Online - June 13, 2006

Getting to Know You

Eileen Shields Shoes

They say that you can’t really know someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.

And while you’re all for making friends, traipsing around in somebody else’s grody sneakers isn’t really your thing.

Lucky for you, getting to know Eileen Shields involves nothing of the sort. The shoe designer’s pleasing collection of stilettos, flats, and wedges is one you’ll want to slip right on.

Using basic shapes as her template, Shields adds her own quirky twists. Unexpected combos from the spring collection include the Jessica, a snakeskin pump with a chunky heel and not-so-girly bow; the Emma, a classic open-toe wedge with delicate leather ankle wraps; and the Julez, a brightly colored heel with metallic crisscross detailing.

She’s also got boots, flats, and low-heel sandals.

Which might just make that last nine-tenths of a mile a little more bearable.

Available online at eileenshields.com.