“Cosmonauts and seventies Formica. Packaging and food boxes. Synthetic foam and plywood. And a kind of rigidity” That was the inspiration behind the Fall 2010 Balenciaga shoes, said designer Nicolas Ghesquière.

I find the collection very interesting, but I don’t see myself wearing any of them. The color block, geometric heels and platforms are unique, and have an art-work quality. I really like the various colors of the shoes and that there are many complimenting colors in each shoe. At least the Balenciaga shoes are different and worthy of review, which is more than I can say about most of the Fall 2010 collections.

Balenciaga designer Nicolas Ghesquiere is making a name for himself in the fashion industry by designing outside of the box. The above shoe, from the Spring 2010 collection is not only unique in look, with the architectural heel and patchwork pattern, but it’s the material that is most interesting – Play-doh. The shoes are not printed, it’s real, compressed play-doh, and they are waterproof and as sturdy as leather I’m told. These shoes haven’t been released for sale yet, but I’ll let you know.

The Balenciaga shoes for Fall 2009 are all about the sole. They are continuous with the platform trend for this season, but their version is quite distinct. The platform is rubber and looks a bit like an exaggerated sneaker sole. This unique platform in combination with the rounded top of the heel make for a very cool profile. Being that the sole of the shoe is rubber, it's probably easier to walk in, a bonus, particularly for such a high heel.

Balenciaga Stingray and suede sandal.

Balenciaga suede cage bootie with suede sash

 Balenciaga knit jersey bootie.

These funky Balenciaga Gladiator Sandal with studs are a great way to add color and street chic style to an otherwise ordinary outfit. As some of you may know, I don't wear alot of colored clothing, so I get color in my wardrobe through accessories. These shoes are perfect for me...skinny jeans, a simple top and these shoes, fabulous. Whatever way these shoes are worn, the back portion on top of the heel must be shown... it's one of the best things about this shoe. The colored studs are on suede straps and the black and white striped inserts are fabric. They have a 4.5 inch heel, and a .5 inch platform, so they will feel more like a 4 inch heel. As usual for the most fabulous shoe finds, it's at Browns. $1,097