So many trends, so little time. But one hot shoe trend you should invest in for this spring is the caged shoe. Powerfully sexy and fiercely flirtatious, this style of shoe is one that can easily last through fall by pairing it with matching opaque tights, so you get more bang for your buck. 

What exactly is a caged shoe? A caged shoe features a trellis-type design that literally cages the foot. It’s different than a gladiator sandal, which is designed with a center vertical strap with connected horizontal straps. A caged shoe will more than likely involve more straps in the design, in various configurations, giving it a more aggressive look than the gladiator. 

One tip when wearing your caged shoes this spring and summer: wear sunscreen on your feet. Avoid getting a tan while wearing these intricate, strappy shoes, or you could end up with some funky-looking tan lines. See below for recommended caged shoes from Heels.com:

This sandy-colored pair from L.A.M.B. is by far my favorite!

The electric blue highlights of this caged shoe from Pour La Victoire brings into play another hot spring trend: electric hues.

You’ll keep this pair from Jessica Simpson forever. And the price is incredibly economical. 

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!