What’s the Point?

 
I for one, am SO thrilled to see a new shift in shoe aesthetic and the demise of the pointy toed shoe. There was a time when it seemed the pointy toe (with accompanying teetering stiletto heel) was the only ‘acceptable’ way to go, and the very definition of chic. And in order to be or to look fashionable (what does that mean these days any way?), meant wearing one version or another of this rather uncomfortable footwear.

Well, that has almost completely changed as of late (can we thank Marc Jacobs and Miuccia Prada for that?) and not a moment too soon. The much more youthful and sweet round toe has resurfaced as the ‘toe’ of the moment and the sheer variety available (in terms of price, silhouette, color, materials) is outstanding and noteworthy.

There are not only high heeled round toed pumps, ankle straps, and t-straps which are perfect for holiday evenings, but round toed flats and low heels which would make navigating around town a breeze. Ballet slippers with the classic round toe can be found at Bergdorf Goodman in both their 4th floor designer department as well as on the more moderate 5th floor. And even though fashionable editors in chief like Anna Wintour and Glenda Bailey traditionally favor point toed boots with skinny heels when they make the rounds, my money is on the more ‘street’ friendly round toed boots with sturdy heels and lugged soles (like the wonderfully non-fashiony, traditional and perennial favorite ‘Campus’ boot made by Frye which are available ($220) at Tip Top Shoes, 155 West 72 street, New York, N.Y. www.tiptopshoes.com. With the slushy and icy weather upon us, there are the perfect rugged solution.

Of course, another perfect solution for getting ‘grounded’ is the insulated round toed Marc by Marc Jacobs red nylon ‘Moon Boot’ which is also available in green and navy. They sell for $180 and can be found at Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, and on many websites, including www.jildorshoes.com and www.neimanmarcus.com. Talk about boots that are ‘made for walking’ (on the moon OR the earth)!

– Marilyn Kirschner