Perhaps it’s because I just got done marveling at the extraordinary collection of footwear that Sarah Burton put together for Alexander McQueen’s fall show, but I feel about Valentino Fall 2011‘s shoes much the same way that I felt about Chloe – although these shoes are all fine and good, I’m just not feeling any creative spark when I look at them. Lace boots, python, ankle-straps…the ideas are there, but something about the final product falls flat.

The pumps will likely appeal to women who work in the corporate world, although that I’m even resorting to that line during a runway review should pretty clearly explain the problem with this collection. Practical wear-to-work options should be a part of an in-store line, not what’s featured on the runway in front of a worldwide stage. Cathy Horyn of the New York Times compared the soporific effect of this collection to a dose of fashion Ambien, and unfortunately, it looks like she was right.

Photos via Vogue.com.