Designer shoes… are they worth it?!
Hint: yes, as long as you stick to the classics!
Chanel ballerina flats. Christian Louboutin Pigalle. Hermes Oran Sandals. What do you think about when you hear these?! These are ICONIC designer shoes!
Not only have they stood the test of time (think years and years, decades!), but they also come with a hefty price tag for “just shoes”.
I’ve come a full circle on designer shoes. I went through a phase of being Manolo obsessed (thanks to Sex and the City!) in mid 2000s and then I felt like they didn’t really warrant their price tags so I went back to contemporary brands. But in recent years, I would say for the past 2–3 years, I’ve come around and started to warm up to them again. Why? Because most of the non-designer shoes I bought would give me blisters and/or last that long. I may have only spent less than $100, but they were out of my closet after 1–2 years.
I really started to think about minimalism and buying less but better so I thought what if I try some of the classic, timeless and iconic shoes that so many people rave about and see how long they wear and how I feel about them?
Boy, am I glad I did!!! They are comfortable, no break in period needed, ZERO blisters and they are absolutely simple yet so beautiful and fabulous.
The trick is… do NOT buy high heels. Go for flats, sandals or low heels like 75–80 mm. They are way more comfortable, wearable AND versatile. I think I made the mistake of going for 4 inch Manolos/Louboutins, realizing soon that they weren’t going to be my everyday shoes. If I am spending this much money on a pair, shouldn’t they actually be my everyday shoes?! After all, I am all about getting the best cost-per-wear. I also suggest avoiding trendy designer shoes as they will be out of style the following year.
Anyways, if you are going to spend your hard earned money on designer shoes, may I suggest the following three?
Chanel Ballerina Flats
I mean come on… do these even need an introduction? The two toned shoes are classic. They are so iconic that you can spot them from far away. Even if you are wearing all black or something simple as a white shirt and jeans, this pair of shoes will elevate your outfit.
Not only that, but they are also very comfortable. I didn’t need to break them in and they fit right away. And the lambskin one is just so luxurious and you can really feel and touch the quality.
Now, the price point is no joke. Chanel continues to increase its prices on these shoes every year, but you can resole them once they wear out. Instead of spending $50 on a pair of just any ballerina flats that might not be good after a few months, maybe it’s worth spending $$ on a pair that you can wear and cherish for many years to come!
Hermes Oran Sandals
Hermes. I mean. Need I say more?! Oran sandals are their classic pair of sandals that not only embody the brand, but they are also reasonably priced for being a Hermes item AND they are super comfortable.
As simple as they are, you can just tell they are quality shoes. I know that sounds super weird, but trust me, there is nothing like the Oran sandals. I wear them almost every single day during spring summer and early autumn.
The leather quality is second to none, of course, and despite its simple design, it’s so eye-catching. As for the price, it is quite “inexpensive” considering Hermes’ price points for other items compared to other designer shoes.
Christian Louboutin Simple Pumps (75–80MM)
When you put on a pair of Louboutins, the sexy red bottom will do all the talking and showing. Yes, the Louboutin shoes are notoriously uncomfortable, but it’s because you are getting 100mm+. They might make the red bottom stand out more, but you won’t be able to walk much in them.
Instead, get yourself a pair of simple pumps with round toes with minimal toe cleavage in 75 or 80mm. Do not go higher than that. They are comfortable and you can actually walk all day in them (as long as you aren’t walking for HOURS and HOURS without resting).
And remember, when you do buy your next fabulous designer shoes, don’t forget to take them for a night out and take good care of them (find a good cobbler!)
Happy Shoe Shopping!
