I’ve wanted to feature this shoe since I first saw it a few weeks ago. I’ve held off because, as you know by now, when I write about a gorgeous designer (read: expensive) shoe, I like to give you a couple of less expensive options to get the same, or at least a similar look. I mean, that’s kind of the whole point here, right? I’m not here just to rave about high end designers so we can all plaster our noses against the glass and wonder whether this shoe or that handbag is worth skipping meals for a month to afford it. Hmm…I think I just figured out why models are so horribly thin. Huh. Anyway, times are tough, but we all still want to look good, so it’s fun to covet one item that may be a little out of reach for some of us, and then figure out how to get around the sometimes prohibitive price tag through affordable alternatives. So ever since I saw this shoe, I’ve been searching, sifting through page after page of shoes, trying to find something that would equate at least a little to this fabulous masterpiece. But you know what I realized? It ain’t gonna happen. The truth is, there just is no other shoe out there like the Christian Louboutin Jeweled Platform Slingback.
Well, I should qualify that. There’s no shoe exactly like it, of course, but there are some that are slightly similar—if you still want to spend a ton of money. But as I said, that’s not what this blog is about. Even though this Louboutin has no equal, I couldn’t resist including it because, well, look at it! Don’t you want it?! I sure do. I’ve been trying to figure out how to afford a pair. I thought, maybe a bunch of my friends and I can all pitch in, and then have the shoes for a month each, sort of the like that whole traveling pants thing which was just stupid for a pair of old, ratty jeans, but would make total sense for a pair of Louboutins. And then when it’s my turn, I’ll pack a bag, tuck the shoes safely into it, and disappear into the night, never to be heard from again. [insert evil laugh here] To be honest, I think if I could afford these shoes, I would never wear them. I’d put them in a hermetically sealed plexiglass box, and put them on display like a museum exhibit so I could just look at them every day. It goes without saying that, being Louboutins, this jeweled slingback is all leather, including the signature red sole. The platform is hidden by the multi-colored jewel-encrusted upper. The heel and peep toe base are electric blue, which the shoe’s description says is “spechio,” although I think they meant specchio, which is Italian for mirror. In other words, it’s shiny. If you’re able to afford them, or you think you can go a month without eating, you can get a pair from Bergdorf Goodman for $2,830. No, that’s not a typo. And hey, if you do get a pair, can I borrow them? I promise not to take off with them. Really!
Budget Saving Alternatives
Ok, back down to earth and real people budgets. Whether I was looking for something comparable to the Louboutin or not, this Martinez Valero Olivia platform peep toe pump is just a great shoe. I think it has a certain Spanish flair to it. The upper is 100 percent satin, has a leather sole, and is adorned with a delicate soutache trim. Not only is the soutache used to conceal the seams around the upper’s edges, as is a traditional use for it, it’s extended down into beautiful curlicues onto the top and sides of the vamp. There’s also a cluster of it at the back of the 4.5-inch heel, so you get the gorgeous look coming and going. The covered platform is half an inch high, and the footbed has a padded inset. Pair them with a little black dress for a dramatic touch, especially in this red. If you prefer, the Olivia also comes in light green, fuschia, and black. Get your flamenco on for $148.95 at Endless.com.
If you’d rather go with something simple, the Nina Effie platform peep toe pump is for you. I usually don’t go for silver shoes much, and this one also comes in black, but I kind of like the silver because it allows you to see the pleated detailing on the sides and heel. A simple, but noticeable touch. The upper is 100 percent satin, with a leather sole and lining, and a padded footbed. The .5-inch platform makes the 3.25-inch heel feel lower than it actually is, so you may even get away with some dancing in the Effie. Never mind that Effie sounds like a grandma name. Reminds me of Mrs. Doubtfire. Anyway, it’s an elegant shoe that will complement any evening look. Try it out for just $89 at Piperlime.com.
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I have two words for you: SWEET JESUS. Those jeweled ones are TO DIE FOR!
LOL! I know! I seriously thought about just making the first part of this post a huge photo with no text so we could just gaze longingly at them. Remind me to stay out of Bergdorf Goodman. If I ever tried those shoes on, the salesperson would have to wrestle me to get them back.
I think that like you, I’d put them in a case, because they are too incredible to ever have to touch the pavement. 5 minutes later here, I’m still drooling. these are better than that crazy diamond bra!
LOL! You make an excellent point, Reese. I can totally see myself wearing these–you know, for brief, timed periods and only while sitting so as not to stretch or mark them in any way–but that diamond bra?! Uh, no. I mean, really. Why? I can come up with better uses for all those diamonds. You’d have to wear that with nothing else to show it off, and that’s just asking for SO much trouble. And it can’t be comfortable! Bras are uncomfortable enough without adding that whole level of difficulty. Nope, I’ll stick with the Louboutins. :-)