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Cost per Wear..

So here I am running off to Bergdorf’s looking for the most perfect pair of shoes just in time for their summer sale. I am determined to find a great pair of shoes at the right price because the reality is, I know I won’t have trouble finding a pair I want, but the truth is my budget is only permitting of one pair, and barely… Just how does one get to the bottom of investing in great shoes without the guilt? The answer is that savvy girls make good investments by waiting for the sales. And let’s face it, every woman regardless of their disposable income loves the euphoric feeling of getting a deal. In addition, these days there are special sales everywhere you look in celebration of way more than just certain dates on a calendar. Almost always you are never kept waiting too long for in-season favorites to be discounted.

So here are some tips on shopping for great shoes that give you more mileage for their life span:

Timeless silhouettes- Leave the bells and whistles for another shopping trip. Stick to the details of the shoe like the lines that cross over the top of your toes, (which in shoe lingo is called “toe cleavage”), because it complements the foot by offering a sexier look. Pay attention to those heel heights too, ladies…65mm to 85mm heels are the shoes that allow us to get around easier and what our feet feel better in. (And yes you can still look great in them too!) Now I am not saying I don’t love a great pair of 100mm stilettos, it’s just a little more difficult to keep them on comfortably, especially if I were to wear them to the office and followed by going out for dinner.

Below are some examples of timeless silhouettes:

Materials- Obviously patent has been around for several seasons and will continue to stick around, but new details like crackled and tumbled patent surfaces are very cool for understated shapes. Think tall black or brown boots…sooo chic! On the other hand soft natural leathers are truly timeless and are really making a comeback in the designer world, so this is something to look for when you’re shopping. In pumps or booties this is a real win-win situation. Oh and please, PLEASE protect those soft natural leathers and suedes with protective spray; they will look newer, longer – I promise

Explore these options:

Colors- Don’t be afraid of color! Depending on your wardrobe you can really maximize your look by getting a pair of Red, Yellow or even Emerald green sandals. Can’t get enough of metallics? Switch it up with a shade of rose gold; it’s fresher. On the flip side, if you have already incorporated color into your wardrobe go for neutrals like blush, nudes and earthy tones to offer balance.

Any of the following will complement color or add a punch themselves:

Peep Toe’s- They can easily be worn from Spring through Autumn which gives you plenty of time to get that cost per wear up. And if you want to extend it out to a full 12 months worth, invest in some fun tights. Choose either neutrals or colors and VOILA! It’s a new look that you’ve just given your shoes, (and possibly your wardrobe), without spending more than $10.

These two Louboutin’s may cost more at the outset, but you will have them forever and you can wear them year-round:

Soles are a key ingredient to protecting your investment. Remember to get those beauties safeguarded by visiting your local shoe repair shop and getting them finished with a rubber-like ribbed sole, (which will probably help you when you’re running in them anyhow!), but most importantly they’ll protect the shoes from rain and all the other nasty stuff your shoes encounter while in transit.

A Note from the Designer- When designing a collection I try to offer my basics or what I know my customer is coming to me for, and only after do I give her the freshness and newness I think she will be looking for that’s on trend with the current season. I often think about what kind of looks are inspiring me which in turn leads me to ask myself ” Well, what do I want to wear on my feet?” From there I build a story around that shoe. It can actually get quite fun and imaginative, and so I recommend for you to do the same when building your shoe collection, although it’s probably a little different and hopefully easier since all the designs have already been created for you to choose from. All you need to do is select from the fabulous, (and perhaps even not so fabulous), but always remember that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Happy Shopping!

Posted on June 13, 2008 at 2:47 pm

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