Shoes of note #2

Having already done a post on desirable shoes for women, I thought it was only fair that I dedicated an entire post or 2 (more posts on men's shoes coming up, so stay tuned!) about men's shoes. This post will focus only on sneakers. If however, sneakers aren't your cup of tea, stay tuned for subsequent posts under 'Shoes of note'. In the meantime, have a look at the season's latest sneakers for men. Enjoy.

A high-top sneaker from the Spring/Summer 2010 collection of Alejandro Ingelmo. This highly elusive New York based designer has made a name for himself in the world of men's designer sneakers. He has a penchant for using metallic leathers, although it's less obvious in his collection this spring.

Heavy on bling, these winged shoes are borne of the collaboration between designer Jeremy Scott and Swarovski. Apparently, the swarovski crystals were picked and placed onto the shoe entirely by hand, making each and every pair unique.

For Spring/Summer 2010, Louis Vuitton has introduced a new range of monogrammed sneakers. This one's in matt calf leather accented with strips of patent calf leather. I know, monograms are almost always tacky, but given the right treatment, like in this case where the monogram's embossed on black calf leather, it's definitely more class, than crass. Details like the velcro strap in the front give it an edgy street look, and perfectly juxtaposes the luxurious feel of the patent calf leather. Certainly grunge-meets-luxe at it's best.

Multi-coloured patent leather sneakers by Japanese cult label, Bape, these head-turners known as Bape Sta 88 Rainbow sneakers aren't for the conservative.

Lanvin's Swarovski crystal studded sneakers exude quiet subtlety and remain nonchantly luxurious without being garish, despite the generous use of bling. A must-have for all shoe fanatics. Too bad it's not for sale.

The fourth edition in Pierre Hardy's range of Colourama high-top sneakers, these colourful sneakers are limited to 500 pieces world-wide. The latest interpretation of the Colourama uses nubuck(raw) leather,which has a suede-like, velvety texture. This edition also has black piping details along the colour blocks adding a beautiful contrast and accentuating the cut-out, panelled design of the shoe. Simply put, technicolour in it's fullest glory.

Jim