Cheryl Shops

A year ago, if you had told me I'd be writing about Lucite-heeled sandals, I'd have asked you, "Did I start working at a strip club?" Funny how all it takes is one designer to subvert the stereotype, and all of a sudden, reinvented stripper shoes are everywhere. (Even here.) Granted, see-through heels aside, this season's footwear looks nothing like that found on the feet of ladies of the night; the key is that these styles feature a chunkier heel or even a wedge versus a stiletto. But if you do see any of these up on the pole, well, you've landed yourself at one classy strip joint, my friend.

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Leave it to Lanvin to make Lucite classy—with a five-inch clear wedge heel, these sandals have the cool effect of making the foot look like it's cantilevered over the thick black platform. I also love the scalloped straps, which are très Parisienne.


Compared to the above shoe, Stella McCartney's Tess platform sandals would almost look downright dowdy, with their almost flatform-like shape. However, they're incredibly sleek and sculptural, and with the Lucite extending below the toe, it creates the effect of your foot floating, goddess-like, on air.


But, should you really want to look like a stripper—a high-end stripper—then there's always Casadei's red patent leather sandals, the finest stripper shoes money can buy.


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At the mid-range price point, there are some lovely, refined options, like this Stuart Weitzman Theone sandal. With the camel-colored leather straps and Lucite heel, these are pretty much guaranteed to give you the longest, sexiest legs of your life. I'm actually afraid to buy these, lest I never want to wear any of my other shoes again.


For a more practical take on the trend, there's Loeffler Randall's Heddie sandals, which are nearly sold out everywhere (but, whee, still in my size at Les Nouvelles!). In spite of the minimal heel, they'll still give you a nice lengthening effect with the bonus of being totally walkable.


Hands down, one of my favorite pairs is the Lana wedge sandal by MICHAEL Michael Kors. It's simple, it's perfect, and the price is right. Really, what else can I say?


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On the edgier side, these Jeffrey Campbell Soiree sandals have a thicker black strap around the ankle, a back zipper, and a clear band across the instep. I should note that in spite of the 4.25" heel on this pair, I tend to find Jeffrey Campbell shoes quite comfortable.


Of course, one does not have to pay runway prices for a classic look (well, as classic as Lucite heels can be): This chic pair from Deena & Ozzy is just $49.99.


Aldo's Aserri sandals have been featured in a slew of fashion magazines, and at $100, they're pretty much a no-brainer. I like that they're a T-strap, which has the added effect of elongating the leg, especially if you go for the nude color. Maybe once you go Lucite, you never go back?