy, too. And get this. Your bridesmaids can get in on the flip flop action because it also comes in acai (which is like a dark pink color), dark green, brown, and rose. Get a pair for everyone for just $48.95 at Endless.com.

The Reef Stargazer Sandal also offers an ideal combination of casual comfort and a little flashiness. The top of the rubber strap has a sparkly metallic overlay. Wear silver jewelry, and all your accessories will complement each other perfectly. An EVA footbed is soft, flexible, and comfortable, with enough cushion to protect your feet from hot sand or pavement, or if you plan on doing a lot of dancing or walking. And who says the Stargazer has to be for the wedding only? Take it on your honeymoon to wear with your sundresses, shorts, and swimsuit. The sandal also comes in purple, dark gray, black with silver overlay, black with black overlay, brown with silver, and brown with brown. In fact, get a few pairs for the summer since the Stargazer is only $21.95 at Endless.com.

The Percy has a bit more of a heel on it than I think I’d like on a flip flop, but hey, a week ago, I didn’t think I’d even be wearing flip flops, so what the hell! The strappy upper is made of leather, and I love it in this sage green color. The 1.75-inch heel is a bit curved, which adds a feminine touch, and the height will give your legs a little lift, too. The sole is man made. The Percy also comes in white and brown. It’s also on sale. Normally $157.95, you can get it now for just $86.87 at Endless.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Now this is what I’m talking about! Not only does the Teva Mush flip flop look super comfortable, it’s also pretty. Look at that design! It’s like little butterflies sewn into the strap. No wait! It’s a black-on-black embroidered pattern! No wait! It’s both! That’s because you get two pairs for one low price! How did I not know about this before?! Flip flops, where have you been all my life? Two for one? I’m so there. This Mush 2 pack is my favorite because you know I love pink, and I love butterflies. To have both on my new love, flip flops? Heaven. The black ones are nice too. Not just plain black straps. There’s a little visual interest to them. But there are seven other 2 packs available, in several colors and patterns. A couple of them have little palm trees on them. So cute! The straps are nylon webbing, which I now know is very comfortable, and the soles are EVA, which is also super comfy. And get this—the topsole has enhanced arch support. I’m amazed anyone even thought to put that in a flip flop. Get your two favorite pairs for just $47.95 from Endless.com.

I’m excited about giving these a try. I’d heard of this brand before, but didn’t really pay attention because, well, you know. The Havaianas Slim Peacock is a sleek looking flip flop. The footbed and sole are bright pink—well, they call it tulip—with sparkly, metallic gold rubber straps. I wouldn’t normally go for that, but they match the sparkly gold print on the footbed, accented by teal and pale pink peacock feathers. There’s some paisley thrown in there, too. The rubber soles have a bit of tread for good traction. And you’ll notice the textured rice pattern on the footbed, the mark of true Havaianas. The Slim Peacock also comes in navy and silver, and gray. Get a couple of pairs since they’re only $30 at Zappos.com.