Spring 2012 Trend Tip: Natural Elements

Spring/Summer 2012 is one of my favorite seasons in years. The colors are bright, the layers are soft, and almost anything goes. Through the explosion of color, shape, and texture a few major trends definitely began to stand out. One of the coolest trends in footwear is Natural Elements being added to all different styles of shoe.

Elie Tahari
Espadrilles are a popular choice every year but they are especially hot right now. I also like the way the leather wraps the foot on this one, it creates a subtle and casual bohemian appeal.

DVF (Diane Von Furstenberg)
An espadrille that is a little bit lower in terms of the heel but still high in style is a sure bet for running around town all summer. The pop of orange patent is very on trend for the season as well, and remember you don't have to match the color.

Pour La Victoire
This shoe has only been here a few days and they are almost gone. The snake texture is gorgeous and paired with this taupe color it is very neutral. This shoe also comes in a really pretty sea-foam color.

Bettye Muller
This one has several natural elements and all together they are beautiful. Raffia and cork are combined with white patent leather to create a very modern and sophisticated take on the summer spectator shoe.

Stuart Weitzman
Feathers! This simple sandal takes a whimsical and edgy turn when you add feathers to the heel and toe. In addition to being stunning this shoe supports a good cause. The proceeds from the "Stuart Weitzman: Young Hollywood Cares" collection benefit pioneering research in Ovarian Cancer.

Stuart Weitzman
Another Stuart Weitzman, but this one is entirely different than the last. This peep-toe slingback is made from a multi-color snake print leather with a lot of variation. Every pair looks different than the rest - you will have to come by and see what your pair looks like.

"Flat out fabulous!" A special guest blog by Tamar Minassian

After a few too many peppermint martinis on Christmas, I injured my ankle and had to retire my heels. That is when I began to rediscover the world of flats. With the right shoes you can conquer the world- but I assume conquering the world takes more than a day and would require an extensive shoe collection. Today I am going to highlight an essential army of my favorite fabulous flats

Giuseppe Zanotti shoes stop traffic and they’re flats do not disappoint. I put these pretty babies on and found myself staring at my feet. I was looking down, but felt high. The tangerine color is on point for the season and the shine is be-yond.

Thin patent sandals, what’s not to love? These are perfect for time spent at the pool, lounging in the sun, and hanging by the BBQ. They also come in florescent orange and pink.

Belle by Sigerson Morrison has delivered a flat pretty enough to place on top of your side- table. The detailed cut outs completely charmed me and are sure to do so time and time again. This is a “best bet” for spring.

I’m a big fan of a staple slip-on ballet flat. Comfort and versatility are key to finding the perfect pair. Michael Kors delivered on both. The black and white snake skin will go great with spring colors and will add a nice texture. The sole has extra grip which makes it the perfect running around shoe!

The highly anticipated Rachel Zoe accessory launch has made its arrival in Tootsies and has gone straight onto my favorites list. This double strap nude sandal is super sleek and perfect to pair with graphic prints and everything else in your closet! So easy and an obvious brain child of a fashion stylist. Did I mention the hardware clasp? In the words of Rachel Zoe, “I die”.

Well there you have it, my current obsessions of the season! Come by and try them out for yourself. John and the trusty sales staff at Tootsies are a huge help in finding your perfect sole mates!

XO, Tamar

Twitter & Instagram: @tamarbourine