The Coin sandal, so named because of its embellishment, is perfect for a trip into the countryside.

Spring is upon us, summer is just around the corner and, ladies, what better time for you to pamper yourselves, give our feet a break and show off some toes! Yes, it's time to put your best foot forward.

Always a huge trend, especially for life in the tropics, sandals come with all the pizzazz and class one can imagine. This year is no different and, according to Jonathan Buchanan, chief operating officer at Bridget Sandals, something great is in the mix.

"Traditionally, we use 100 per cent leather. That's our material of choice but this year we're looking at new styles and new materials, like cloth.

"We're still sticking to leather, which is better on all levels, especially when it comes to quality, but we're venturing outside a bit," Buchanan told Saturday Life.

Colours

While neutral shades can be worn with almost anything in the wardrobe, they are a bit too low-key for such a fun season. Spring always brings a fresh crop of styles and a burst of colour and Buchanan said this year, the colours will be as vibrant as ever.

Preston Perkins, sales representative at Heart & Sole, adds that the dazzling array of colours will never lose their popularity.

"Colours are always in for spring. The two cannot be separated. This year, colours like penny gold, pinks, all shades of blue, greens, purple and orange will jump at you.

"So, too, will embellishments. They (embellishments) come in all forms, shapes and sizes and, as a result, a sandal will be created for everyone. Some sandals will be bling for those who like the hype, some will be unusual for those who like to be unique and others will be classic and timeless," Perkins explained.

Speaking of embellishments, ladies will be twiddling their toes when they hear about the design interests that will add spice to sandals. This spring, feathers, beads, gems, crystals, ankle straps, shells, studs, pendants, metal pieces, buttons, charms and animal prints will be all the rave.

"The details are great. Some might be a little pricey but the market caters to different tastes, so there is a sandal for everyone," Perkins said.

"We (Bridget Sandals) have our own style. We don't follow the global trend. We create our own. All our sandals are handcrafted, giving each pair a personal touch."

In keeping with this personal touch, some embellishments have been made with leather, designed with lots of creativity.

Sandals courtesy of Bridget Sandals, 1 Abbeydale Road, Kingston 10. Telephone: 968-1913.

shaunette.jones@gleanerjm.com