Continuing the theme of songs celebrating mood-lifting shoes, today’s MTV Shoe Music choice is Paul Simon’s “Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes.” “People say she’s crazy,” sings the King of Zydeco pop, “Diamonds on the soles of her shoes, well, that’s one way to lose these walking blues.”

How delightful that a song released more than two decades ago should not only capture the joy of expressing yourself through funky footwear, but also speak to a hot new trend.

As showcased at FashionRising.com, jewel-encrusted clothing will be hot in the spring and summer of 2009. Forget your preconceived Bedazzler notions– bright designs from Zac Posen, Alberta Ferretti, and Alexander McQueen shone at NYC’s Fashion Week, and featured everything from mosaic-jewel boots to a crystal-covered cat suit.

Shoes are a wonderful path for translating such extreme catwalk trends to streetwear. Strap on a glittering pair to stand out from the crowd without over-gemming. Shown at right, The Catherine by Report are comfortable and subtly brilliant– they’ll earn compliments, rather than snide comparisons to fading 80s fashion fads. Slip into a pair of Catherines and you’ll feel as special as a lady with diamonds on the soles of her shoes.