Sultry Summer Sandals from Shoebuy

Summer is when sex-appeal takes front and center in the world of footwear, especially in sandals. I'm talking strappy, shimmery, mile-high-stiletto-heeled pieces of art in come-hither styles and look-at-me hues. Taking the cue from the old adage that less is more, summer sandals usually have slender straps that expose more skin and most feature either metallic uppers or some kind of ornamentation. Here are some of my favorite sultry summer sandals, all from Shoebuy.com: Aerosoles Basket Weave A relatively casual strappy sandal, the Basket Weave by Aerosoles is a subtle way to add a touch of femininity to any spring outfit. The front vamp features woven leather straps over an open toe and the flattering, thin ankle strap has an adjustable gunmetal buckle. Since Aerosoles footwear is all about comfort, the footbed is lined with a soft faux suede and the entire sandal has extra cushioning to keep your foot happy from morning till night. Finally, the sole is made of slip-proof rubber that keeps you going on any surface. For a more neutral daytime look, I recommend the style shown here in orange leather; For a dressier, evening look, try the black or gold leather. Carlos by Carlos Santana Lizzy This barely-there, ultra seductive sandal from Carlos Santana’s Collection is a personal favorite. The sexy look is achieved by the web-like straps across the vamp and the ankle strap that extends down the heel; the entire upper is made of snakeskin-printed leather. Also features a 3 ¼” stacked, stiletto heel, creating a sleek silhouette. Wear these with skirts or dresses to show off those gorgeous straps! Shown here in Mint Snake Print Leather; also available in Black Mestico Leather, Nectarine Snake Print Leather, or White Snake Print Leather. Chinese Laundry Jet Set For those who prefer an open heel, this high-heeled slide sandal in a sexy scarlet satin is pure perfection! The Jet Set by Chinese Laundry features a 3 ½” heel and 2 buckle straps adorned with rhinestones, one over the vamp and one over the instep. Looks great with just about anything. If the scarlet satin is a bit much for you, try the Mink Satin, Pewter Satin or Black Satin versions. Coloriffics Radiance There’s something about t-straps that boost a sandal’s sex appeal about tenfold; just look at the Radiance by Coloriffics. The braided t-strap in a metallic leather going up the instep, plus the delicate ankle ties make this strappy sandal a must have for summer nights. Shown here in Gold Metallic. For something a little different, try the Bronze Metallic, Silver Metallic or Pink Metallic. Franco Sarto Blaze Summer is all about turning up the heat, and what better way to do so than with the Blaze by Franco Sarto? These thong slides take fashion to new heights with a 3” stacked heel. The thong straps are adorned with hanging jewels that accentuate your foot. Features a lightly padded insole, synthetic lining and a slip-proof rubber sole. Shown here in a brazen Bronze Metallic Kid; also available in a lighter Silver Metallic Kid. Hugo Boss 96907 If you crave designer footwear, this eye-catching sandal by Hugo Boss is the one for you. The upper features multicolored macramé straps made of braided thread and metal ornaments that give it a Morrocan-chic look. The long fabric ties can either be tied around the ankle, or twisted and wrapped up the leg. If you choose to wrap it up the leg, pull the straps behind your ankle, twist it once, and then bring it around to the front and proceed to wrap. This keeps the straps from sliding down as you walk. Other features include a full leather footbed, fabric uppers, a 3 ¾” sculpted heel, and a rubber sole to prevent slipping. Nina Gish Platforms are once again being seen on sandals this season, as they add a boost and take some of the pressure off the ball of the foot. This shimmery platform sandal by Nina has intricate criss-crossing straps across the vamp and the arch that function to show off your foot’s curves. The adjustable ankle strap extends up from the heel and has a metal buckle with a tiny rhinestone accent. Features a padded inner sole for extra comfort, leather lining and a leather sole. The slender heels measures 4 ½”. Shown here in Platinum Crinkled; also available in Black Luster Satin, Bronze Crinkled, or Silver Crinkled. Skechers Diggers Ray If slender heels aren't your thing, opt for more laid back, flirty sandals like these espadrilles by Skechers. The crocheted upper features paillette ornamentation on the vamp strap and subtle iridescent sequins along the side. A leather strap cups the back and slender ties extend up to wrap around the ankle. The fabric-covered wedge heel measures 3 ½”. One lucky girl from MA who bought this espadrille wrote, “I was pleasantly surprised that this shoe is so much prettier than the picture. It is also the most comfortable and flattering of any of the wedge style shoes I have seen or tried. Not like walking on a brick, but like on a cloud. Even my husband thinks they are pretty and he never notices anything...” Shown here in Light Pink; also available in Mint.