What's Your REAL Opinion on Exotic Skins?

Alligator, sooner than later.

Exotic skins and special leathers certainly aren't new to the footwear and accessories industries. Even "non-trendy" manufacturers have been known to house the likes of ostrich, lizards, various snakes and even kangaroo as choices for their selection of cowboy boots and mens' dress shoes. Brings back memories of my (private) high school, where the head of the math department was popularly famous for sporting pointy-toed crocodile September through

June.. Let's move on to city style. Manolo, Christian Louboutin and Lincoln's New York (www.lincolnsny.com) have graced Fall 2008 with their work in pretty, simple python; eclectic frog mixed with burlap; platforms and pumps in metallic-plated leathers. The natural gloss and fun textures are enough to turn any shoe into an artisanal treasure.

My recent review of an up-an-coming footwear line, handmade from various exotics, is what inspired this topic. Specialty skins are enjoyed by couture wearers everywhere, business districts to a MePa lounge, but how do the materials fare in the eyes of a less targeted group? In an age of PETA and wildlife conservation it seems as though this category would be shunned by much of the twenties-thirties set, for the sake of political correctness. Not to the point of tripping models on the runway, but a light disdain. Perhaps many indulge in embossed-look goodies found in the mass market as a way of avoiding animal-cruelty guilt-- most likely, though, it's just an affordable way to imitate the items you really wish you had.

I'm interested to hear everyone's take on this, guys as well as the ladies. Do you house a soft spot for the creatures used for this merchandise, be it fashion-forward or functional? Is is something you love or refuse to wear? For non-wearers, do ethics or price keep exotic footwear out of your grip? Personally I think the latter to be less of an issue, since a fashion maven will afford all a Saks charge allows. Either way, keep me informed. What is your opinion?

~ Kelly Farley