I really need to ditch all my inexpensive DSW shoes that hurt my feet. I went to my favorite upscale comfort shoe shop today, which has a bargain attic where I can usually find brands like Ecco and Mephisto for around $50. Today I went on a mission -- to replace my ballet flats, find booties, and find an everyday shoe with a small heel. I have always worn flats but really want to try little heels that feel like flats, or a nice wedge.

I hit the motherload.

1) I found these flats that are so comfy and fit my custom orthotics. They look like an animal print to me, which is something I've been searching for all year, but it's actually cut outs.

In the second photo, left to right:
a) I've been looking for red shoes to replace a pair of red patent ballet flats that I had to stop wearing. I stumbled upon this Mephisto wedge, normally $415 now $79. Mephisto has been hit-or-miss for me, but this shoe has so much cushioning, it's heavenly.

b) I've been dying to try Fidji shoes! Found these two-tone blue/gray pair and they fit like a glove. Technically not a bootie, but they kind of look like booties on me since they go so high (is that called a high vamp?). These were $63.

c) I found these light black shoes, almost gray, with a heel small enough to be an everyday shoe. Got them for $23, though it looks like it might be on clearance everywhere. Here's a link to them at a different store: http://www.comfortoneshoes.com.....12639.html

d) same as in photo #1, though I probably paid too much despite the discount. Just found them on Zappos for a few dollars less: http://vip.zappos.com/rieker-d.....-moro-clay

I left behind a few pairs that didn't make the cut, including another pair of Fidji pumps. That was hard!