opinions and help needed: black pumps

bella

I need a pair of black pumps to wear with suits. Instead of a classic pair, I would like to buy something a bit more trendy with cone heels and slightly pointy toe, like this one:

http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/wo.....einders/95

1) Do you think this is a good idea, or should I stick to a classic pair? I want to be able to wear them for the next couple of years. Do you think this retro trend will die soon?

2) Can you help me locate some? This pair would have been perfect, except that I need it in black leather, not patent. I need a size 7, definitely under $100, the more affordable, the better.

3) I found a pair by Madden Girl. It is very affordable. The only problem is the slightly more rounded toe than I would like. Does it look juvenile? Should I trust my instincts and keep looking for a more pointy one?
http://www.6pm.com/product/7411914/color/2084

Thanks!

16 years ago

Dressing

11 replies

Latest reply was from cciele

Anonymous

I just bought these: http://www.shoetrader.com/page.....item=85830 I have not had a chance to wear them, they they were rated well on Zappos

Even if they're not what you're looking for, Shoetrader is still worth taking a look at - they're closing, so every order is 50% off, on top of the existing discounts. So, these were only $20 plus shipping!

16 years ago

Melody

Active Member

I think especially since you're sticking to black in color, you have room to add interest in the details. Go for it!

I've been looking at the shoes in the link below. They're not pointed toes, which I do prefer, but I think they're interesting looking.

http://www.naturalizer.com/Sho.....=EC0218356

16 years ago

Inge

(website)

Moderator

I don't think the Madden Girl pumps look juvenile Bellacville, but I personally think plain black leather can look a little "flat", that's why I prefer black shoes with a little more texture (this coming from someone who doesn't have a single pair of black pumps, something I definitely want to remedy soon).

I found a few pairs:
http://www.zappos.com/product/7439059/color/161019

http://www.zappos.com/product/7556010/color/3

http://tinyurl.com/ny8vag

http://tinyurl.com/mknn5s

16 years ago

Inge

(website)

Moderator

This is not what you asked for, and I know most of you will disagree with me on this, but I actually think a chunkier stacked heel (and a more rounded toe) looks more modern and funky. I like the combo of a suit with a more playful shoe.
A few examples:

http://tinyurl.com/ldvjmf

http://www.zappos.com/product/7444138/color/183092

http://www.zappos.com/product/7510646/color/3

http://www.zappos.com/product/7411092/color/3

http://tinyurl.com/llheb5

http://tinyurl.com/mgg6dg

16 years ago

Kristen

(website)

Veteran

Oh, the agony of finding the perfect black pumps! I am in the midst of a search myself. It takes a long time!

Have you tried the Aldo brand before? I find that while I love their style (like this one you linked), they're usually brutally uncomfortable with no support or cushioning at all. I found the same with the Trotters too. But you might have better luck with both!

I do shy away from the Steve Maddens because the rounded toe feels juvenile, and look awful on me; they look like they truncate my foot! But they're so cute and I keep trying. I don't know why!

Jay linked to a pair of Bandolinos, which I have had success with. The leather, like Inge noted, can be flat and boring though.

I like the Dibas Inge posted, but the Naturalizers from Melody are my personal favorite.

16 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

Lots of good ideas and links, thanks!

You are right, plain black leather seems really boring.
And, Kristen, you are exactly right, I am worried that those Steve Madden shoes look too cute as opposed to sophisticated.

I am in love with the Kenneth Coles that Inge posted. The price is right and they have just enough interest. Only if they were about 1/2 inches shorter. Does anybody have experience with Kenneth Cole shoes, are they comfy?

16 years ago

Debora

Veteran

Hi Bella,

Another thing to consider is durability. You mentioned that you wanted to be able to wear them for the next couple of years. What is the quality of the Steve Madden's? I've never worn them but I wondered about how well made they were when I saw the price. I would suggest getting the best quality shoe in your price range if you are going to be wearing them every day for work.

16 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

I am bumping this up for more feedback! Thanks.

16 years ago

Kristen

(website)

Veteran

These are a few I have in my shopping cart at BR/Piperlime:

Love the stacked heel, and they seem very timeless.
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....;cid=49270

The kilting detail is adorable.
http://piperlime.gap.com/brows.....;cid=37075

I am considering these in red, but they come in black too, and Franco knows how to make comfy women's shoes!
http://piperlime.gap.com/brows.....;cid=37075

16 years ago

Danja

(website)

Active Member

I really like the top pair you posted, and if you buy a shoe similar to it, I think you will be safe for a couple of seasons. As far as matte vs. patent leather goes, I used to save my patent leather shoes for evenings. I don't do that anymore. I wear them during the day, and if you are worried about combining them with a business attire, don't be. Black patent leather shoes really liven up a suit.

16 years ago

cciele

Veteran

I like the idea of the cone heel/pointy toe combo. Or also the stacked heel, as Inge pointed out. Definitely closed toe. Close to the classic pump, but with a little extra pizzazz.

I like the Fly London ones Inge posted (like the ones Angie has in grey!).

My search skills aren't that great, so I didn't see any conical heel ones in your price range, but what about these:

Maybe a little flashy and high, but kinda cool -
http://www.yoox.com/item.asp?c.....8;TP=11227

More classic, with some interesting back detailing
http://www.yoox.com/item.asp?c.....8;TP=11227

Cross between loafer and pump:
http://www.shoes.com/Shopping/.....pg=5092786

16 years ago

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