Happy 2012, shoe fiends! MyShoereka took a wee break at the end of 2011 but we’re ready to get back on the fashion-horse, as it were. So what better topic to cover than saddle shoes?

Plain old black and white saddle shoes remind me a little too much of ’50s girls with high pony tails and poodle skirts, but there are lots of variations that redeem the style for me.

Take, for example, these black and purple numbers from Dr. Martens—no cheerleaders in sight, amiright? Right now they’re on sale for $82 at Shoebuy.

That said, the premier brand for saddle shoes—for men or women—has got to be Bass.

For the cold season, it might be best to explore the boot style. The two-toned brown Nikki might just inspire you to ride a horse bareback. Get ‘em for $44 at 6pm.

Or you can dance to some classic Madonna tunes in the lacy Beatrix. DNA Footwear has them at 50% for just $70.

If you like yours a bit more classic and feminine, you might try this saddle heels in pink. I love the satin laces… but I can’t quite picture the outfit that would go with it. If you can, they’re yours for a mere $42 at 6pm.

But I think my favorite of all the variations I’ve seen is this pair of stacked heels in oxblood leather and suede. Get the Reid at 6pm for $60 bucks. And rock them.