Fashion is extremely alluring and as ever changing as quicksilver. Fashion transforms our image and makes a social statement about who we are and tells the outside world about our status in life. And nothing makes more of a fashion statement than a stunning pair of designer shoes. Women of high fashion the world over follow the fashion trends of the big Italian fashion houses. And when it comes to high fashion designer shoes, Prada shoes are ranked right up there with the finest.
The Prada Fall 2009 Shoe Collection is rather unusual; basic pumps with soles that look somewhat like hiking boots; leather boots with thin belts that strap either round the upper leg or at the waist, and studded heels with exaggerated Mohawk fringing at the back. With this collection, the Italian fashion house is going more for a unisex outdoors feel, rather than feminine city chic.
Eyebrows were also raised when Gucci shoes unveiled its 2009 Cruise collection, focusing on an unusual theme of tattoos and tortoise shell. Most of us would associate tattoos with tough guys and not the exclusive house of Gucci. But designer Frida Giannini from Gucci pulls off the tattoo theme with utmost skill and aplomb. The other trend that Gucci unveiled this season is tortoise shell. Some of the shoes have tortoise shell trim on the heels, giving them an unexpectedly stylish appeal. And there are matching tattoo-print and tortoise shell trim handbags to go with those fabulous Gucci shoes. As usual, Gucci scores a resounding ten out of ten for sheer elegance and sophistication.

Ever since 1985 when Nike first released its Nike Dunk sneakers, the shoes have built up something of a cult following. The Nike Dunk was first introduced as a basketball sneaker designed with a lower profile, enabling more control and better performance on the court. The sneaker was lightweight and provided more comfort, enhancing the game considerably. It was an instant hit with players and the rest, as they say, is history. A special feature of the original Nike Dunk was their range of colors designed to match specific college team uniforms, signing selected universities to an exclusive Dunk sponsorship deal. The “College Colors” program was successful and universities like Michigan and Syracuse wore Nike Dunks that reflected their team colors. Today there are over 1000 color variations and Nike sales exceed $800 million in revenue. Limited editions of the Nike Dunk become instant collectibles selling for vast profits within hours of their release.
But Nike Dunks are not the only Nike sneakers to have built up a cult following. Another great legend is the Nike Air Jordan. Air Jordan shoes are arguably the most popular kicks in the U.S. today. There are many different styles and color combinations to choose from. The Air Jordan 6 Rings, for example, is very popular. The latest release forms part of the Air Jordan Championship Pack. This new color combination is modeled on the Air Jordan 13 retro. The sneaker has a white leather upper with blue and grey trim. Look out for the latest releases of Air Jordans for sale online.