Photos: The Social Shopper: March 3

You know what they say: If you can’t swing the diamonds, a great pair of shoes can also function as a girl’s best friend. And judging by the looks we’ve been seeing on the street since the collections started, there is nothing subdued or practical or dull-at-a-cocktail-party about the companions some of our favorite girls are sporting this season. For instance, this shot of Caroline Issa from Phil Oh’s street-style images on Vogue.com—now that’s a pair of shoes with personality, the kind of kicks that keep you up way past midnight and leave tongues wagging in your wake. So before you start agonizing over what updates you’ll make to your wardrobe for spring, heed this: Buy a great set of shoes. And pick your pair the same way you’d pick the people in your life—go for something you just love, and make sure it’s in possession of a little playfulness and a whole lot of attitude.

There’s no shortage of novelty statement shoes this season, and no end to what you can style them with. Here are our thoughts—and don’t forget to send your own items for the list via Facebook and Twitter.