Red Carpet Shoes, San Francisco

Observations on red carpet shoes seen at San Francisco Opera’s opening gala on September 11, 2009: In my opinion, women’s shoes for formal events should be peau de soie, and are extra lovely when trimmed with velvet or satin ribbons, and/or encrusted with rhinestones or glitter. Traditionally patent leather, while handsome and appropriate for men’s tuxedo shoes, is not apropropriate for women’s shoes with formal evening gowns. However, nowadays patent leather and soft, metallic leather is popular in evening shoe collections from some of my favorite designers including Brian Atwood, Valentino and Yves Saint Laurent. Fashion changes, style remains! I’ll keep my eye on the local red carpet scene.

Shoes seen on the red carpet on opening night at San Francisco Opera:

photos by Tim Williamson