Cupcakes and Cashmere

Shoe Envy

August 20th, 2008

My loyal readers can attest that I’m a huge fan of Forever 21, especially when it comes to accessorizing. I figure that this way, I can save up for more classic staples and not feel bad about spending money on such trendy pieces. This works in theory, but I have yet to stick to a budget that allows for any extravagant purchases due to my lack of discipline. I think if I set my eye on the prize ahead of time, I’ll make smarter decisions so that when it comes time to whip out my wallet, there will be no hesitations (or credit card debt). I’ve included three shoes, all of which would play a pivotal part in my wardrobe, yet for entirely different reasons. I’ve picked a casual classic heel, a pair for work and then a great shoe for parties.

I almost always opt for the cheaper alternative when it comes to ridiculously expensive shoes, but there’s no denying the incredible construction of these Christian Louboutin somewhere pumps. Even from Barney’s website, you can clearly make out the rich, Nappa leather and its seductive curves. Plus, in a deep camel color, these would literally add some much needed inches to my legs and a dose of glamor to every outfit.

My mom would seriously cringe if she read this, but for a pair of Manolos, this leather pump is relatively reasonable for $555. Whether worn with a pencil skirt or some dark denim, these would make the process of getting dressed for work all the more enjoyable.

Carrie Bradshaw revolutionized the term ‘strappy sandal,’ but I couldn’t help but fall for these Prada scalloped peep toe pumps for my ideal evening shoe. They’re sturdy enough to go dancing, but the delicate details at both the toe and the heel make these unbelievably feminine.

What are your thoughts on breaking the bank for a pair of shoes?

http://wbjewelry.blogspot.com WendyB
Loving that Prada. I still have the first pair of Pradas I ever bought, in about 1995, costing what I then thought was a sky-high $300.
http://desmitten.wordpress.com DeSmitten
I also fell in love with the Prada peep toes, you could wear them forever!
http://www.heart-of-light.blogspot.com/ Rachel
The scalloping on those Pradas is sweet. And shoes always seem like a good place to spend, as long as you pick something you’ll love for a long time.
Isn’t it odd how we all have things we are willing to splurge on and things we prefer not to? If we go strictly by the amount of times you’ll wear something, I should be buying $300 jeans and $15 dresses. But for some reason, I’m always willing to spend more on a cute dress. Hmmm.
Neekoh
Those Manolos are so worth it. They are the “wear me with everything” piece that needs to reside in every girl’s closet. So what if they’re a little more expensive than what you’d usually pay? At least they’re getting the wear they deserve. Good luck with the savings!
http://instantvintage.wordpress.com InstantVintage
LOVE the Pradas! If I had to splurge (and I would have to mull it over for about a month), I’d go for something I know is going to last and has a timeless factor. Namely, those scalloped heels.
Thanks for the Gilt add, too. =)
http://inspirethestarling.blogspot.com Carl Starling
Shoes will last a lifetime – especially an iconic pair such as these Prada ones (don’t go Manolo). Geometric shapes are going to be huge soon…so jump on the bandwagon before everyone else does! Cx
http://sharonrosepixie.blogspot.com/ Sharon rose
Hi cupcakes and cashmere-Thanks for a fantastic post-I know now what I’m going to get myself on my debt free day-the only thing is, will it be the Loubis or Manolos?!!
http://amandabrookes.blogspot.com/ Gypsy Soul
beautiful choices…all 3 =)
hmmm thoughts on breaking the bank for shoes?
my opinion is that you shouldn’t!
but definitely it’s okay to budget and save for a ridiculously great pair of shoes.
you’re going to laugh but between my vera wangs, pradas, manolos, michael kors, etc. the most i’ve ever paid for shoes have been these brooks brothers spazzalato high-heel boots…full price. they’re not couture/designer shoes, but they are very well-made, put together a killer look, and they’re still worth every penny!
my next eye is on some louboutins…a shoe horse has got to have that red sole!
http://alwaysinstylenyc.blogspot.com/ Always In Style
I’m with you on all points…and those Prada pumps are to die for. I think they’ll go great with the L.A.M.B. bag that I want!
http://www.heart-of-light.blogspot.com/ Rachel
P.S. You’re tagged!
http://www.leeselooks.blogspot.com Lisa
oh yes.
I agree. You must own those Prada’s ( ) They are classic BUT have the perfect edge to them. You would have them forever and could pass them down…
I am in love with a pair of Miu Miu’s and if I had the mula I would definately make the purchase…without thinking twice.
BUT keep your eye on those babies…
http://www.leeselooks.blogspot.com Lisa
ps- thanks for the Gilt add. You are so sweet.
http://www.lovemaegan.com …loveMaegan
sadly (and fortunately for my wallet) my feet are too wide to fit in most designer shoes. … i hate it
http://confessionsofstyle.blogspot.com/ Style Addict
I love all kinds of shoes. This fall is full of classic shoes so,I will be purchasing quite a few pair. I don’t lik to splurge on shoes but I will on boots. Great post!
http://www.dafashionista.com Diabolina
Is that pink on the soles instead of red??? LOVE!
I got my pair of Manolos (identical to the ones you like but in patent) resale.
Are you opposed to resale? It takes a bit of luck and ability to deny yourself instant gratification but it’s worth it.
kiss,
D
http://classyfab.blogspot.com tori
Love the pradas. I say, do it. break the bank. but only once or twice a year, and on a TIMELESS piece that you will wear your entire life (or atleast for many years) do not do it to often, and don’t do it on passing trends.
http://wewearthings.blogspot.com issa
as long as you’re not breaking the bank for them then i say go for them! i finally bought a pair of mary jane Louboutins.. and have only warn them once.. so i guess i’d have to say after spending so much on them i’m a bit scared to wear them… i need to get over it!
http://fashionherald.blogspot.com Fashion Herald
the prada scalloped shoe is really perfect. great choices. Are the F21 shoes super painful? Curious, because I always see cute shoes there but am a little reluctant to buy.
http://dresseduplikealady.blogspot.com Cammila
The scalloped edge on those Manolos is awesome, it reminds me of a cupcake or something.
http://flowerprintedmind.blogspot.com Claudia
I love that first pair!
http://rougemarie.blogspot.com Ida
Wow, you ALWAYS make the loveliest picks, dearest. I am fascinated with your taste in ALL. Do you ever go wrong?:)
xxxxxx
http://sweet-low.blogspot.com/ Megan
i share your love for forever 21 and their accessories and those peep toe heels are lovely! i have been ridiculously drawn to heels with ankle straps lately…
http://www.iamstyle-ish.com tiffany
those classic Manolos are worth the investment. Nearly all my shoes are over $500 but I justify it buy never spending more than $200 on clothes. I just think the money spent on the shoes are more worth it. My feet are never happier than in a pair of Jimmy Choos.
Am loving those Louboutins. Adding it to my list of shoes I must get…
http://www.insidetheloopblog.com Courtney
Shoes are always where I spend the bulk of my budget. A good pair of shoes will last a lifetime if properly cared for. I just resoled 2 pairs of my Loeffler Randall’s and I swear they look brand spanking new. They’re over 2 years old and have been worn to pieces.
Well-made, well-designed, and comfort. If you can find a brand that has all three going for you, those shoes will be worth every single penny.
http://seasonal-lust.blogspot.com/ seasonal lust
I am still on the search for that perfect nude color heel. My legs also could use some lengthening.
i found an amazing website the other day for cheap shoes:
http://www.amiclubwear.com/shoes-heels.html
and their collection of shoes is just ridiculous. I think they carry all the same shoes as forever 21, too.
as for me, I’m searching hopelessly for an alternative to those burberry studded heels.
http://www.fabulouslylizy.com fabulouslylizy
I’m with Tiffany. Nearly all my shoes are over $500. So I say yes, splurge! I’m addicted to designer shoes and I splurge on them when I find the perfect pair that I know is worth the investment. I feel the same way about handbags. Mix and match with less expensive clothing and accessories, and voila you have a well rounded outfit =)
http://www.misscavendish.blogspot.com Miss Cavendish
Love the Louboutins–the heel is deliciously and elegantly high!
Alice Olive
The first pair are stunning. Stunning.
PS – Thank you for your kind words on my blog.
http://observationmode.blogspot.com/ enc
Classics like the CL and the MB are worth every penny. I have some MBs from five years ago that I thought were a huge splurge at $295. They are still going strong. I don’t know if you’ve ever picked up and really looked at shoes of this caliber, but the construction and materials are top grade, hence the prices. However, they are shoes that you can wear for years if you take care of them. You just have to be careful to choose timeless pieces like the ones you show above.
The Pradas are a season-specific thing of beauty, a whimsical look that will be fun to resurrect a year or two after they are “over.” I hope you get them all.
http://www.thebudgetbabe.com Budget Babe
honestly, i think i would need to own a pair of manolos or loubies before i could effectively assess whether or not they are worth the cost (anyone care to donate? hehe). i got a pair of Chanel boots when a friend was cleaning out her closet, and they KILL my feet (they are the correct size too). So it’s tricky. I know girls who swear by their pricey designer heels, but i have yet to give them a thorough test drive.
but bottom line, don’t blow your rent or your credit score for shoes. there’s nothing stylish about that, imo