STORE AWAY THE stilettos and retire calf boots to the closet. This spring, footwear reaches new heights as the wedge makes a comeback reminiscent of the 1960s.
Compared with the thin stiletto, the wedge is a safe and stylish option for the gravitationally challenged (unless, of course, you're Naomi Campbell in Vivienne Westwood wedges).
The wedge suits every look and can be dressed up or down. Among the more popular versions are the cork-heeled varieties from John Galliano for Christian Dior and from Miuccia Prada for Miu Miu, while high street labels such as Miss Sixty have their own adaptation.
Gypsy-like espadrille wedges are a staple in Spain, and were spotted at Marc Jacobs (with a dash of gold), Celine and Michael Kors, among others.
Colours range from soft pastels to bright greens, oranges and yellows. As well, Indian prints and embroideries usually reserved for camisoles and skirts have been transposed to wedges. And beads, sequins, fake flowers and other embellishments can be found on heels and ankle straps.
Wedges seen at Alberta Ferretti embody this season's tribal look to a T, decorated with ethnic embroidery and tiny mirrors. Gucci's have signature bamboo sticks on the back of the heel.