I’m kind of in love with these Alexander McQueen uber-tough ankle-tie heels. They’re kind of scary but I would love to be able to add more toughness to my wardrobe with them.

But they’re about $1000+. Sooooo, I’m not going to get them anytime soon, I don’t think.

I wanted to find something that would have a similar feel but be easier on my wallet. Especially given the fact that they are not what I would call a “classic-wear-anywhere” shoe.

After some searching I found these corset style heels. They’re actually a bit trashy (the brand is “Pleaser” for Pete’s sake!) but since they were only $35 I felt I could make something out of them.

The style seems simple enough that they don’t look totally trashy. My biggest issue was with the clear heel. I felt I could paint them and you’d be none the wiser.

So I dug into my pile of arts and crafts supplies and got my acrylic paint and paintbrushes out.

Before. After.

Not too bad, huh?

Not one to leave well enough alone, I thought it might be fun to add a contrast heel… and some glitter. Yeah, glitter might be too much but if it starts to look too crappy I can take off the paint and then just repaint them solid black.

Granted not the best lace up job here…

but I think they’ll be pretty cute with this black sequined dress I just got.

Sexy, not too trashy right? The simplicity really helps.

Glitter!

Not a bad solution for the price.