Let’s just admire it for a moment, shall we? I know, it’s gorgeous, right? I’ve always had a thing for houndstooth, but there is nothing in my closet with that pattern because what I find is usually pretty old lady looking. Another 30 years or so, and I can wear all the houndstooth I want. Yay, something to look forward to in my old age! But this is what’s so cool about Gwen Stefani and her L.A.M.B. line. She takes stuff that you wouldn’t normally find in something contemporary, and gives it a new twist making it new and cool. And get this. At first glance, the upper looks like leather, right? But if you look closer, it’s actually calf hair with a small leather panel at the back of the hidden platform, and a leather heel. Where they found a houndstooth checked calf, I’ll never know, but it looks awesome! The lining is also leather, as is the insole and the logo-embossed sole. The square toe gives you some wiggle room, which you’ll appreciate atop this 4.5-inch heel. The .75-inch platform takes some of the height off that, though. And while I couldn’t find them for the great price DWJ did, I did find them on sale! They’re usually $349, but you can get them for just $244.29 right now at Endless.com. Now, as long as DWJ doesn’t break my ankle for taking inspiration from her post, I may just have to at least go try these babies on!

Budget Saving Alternatives

Ok, you all know I get huffy about the stupid names designers and companies come up with for their shoes, handbags, and other accessories. This one just takes the cake. Only, it’s not the name of the shoe itself. That’s ok. In this case, it’s the name of the company. This Waldorf pump is made by oh…DEER! No, I’m not making that up. Despite the fact that it seems to be appropriate for this time of year (deer…get it?), it’s the dumbest name for a company I’ve ever heard. What were they smoking or drinking at that meeting when they decided this was a good company name? And where can I get some, because if that’s the effect, it must’ve been some good stuff! Anyway, aside from the stupid name, this is actually a pretty great shoe. If you see it from far away, it looks sort of like a traditional houndstooth pattern, right? But upon closer inspection, you’ll see that the upper isn’t fabric, and the pattern is made up of thousands of tiny sequins. These are static, unlike some other shoes we’ve seen before that change color because of the way they’re sewn on. But you wouldn’t want this pattern to change anyway. The pump features a four-inch heel and a man made sole. And they’re also on sale! Normally $146.99, they’re only $88.19 at heels.com.

What better compliment to a pair of L.A.M.B. shoes than a pair by Harajuku Lovers? This Arlanda Mary Jane Pump combines a few unique elements. There’s the geometric pattern on the upper, the solid toe cap, heel back, and heel, and then the Mary Jane strap in a seemingly contrasting color, but it works. In fact, if your skin is light enough, the strap might sort of blend in, leaving the pump to stand out on its own. The upper is a combination of fabric and leather, while the sole is all leather. The Arlanda will give your legs a lift with its 4.5-inch heel, but the 1-inch platform will set that off nicely. And guess what? This shoe is on sale too! It’s a Christmas miracle! It usually goes for $99.95, but you can indulge for only $65.90 at Endless.com.

It’s not pink, it’s not floral, but it’s still very feminine. Fringe is in right now, but this shoe doesn’t overdo it. It has a ruched vamp with just a little fringe edging on the T-strap. Just enough to be trendy, but remain understated and classically stylish. I also like the keyhole at the back. I think that could also be called a blister buster—there’s less chance of you getting one with a keyhole than if the back were solid. I also like the light grey color. It almost looks like a pale blue or lavender. But it also comes in black, if you prefer. The Lita is a bit expensive, but it’s also worth the money with its leather upper, lining and sole. Even with the 4.5 inch heel, it should be a comfortable fit when the leather conforms to your foot. The side buckle closure is dainty, fitting nicely with the rest of the delicate shoe. Even the bottom looks nice with a L.A.M.B. pattern embossed into the leather. Splurge a little and try it out for $359 at Zappos.com.

You can also jump on the fringewagon without spending quite so much. Check out the Calvin Klein Petra T-strap sandal. It has a soft suede upper, with a man-made lining and sole. The T-strap is trimmed with four delicate layers of fringe, and the ankle strap sports a small buckle closure. The silver-lined insole will lend a little flashiness when you walk, making it a great nighttime shoe. The Petra sits on a 4.5 inch heel, but also has a half-inch platform that gives the shoe more stability. Update your look for less, too. It was $109.95, but is now just $97.50 at Zappos.com.

Kenneth Cole has done a great thing by combining the fringe fad with the T-strap trend to produce this Know Veau sandal. The strappy look and the light beige color make it perfect for the transition from spring to summer, but it’s also available in dark brown. It’ll go great with pants, a flouncy skirt, or even long shorts. The buckle closure on the side is adjustable to get just the right fit. The straps are smooth leather while the fringe is suede, giving the Know Veau a textured look. The sole is man-made, and the heel is four inches high. It’s another very feminine and fashionable addition to any wardrobe, and you can’t beat the price. It sells for $78.95 at Endless.com.

In her L.A.M.B. clothing label, Gwen takes the classic penny loafer to new heights with a super-tall platform wedge heel of 4 ¾ inches. These skyscraper loafers will add some serious height and attitude to your daily attire.

Made from tasteful aniline burnished leather with a cushy rubber sole, these L.A.M.B. penny loafers are perfect for any age – saucy student to fun corporate attorney. It all depends on what they’re matched with. The versatility is probably the best thing about these loafers. Pair them tastefully with short shorts, a kilt, a tailored suit jacket and mini skirt or gaucho pants and a crisp white shirt. Classy goes to whole new heights. Just don’t forget to put a penny in your loafers for good luck!

Add some pizzazz to your classy style with L.A.M.B.’s Classic Penny Loafers – for $274.95 at Nordstrom.com.

Is L.A.M.B. too pricy for your pocket? Try these classic Nine West
Abiona penny loafers with a chunky stacked heel for just $82.95 at Zappos.com.

Want flats with some sass? Slip into the custom comfort of ASGI’s Classic penny loafer in black patent leather for $134.95 at Endless.com.