Barely Barefoot

 It's no surprise to most fashionistas that nude heels are the essential item for spring and summer 2011. What's so great about this picture from last summer, look at all of our fabulous nude shoes in all shapes and styles! Whether you prefer pump, slingback, wedge or around the ankle... if you don't have a pair of nude heels, or are just looking to expand you collection, let me suggest the perfect pair for you! Not only do nude heels elongate your legs, but they go with any sundress or skirt in your wardrobe. Stop wearing those black heels all summer long and get yourself a pair of nude heels! Fortunately, "nude" heels come in a spectrum of colors; the darker nude is usually called "camel", the basic you see most of the time is simply "nude" but there is also a lighter pinker shade called "blush". In addition to these nude shades, you can also stick with other neutrals such as a light brown or ivory.

To achieve this sizzling, slimming, barefoot look, here are my favorite, and affordable must have picks.

Aldo "Osmonda" $90.00 USD

I am completely obsessed with this style of shoe, nevertheless in this fabulous nude color! I love the bandage, wrapped look over the face of the shoe. My favorite is this style coupled with a wedge, so comfortable and stylish.

Steve Madden "Bevv" Pump $89.99 USD

Steve Madden is the perfect example of different shades of nude shoes. This is the perfect pump for a night out on the town, whether you are looking to get some height with its 5.75" heel, or just looking to tone your legs, these are a show stopper!

Steve Madden "Glisten" Sandal $79.95 USD

Pictured above I am wearing the 2010 Steve Madden slingback nude patent wedge with flower detailing. I am absolutely in love with this shoe. I have received so many compliments and it adds detailing to a simple outfit. Here is the 2011 Steve Madden wedge, with ankle buckle and a patent  knot detailing around the toe. I would highly suggest getting a slingback or ankle buckle with a pair of wedges. They secure the shoe to your foot and make walking so much easier. These wedges are the perfect alternative for a garden or porch party, where pumps can easily sink into the grass, catch tile cracks or cobblestones (many experiences tripping in pumps) or get caught between porch floor boards. Wedges, the way to go!

DV Dolce Vita "Pali" Sandals $89.99

Strappy sandals are an easy, casual way to look cute in the summer. They are perfect for a day to night outfit. Wearing them for a shopping spree down Newbury Street, or meeting your friends in the city for dinner, these neutral heels compliment any outfit.

DV Dolce Vita "Briar" Pump $89.95

Of course I would love these dainty pumps with bow detailing on the heel of the shoe. These shoes are crucial for any girly, preppy, diva looking to jazz up a simple sundress. Are you tall like me and don't always like being the amazon of the group? Dolce Vita also has a twist on these amazing shoes and makes a similar nude flat also with bow detailing.

DV Dolce Vita "Dakota" Sandal $59.99 USD

When you are already tall, it is not always necessary to wear heels to a party. Keeping in the trend of nude shoes, these classy flats would still be appropriate for a summer party. While you could wear these with a sundress, they would also work on a day to day basis with a cute pair of pastel shorts, tank top, and pearl earrings.

Hopefully I have turned you on to what I am calling the "Barely Barefoot", warm weathered trend of nude colored shoes, if not to help expand your collection! Do you have a pair of nude shoes you are obsessed with? Leave a comment and tell me where to find them!