Thank you so much for watching! If you want to share, I’d love to know any shoes you’ve had a good experience with and I’ll add them to the description box ❤️ Also it goes without saying but price doesn’t always equal quality
I think Stubbs & Wootton makes a great loafer “Classic Slipper” that is comfortable and lasts and can be worn anywhere-especially great for travel. Thanks for this helpful video ❤️❤️
For heels I absolutely love the Danish brand Roccamore. They build their shoes on lasts and they all have a built in orthopedic-designed insole for extra support. It alleviates some of the pressure from the forefoot. The brand also puts effort into sustainable production practices. ❤️
Thank you Audrey, you represent sense and sensibility while being stylish! Go sister! Mmm What will you recommend if we wish to buy affordable vegan shoes that are durable and yet stylish and good for environment?
Good tips! I have often found that expensive doesn’t always equal good quality. So even with expensive shoes it’s always good to check the things mentioned in this video.
I can't imagine the amount of time it takes to research these vids Audrey. I've watched several vids that describe how to look for higher quality shoes and they generally tend to say the same thing. All of your points are new and fresh, and you explain them beautifully. Thank you for such high quality content and all the hard work you put in!
I'd love to see a video about how to clean and care for shoes. I'm terrible at keeping casual shoes clean, and never know what the best products are to shine my "dress up" shoes and boots. Audrey, we need your help!
Just an info, I keep my white sneakers as new by using baby wapes after every other wear and washing white laces with some kind bleach. Perhaps that helps :)
I recently bought some Clarks. I am also a fan of Tamaris shoes too. Once I find something comfortable I become a loyal customer. I am a teacher and confort is important. But when my boyfriend came with terms as foot pronation in order to better choose my shoes I realized how deep this field is. And also an answer why my closet is full of shoes I cannot wear. Very useful information, Audrey!
I’m a teacher too and I’m always looking for comfortable shoes that look good. I like the way Birkenstock’s feel but not a huge fan of the way they look, although they’re on trend at the moment. Lol
Some clark shoes I have a hard time with because I have a bunion and where they sew the toe and sides are seamed. With the wide foot at the toe and narrow at the hill that my foot needs ,clarks are usually to tight. I like Eastland shoes. For my feet buying real leather shoes is better because they stretch to form to my foot.
One of the oldest pair of shoes in my collection is my Clarks loafers. They're super comfortable and have come in handy not just for the transitional seasons, but also for travel purposes. Nice to know that this brand continues to have success for some of us! 😊
I used to love Clarks, but their sandals have are being made more cheaply than they used to be, also they are wider so I just can't find a sandal that looks as good or fits as well in their brand anymore. I bought a few pairs on eBay to get the style I wanted but the soles just didn't age well either.
@@preston6814 My mom gave me a pair of funky, painted-looking Birkenstock clogs, and I have gotten more compliments on those things! Even from the high school students I used to volunteer with! ☺
1. good shape 2. is not flat, has a delineation/slight heel/differentiation between the front and back of the heel 3. material must not be thin (thick material and sturdy shape) 4. no visible glue marks. A well-constructed shoe is typically sewn together 5. seams, threads. no buckling rippling, or threads coming undone 6. attention and care is given to the shoes 7. train your eyes to look at shoes as to which kind will last the longest 8. beautiful patterns and prints 9. embellishments - when in doubt, go without 10. avoid unevenly or unrealistically colored shoes
thank you for your comment, it helps me remember and keep track of what's in the video when I'm making personal notes again 😊 P.S. don't worry about the negative/indifferent comments.
@@alina8355 thank you! I wrote this while I was watching the video so I wouldn't forget and better understand her points. I thought it would just get buried in the comments section but I'm glad it helped other people.
@@TheHearthFairy I very much appreciate Audrey's video and I do think that people would miss out on important explanations, not to mention visual examples, if they just look at my notes. My notes, that were made just for me, contain a fraction of what she taught in the video.
Dam.. i can't at times spot the difference between the 2 shoes that you showed! I think we will need another video of pointing that out for us... Eg: the nude buckle shoes looked so much alike!
The side by side comparison is SO helpful!! I've always wondered why my shoes never look as nice as my coworkers.. thank you for all the research and care you take in your videos!
Its funny that you mentioned that the shoe is shaped like a foot. I grew up in Hawaii where I didn't wear covered shoes all that much. My husband grew up in the mainland US and we discussed how his foot is shaped like a shoe and mine aren't ( my feet have a very wide toe box).
That's because modern shoes (every single pair you see in this video, btw) are just awful for the feet. They may look fancy and pretentious but in reality, they are causing life-long problems with spine/posture, leg muscles, knee tendons, ankles...not to mention that 99% of the population suffers from hallux valgus/rigidus, ingrown toenails, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis and many other deformities/ailments. Keep your feet wide and healthy and protect them at all costs :-) Please, do not wear tight, pointy or heeled shoes.
You hit the nail on the head when you said shoes should be shaped like feet. However, one of the hallmarks of cheap women's shoes is that they are made from men's foot lasts. Men's feet are shaped differently from women's feet. Women's shoes made from men's foot lasts won't fit properly and will likely be uncomfortable, plus they will likely not look "right".
That explains the horribly painful silver shoes I bought to go with an evening gown. The curves on the shoes and my bones did not fit together. Since my daughter's feet and mine are shaped differently, I let her wear them to one of her formals. It was even worse and she came home with bloody feet. I replaced them with a pair that looks like something Aunt Bea would wear to a formal ball but at least I can dance the night away. Still looking for another silver pair, though.
I don't know, I order mens shoes smetimes because they fit my feet better. If they are shoes that are similar to a womens shoes like some oxfords or loafers and some athletic shoes. My feet were always hard to be comfortable, in many womens shoes. When I was young I had to wear cheap shoes because the more expensive shoes were not tall enough at the toe and arch area. One of my daughters had the same problem and one of my grandaughters is the same way. I guess if we had them made they would work out , with better shoes. I don't think that would be cost effective for a 4 year old that is constantly changing sizes.
Ugh the shrink'em and pink'em idea. Going to a shoe store and being fit by a man can really suck too. I insisted I wanted to try a half size down and the sales person refused to bring me the shoe, he said he could order my size since they didn't carry half sizes in that style. He would only bring me the half size up which was really too big. I mean bringing me the next size down would give me an idea if the half size between would be the best fit, but oh no I might just buy the whole size down and it could be too small. I own lots of shoes a half size up or down from my size and they are all comfortable. Not all shoes fit the same, so why should the size on the shoe label be any different than clothes labels as merely a starting point for fit.
Most importantly, wearing cheap, badly constructed shoes will result in long-term health issues to your feet, back and hips. Not worth it. If you can only afford 2 or 3 pairs of good shoes, then just buy the good shoes. Your body will thank you for it.
Great content as usual Audrey! …Consignment shops, believe it or not - can be an affordable option for well maintained, high end classic styles if your size happens to be available.
This was very informative. I have to confess though that a lot of the time I couldn’t tell what was wrong with the ones you had a ‘no’ on. Maybe next time an arrow pointing to the offending part with a note? Thanks
A tip: go to a designer shoe store (ferragamo, Gucci, etc) and see/touch/feel the shoe, then go to DSW and see/feel the shoes. You’ll know the difference!
Wow I am discovering that this is way beyond my level. I can't tell the difference between the "cheap shape" and "expensive shape" shoes at all, and I can't see the flaws in stitching or glue in the images or even tell how thin or thick material is from the images. (I'm hoping I'd be able to see those in person, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't get what's more or less expensive shapes in person either.) I buy all my shoes secondhand so price isn't usually a factor I can judge by in terms of quality, and I often don't know the brands (or if I do, they're often built for lighter, fancy wear than my lifestyle, which is hard on my shoes.)
I feel the same way! I can't tell the difference between the cheap/expensive images in this video, or I can't see what's worse about the cheap versions. Maybe I just have "cheap taste" in shoes??
Same here. Often couldn’t differentiate the photos. But I still learned a lot to at least be more conscious. I try to buy secondhand, where quality may be even more important for longevity.
These side-by-side comparisons are extremely educational; I learned so much visually! Although I struggled to tell the difference for many of the comparisons; many of the poor quality shoes looked very nice to me, haha
Interesting... some of these tips... I was already doing it but without knowing the reasons. I was like "no, that looks like it's going to break in a couple of weeks", but if someone would ask why I couldn't explain it. So thank you for giving all the tips and the reasons behind them. Have a nice day!
I’m from the Caribbean and sandals and open shoes are favorites except in some places or activities… We have good eyes for flats and are gorgeous and we know that because of the reaction when we traveled or by the tourist This video is very good Thanks
This is a great topic! I have been moving toward quality over quantity over the last few years, especially for shoes! I find I tend to wear only a few styles in a season and I don’t move along with trends too much. I like really classic things so I’d rather have something really well made. Thanks, Audrey! These are great tips. ♥️
Lovely video, Audrey. I find thin soles are the worst! Terribly uncomfortable which affects posture. I think if shoes are uncomfortable it shows in the way you walk, adding to a sloppy aesthetic. 💕
This is perfect! Love the side by side comparison and mentioning that well constructed shoe and how it should still wear over time. Love your channel and content. Very practical and purposeful.
I’m guessing because the sole was sewn properly and the material is thicker. They’re less organic looking because they were cut and sewn in a way that creates straighter, smoother lines. Well made shoes are typically stiffer and have to be broken in by a couple of wears. This is what helps them last longer - they can take a beating.
If a shoe rocks side to side….pass. Signature of a poorly made shoe. This includes sneakers. Not all Nike are the same quality. That slightly irregular tag could roll over your ankle.
I love loafers because they're comfortable while still making an outfit feel classic and timeless, and so the examples you showed in the cutaways gave me some good insight as to what seems cheap vs. what looks like higher quality or more expensive. I appreciate you making this video Audrey, and one thing I can agree with is that most shoes that are low quality can more often than not be trend driven. Perhaps this is why I don't like playing with most trends these days and I see nothing wrong with that 😄
When my mom was a child in the 50s/60s her feet were so narrow that she had to have her shoes custom made. I wonder if this is even an option these days?
I don't know if they are special made for stores now. I know my brother had to have special order shoes for his narrow feet. My son had a tough time buying shoes because he was flatfooted with a narrow foot.
I'm 6 feet tall and wear a shoe size that basically doesn't exist (US 12 very narrow) Shoe shopping is exponentially more frustrating than clothes shopping. I basically don't get to have a say in what the style/construction is. I don't wear heels over 2 inches (so painful and adds unnecessary height). Most designers that make a size 12 only make medium. When I do find a size 12 narrow, it's still too wide and I have to stuff all kinds of extra things inside the shoe to keep it from flying off my foot when I walk. I have a couple of pairs of shoes that I don't really like the style of that much, but had to buy because I was in desperate need of shoes and the style is appropriate for my needs. If I could find a place that makes custom shoes I would consider doing that.
Great video! I would add that finding a good shoe mender is also a must, as this can ensure your shoes both keep the looks and last for a long time (even if they're not super expensive) 🙂
Great advice! In the last years I avoided buying cheap shoes. But sometimes even quite expensive shoes looked somehow "cheap"/ poorly made to me - but I couldn't really put my finger on it why I thought so (because some things are obvious but others, like your advice with the flat sole, weren't - at least to me). You explained it straight to the point :)
exactly. I recently purchased an expensive pair of hand made sandals, and the leather used for the uppers is shockingly cheap - looks and feels like thin cardboard.
Also the materials are cheap now. No one uses real leather anymore. Synthetic materials don't last as long and they don't stretch and mold to your feet. Maybe I'm old fashioned but I prefer and miss leather shoes and handbags.
@@steemdup sometimes they get away with calling something leather when its pulverized leather mixed with chemicals and glue so it doesn't hold up like real leather
@@dianeberlin5969 I absolutely agree with you! I try to buy real leather shoes rarely because of the animals, but when I do I go for the ones with quality leather, no synthetics
Hey! I was not able to find any link to the beautiful shoes in 5:33. Could you name the brand and also the model? I am obsessed with the beauty of the shoes 😁 And I follow you already so long and I am so inspired by your tips ❤❤❤
Perfect timing Audrey. I’m looking for a pair of shoes to wear with my casual outfits for the beginning of the school year. Standing all day and teaching my sweet third graders is hard on my feet. Thank you for the tips!
Try Vionic shoes. The insole is anatomically correct, and if you choose a classic style, like ballet flats or loafers, they do not look like orthopedic shoes. (I'm a teacher of over 20 years. I'd be a hobbling demon if I had not invested in good shoes from the beginning.)
I have some Donald Pliner that are over 20 years old and still look amazing. As you mentioned, Aquatalia, SW, Ferragamo are others that last forever and are timeless. I have had good luck with the Vanelis which fit me like a glove.
Oh wow.. I will fail this lesson terribly. Almost all the examples of the ❌ shoes especially the leather ones look quite expensive to me. A few were even very similar to the ✅. This topic is really for me. I always prefer practical shoes and I hate high heels, but I am sure it should not be sloppy. Thanks for the tips, Audrey. Always very useful
Great video, thank you! Thank you for showing lots of examples as well, it's really helpful to have a visual. Sometimes I struggled to see how the 'bad' shoes were less desirable than the 'good' shoes - eg at 6:03 why was the pattern on the right shoe a tick but the left shoe was a cross? Another great video, though, and I look forward to more!
I had a fabulous pair of ballet flats from L K Bennett. They were real leather and pink and once I added the half soles recommended they lasted so well. They only had to be replaced because I overwore them! I miss them and wish I could have them again but sadly they were bought in an outlet Centre more than 10 years ago.
I love this knowledge but I'm concerned that I couldn't tell the difference in some of your examples. Thanks, this is something I'll pay more attention to!
Dear Audrey, I'm wondering if you can make a video about how to choose nude shoes for your skin tone, because this topic is like non existent on YT. I have very light skin tone, and every nude shoe is too dark on me... should I then buy bone colored shoes? I want to elongate my legs and look smart, but I can't seem to find a solution :( I'm also more on the warm toned skin, so delicate blush color is not doing me any favors either, help :(
Great video, Audrey! Kinda hard to do when you shop at Ross and Walmart..... But, you made excellent,excellent points! I am revamping my wardrobe to buy less, but better quality clothes and shoes. This video helped a lot!
Audrey, Thank you so much for the list of shoe brands that you have had success with and especially for listing Josephinas. Everything about their brand really resonates with me and it's so rare that that happens. I encourage others to take a look at their website. I loved the references to the Women's Suffragette movement, Audrey Hepburn, Marie Antoinette, Carmen, The Moscow Ballet and Women's Empowerment/ standing up against domestic violence. The videos were done beautifully with an elegant choice of music and they have a vegan collection. I love when I am feeling this inspired, Thank you!
Thank you Audrey! Very informative. Can you recommend brands you like? I’ve been choosing Sam Edelman lately and I like Stuart Weitzman but the price is higher .
Great video as always Audrey, I have watched one of your previous videos highlighting the importance of a distinctive sole on ballet flats for example and it has really changed the way I shop for shoes now! It's not even about the brand, it's much more about the way they have been made!! Thank you.
I'll never forget when the 3:30 scenario happened to me while flying! During a layover, I frantically ran to every airport shop for any kind of shoes I could *walk* in! All I found were a cheap pair of slippers to get me through my connecting flight, the New York hotel, and an apartment viewing. Emergency shoe errand to the rescue!
Thank you, Audrey. I recently tried on a pair of boots and remembered your tip to make sure the glue does not show. I returned them and will receive a better constructed pair.
Great tips Audrey, thanks. Also, cannot thank you enough for your heel height measurement against one's thumb, your tip changed my approach and purchase choices. 💐👏
Thank you so much for watching! If you want to share, I’d love to know any shoes you’ve had a good experience with and I’ll add them to the description box ❤️ Also it goes without saying but price doesn’t always equal quality
I think Stubbs & Wootton makes a great loafer “Classic Slipper” that is comfortable and lasts and can be worn anywhere-especially great for travel. Thanks for this helpful video ❤️❤️
Mephisto by far are the most comfortable shoes for me. I have Morton's Neuroma and Plantar fasciitis and I can walk miles and miles in them.
In the UK, Clark’s is always a good choice. Price is mid range, very comfortable and lasts a long time.
For heels I absolutely love the Danish brand Roccamore. They build their shoes on lasts and they all have a built in orthopedic-designed insole for extra support. It alleviates some of the pressure from the forefoot. The brand also puts effort into sustainable production practices. ❤️
Thank you Audrey, you represent sense and sensibility while being stylish! Go sister! Mmm What will you recommend if we wish to buy affordable vegan shoes that are durable and yet stylish and good for environment?
Good tips! I have often found that expensive doesn’t always equal good quality. So even with expensive shoes it’s always good to check the things mentioned in this video.
Completely agree!
I disagree....expense shoes meet all the parameters mentioned
I can't imagine the amount of time it takes to research these vids Audrey. I've watched several vids that describe how to look for higher quality shoes and they generally tend to say the same thing. All of your points are new and fresh, and you explain them beautifully. Thank you for such high quality content and all the hard work you put in!
I'd love to see a video about how to clean and care for shoes. I'm terrible at keeping casual shoes clean, and never know what the best products are to shine my "dress up" shoes and boots. Audrey, we need your help!
I recommend Kirby Allison here on YT. He does men’s shoes but I’ve learned a lot about shoe care
Also try Nicole Rudolph on YT
Just an info, I keep my white sneakers as new by using baby wapes after every other wear and washing white laces with some kind bleach. Perhaps that helps :)
I recently bought some Clarks. I am also a fan of Tamaris shoes too.
Once I find something comfortable I become a loyal customer.
I am a teacher and confort is important. But when my boyfriend came with terms as foot pronation in order to better choose my shoes I realized how deep this field is. And also an answer why my closet is full of shoes I cannot wear.
Very useful information, Audrey!
I’m a teacher too and I’m always looking for comfortable shoes that look good. I like the way Birkenstock’s feel but not a huge fan of the way they look, although they’re on trend at the moment. Lol
Some clark shoes I have a hard time with because I have a bunion and where they sew the toe and sides are seamed. With the wide foot at the toe and narrow at the hill that my foot needs ,clarks are usually to tight. I like Eastland shoes. For my feet buying real leather shoes is better because they stretch to form to my foot.
One of the oldest pair of shoes in my collection is my Clarks loafers. They're super comfortable and have come in handy not just for the transitional seasons, but also for travel purposes. Nice to know that this brand continues to have success for some of us! 😊
I used to love Clarks, but their sandals have are being made more cheaply than they used to be, also they are wider so I just can't find a sandal that looks as good or fits as well in their brand anymore. I bought a few pairs on eBay to get the style I wanted but the soles just didn't age well either.
@@preston6814 My mom gave me a pair of funky, painted-looking Birkenstock clogs, and I have gotten more compliments on those things! Even from the high school students I used to volunteer with! ☺
1. good shape
2. is not flat, has a delineation/slight heel/differentiation between the front and back of the heel
3. material must not be thin (thick material and sturdy shape)
4. no visible glue marks. A well-constructed shoe is typically sewn together
5. seams, threads. no buckling rippling, or threads coming undone
6. attention and care is given to the shoes
7. train your eyes to look at shoes as to which kind will last the longest
8. beautiful patterns and prints
9. embellishments - when in doubt, go without
10. avoid unevenly or unrealistically colored shoes
Someone puts time and effort into producing a video only to get these comments…
@@TheHearthFairy I agree. For me, some of the visuals were very helpful.
thank you for your comment, it helps me remember and keep track of what's in the video when I'm making personal notes again 😊
P.S. don't worry about the negative/indifferent comments.
@@alina8355 thank you! I wrote this while I was watching the video so I wouldn't forget and better understand her points. I thought it would just get buried in the comments section but I'm glad it helped other people.
@@TheHearthFairy I very much appreciate Audrey's video and I do think that people would miss out on important explanations, not to mention visual examples, if they just look at my notes. My notes, that were made just for me, contain a fraction of what she taught in the video.
Dam.. i can't at times spot the difference between the 2 shoes that you showed!
I think we will need another video of pointing that out for us...
Eg: the nude buckle shoes looked so much alike!
I tap hardware elements with my nails and feel for density. If it seems a 5 year old can easily break it, then it means I probably will too.
Buy glasses
The side by side comparison is SO helpful!! I've always wondered why my shoes never look as nice as my coworkers.. thank you for all the research and care you take in your videos!
I can’t afford to buy cheap
Exactly like my mother used to say "we are not rich enough to buy cheap"
Its funny that you mentioned that the shoe is shaped like a foot. I grew up in Hawaii where I didn't wear covered shoes all that much. My husband grew up in the mainland US and we discussed how his foot is shaped like a shoe and mine aren't ( my feet have a very wide toe box).
That’s so interesting!
That's because modern shoes (every single pair you see in this video, btw) are just awful for the feet. They may look fancy and pretentious but in reality, they are causing life-long problems with spine/posture, leg muscles, knee tendons, ankles...not to mention that 99% of the population suffers from hallux valgus/rigidus, ingrown toenails, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis and many other deformities/ailments. Keep your feet wide and healthy and protect them at all costs :-) Please, do not wear tight, pointy or heeled shoes.
@@jvnd2785 yep. I couldn't wear a single pair shown here for more than a few blocks.
If you want comfortable shoes, go look for German brand shoes, they have size G (wide) as normal sizing wearing comfortable for the broader size feet.
@@tinekejoldersma
Most definitely Birkenstock’s🥰
You hit the nail on the head when you said shoes should be shaped like feet. However, one of the hallmarks of cheap women's shoes is that they are made from men's foot lasts. Men's feet are shaped differently from women's feet. Women's shoes made from men's foot lasts won't fit properly and will likely be uncomfortable, plus they will likely not look "right".
That explains the horribly painful silver shoes I bought to go with an evening gown. The curves on the shoes and my bones did not fit together. Since my daughter's feet and mine are shaped differently, I let her wear them to one of her formals. It was even worse and she came home with bloody feet. I replaced them with a pair that looks like something Aunt Bea would wear to a formal ball but at least I can dance the night away. Still looking for another silver pair, though.
I don't know, I order mens shoes smetimes because they fit my feet better. If they are shoes that are similar to a womens shoes like some oxfords or loafers and some athletic shoes. My feet were always hard to be comfortable, in many womens shoes. When I was young I had to wear cheap shoes because the more expensive shoes were not tall enough at the toe and arch area. One of my daughters had the same problem and one of my grandaughters is the same way. I guess if we had them made they would work out , with better shoes. I don't think that would be cost effective for a 4 year old that is constantly changing sizes.
Ugh the shrink'em and pink'em idea. Going to a shoe store and being fit by a man can really suck too. I insisted I wanted to try a half size down and the sales person refused to bring me the shoe, he said he could order my size since they didn't carry half sizes in that style. He would only bring me the half size up which was really too big. I mean bringing me the next size down would give me an idea if the half size between would be the best fit, but oh no I might just buy the whole size down and it could be too small. I own lots of shoes a half size up or down from my size and they are all comfortable. Not all shoes fit the same, so why should the size on the shoe label be any different than clothes labels as merely a starting point for fit.
Did anyone compliment the dress you were wearing? There's this elegant (with a level of sophistication) yet still homey, cozy vibe~
Most importantly, wearing cheap, badly constructed shoes will result in long-term health issues to your feet, back and hips. Not worth it. If you can only afford 2 or 3 pairs of good shoes, then just buy the good shoes. Your body will thank you for it.
The long term effects of cheap shoes is no joke. Just got over painful sciatica, no more cheap shoes for me.
That’s a really really good point. Thank you for stating that.
What brands do you recommend for quality shoes that won't hurt my feet?
I'd recommend Rose Anvil's channel, where he goes into depth on the construction of boots and the flaws found in fast fashion footwear.
Wow, nice recommendation!! 👍💕
Yes I love this channel!
Thank you!
The side by side comparisons were SO helpful!
Wow this was the video I didn't know I needed! So helpful!
And I was just about to buy some new shoes. Thanks for this
I would have never thought of these tips, but it makes so much sense. Thanks for sharing.
Your voice is so comforting and soothing
Great content as usual Audrey! …Consignment shops, believe it or not - can be an affordable option for well maintained, high end classic styles if your size happens to be available.
My #1 requirement is good arch support. Some expensive shoes lack in this area.
This was very informative. I have to confess though that a lot of the time I couldn’t tell what was wrong with the ones you had a ‘no’ on. Maybe next time an arrow pointing to the offending part with a note? Thanks
A tip: go to a designer shoe store (ferragamo, Gucci, etc) and see/touch/feel the shoe, then go to DSW and see/feel the shoes. You’ll know the difference!
@@TrishasMusic Ferragamos are heaven
@@blktauna True… purchased Ferragamo flats and they are exquisite
@@TrishasMusic Agree… such a difference
Wow I am discovering that this is way beyond my level. I can't tell the difference between the "cheap shape" and "expensive shape" shoes at all, and I can't see the flaws in stitching or glue in the images or even tell how thin or thick material is from the images. (I'm hoping I'd be able to see those in person, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't get what's more or less expensive shapes in person either.)
I buy all my shoes secondhand so price isn't usually a factor I can judge by in terms of quality, and I often don't know the brands (or if I do, they're often built for lighter, fancy wear than my lifestyle, which is hard on my shoes.)
I feel the same way! I can't tell the difference between the cheap/expensive images in this video, or I can't see what's worse about the cheap versions. Maybe I just have "cheap taste" in shoes??
I agree. An arrow pointing out the flaw would have helped.
Same here. Often couldn’t differentiate the photos. But I still learned a lot to at least be more conscious.
I try to buy secondhand, where quality may be even more important for longevity.
Same here. A lot of the "bad" examples of shoes looked fine to me.
I had the same issue!
These side-by-side comparisons are extremely educational; I learned so much visually! Although I struggled to tell the difference for many of the comparisons; many of the poor quality shoes looked very nice to me, haha
I'm obsessed with your channel. Amazing content!
I'm very impressed with how many examples you have!
Interesting... some of these tips... I was already doing it but without knowing the reasons. I was like "no, that looks like it's going to break in a couple of weeks", but if someone would ask why I couldn't explain it.
So thank you for giving all the tips and the reasons behind them. Have a nice day!
Expensive doesn't mean good quality. But cheap, is it highly likely that the quality is poor.
Rich wear real leather,100% coton,whool,cachemir,velvet...,poor synthetic: polyster everywhere!SIMPLE.
Amazing work with pictures 👏👏👏 thank you for that ☺️
I’m from the Caribbean and sandals and open shoes are favorites except in some places or activities…
We have good eyes for flats and are gorgeous and we know that because of the reaction when we traveled or by the tourist
This video is very good
Thanks
The way you talk is so soothing, your voice is such a therapy♥️
Hello, This was very informative. I plan to share this with my daughters so we can all benefit by selecting shoes carefully with these points in mind.
This is a great topic! I have been moving toward quality over quantity over the last few years, especially for shoes! I find I tend to wear only a few styles in a season and I don’t move along with trends too much. I like really classic things so I’d rather have something really well made. Thanks, Audrey! These are great tips. ♥️
Egad. Need to go through all my shoes and pitch the cheap looking ones. And get to the store to look over the new styles. Thank you.
Lovely video, Audrey. I find thin soles are the worst! Terribly uncomfortable which affects posture. I think if shoes are uncomfortable it shows in the way you walk, adding to a sloppy aesthetic. 💕
Great video Audrey! I actually realized that these are the same things I subconsciously consider when I'm looking for shoes 👀
This is perfect! Love the side by side comparison and mentioning that well constructed shoe and how it should still wear over time. Love your channel and content. Very practical and purposeful.
Great tips! But why the expensive shoes look much more unconfortable?!🤔
I’m guessing because the sole was sewn properly and the material is thicker. They’re less organic looking because they were cut and sewn in a way that creates straighter, smoother lines. Well made shoes are typically stiffer and have to be broken in by a couple of wears. This is what helps them last longer - they can take a beating.
If a shoe rocks side to side….pass. Signature of a poorly made shoe. This includes sneakers. Not all Nike are the same quality. That slightly irregular tag could roll over your ankle.
I love loafers because they're comfortable while still making an outfit feel classic and timeless, and so the examples you showed in the cutaways gave me some good insight as to what seems cheap vs. what looks like higher quality or more expensive. I appreciate you making this video Audrey, and one thing I can agree with is that most shoes that are low quality can more often than not be trend driven. Perhaps this is why I don't like playing with most trends these days and I see nothing wrong with that 😄
This video was beyond informative!! Thank you so much for this:)
Helpful. Finding quality in wide width is challenging though.
When my mom was a child in the 50s/60s her feet were so narrow that she had to have her shoes custom made. I wonder if this is even an option these days?
Narrow foot here, and I feel your struggle. 😭
I don't know if they are special made for stores now. I know my brother had to have special order shoes for his narrow feet. My son had a tough time buying shoes because he was flatfooted with a narrow foot.
Go for German brands, size G is normal there.
I'm 6 feet tall and wear a shoe size that basically doesn't exist (US 12 very narrow) Shoe shopping is exponentially more frustrating than clothes shopping. I basically don't get to have a say in what the style/construction is. I don't wear heels over 2 inches (so painful and adds unnecessary height). Most designers that make a size 12 only make medium. When I do find a size 12 narrow, it's still too wide and I have to stuff all kinds of extra things inside the shoe to keep it from flying off my foot when I walk. I have a couple of pairs of shoes that I don't really like the style of that much, but had to buy because I was in desperate need of shoes and the style is appropriate for my needs. If I could find a place that makes custom shoes I would consider doing that.
Thanks very much ❤❤❤❤
Great video! I would add that finding a good shoe mender is also a must, as this can ensure your shoes both keep the looks and last for a long time (even if they're not super expensive) 🙂
What an informative video, thank you!
Great video Audrey. The side by side comparison shots are very helpful to "see" the difference. I think my leopard flats need to go...:)
Great advice! In the last years I avoided buying cheap shoes. But sometimes even quite expensive shoes looked somehow "cheap"/ poorly made to me - but I couldn't really put my finger on it why I thought so (because some things are obvious but others, like your advice with the flat sole, weren't - at least to me). You explained it straight to the point :)
exactly. I recently purchased an expensive pair of hand made sandals, and the leather used for the uppers is shockingly cheap - looks and feels like thin cardboard.
@@steemdup Right? So annoying!
Also the materials are cheap now. No one uses real leather anymore. Synthetic materials don't last as long and they don't stretch and mold to your feet. Maybe I'm old fashioned but I prefer and miss leather shoes and handbags.
@@steemdup sometimes they get away with calling something leather when its pulverized leather mixed with chemicals and glue so it doesn't hold up like real leather
@@dianeberlin5969 I absolutely agree with you! I try to buy real leather shoes rarely because of the animals, but when I do I go for the ones with quality leather, no synthetics
This was very interesting! Loved how you showed comparisons but most of all I liked your explanations as to why some things don’t work!
That was excellent. Is it possible to make a video showing handbags, like this video?
Hey! I was not able to find any link to the beautiful shoes in 5:33. Could you name the brand and also the model? I am obsessed with the beauty of the shoes 😁 And I follow you already so long and I am so inspired by your tips ❤❤❤
Perfect timing Audrey. I’m looking for a pair of shoes to wear with my casual outfits for the beginning of the school year. Standing all day and teaching my sweet third graders is hard on my feet. Thank you for the tips!
Try Vionic shoes. The insole is anatomically correct, and if you choose a classic style, like ballet flats or loafers, they do not look like orthopedic shoes. (I'm a teacher of over 20 years. I'd be a hobbling demon if I had not invested in good shoes from the beginning.)
Thanks for the great video. That printed dress looks lovely on you!
I have some Donald Pliner that are over 20 years old and still look amazing. As you mentioned, Aquatalia, SW, Ferragamo are others that last forever and are timeless. I have had good luck with the Vanelis which fit me like a glove.
The pink and beige pairs at 5:09 look similar - what makes the buckles better on the good pair? This is helpful.
You never disappoint me! I love your vídeos. Buen trabajo princesa.
Where did you buy your dress? It is beautiful!
Bags next please Audrey!
Great video Audrey thank you! A similar one on handbags would be very useful.
Great visual examples. Appreciated.
Great topic! As they say, the shoes can make or break an outfit!!
Oh wow.. I will fail this lesson terribly. Almost all the examples of the ❌ shoes especially the leather ones look quite expensive to me. A few were even very similar to the ✅. This topic is really for me. I always prefer practical shoes and I hate high heels, but I am sure it should not be sloppy. Thanks for the tips, Audrey. Always very useful
Great video, thank you! Thank you for showing lots of examples as well, it's really helpful to have a visual. Sometimes I struggled to see how the 'bad' shoes were less desirable than the 'good' shoes - eg at 6:03 why was the pattern on the right shoe a tick but the left shoe was a cross? Another great video, though, and I look forward to more!
It might just be that the pattern on the left doesn't line up as well as the one on the right?
@@sketchur Potentially!
GOOOD one. thx Audrey.
thanks for making this video.. dear!
Thank you for this. More than anything in your carefully curated closet, I admire your shoes!
I had a fabulous pair of ballet flats from L K Bennett. They were real leather and pink and once I added the half soles recommended they lasted so well. They only had to be replaced because I overwore them! I miss them and wish I could have them again but sadly they were bought in an outlet Centre more than 10 years ago.
I love this knowledge but I'm concerned that I couldn't tell the difference in some of your examples. Thanks, this is something I'll pay more attention to!
Dear Audrey, I'm wondering if you can make a video about how to choose nude shoes for your skin tone, because this topic is like non existent on YT. I have very light skin tone, and every nude shoe is too dark on me... should I then buy bone colored shoes? I want to elongate my legs and look smart, but I can't seem to find a solution :( I'm also more on the warm toned skin, so delicate blush color is not doing me any favors either, help :(
Great video, Audrey! Kinda hard to do when you shop at Ross and Walmart.....
But, you made excellent,excellent points! I am revamping my wardrobe to buy less, but better quality clothes and shoes. This video helped a lot!
I am thinking about WHITNEY 90S WEEJUNS from GH Bass.
Audrey, Thank you so much for the list of shoe brands that you have had success with and especially for listing Josephinas. Everything about their brand really resonates with me and it's so rare that that happens. I encourage others to take a look at their website. I loved the references to the Women's Suffragette movement, Audrey Hepburn, Marie Antoinette, Carmen, The Moscow Ballet and Women's Empowerment/ standing up against domestic violence. The videos were done beautifully with an elegant choice of music and they have a vegan collection. I love when I am feeling this inspired, Thank you!
Thank you Audrey for another informative video. I like how you bring to our attention this kind of information. Love from The Netherlands XXX
Hi Audrey,
Have you ever tried the Repetto Ballerinas shoes? Would love your opinion on those!
Thank you
I can't tell the difference for most of these visual comparisons, but your explanations help! 😅
Hi Audrey, can you share what ring you're wearing? I'm in love with it!
Of course! It’s my zodiac signet from Asha ❤️
@@AudreyCoyne Thank you so much for sharing, it looks amazing!
I’d like to add thin soles to your list of things to avoid. They’re often found on fast fashion textile and vegan shoes.
Is it just me but I understood nothing from the examples @.@ I still don't understand shoes
I wish that there was more specificity because speaking in generalities for the untrained eye is unable to identify.
Oh no! Not Rothy’s appearing on the X side!
I do not care if they look expensive or cheap. I want my shoes to be comfortable and clean.
Thank you Audrey! Very informative. Can you recommend brands you like? I’ve been choosing Sam Edelman lately and I like Stuart Weitzman but the price is higher .
Absolutely :) I’ll link some I’ve had good luck with
👍🏼 Great examples
How can I tell if a buckle/embellishment is low quality?
Why are genuine leather shoes so hard to find now? People still eat meat so why are there no more leather shoes? Almost impossible to find...
Great video as always Audrey, I have watched one of your previous videos highlighting the importance of a distinctive sole on ballet flats for example and it has really changed the way I shop for shoes now! It's not even about the brand, it's much more about the way they have been made!! Thank you.
I'll never forget when the 3:30 scenario happened to me while flying! During a layover, I frantically ran to every airport shop for any kind of shoes I could *walk* in! All I found were a cheap pair of slippers to get me through my connecting flight, the New York hotel, and an apartment viewing. Emergency shoe errand to the rescue!
So informative thank you, new subscriber! The way you talk is fabulous.
What are the pattern shoes you’re wearing at 5:37?
Thank you, Audrey. I recently tried on a pair of boots and remembered your tip to make sure the glue does not show. I returned them and will receive a better constructed pair.
Very helpful video with lots of takeaways, like paying attention to the embellishments. Thank you!
I love my Ferragamos. They are comfortable and last almost forever.
Video on how to right the right fit in shoes please..
Looks gorgeous! Wondering where you got your dress from!
Love you ❤❤
Thank u so much
I love my Salvatore Ferragamo low block heel pumps. And the signature bow is classic.
Great tips 💗
Great tips Audrey, thanks. Also, cannot thank you enough for your heel height measurement against one's thumb, your tip changed my approach and purchase choices.
💐👏
This is definitely relevant and I can identify the differences.🌹