OK, so instead of doing my work for school, let’s discuss a MAJOR trend for Fall: PATENT LEATHER SHOES. Normally I associate patent with fetish suits (or is that vinyl??). I digress. Patent is burning up in stores right now—for girls and guys. This is one trend to transcend the gender barrier, and designer are rolling out patent shoes for both sexes. Look for shoes guys’ shoes from Valentino, Bottega Veneta, and APC for inspiration.

Why you might want to invest in patent shoes: Patent is HOT. But hot is not always good. Patent could be another flash in the pan trend that is super hot for 30 seconds and then fades out. Who wants to drop $$$ on shoes that might not even last the season (aka until spring?) Guys, rest assured: patent may be here to stay for a while. This past spring, French house Lanvin unveiled a patent tassel loafer in a bevy of colors for men, which sold out across the world almost instantaneously. Patent can add a twist to a mundane outfit, or ice the cake on an over the top one, depending on how it’s worn.

Why you might want to stay away: Patent is HARD to wear, especially for guys. It’s been around for girls’, but is relatively new as a men’s style. And patent is not for the faint of heart. Confident dressers will not have a problem pulling patent off, but for those just getting started on upping their fashion game, take it easy. One way to integrate patent without going all out would be to wear something with a little bit of patent—for spring 2007, Lanvin also did a slip-on sneaker with a patent toe. This is a good way to wear a trend without sacrificing classic style. Slip-ons have been around for ages, but adding patent updates them without going to far (ie looking like a fashion victim).

Final verdict: The jury’s still out on this one. Patent shoes are certainly fashionable, but can guys pull them off without looking too effeminate? I think I’ll stick with my Gucci loafers for now.