There were three distinct styles of shoe at the Christian Dior Fall 2010 show, and all were boots of some sort. My favorite is the above lace ankle boot with corset style lacing up the back of the ankle. So, so pretty and sexy. They are definitely on my ‘must have’ list. I like the other two designs as well, although they are a bit conservative for Dior, … I know, current times. The latter boots are very stylish and chic, with a distinct equestrian element that was Galliano’s theme for Fall 2010. Overall, this is one of my favorite collections this season.

I very rarely like wedge shoes. They are heavy and uncomfortable, not to mention, unflattering. I have never understood why wedge shoes tend to be especially popular during the spring and summer seasons, because the few styles where a wedge works is the tall boot. No surprise I don't like the Christian Dior Spring/Summer 2010 shoe collection. It's all big, platform wedge sandals in a couple of variations.

I'm usually not a big fan of oxford style shoes, but these Dior ankle boots are incredibly sophisticated and chic. It has a hint of the classic oxford, with tasseled ties and lace up front, but with the braided detail and silver rimmed, curved heel the design is both elegant and timeless. I could see these shoes on a high ranking, gorgeous business woman.

They are grey leather with a 4.75 inch heel and a 1 inch hidden platform. Available for pre-order at Saks, $1,040.

Saks has just released some new Fall 2009 shoes and the following are my favorites. Available at Saks.

This is the Dior suede and python ankle boot. I really like the texture throughout the entire shoe, even the heel. When the shoe is on the foot, the cut outs between the suede straps are more apparent. It has a 4.25 inch heel and a 1 inch platform. $1,090.

This shoe truly warms my heart. First, because it's a gorgeous paillette shoe, and I love paillettes (sequins). Second, because it's Gucci. My old, favorite label. It's in no way near my favorite label now. When Tom Ford left, the label went quickly downhill in my opinion. Anyway, this shoe is reminiscent of the good old days of fabulous Gucci designs.

It's the Gucci Sofia Paillettes Ankle Boots and it has a 4 inch heel. The only thing that could improve this shoe is if the heel was also covered in paillettes. $1,190.

This Marc Jacobs boot has such a distinct and unique look! It's fashioned after the Holland wooden shoe, and it is totally fresh and new in designer shoes. It's not necessarily beautiful, but it does have a quirky style that I love.  These boots are slip on (it has a 8 inch leg circumference), and the ankle strap functions to keep the shoe from slipping off when you walk. When you are standing in these shoes, you can look into the shoe and see the top of your foot. You gotta see these shoes in person to really appreciate the amazing design.

They are the Marc Jacobs Runway Ankle Boots and they have a 4 inch heel. $845.

The Christian Dior shoes for this upcoming Fall 2009 are very distinct and have an old world quality that I really like. It's the curved heel with the brocade inspired metal work that gives the shoes that quality I think. These shoes, like most this season from the top designers, have a double platform and a towering heel. I really like the snakeskin shoe with eyelet lace up the front. I'm average height and these shoes would put me up near the six foot range. Yikes. The black ankle boots aren't quite that high. These shoes and the rest of the collection will be available in early September.

I'm loving Christian Dior's latest collection of shoes, the Fall 2009 debut. John Galliano found a way to keep customers happy (i.e., freaked-out department stores and skeptical, reality-seeking shoppers), while also keeping in step with fashion. I think his shoes are both wearable and reflective of artistic expression, which is no easy feat. It's usually one or the other (think Maison Martin Margiela). I think every single shoe in this collection is fantastic.

Check out the Dior 2009 handbag collection.

Sandals are a staple of the warmer months, and I especially love how easy they are to slip on and go, but the price of some of the designer sandals are absolutely insulting to my intelligence. For example these sandals below are the Dior Starlet sandal in black. The thong is patent leather. Asking price is $490. That's absurd. It probably cost no more than $12 for materials and assembly. I understand the label is luxury and that ups the price, but be realistic, let's say $150, $199 max.

These shoes are the Dolce & Gabanna Patent T-strap sandal. They are also patent leather, and maybe costs $10 for materials and assembly. Yet the asking price is $550. Puh-leeze.

And even these, never heard of label, Melissa, which are made from plastic with a few plastic rhinestones embellishment and foam soles is asking $150. The cost of materials and assembly is probably about $2 - no kidding. And these shoes don't even have name recognition.

Don't get me wrong, I love designer shoes and am willing to pay the price for the luxury labels, but I'm not going to get gouged for simple sandals that don't even have visible logo recognition. I have a great pair of black leather Steve Madden sandals from last year that are super comfy, cute and cost me $49.