posted by teresa on
May 8, 2008
the five ‘best of the rest’ shoes
A while back I was asked to write about the best women’s shoes and it was such a struggle to limit it to ten because there are so many great shoe designers out there. They had asked me to write about the five best and then about the five “best value” shoes. Alas, they changed the title from “best value” to the “best of the rest”…and I would have to state that I would NOT pick those brands as the best of the rest - I think it’s important to invest in your shoes because you will ultimately end up getting style AND comfort.
So here…in no particular order are the five Best of the Rest which are based on what I see sells and makes my clients smile time and time again:
1) Manolo Blahnik: “These are the most comfortable shoes — only get me these from now on!” is what I hear from my clients. Over-publicized, yes. Pricey, yes. Stylish and comfortable, double yes; and that’s really why we buy them!
2) Tory Burch: I’m not a fan of the big gold logo on her shoes but they are colorful and comfortable and really look great on the feet.
3) Cole Haan: I did pick them as my top best value just because they use Nike Air technology and are high quality. Their boots are fab so make sure to check them out this coming Fall.
4) Gentle Souls: Like Arturo Chiang, the soles in these shoes are extra puffy and comfy. The styles are mostly flat and perfect for the mom on the go or the gal who hates uncomfortable high heels.
5) Donald Pliner: I throw Donald into the same pot with Stuart Weitzman. He creates various styles from high heels to canvas slip ons and sandals. I love the metallic leather that he uses on his more fancier styles — yummy.
My favs?
I love Chloe, Costume National and Converse. All a little irreverent, like yours truly.
What are your favs??
















May 8th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
I own three pairs (!) of the Tsubo Acrea, the best high heel I’ve ever worn. I don’t like the rest of the Tsubo line, which is mostly sneakers and other sport-influenced shoes, but I could wear the Acrea every day.
I also recently discovered Corso Como, which makes styles very similar to Gentle Souls. (Gentle Souls, by the way, is now owned by Kenneth Cole.) In additional to being cushiony and comfy (and cute–at least the Candy style that I own), Corso Como shoes are ethically manufactured using vegetable dyes and recyclable packaging–and no child labor. I’m not rigid about eco-consciousness, but given options I’ll always choose the eco-friendlier one.
One more vote: for Arche boots. I own the mid-calf soft leather boot with suede trim and wedge sole. Fabulous in every respect. And beautifully made.
May 8th, 2008 at 4:08 pm
One question about your recipe boxes: I would like to order one, but it says the shipping is only available through Priority Mail (which, for Portugal, is more than 20 dollars). Could you send it in a cheaper shipping option?
Thanks and sorry for the off-topic!