If there is an item I find myself shopping the most, it’s shoes. Ever since I can remember, shoes have been my favorite accessory…almost to a fault (I have very few bags and need to step up my game!). A chic pair of shoes can elevate any outfit, and depending on where/what you’re buying, you don’t have to break the bank to build a solid shoe collection.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more particular about the types of shoes I buy. Sure, I’ll get a cheap-y trendy shoe once in a while, but for the most part, I want a high quality shoe for a good price (I’m a major bargain shopper). That is virtually impossible to find when you’re shopping at department stores. If it’s made in Italy, you’re likely going to pay a premium for it. With that said, I’ve resorted to various online shops to fuel my shoe addiction – and so far it’s been working out for me! Below are a few sites I regularly stalk for the next shoe purchase.
YOOX
Yoox is top of the list for me, and where I buy most of my shoes. I’m always surprised to find that many people still don’t know about this gem! It’s part of the Net-A-Porter group, based in Italy. It’s one of the best places to shop designer from previous seasons, and at amazing prices. They also feature smaller Italian designers that aren’t widely known, and the quality is always amazing. My favorite feature of all time is the “Dream Box” – you can favorite items you love and jump back into your account every so often to see if they’ve been marked down. SOMETIMES, if you’re lucky, they offer special discounts just for the items in your Dream Box! Genius.
Cos (Collection of Style)
I discovered COS on my first trip to London 5 years ago. Their stuff is timeless – minimalist with very simple yet unique designs. You never have to worry about their pieces going out of style! AND the quality is too too good! I bought a pair of nude loafers from COS last summer and they’re the most comfortable pair of shoes I own outside of my sneakers. The softest leather..it feels like I’m wearing socks. Beautiful stuff all around.
Massimo Dutti
Massimo Dutti is my go-to when I go to Greece! I think of it as a level above Zara in terms of quality – the prices are slightly higher, but the quality is too. Their stuff is less trendy, but you’ll find a classic items there with a little twist. Their shoes are particularly great – most are made in Spain with high quality leather. I picked up these silver sandals from there earlier this summer (on my Greece trip, of course), and have been wearing them on repeat.
& Other Stories
Last but not least – & Other Stories is another one of my favorites. For everything really, but yesss the shoes. Their boots for this season are on point, and always at affordable price points. They nail knock-offs of designer shoes (exhibit A – these boots which are essentially these but for 1/5 of the price!). I always try to make it to their NYC store when I’m in town, because the store in Soho is an experience. I highly recommend it!
