Step out in style this season in a versatile platform wedge

Shoe designers are giving women some new points.
KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
Think bigger, brighter and edgier for shoes this spring.
"Everything is just -- more," says Meghan Cleary, New York-based shoe expert and author of "The Perfect Fit: What Your Shoes Say About You."
"If you already had a pair of platforms, the newest styles will be one-and-a-half-inches higher. If you had simple wedges, you'll be seeing wedge espadrille lace-ups, wedge platforms, and wedge huaraches. Whatever you didn't wear much last season, get rid of and make room for a new pair -- because the choices are endless."
For those on a budget looking for one key pair to update your spring wardrobe, choose a versatile platform wedge that can be dressed up when paired with a skirt or suit, or worn casually with shorts, gauchos or denim.
What can carry over from fall and winter?
"The ballet flat has absolutely exploded," Cleary says. "We're seeing them in fun bright colors and interesting textures, from python skin and patent leather to metallics. Peep toe ballet flats, which are cute and sassy, are the next iteration of that style and a nice alternative to a sandal."
Right time
Shop for shoes from 5 to 7 p.m.
"I call it the 'magical cocktail hour.' That's when your feet are their biggest, at the end of the day, so you know the minimum size you should buy."
Focus on fit, not size.
"Women get caught up with the size they think they are, but the shoe industry is not standardized, so you might be a different size depending on the designer."
Buy pointy-toed shoes a half-size larger than your normal shoe size.
"Unlike a round toe, which is more like the natural shape of your foot, pointy toed shoes require more room for your feet to be comfortable."