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!
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.
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 :)
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!
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! ☺
Thank you for the tips but more importantly your list of shoemakers! For YEARS, I have searched for stylish, well made shoes with comfortable heels but never find what I am looking for even when I splurge or take into account the tips that people share. This list is golden- I’ve already found amazing shoes on them. Thank you!
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 😄
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.
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
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. ♥️
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.
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.
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 portuguese living in Portugal. We are known for amazing quality handmade shoes. I’m filled with pride to see that the flats you chose for the right side were Josefinas, an amazing portuguese brand! I own two pairs and i have to say that they are really stunning.
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!
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.)
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.
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
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.
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) 🙂
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!
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.
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. 💕
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.
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!
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Polish and clean shoes meticulously! I do this with all my shoes, including the soles. I also made shoe bags to store my seasonal shoes to keep them clean and dust free!
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.
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. 💐👏
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.
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!
I would LOVE if you made a video on all the different shoe types out there to choose from. It would make it so much easier to search on pintrest for shoe type by specific style name than just general "boot" or "sneaker" or "sandal". Thanks for all your great videos I learn so much!
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.
Lol felt some type of way when I saw my Sam Edelman flats on the side with the red ❌😂 but then I remembered that I got rid of them last year. Thanks for this helpful video Audrey! 😍 learning to piece together a simple yet elegant closet one video at a time 😉
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!
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
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!
I just ordered the green tennis shoes that Helen Mirren wore to the Cannes Film Festival that have gotten so much attention. Everything about the company looks ethical and in-tune with the environment. Hope they are as great as they sound.
Thank you for the great information on shoes. I’ve had a thing for the details on she’s since I was a kid. It’s good to know what to look for, though not many would be able to buy the shoes you feature brand new. I couldn’t take my eyes of of your beautiful blue dress. Would you be willing to share details on it? Thanks for your videos.
Audrey, could you please tell me the brand of the shoes you’re wearing at 5:34? Green printed kitten heel. I’ve listed after them every time you show them. They are stunning! Thanks for the lovely video. ❤️
Put into words my gut sense about what makes a shoe high or low quality, although a little harder to follow from the section on embellishments onward. Really informative.
minute 7:30 the correct stiletto has no continuity in the print of the design . I recently found your channel and enjoy it so much, some things I knew, some are new. Thank you!
Recently I have had good luck with Cole Haan brand sandals. I also have a pair of black CH boots I've had for at least ten years and still look and feel great. Thanks for the shoe tips.
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
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 ❤❤❤
0:43 I cried a bit, cause I have the "Lucky Brand" boots on the left and they are so worn out, not looking good anymore, but incredibly comfortable that I can't get myself to throw them away.
Hands down my favorite video on your Chanel so far. I find it very useful. The links are just what I needed. I have hesitated buying shoes because I want my purchases moving forward to be lifelong. I have never been sure of what makes quality shoes nor which brands to look for. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that “luxury” brands do not equate with quality necessarily. Thank for this 😘 Consider doing something similar (with links) for sweaters? I like the sweater comparison video but would have liked to see links for quality selections.
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!
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.
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 :)
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 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! ☺
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!
Thank you for the tips but more importantly your list of shoemakers! For YEARS, I have searched for stylish, well made shoes with comfortable heels but never find what I am looking for even when I splurge or take into account the tips that people share. This list is golden- I’ve already found amazing shoes on them. Thank you!
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 😄
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.
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
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. ♥️
My #1 requirement is good arch support. Some expensive shoes lack in this area.
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.
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🥰
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 portuguese living in Portugal. We are known for amazing quality handmade shoes. I’m filled with pride to see that the flats you chose for the right side were Josefinas, an amazing portuguese brand! I own two pairs and i have to say that they are really stunning.
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!
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.)
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.
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
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.
Wow this was the video I didn't know I needed! So helpful!
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 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) 🙂
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!
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!
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. 💕
I love my Salvatore Ferragamo low block heel pumps. And the signature bow is classic.
Great tips 💗
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.
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!
Polish and clean shoes meticulously! I do this with all my shoes, including the soles. I also made shoe bags to store my seasonal shoes to keep them clean and dust free!
The side by side comparisons were SO helpful!
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.
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.
💐👏
And I was just about to buy some new shoes. Thanks for this
Thank you for this. More than anything in your carefully curated closet, I admire your shoes!
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.
I would have never thought of these tips, but it makes so much sense. Thanks for sharing.
"and there you have it!" soo pleasing to my ears 😮❤❤
The visual comparisons are very helpful 👍🤩❤️
I love when you said, when in doubt do without.. That sums me up just right. I'm such a picky picker...lol! As usual, love Audrey!!
Your voice is so comforting and soothing
Great video Audrey thank you! A similar one on handbags would be very useful.
Did anyone compliment the dress you were wearing? There's this elegant (with a level of sophistication) yet still homey, cozy vibe~
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!
The pink and beige pairs at 5:09 look similar - what makes the buckles better on the good pair? This is helpful.
Love the navy blue floral dress you are wearing. It's gorgeous on you!
I would LOVE if you made a video on all the different shoe types out there to choose from. It would make it so much easier to search on pintrest for shoe type by specific style name than just general "boot" or "sneaker" or "sandal". Thanks for all your great videos I learn so much!
I'm very impressed with how many examples you have!
I'm obsessed with your channel. Amazing content!
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?
Thank you Audrey for another informative video. I like how you bring to our attention this kind of information. Love from The Netherlands XXX
Excellent tips! Details really make a huge difference.
Lol felt some type of way when I saw my Sam Edelman flats on the side with the red
❌😂 but then I remembered that I got rid of them last year. Thanks for this helpful video Audrey! 😍 learning to piece together a simple yet elegant closet one video at a time 😉
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!
Thank you for also including so many examples!
Very helpful video with lots of takeaways, like paying attention to the embellishments. Thank you!
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
A weak shoe game is a total give away! So good video!
I can't tell the difference for most of these visual comparisons, but your explanations help! 😅
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.
Such a great reference video, especially the links. So many great and reliable-sounding brands!
TH-cam just recommended your channel. And gosh you're so soft-spoken
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
This blew my mind in seeing the types of shoes juxtaposed next to each other. Thank you
The floral shoes you wore at 5:35 were amazing!!! What brand and style are they? Please share! Also, please do a video on shoe storage.
They’re vintage manolos ❤️
I needed it surely, looking into managing my wardrobe for a long time, cutting the clutter, building a style. Thank you so much.
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.
The way you talk is so soothing, your voice is such a therapy♥️
I just ordered the green tennis shoes that Helen Mirren wore to the Cannes Film Festival that have gotten so much attention. Everything about the company looks ethical and in-tune with the environment. Hope they are as great as they sound.
Thank you for the great information on shoes. I’ve had a thing for the details on she’s since I was a kid. It’s good to know what to look for, though not many would be able to buy the shoes you feature brand new. I couldn’t take my eyes of of your beautiful blue dress. Would you be willing to share details on it? Thanks for your videos.
“Shoes”, rather than “she’s”.
Audrey, could you please tell me the brand of the shoes you’re wearing at 5:34? Green printed kitten heel. I’ve listed after them every time you show them. They are stunning!
Thanks for the lovely video. ❤️
It is crazy how shoes can be so expensive yet look so cheap!
Thanks for these tips! Shoes can really make or break a look.
Put into words my gut sense about what makes a shoe high or low quality, although a little harder to follow from the section on embellishments onward. Really informative.
So informative thank you, new subscriber! The way you talk is fabulous.
Wow! Great video, learned so much! Thank you!
minute 7:30 the correct stiletto has no continuity in the print of the design . I recently found your channel and enjoy it so much, some things I knew, some are new. Thank you!
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.
Great video Audrey! I actually realized that these are the same things I subconsciously consider when I'm looking for shoes 👀
Reason for my post, is to say than you for a calm, educational, well visualed video.
I find your videos very inspiring, but your voice and intonation keeps me coming ma'am.❤️️❤️️
What an informative video, thank you!
Love the video presentation. Thanks for the tips Audrey. More power.
Recently I have had good luck with Cole Haan brand sandals. I also have a pair of black CH boots I've had for at least ten years and still look and feel great. Thanks for the shoe tips.
I had a pair of strappy nude heels from Stuart Weitzman’s (sp?). They were the most comfortable shoes I ever wore--even all day long. I loved them!
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
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 ❤❤❤
I miss the soothing background music which can beautifully accompany your soothing voice. And love your content as always
Thank you! This definitely made me look more into the details of the footwear I'll buy
Blundstones. They were originally workshoes, are super "in" here in Israel and are made to last. Not elegant, but a fantastic forever shoe.
0:43 I cried a bit, cause I have the "Lucky Brand" boots on the left and they are so worn out, not looking good anymore, but incredibly comfortable that I can't get myself to throw them away.
Magistral video, always perfection.Thank you for the information. 😊
Great topic and very informative. Thank you Audrey. Remain blessed xxx
Hands down my favorite video on your Chanel so far. I find it very useful. The links are just what I needed. I have hesitated buying shoes because I want my purchases moving forward to be lifelong. I have never been sure of what makes quality shoes nor which brands to look for. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that “luxury” brands do not equate with quality necessarily. Thank for this 😘 Consider doing something similar (with links) for sweaters? I like the sweater comparison video but would have liked to see links for quality selections.
Very timely.
Great tips. Thank you Audrey
Great video, Audrey.
Thank you, Audrey. This is a very informative video. I've been wanting to purge my shoes but I had no idea where to start.
You are my favorite fashion content creator on YT 🙏💕