A leopard can never change its spots, but you sure can — literally. In a gray-is-the-new-black, coral-lipstick-is-the-new-pink universe, leopard prints are as ubiquitous a fashion motif as plaid patterns and floral motifs. Fortunately, fashion and footwear designers are proving that, like birthmarks, no two leopard spots are identical. And, if there's anything we've learned from style icons like Gwen Stefani, Pat Benatar, and Kate Moss, it's that a nice infusion of leopard print can add the right touch of rocker cool or a dose of safari-ready spunk.
We're loving the mustard yellow-infused olive color at the core of the watercolor-esque, muddy brown leopard spots on the new Charlotte Olympia Leopard-Print "Miranda" Linen Wedge Sandals, which recently landed at the Bergdorf Goodman Shoe Salon. Made in Italy, the "Miranda" wedge sandal features a 5 9/10" covered, leopard print, linen wedge heel with a contoured platform, a turban-like knot over the peep toe, and a slim mustard yellow ankle strap.
The wedges are part of the new Spring 2011 collection from half-Brazilian, half- British footwear designer Charlotte Olympia Dellal, which incorporates several styles that redefine linen and canvas, making the breathable, summer-y fabrics feel take on a streamlined, ladylike feel. Another standout style: the "Delores" Espadrille-Platform Canvas Pump (pictured above in red), a round-toe pump with linen-like canvas uppers in a paprika-esque red; a 1 1/2" jute-covered platform sole along the front with a rope-like, espadrille-like feel; a buckled, slim ankle strap with perforations along a gold leather slither accent; and a sleek, covered, 5 3/4" heel.
Charlotte Olympia Leopard Print Linen Wedge Sandal, $895; and Espadrille-Platform Canvas Pump, $895. Available at BergdorfGoodman.com
