Funk fare in feet fashion

From neons to pastels, strappy slip-ons to bulky boots, the shoe scene is happening like never before. Himika Chaudhuri finds out how you can put your best foot forward, in style.

Braid it or bead it. Add some shine or sew on some sequins. Go for the casual slip-on or the sexy tie up. The long neglected shoe scene in the city is finally catching up with the rest of the wardrobe. From brightly-coloured straps to soles in geometric shapes, the hues and designs have never been so wacky. Now you can match your shoes with the colour of your hair, your contact lens or your car.

While slips-ons are a huge hit among college and office goers, for the party people itâs the stilettoes and tie-ups that are making feet the happiest.

âThe Calcutta shoe market, especially the womenâs section, has suddenly gone the Delhi and Mumbai way, where more style is available for less money. Now one doesnât have to shell out a grand to own a pair of eye-catching footwear,â says Deepak Lal, a shoe store owner in New Market (new complex) whoâs been selling slip-ons for Rs 100 onwards like hot cakes.

Most of the shoes are extremely jazzy, either in the choice of colour or embellishment. The new range that is available now has to be worn with a lot of style,” feels Anamika Narang of Footsee in Metro Plaza.

In the forever-favourite category, boots still come out tops with leather ones in black, white, brown and an occasional maroon booting out any other contender. “Boots with sequins are the new rage,” adds Anamika.

A new, yet popular addition in formal footwear are low-ankled covered shoes, with pointed toes and low heels. “The advantage of these shoes is that they are not as high as the leather boots and are perfect for the weather here. They also give the formal look that many corporate women opt for,” says Dulal Kumar of a New Market shoe store.

With more available for less, this is the right time for the shoe buff to build her collection. For a quick reckoner of what’s hot on the shoe racks right now, read on.

Boot bargain

Boots still rule the formal footwear section. These lend a confident gait and a smart look. They work well on the party circuit as well and can be spotted with skirts, long or short. Those who prefer the easy-to-wear variety pop into a pair of ankle high boots, just right with formal trousers or long skirts.