Have you noticed that sandal-turned-boots can either look really chic (a perfect compromise that shows off your feet while giving overall coverage) or really puzzling (when the proportions are off they can look like an overfed sandal or a flash-happy boot)? Alexandre Birman’s crocodile-embossed ankle boots are most definitely the former.
The cutouts show off the desired balance of skin – the heel, a surprising sliver that leads up to the ankle, and the peep-toe (I never have a problem with an open-toe bootie – it makes any and all just a touch sexier). The stamped leather gives rich texture, and the charcoal gray color is fall’s perfect tone. But it’s the amazing strappiness that makes it special. Smooth leather that crosses in well-placed diagonals, with a buckled ankle strap for a true sandal reference, is not over done but rather works in perfect harmony with the shoe. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $595.
Pair with: Birman’s bootie has an impeccable silhouette for dresses. VPL’s rust-tone gathered accordion dress a mix of cocktail and cool, which is what you want for a bootie like this. At Barneys New York for $925 (for pre-order).
