My closet is full of shoes. But when September hit and my calendar filled with in-person meetings instead of Zoom calls, I realized I had plenty of shoes, mostly casual ones, but not the ones I needed.
So, I started browsing Zappos and DSW, which was a fast way to get overwhelmed. Thousands of choices, none quite right. That’s when I remembered a few old favorites.
Nine West came to mind first. Years ago, while walking blocks through New York City in heels, I ducked into a Nine West store aptly named for its location at 9th and West 57th (alas, there are no longer standalone Nine West stores in Manhattan). I bought a pair of flats, slipped them on, and instantly felt like I could keep walking. A simple, saving-grace moment.
Back to Nine West I went, this time online. A few days later, my order arrived: beautiful black-patent, leather stacked-heel loafers.
Oops. Wrong size. Not just a little wrong. A size and a half too small, entirely my fault for not wearing reading glasses when I entered the size from the way-too-small order page on my phone. No way Cinderella was getting her foot in there.
Luckily, returns are a modern miracle. One quick exchange, and the next pair fit perfectly. Still comfortable, still stylish. Proof that some brands truly deliver.
Another favorite brand came to mind. London-based Boden, which has patiently courted my orders for years. Within days, a box arrived with low-heeled tan suede loafers. Just the right size.
Both pairs were comfortable right out of the box. Between conferences, client meetings, and a student-alumni reunion, these two basics are getting a workout.
Of course, shoe stories always come with a few more anecdotes.
Years back, while hosting a conference, the strap on my stylish-yet-sensible pair snapped mid-event. Good thing I had flip-flops in the car. Not exactly a professional look, but the show went on.
I could’ve owned it and called attention to it, but instead, I enjoyed the odd looks and whispers—whether real or imagined. Was she really wearing flip flops? Yes, indeed, I was.
You’d think I’d have learned my lesson. I didn’t.
Just a few weeks ago, rushing from a funeral visitation to a fundraising gala, the sparkly decoration on my heels fell off. My husband and I made emergency stops at three convenience stores … during rush hour … before finding super glue … at a premium price. He heroically reattached it. Fashion crisis averted.
So yes, I’ve learned (and relearned) the same thing: Keep a few reliable basics that fit and feel good, and always, always have a backup plan.
Because no one wants to super-glue their shoes twice.
Two Links Du Jour:
The Ultimate Shoe Repair Guide: Tips, Tricks and Techniques
18 Unconventional Uses for Super Glue – Family Handyman
Two Minutes Du Jour 