Christian Louboutin vs. Diane von Furstenberg: Battle of the Sandal-Pumps

Simultaneously, Christian Louboutin has nailed the comfort of a regular pump, the security of a bootie, and infused the unapologetic sexiness of a cutout sandal. Full-coverage with no appeal spared, no frump to be found – it’s also no surprise this deep-V shoe is called the Creve Coeur ($795). That’s French for “heartbreak,” and as much as it breaks mine to not buy it, this is ultimately a basic shoe that isn’t worth the dent in your wallet.

Especially when Diane von Furstenberg’s Zia sandal ($280) serves the same purpose. Plus, with a stretchy sling-back and suede construction, you can expect comfort and flexibility. The price tag is as easy as the wear.

This just proves that sometimes – actually, lots of times – spending less doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing style. In this case, you’re even gaining a rainbow of options. The crisscross platform also comes in sunny mustard and cobalt blue, so why not? At this price, go ahead and have some fun.