Snakeskin: The New Neutral for Work

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Looking for a little something new in the work pump department, but need something that will still go with most of your work wardrobe? Consider a smart snakeskin pump. This look – widely available in both natural snakeskin and embossed leather versions – is the new neutral for spring.

Several of the big fashion glossies are touting snakeskin as a fashionable new neutral, suitable for even the most conservative work situations. I couldn’t agree more. The subdued colors and natural pattern don't scream "slave to the trends," despite reptile skin's longstanding fashionista pedigree, if you are careful to pick a simple silhouette. Stores are stocking a range of classic pump shapes in snakeskin this season, making it easy to find a version that will fit with your work look and dress code.

A great place to start, if you are new to snakeskin, is this kitten-heel Michael Kors pump. The simple shape and lower heel make it a completely safe way to work snakeskin into your work look. Try it with your go-to black wool sheath dress, or paired with a pencil skirt suit.

Michael Kors Trisha Snakeskin Pump


→ Buy the Michael Kors Trisha Snakeskin Pump, $375.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.


If you are ready to wade into more daring fashion waters, this Diane von Furstenberg snakeskin wedge is a smart option. The point-toe wedge shape is super popular this spring, and the ankle strap will keep the shoe firmly in place during your sprint to the corner Starbucks between meetings.

Diane von Furstenberg Pretty Snakeskin Wedges


→ Buy the Diane von Furstenberg Pretty Snakeskin Wedges, $298.00, at saks.com.


If your office lends itself to slightly more creative looks, these Dolce Vita ankle strap pumps are fantastic. The combination of beige leather and classic black and white snakeskin means that this pump will go with an even wider range of wardrobe options. Plus, they just look super cool.

Dolce Vita Kana Pump


→ Buy the Dolce Vita Kana Pump, $158.95, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.


The round toe pump is a work wardrobe must have for both its classic looks and its comfort level. The silhouette gets a modern update with these Coach pumps. This shoe will look great peeking out from your pantsuits.




→ Buy the Coach Nala Pump, $188.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.


If you are still debating the full-on snakeskin look, start with these snakeskin accent pumps by Coach. The basic 4-inch heel pump features a snakeskin cap toe with a goldtone Coach logo detail stripe. They’ll give off a preppy vibe with trousers, and ooze sophistication with a just below the knee pencil skirt.

Coach Nacie Pump


→ Buy the Coach Nacie Pump, $215.00, at zappos.com; shipping and returns are free.