The Sexiest Shoe Of 2012 Is Even Less Subtle Than Fifty Shades Of Grey

Never mind what usually attracts us ladies to a pair of shoes (a gorgeous print, a cheeky heel, a bit of sparkle), when it comes to pure sex appeal, it seems like what's most attractive about a shoe is a bit more primal. Winning the Footwear News and 5th Avenue's "Sexy Shoes" contest is Christian Louboutin's red, patent, studded, leather pumps (no duh).

Voters picked their favorite shoes from among 25 various other styles, ranging from B Brian Atwood's suede over-the-knee boots to Tabitha Simmons pumps. And really — who could be surprised — with fire-engine red, glossy leather, and that dangerous-looking spike heel working for it (see the second-place shoe for proof that this formula is unbeatable), the shoe's even less subtle than showing up in the bedroom with a frying pan and whip. (WWD)