The Smart Stylist's Best of '08

As we herald in the new year in a couple of days, I reflected on the year it was 2008. We were a part and witnessed history unfolds here in the U.S. by electing Barack Obama to be our next president. We mourned the passing of Yves Saint Laurent whom I believe is one of the great and influential person in fashion's history. But forever we will celebrate and honor the fabulous legacy he created. These events were just a few of many that shaped the historical landscape of 2008.

2008 is also the year that I created and launched TheSmartStylist.com and I've been enjoying both the good and not so good times every blogger goes through. To you my dear readers, family and friends, I greatly appreciate your ongoing support. Thank you very much for all the kind words and gestures you've given me and 'The Smart Stylist' in 2008 and hope you would do the same in 2009!

Alright, back to business! The Smart Stylist's Best of 2008 gives recognition to designers and brands that made 2008 fabulous with chic designs in apparel, shoes and accessories. I have chosen the 3 best in non-luxury and luxury for each category. By no means luxury and non-luxury that one is better than the other. This classification is purely based on the price. Shoes priced over $199.99 I consider as luxury and shoes priced under that mark falls under the non-luxury group. To further avoid misinterpretation , the Best of '08 will feature the 'Smart' and 'Splurge' in apparel, shoes and accessories that were featured here at TheSmartStylist.com.

Top 3 in 2008 Best 'Smart' Women's Shoes in random order.

Payless Shoes

Payless Shoes' collaboration with some of fashion's top designers like Stacey Bendet of Alice + Olivia, Abaete, Lela Rose and celebrity stylist Patricia Field, deserves this recognition. Creative partnerships like this promotes one of my personal aspirations, fashion without prejudice. Thank you for making chic and trendy footwear accessible to everyone.

Lela Rose for Payless 'Carmelita' Pump $29.99 SALE Payless.com	Abaete for Payless 'Nell' Pump $23.00 SALE Payless.com
Patricia Field for Payless 'Salsa' Sandal $21.00 SALE Payless.com	Alice + Olivia for Payless 'Ludlow' Flat $15.00 SALE Payless. Clutch $34.00