THE STATEMENT SHOE
With artistic flourishes and architectural shapes, heels this season resemble something you’d see at the Museum of Contemporary Art. One lacquered Prada heel would be at home on the mantel; a Chanel heel evokes the Sears Tower’s tiers. “We’re seeing really unique heels with simple body styles,” says Kristi Ryan, owner of Grace shoe boutique in Bucktown. Why invest in footwear that looks like it came with a set of blueprints? As any shoe-lover knows, grabbing some attention below the ankles can elevate any look.
Lanvin violet patent leather wood-heeled sandal, $720 at Ikram, 873 N. Rush St., 312-587-1000; and Marni black patent sandal, $685, at Neiman Marcus, 737 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-5900.
THE BOLD CUFF
Shift bracelets to the top shelf of the jewelry box this spring, and you’ll be arm in arm with Hollywood’s elite. “Look at any awards show. Women are wearing bracelets and earrings rather than necklaces,” says Kirsten Goede, the Chicago designer of the Objets d’Envy jewelry line. Choose one or create an ensemble cast. Wearing multiple pieces is in, Goede says — a couple of cuffs, or one big cuff and a couple of bangles. Talk about a scene stealer.
Mark Davis green Bakelite cuff with pink topaz stones set in 18-karat yellow gold, $3,400, at Barneys New York, 25 E. Oak St., 312-587-1700. M.C.L. blue enamel and blackened sterling silver cuff with blue sapphires, $1,620, at Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Patricia Von Musulin clear Lucite cuff, $800 at Elements, 741 N. Wells St., 877-642-6574, elementschicago.com.
THE OVERSIZED CLUTCH
In recent seasons, women have used the clutch as a purse-within-a-gargantuan-purse. For spring, the clutch stands alone. Designers have upped the practicality factor by expanding the size, allowing ladies to carry their IDs — and keys and phone and lipstick. Plus, a brightly colored clutch adds pop to a neutral look, while snakeskin, calfskin or woven leather creates topography. “It’s a way to carry out the season’s trends without investing in a clothing piece,” says Tricia Tunstall, owner of the Bucktown boutique p45. So even the disciplined dresser can have her cotton candy too.
Jil Sander pink patent leather clutch with handle, $825 at Blake, 212 W. Chicago Ave., 312-202-0047.