Dear Manolo: Happy Birthday Shoes

Dear Manolo:

I'm having a big, big birthday this year, and I'm throwing myself a big, big party. I bought a perfect little black dress covered with sequins. I never wear heels, but this dress requires them. So, I need festive but comfortable shoes that will go with my fabulous be-sequined dress.
— SARAH

MANOLO SAYS, it is sad, but once you reach adulthood, you can no longer rely upon friends and family to properly celebrate the miracle of your birth. Thus the Manolo recommends always planning your own birthday party. After all, the chances of being disappointed are greatly reduced if you have made all of the arrangements, such as booking the marching band, ordering the roasted giraffe and inviting the pope.

The Manolo has long planned his own birthday parties, and his many of his friends now look forward to the two-week-long "Season of Manolo," when they gather nightly around their "Manolo Trees," drinking mugs of kir royale and singing bawdy songs. The Manolo recommends for his birthday-girl friend the Riogrande by Stuart Weitzman ($285, zappos.com) as being the super fantastic party shoe that marries the sparkly beauty with the practical 2 3/4 inch heel.

Each week, Manolo the shoeblogger answers your pressing shoe questions. Ask the Manolo a question at manolo@shoeblogs.com. Visit the Manolo at shoeblogs.com.

Photo courtesy zappos.com