We got such a positive response from our ‘Affordable Luxury – Clothing Brands’ blog that we decided to follow up with one for shoes (and bags is still to come!). So here you go – shoe brands that are a bit of an investment, are great quality and style, and will last a long time. These are not ‘one and done’ season shoes, and are also not the Pradas of the world…they are in the $350-$500 range, the Affordable Luxury sweet spot!
A well-known luxury shoe brand with classic styles. Chrissie’s favorite boots ever were by them – she finally wore them out after years of having them. Best sellers include:
- Nudist: Minimalist strappy sandal for evening and formal occasions. Iconic due to its elegant, barely-there design. $475 but often on sale.
- 5050 Over-the-Knee Boot: classic, featuring a stretch back panel for a comfy fit. A bestseller for years and a fall and winter staple. $795.
AGL:
Italian shoe brand known for its elegant designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and comfort. Popular styles include:
- Angie Wave Pump: We love the 2″ block heel and cushioned foot bed of this pump. $490. A riff on the classic Chloe wave. Also available in a 1” heel.
- Angie Slingback Pump: Great block heel, elasticized slingback strap, and cushioned footbed. Available in nude – perfect for all seasons. $475.
Loeffler Randall:
Popular brand known for stylish, feminine, and thoughtfully designed footwear.
- Camellia Knotted Sandal: Signature block heel with delicate knotted bow detail on front. Available in various colors and materials. $395.
- Rachel Black Leather Loafer: Classic! Penny loafer in black Italian leather. Features a padded leather footbed with gold stamped logo, a round toe, and a slip-on design. 0.75-inch heel. $325.
Gaining popularity of late, Larroude blends comfort and fashion. And the ones we have tried are super comfortable! Jo’s daughter is on her feet all day for work and lives in her Larroude Milan sandal!
- Blair Ballet Flat: Available in 12 colors and a sleek modern design. $315.
- Milan Sandal: Iconic Italian look and feel, chunky chain detail embellishes the straps of this classic leather sandal with the most durable—and comfortable—block heel for all day (and night) wear. $350. Also comes in lower heel.
Ann has been a FabList favorite from the get-go for her classic pumps and ballet flats.
- Buckle Pump: Classic and chic, this square-toe pump lofted by a low block heel is updated with a buckled vamp. $295.
- Square Toe Ballet Flat: A squared-off toe amplifies the contemporary appeal of a supple suede ballet flat set on a cushioned footbed for comfortable wear. $250.
Started by two Harvard roommates who noticed women had to choose between style and comfort and wanted to put an end to that! The collection is classic – flats, loafers, and pumps rule their business.
- Demi Ballet Flat: $245 and available in leather and woven. They have a flexible leather sole and an adjustable cord bow to customize the fit.
- Andie Loafer: Handmaid in Spain, a tailored, leather-lined construction for a structured-yet-comfortable fit. Includes 5 mm of plush foam padding! $345. We also like their suede loafer, the Penny.
Mansur Gavriel:
Designed in NYC and made in Italy, the brand’s shoes are classic, timeless designs made of premium leather. They have tons of ballerina flat styles/colors/options.
The Glove Flat is a more contemporary ballerina style, and comes in 4 colors. $445
The Sun Mule is versatile enough to wear with pants, skirts or dresses. $545, sale $355
Founded in 1925, Pedro Garcia is a third generation family-run Spanish business known for its high-quality, elegant and distinctive shoes.
Their Sebas Lug Penny Loafer comes in 4 finishes. $595
The Fritzi Wedge Sandal, in fall’s ‘it’ color brown is selling quickly! $595
