The footwear collection on offer for spring 2010 is mind boggling and likely to make shoe lovers ecstatic. There are numerous offerings, some repetitive, some updated for the new season and many are creative masterpieces in their own right. We look at some of the most popular shoe trends for spring 2010.

Plain and simple are out, elaborate embellishments are in. You will be hard pressed to find anything simple and sober this spring. Most of the styles feature some form of outstanding decorations like chains, beads, floral patterns, bows, lacing, sequins and cutouts.

Platforms – Platform is the most versatile style for spring 2010. They are so in this season, and redefine the shoes. You can find them in flip – flops, sandals, pumps and sneakers. Some styles have platform front and wedge backs. Then there are platform flip flops over four inches long at the tallest heel point. Take care while wearing these as they can cause a sprained ankle if worn on uneven surfaces.

Ankle straps – Ankle straps are a key trend for spring 2010. These sexy sandals envelop your skin in a multitude of skinny straps. Whether high heeled or low and flat, they make your legs look slimmer and longer. They range from traditional T-straps and wrap around espadrilles to styles that weave around the ankle in unusual ways. Then there are peep toe ankle boots with minute detailing and stripes around the ankle. The designs are simple and elegant with textures and mesh details. For those of you who find too many straps intimidating, the Gladiators are an alternative. High heeled, platform or wedges choose your style.

Animal prints – Animal prints are dominating the fashion scene for spring 2010, be it apparel, accessories or shoes. You can find a touch of animal print here and there on sandal straps, and top layer of the soles. Some flip flops and shoes are completely covered in animal patterns. Snake, reptile and leopard prints are very popular styles this season. Exotics are patterned around crocodile and snakeskin uppers whereas Safari Chic gets inspired from animal patterns. Go Exotic with the come slither look in natural or beautifully colored prints on these gorgeous shoes and sandals with reptile prints. With the Safari Chic, Africa has descended on the streets. Natural leathers and embellishments have been mixed with style to create a look for the urban explorer.

Different leather finishes – Both patent and suede leather finishes are very strong this spring. There are peep toe and leather sole suede leather pumps, suede platform ankle boots, short fringe leather ankle boots, sandals with bows in leather or suede and shoes embossed in leather and suede. Suede styles are generally casual in appearance, but some glamorous styles hint at a 1930’s influence.

High heel – High heel vintage style peep toe boots are among the hottest fashion trends this season. These boots express sexiness with style. The appealing and sophisticated designs are attracting a lot of attention, with celebrities making them a must have item.

Flip flops – Flip flops with a comfortable and casual look are getting a lot of style attention. They are easy to put on, light and cover a small part of your feet, so that the feet can breathe. They go with any kind of attire, be it jeans, skirts or minis. You can look for an affordable pair with beads, diamantes, crystals, sequins, glitter, braid details, or a printed sole to upgrade your wardrobe.

Neutrals and nudes – Earthy tones and pretty pastel shoes dominated the spring 2010 runways. These practical shoes make you look thinner and taller and add class and sophistication to everything you wear. Light shaded ankle booties and pumps in beige, grey and taupe rule. These lighter hues are refreshing after months of winter in darker shades of black and brown.