Ever since Barbara Bui opened a boutique in LA, she has become a staple in my wardrobe. It’s hard to believe the French-Vietnamese designer has been producing ahead-of-the-curve gear for nearly 30 years! This spring she couldn’t be more on trend – athletic, bold color, an emphasis on the ankle, it’s all right here – yet these sandals don’t have even a hint of generic blandness.
Instead, biker inspiration (the cushy motor-cross seams and panels) set in surprising stark white with a shock of red is in-your-face hot. You could opt for a slight variation, in all-white or blue, but those don’t have the impact here. And when your details are minimal and the design is essentially simple, impact is where it’s at. These may be sandals with a stiletto, but they aren’t for a prim lady. Bui’s ankle-cuff is strong and assertive. As in, it keeps you stable so you can be strong and assertive. If you feel powerful, then you are powerful! On Ssense for $920.
Pair with: Allow these sandals to amp up bleached-blue denim. J.Brand’s 620 low-rise skinnys are an ideal addition to your summer denim closet, and Bui’s ankle-strap will give them edge. On Net-a-Porter for $175.
