As frigid winter temperatures give way to eagerly anticipated sunny skies and milder weather, shoppers yearn to overhaul their closets. Despite the lingering economic chill, fashion fans can rest assured that a wardrobe rebirth is entirely possible as Payless ShoeSource(R) unveils a spring line of fun, affordable footwear and accessory style solutions.

With price points averaging under $25 an item, Payless offers up-to-the minute trends for shoppers seeking to snag the hottest looks - like gladiator-inspired sandals, natural espadrille and cork wedges, and colorful pumps - without compromising their budgets.

    "Shoppers need not worry - accessorizing for spring has never been easier and more affordable," said LuAnn Via, president of Payless ShoeSource. "As always, Payless is on a mission to democratize fashion in footwear and accessories by offering new spring styles at great prices so everybody can have access to the season's most-coveted trends. Whether
slipping into a pair of strappy sandals or grabbing a plaid-patterned clutch, Payless accessories will rejuvenate your wardrobe and provide a much-needed breath of fresh air this spring."

    Payless' spring offerings include its popular Designer Collections, exclusive labels featuring original designs by fashion designers including Abaete for Payless(TM) by Laura Poretzky, Lela Rose for Payless(TM) by Lela Rose, and alice + olivia for Payless(TM) by Stacey Bendet.

    Unveiled at the Abaete runway show at New York Fashion Week, Laura Poretzky's 11th shoe and accessory collection for Payless channels a striking, edgy aesthetic. A strappy gladiator-inspired flat is offered in black and white colorations, while a black mule sandal features decorative lacing wrapped up with a bow, a pretty peep-toe and a sultry stiletto heel
with a lacquered finish.

    The spring '09 Lela Rose for Payless collection - the designer's
seventh line for Payless - pairs rich fabrics with a range of silhouettes
from peep-toe wedge sandals to flats. Materials such as gingham and satin
accented with a mix of clear acrylic, natural wood, and frayed-ribbon marry
rustic charm with city sophistication.

    Stacey Bendet's fourth alice + olivia for Payless collection showcases fresh styles with a cool retro vibe. High-shine contrasts with strong pops of color accenting Mary Jane heels and flats, wedges, and a peep-toe slingback bootie.

    Ultimately, this spring shoppers can expect to see a range of trends to suit every style personality. Straps abound, featured in both high-heeled and flat gladiator silhouettes. Peep-toe, sling-back, and closed-toe wedges with cork and fabric-covered heels are popular, featuring uppers of plaid, nautical stripes, and brightly-colored solids. Strappy sandals hit the
streets in a variety of silhouettes, including stacked, wedge, and sliver-covered heels. Expect colors such as coral, azure, tomato red, sky blue, and hot pink to convey the vibrancy of the spring season. For those in search of a hint of shine, metallics will also be featured on flats,
slides, and thong sandals.

    The Payless spring collection for women is currently available in stores nationwide. The line boasts dozens of fresh new footwear styles and coordinating handbags with more fashions arriving every few weeks into the summer season.

    The latest looks are available for the men, boys and girls as well, offering up affordable on-trend family options for the coming spring holidays.

    About Payless Designer Collections

    Payless is on a mission to democratize fashion and design in footwear and accessories. The Payless Designer Collections - seasonal lines of original footwear and handbags created by New York fashion designers andhot off the runway - are a key piece of that strategy.