By Megan Ma

Whether you’re sashaying down a bustling New York street Carrie Bradshaw-style or demurely socializing at a local charity gala, Bettye Muller believes shoes can playfully mirror your personality.

“My shoes are like Hitchcock blondes. Like Kim Novak and Grace Kelly, they have a distinct look that is mysterious and beautiful. Each one tells a story,” said the New York shoe designer. Muller hosted her second West Coast trunk show Thursday at downtown clothing and shoe store Crimson Mim.

Many Bay Area women, Muller said, although considerably more casual than their East Coast urban counterparts, are also well-traveled and fashion-savvy. They don’t necessarily sit in their skyscraper offices in 4-inch stilettos, but are mothers and career women looking for something vivid and elegant to don at their next social event or coveted night out.

Her new line combines a hint of retro - many of the shoes are swathed in rich brocade and adorned with sophisticated bows and tucks - in vivid urban colors. Between the flirty sling-back African-print wedges, patent-leather red open-toe heels and haughty flats, the goal is to create wearable art for working women, Muller said.

“It doesn’t help to have beautiful shoes that are really uncomfortable or shoes that you only wear once. These are very fashion-forward shoes that every woman can wear,” she said.

Muller considers herself a New York designer with a European sensibility, she said. Vintage clothing from the 1920s and 1930s also serve as a source of inspiration.

Muller’s shoes can be found at such high-end retailers as Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys, Neiman Marcus and other specialty shops around the country. However, Muller said she prefers to see her shoes in smaller boutiques. The added element of novelty and individual flair allows the designer to showcase her more eclectic stock.

Bettye Muller’s Fall 2005 line is available at Crimson Mim, 322 Main St.

For more information, call 947-7463.