Spring/Summer 2010 Shoes and Accessories: 12 Trends to Watch

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Just like the apparel fashion trends in the Spring/Summer 2010, the accessories and shoes of the season are both exaggerated and understated at the same time. Think of crazy, funky shapes, bold color and interesting materials on the one hand and florals and nude colors on the other. Whether it's a bold flower on a sandal or a blooming rose on your clutch, a wrist corsage like bracelet or a necklace full of petals, you will blossom this season. On the other hand, as if the antidote to this theme are the pale and transparently nude-colored accessories. In a way, these are the most practical ones as they will go with any outfit. These creamy shades also offer an air of sophistication which may make them stay for another few seasons to come. Try an ivory leather bag or a creamy rose ballet flat. There are many more great trends to check out this Spring. Here are my top picks for the season.

Shoes: Spring/Summer 2010 Trends

Studs and stripes

Studded shoes instantly add glamor to any height. They can dress up neutral suits, floor skimming pants and long skirts in pale pink. You will see the studs on a variety of heels this season - from flats to gladiators, pumps and platforms. I especially like this Giovanni97 Spike Studded High Heel BLACK for the studded trend of the season. Another option for making your look more edgy is nautical or tribal stripes that can make a simple print more fun. These are a little harder to find but stripes can add both a touch of finesse and excitement to your look.

Gladiator Sandal

Will this ever go out of fashion? Perhaps not. Every summer this staple is staying along with the off-the-radar decorated flip-flops. They stand out whether plain or bejeweled or adorned with metallic stud detailing, and any color goes this season. Get your legs toned before you wear these, however, this is not the most flattering shoe.

Strappy Shoes

The strappy sandals are especially chic with a longer heel. While you will see straps on virtually every shoe this summer (gladiators are the best example), nothing says fun more so than a pair of strappy high heel sandals with a long floaty bohemian dress.

Ballet Flat

Efficient as a stylish alternative to a sneaker, and oh-so-comfortable, the ballet flat is a staple that I think will linger on for a while. Since designers don't have the heel to mold to its perfection, they are having fun with the fabrics, textures and detailing. A few great examples - leather flats, embellished flats, suede flats (particularly with leather inserts), animal print flats and fringed flats.

Modest Heel

Though platforms are still popular and the cork wedge looks better as it's taller, the heels are noticeably lower than they were in seasons past. There is somewhat of a chill factor with these modest heels, a more subdued tone along with the muted colors of the season. This is not to say that the shoes will not be in bright neons, like this beautiful example of the Martinez Valero Women's Caminito Low Heel Ornamented Pump. Kitten heel is a must this spring.

Platform Sandal

These vintage inspired sandals are perfect for the breezy feel of this season. They add both height and stability to any outfit and are a nice choice for many occasions. They go well with long skirts so hip this spring, and they go beautifully with the long pant of the season. Platforms are an ultimate party shoe but with an understated color and fabric they can be easily formal. In fact, many brides prefer platforms for their height and comfort.

Bags: Spring/Summer 2010 Trends

Cross-body bag

This one is practical as much as it is swanky. It forces you to pack lighter (I am guilty as many moms surely are) and you never forget your bag. There are tons of detailing options - from studs and multiple zippers to florals and animal print. This bag also offers an incredible design opportunity for pockets - typically just for function, here they blossom to be a wonderful detail. This Tignanello Strap Happy Cross-Body bag is hip and modern, yet practical and perfect for day or night.

Fringe bag

There is a sort of tribal, village quality to the popular woven bag and the fringe is an ultimate accessory. So you will have a lot of fun with the fringe bag this spring - a hip accessory that makes a statement with a simple fabric detail.

Jewelry and Watches: Spring/Summer 2010 Trends

Bright Plastic Watches

If you talk about under-stated, nothing fits the bill more than a plastic watch. This used to be in back in the late 80s, though I am not sure it was formally a style. Michael Kors brought it back with an amazing collection like this Michael Kors Watch in Purple and suddenly everyone wants one.

Pearls

Pearls of all colors and longer and interesting shapes are a huge hit this spring. They are mesmerizing in this elegant necklace and make it more formal on a pair of earrings. While you can certainly elect to wear simple standard pearls, a black pearl cuff can make you stand out more.

Statement Necklace

We've talked about this before in seasons past and it's a long-living trend. Geometric designs rock on any statement necklace. What I love most about these is that you can dress up a simple outfit - a white shirt with jeans or a black shirt-dress. Natural stones, chunky looks, earthy colors, as well as unique configurations will make this beautiful accessory pop.

Bangles and Cuff

As with the necklaces, the statement pieces stand out this season. Think of the chains, thick metals and exotic/tribal looks. Bangles are perfect in a simple piling of thin metal looks. Cuffs work with metal, leather, or this feminine beaded wide cuff. Look for earthy tones, as with necklaces, but consider the modern styles as well.

Written by Anna Harris.