I recently got a nice bunch of Heels.com gift dollars for my birthday which I set out to spend immediately. (The gift of shoe shopping is the best gift of all, is it not?  Why wait?) As I clicked around the bazillion shoes on the site the pairs that kept attracting me, while in in varying colors and styles, shared one thing in common–they were all embellished with bows. Maybe I was feeling extra girly from all the cupcakes. Maybe I wanted my gift shoes to resemble actual gifts. Or maybe all the bow-clad shoes were just too cute to pass up.  I got serious and entered “bow” in the search box. There were 233 pairs! Here are three that made my short list, along with the ones I’m wearing as I type this.

First, the Fran Heel in pink from Betsy Johnson. (When you think of bows, don’t you think of Betsy Johnson?) The ankle strap adds a little sexy to the sweet, not-too-bright pink.

I also really loved the Get Listed Pump from Unlisted. The red gingham in combination with the bow is simply darling on these peep toes.

Driving Mz. Daisy pumps from Not Rated are basic brown plus a floral pattern equals adorable. Be sure to check out both the side views on this pair.

It was tough to delete these three shoes from my shopping cart, but, ultimately, I decided to go with a lower, sturdier heel. Am I getting more practical as I get older? Perhaps. But I also can’t resist shiny. These Corso Como Mint heels in silver won out as my birthday shoe. (This is my first pair of Corso Como shoes but will not be my last. I love the classic-taken-up-a-notch style of the brand.)

Everyone goes through phases occasionally on the kind of shoes they find themselves gravitating towards. The holidays tend to bring out the glam in me, with embarrassing amounts of sequins and sparkles. The summer, for most, brings out the strappy sandals, flip flops and fun wooden wedges. perfect for walking the boardwalk and taking in some vacation shopping.

As of late, I have been flocking the racks of high heeled ankle strapped shoes.  The following are a few of my favorites from Heels.com…and my thinly veiled attempt to use a double entendre in my subject line.  So clever.

This fabulous Not Rated Pin Wheel T- Strap in red immediately caught my attention. Enough of a statement on its own, it can be worn with a clean red dress, a simple white skirt and tank, or even with skinny jeans and a funky graphic tee.

For the working girl, the Corso Como Doll Wedge above is a classy and chic alternative to the regular old black pump we all have taking up space on the floor of the closet. The small amount of detail around the ankle steps it up a notch, making it acceptable under dress pants, but even more eye-catching with a flirtatious, yet still professional skirt. If you’re looking good, you’re performing even better. Saunter those files and reports into your boss’ office in unprecedented style.

Now if you and your girls are going out on the town to shake what your mama gave you and close down every last bar in town, this Chinese Laundry Baldwin Heel might wreak just the right amount of havoc you’ve been jonesing for all week, chained to your bland cubicle. The hot, metallic color screams “princess” and the jewels on the buckle enclosure take the place of a regularly tacky tiara.

The ankle strap, on any shoe, whether you’re punching in at work or painting the town red, offer the tiniest hint of suggestive sensuality without being trashy. Adding a pair of ankle strapped heels gently implies a glimpse of innocence and flirtatiousness to your wardrobe and personality. Try one of the options above, or experiment on your own!

Yes, it’s winter, and boots and closed-toed pumps rule.  But why not shake things up a bit and prepare for spring by adding a multi-strap sandal to your current wardrobe?  Worn with cropped pants or black tights, a strappy platform sandal will carry you through the end of winter and into the spring months.  And when spring arrives, you can bare your legs!  Pick a platform sandal with an intricate design to keep them from feeling too clunky.  Neutral-colored shoes can be fun because then you can wear colored tights!

Pictured Above:

Jessica Simpson Delanco Sandal, $82.99

Steven by Steve Madden Martiny, $154.99

Corso Como Greer, $169.99

Enzo Angiolini Winit, $129.99

Max Studio Renato, $164.99