My first job in New York had me designing shoes. I illustrated prints for OskKosh, Lord & Taylor, Rampage, Target, you name it- if it was mass market and had a licensing deal, it probably crossed my desk. It was an education in product design, commercial pattern making, trend forecasting and a bit of office politics. As a result, I was obsessed with feet.

Everywhere I went, I’d slyly glance to see what people were wearing- in stores, on the subway, at restaurants, even in bathroom stalls…I know.

Fast forward, and a few professions later, I still can’t shake my infatuation with footwear. I shoot and catalog shoes like I still work at ESO. Funny how some things stick. Anyhow, here’s a round up from my recent travels to Buenos Aires. The mens’ category was predominantly red, blue and neutral, had a sporty/sleek leather look, incorporate platformed color blocking and were often adorned with large tassels.

The womens’ shoes were more of a varied bunch. The common thread throughout were platform soles and adorned uppers. Striped, color blocked, glittered, studded, jute-covered, embroidered and perforated. Every girl (but me) was in a pair.

In the realm beyond this specific trend, the others were bright, flat, crafty and relaxed. I bought the mustard version of these perforated loafer slip-ons. I’m hoping they’ll be a sleek, supportive alternative to heels this summer. At first glance I wasn’t so much a fan of the boots, but I now adore them…they have a monochromatic boldness to them. Pesqueira’s bronze flats were whimsical, like her line, and the Alpargatas were essentially the TOMS of BA. Every store had it’s own branded version.