Cruising

Cruise collections are arriving, whetting our appetite for the truly dynamite spring shoes coming in February. That's not to say that these pre-spring beauties lack any punch. Sam Edelman's recent arrivals are serious contenders for the title of hottest sandal.

These new sandals place great emphasis on embellishment, space and binding as ways to direct attention to the foot. They are decadent, flashy, bright and provocatively reference tropical sensuality and bedroom bondage.


Sunny Resort by Lori's

The Giada is a wispy outline of a sandal in pony hair with gladiatorial ankle straps and a footplate laden with Masai-inspired beading. It's an over-the-top cacophony of colors and textures and forms that surround the foot, calling attention along your foot up the arch to your ankle and calves. A special touch -- a zipper on the heel cup -- makes them easy to slip on, belying their complex form.


Navy and Gold Summer by Lori's

The Ginnie has a t-strap top gliding up your foot to a thick ankle cuff with buckle. The navy patent (our favorite) is nautical and polished. The wide cuff confident and aggressively sexual.


Green Summer by Lori's

And the Greco. Ah, the Greco. Our latest addition, this Athenian sandal in citrus green woven leather thongs looks as light as palm fronds and as warm as an Aegean summer. We love the peekaboo slatting effect these straps give our feet. The open heel with ankle straps furthers the sense of flirty revelations. The basket-woven top-of-foot creates a secondary texture that feel natural and easy.

Cruise is not just a warmup for spring, it's a release from fall heralding a return to bright colors, airy silhouettes and a welcome joie de vivre.