Shoes are fast becoming more important to a woman than her outfit, with some shoes being so amazing that women craft entire wardrobes around them. The list given below depicts five such shoes that will dictate styles for the first quarter of 2013. It’s clear from these that Whimsy is at the center of the Spring Summer fashion season. 

1) Christian Louboutin Pitou Cutout Suede/Python Platform

Since Christian Louboutin first introduced his namesake collection in 1991, women haven’t had to look anywhere else for great shoes. This pitou cutout suede/python platform is an excellent example of why women can’t seem to resist the French designers shoes. Louboutin’s are instantly recognizable for their red lacquered soles, which instantly adds both style and branding which no other shoe designer has been able to match. The colorful suede adds a playful touch to the python heel and platform, add to this the cut outs and peep toe and you have a shoe that will liven up any outfit. A padded insole and stretch gore insets at the side ankles mean you barely notice the 5 3/4” heel. This Pitou shoe is made in Italy and retails for $1,295.

2) Jimmy Choo Lola Floral Python Platform Pump

First launched in 1996 Jimmy Choo has now become a staple amongst Hollywood’s A list. A pair of Jimmy Choo’s is essential to any good shoe collection; several pairs will make that collection great. This floral python platform pump is colorful and fun, making it perfect for the upcoming spring/summer fashion season. This peep toe is covered in a floral print python, which borders on the psychedelic. An adjustable ankle strap makes the 6” covered heel comfortable as well as sexy. This Lola collection is made in Italy and retails for $1,495.

3) Alexander McQueen Skull Platform Pump, Yellow

The death of British born designer, Alexander McQueen in 2010 saw the world lose one of its most outrageous and eccentric designers. McQueen’s legacy has been carried on through his namesake label, with creative director Sarah Burton now at the helm of the brand. The brand has grown from strength to strength, with perhaps their greatest achievement being designing Catherine Middleton’s gown as she wed Prince William and became the Duchess of Cambridge. This shoe represents the brand perfectly with it’s edgy yet almost jovial design. Created entirely of bright yellow suede with a studded platform and the signature crystal encrusted golden skull sitting atop the peep toe. The 51/2” heel along with the low dipped vamp helps elongate the leg. Made in Italy this shoe retails for $1,075.

4) Brian Atwood Electra Suede Laser Cut Open Toe Boot

Brian Atwood’s self-named label is relatively new on the fashion scene, however based on his extensive experience it is no surprise that his collections were an instant hit. Atwood a Chicago native was the first American designer ever hired by Gianni Versace and he eventually headed the Versace accessories section of the brand. With this shoe Atwood has proved that boots are not just for the fall/winter season, but that when done right they can translate into fantastic summer accessories. This Electric and eclectic Orange shoe has teardrop shaped laser cutouts all over it. The boot made entirely of suede has an open toe and measures 16” high with a circumference of 14”. A back zip and soft suede lining makes this heel quite comfortable. The Electra collection is made in Italy and retails for $1,750.

5) Charlotte Olympia Poodle Heel Platform Sandal

Charlotte Olympia is a London based designer that launched her namesake collection in 2007; her shoes are popular amongst young ‘It’ girls and international celebrities. This whimsical Poodle Heel platform caters directly to her ‘it’ girl clientele. This shoe is for someone not afraid of embracing her own quirkiness, much like the designer. This shoe features strappy patent leather in a stunning rose hue, complimented by gold hardware. The buckled crisscross ankle straps have a logo charm dangling from it. What is unique about this show however is the 5 3/4” poodle heel, which features a golden crystal embellished collar. Imagine carrying your little puppy in your handbag as you strut your stuff in these heels. Taken from the Cherie collection and crafted in Italy, this shoe retails for $1,695.