The brothers Caten of the DSQUARED2 label mix superb craftsmanship, cool practicality and a little theatre (a holdover from their party host days, no doubt) to create one of the most sought after labels of today. The fashion cognoscenti were particularly abuzz about the Men’s Fall 2008 collection. It was all about the tailoring, the ski motif, the camouflage bomber jackets, tartan plaid and the mix of usual suspects — a little swagger and joie de vivre.

How happy are we here at Couture that we carry the line of shoes? Estastic, actually. Our picks for men are: a great, versatile summer sandal; a wonderful monotonal everyday shoe; and a shoe for an evening at La Bernadine or the opera. For women, we were torn, so much to choose from, so few words to write it in: good enough for Rihanna on the runway, good enough for us; this artfully, height challenging sandal is worth the climb; and who doesn’t need a sensible, sexy hot shoe?

New York is where I’d rather stay, I’m allergic to smelling Long Island hay, darling I love you but give me Madison Avenue... Such could be the theme song of the amazing Michael Kors, who began his fashionable career at the tender age of 19 at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He would go on to become the quintessential designer of what now is referred to as classic American Sportswear. His designs are an embodiment of the jet-set culture, both in his use of luxurious materials, precision tailoring and fabulous fits.

Kors’ classic pieces are chic, sexy and comfortable, making them the favorites of many socialites, celebrities, models and the like. Is it any wonder then that his classic handbags, fabulous shoes, and trademark stunning sunglasses are hits here on Couture.Zappos too? Our faves: Michael Kors classic Jackie O. octogonal shades, the Santorini chain flap rattan handbag, and the elegant two-piece chain detail metallic heels.

A big issue when buying women’s shoes is comfort. Women who love heels but cry when the day’s over know what I’m talking about – blisters, cuts and aching feet are no fun.

Thankfully, lots of designers are thinking more and more about comfort when designers. Not Marc Jacobs (I don’t even want to try to walk in those reverse high heels), but, for example, Donald J. Pliner. At the WSA in Las Vegas this past weekend, I got to preview his collection for spring 2008. He used flexible materials such as mesh elastic along with regularly used materials, like leather or patent leather, to help make shoes more comfortable to walk in and prevent cuts. He also employed a great technology in some of his shoes – liquid resistance! I’ll have to pick up a metallic pair in a liquid-resistant fabric for going to the clubs. Great idea! Look for these shoes to be sold on Zappos.com this spring.

Even if you don’t plan on wielding swords and fighting to the death in the Colosseum, gladiator sandals are hot for spring. Metallic gold or silver pairs look more elegant, gladiator heels look dangerously cool and flats are comfortable enough to take you from shopping straight to a party. When in Rome – or Anywhere, USA – wear gladiator sandals.