Friend Friday: Shoes, Shoes, Shoes!

This is my first week participating in FBFF (Fashion Beauty Friend Friday). This week’s Friend Friday topic is SHOES!

This would be Mariah Carey’s shoe closet.  I die.  (Photo)

It all depends on what I am dressing for! For running errands or a very casual outfit, I usually throw on a pair of Sperrys. I have seven pairs of Sperry Top-Siders–I kind of have a problem. They are so comfy and I like their preppy demeanor. The only thing that bothers me is that they are becoming SO mainstream lately, so I’ve been looking for more “off-the-wall” styles (like my floral pair).

If I’m going out, heels are a MUST. Once I’m in a pair of heels, I think I can rule the world. I used to get down on myself because I am pretty short (5’5”), but I’ve learned to LOVE my height because I can pretty much wear any pair of heels, no matter the heel height!
2. What goes into your shoe buying decisions?

I’ve spent the last four years in Champaign, Illinois (not exactly a fashion or shopping mecca) so I have bought a lot of shoes online. Like most, I would prefer to try a pair of shoes on in the store, but it isn’t always an option. When buying shoes online, I heavily rely on customer reviews. Reviews are great because they give you an unbiased honest opinion (it’s like having the perfect shopping pal). Once I find a brand of shoes I consistently like and I’ve figured out my consistent size, I’m much more prone to buying them online.

I look for comfort a little bit in shoes, but honestly- if they’re ah-mazing, I don’t really care if they hurt my feet. I guess I’m a firm believer in fashion over comfort.

Probably black. I have more pairs of black heels than necessary. I went into my closet to scope them out and almost all of my shoes are some sort of neutral color. I really need to try to get out of my safety zone and buy some BRIGHT and FUNKY shoes. I love when I see outfits that are based around an awesome pair of kicks. My goal is to buy a couple of pairs of statement shoes.

I like Steve Madden shoes a lot because of their affordability and consistent sizing.  I like to get my more trendy shoes from Steve Madden because they won’t break the bank, even if I only wear them a couple of times, and they tend to hold up pretty well!

I’ve found that Me Too shoes are SO comfortable, so I look there when trying to find a comfortable pair of sandals or flats for walking to class or running errands. Speaking of comfortable flats, you should try on a pair of the Gap City Flats. I promise you that you will not be disappointed!

If we’re talking about shoes I can’t afford, I love Tory Burch (I just have one lone pair of flats), Frye boots, and Christian Louboutin and Brian Atwood pumps (Let’s be honest–WHO DOESN’T??).

I’ll spare you the laundry list of Atwoods and Louboutins I want.  I have been LUSTING over the Jeffrey Campbell Tick Wedges. Anyone want to give me the $200 to buy a pair??

(Photo)

PS – I am moving up to my new apartment in Chicago (Lincoln Park) today! Wish me luck that everything goes smoothly and stress-free! I cannot wait to show you the pictures of my newly decorated place!