Beige, but not Boring.

As we continue to slog our way through an unusually cold February, I can't help but look to the new Spring 2010 collections for some warm weather inspiration (and escapism). One huge runway trend last fall that's sure to make a splash this spring is fleshtone shoes -- and I promise, they're not nearly as unappealing as they may initially sounds In fact, shoes in nude, beige or champagne have a wonderfully flattering, leg-lengthening effect and are a fresh (and just as versatile) alternative to white shoes for spring and summer. Take a cue from classic American designers like Donna Karen and Calvin Klein and keep the overall palette subdued by pairing these with soft and romantic neutrals for an altogether ladylike look.

On the other hand, pairing these shoes with Spring's bold brights works just as well by keeping the focus on the bold outfit and grounding all that color. Beige shoes are also more day-appropriate than a metallic shoe, making them the perfect choice for the office. Despite this office-appropriateness, there's also something undeniably sexy about beige footwear -- after all, they are nude. Bottom line: any way you wear 'em, you're sure to be right on trend.

In my own quest for the perfect pick-me-up from the late-winter "blahs", I've pulled together some of my favorite beige shoes below. I'm currently torn between the Michael Kors sandals with the lucite heel and the buttery-soft suede Chloe flats in tan and blush. Be sure to let me know which your favorite is in the comments below.

Source list (from top left): 1. "Henry" by Moschino Cheap & Chic from Piperlime ($300). These would be great with a girly summer dress or casual, loose-fitting khakis and the hot pink lining is such a fun jolt of color. 2. "Randee" by Badgley Mischka from Piperlime ($215). The perfect wedding shoe and the soft gold tone is ultra-flattering. 3. "Cammie" by Kate Spade from Piperlime ($295). The ideal spring and summer office shoe in shiny patent leather. 4. Zipper Ruffle Heel from BCBG ($250). The blush hue, zipper-detailing and frills are a feminine, ultra-sexy take on the trend. 5. See by Chloe from Zappos ($249). The type of shoe you'd live in all summer long. 6. "Belize" by Kelsi Dagger from Piperlime ($135). A budget-friendly alternative to Prada's resort 2010 sandals (see Prada runway shot above). 7. "Alecia" suede platform peeptoes from J.Crew ($265). I'm not normally a fan of booties, but the cut of these are incredibly flattering. 8. Giuseppe Zanotti from Zappos ($825). I love how the large rose is butched up a bit with gold-tone studs and a wooden heel. 9. "Private" Cuff Patent Leather Sandal by Jimmy Choo from Nordstrom ($950). This bandage-style is impossible sexy. 10. "Penelope" by Maloles from Barneys ($415). As an avowed fan of lower heels, I'm so excited to see midheels and mini-wedges coming back in style. 11. Platform Floral Slingback by Prada from Neiman Marcus ($650). A sturdy, sensible heel made more fun with a cartoon-like flower. 12. "Wrap Up Heel" by Tory Burch ($325). I can't resist a gladiator sandal. 13. "Clayton" by Kors Michael Kors from Nordstrom ($225). The lucite heel and beige leather get you two big spring trends in one shoe.