Until this year, the mere mention of smoking slippers probably brought to mind an 80-something entrepreneur in a plush velvet robe reclining in his den with a cigar (and a couple of Playmates). But the footwear formerly reserved for elder statesmen has gotten a fresh and fashionable overhaul that has super chic starlets and everyday fashion-philes clamoring for a pair (or three).

Smoking slippers -- the hot new shoe of the season -- cover more of the top of your foot than fall's incumbent flat, the ballet slipper. They feature a raised vamp (the place where the shoe cuts across the front of your foot) with a slight notch where it meets the side of the shoe. What makes them so special is their uncomplicated regal appeal. They manage to be comfortable and casual, but still every bit as stylish as a pair of cutout booties. In the hands of designers, this versatile fall flat can be refined, playful or even edgy. Here, three ways to wear the slipper with the celebrity cult following.

Jessica Alba was spotted out and about in these neon pink linen slippers, which she paired with destroyed denim jeans and a floral kimono over a plain white tee. Though it's a casual look, the pop of pink, with a delicate white piping, takes her outfit from ho-hum to hot.

We fell in love with these glittery blue slip-ons the moment we saw them on the blog Hello Katie Girl. Consider them the grown-up, chicer way to wear sparkles.

Rebecca Minkoff wows again with an animal print smoking slipper that gives the conservative silhouette an extra cool vibe -- as seen on the blog Ready Two Wear.