Don't you just hate it when someone asks for advice and then disappears from the conversation for a day? My half-***ed excuse is having gnarly dental work done.
Suz and Jenni, when I am honest with myself, the real reason I love those Vince sandals is because they are virtually identical to a pair of Pappagallos that I dearly loved and could not afford in probably about 1973. But in suede - even better! And even less practical! Truly, in this year of trying to concentrate my wardrobe dollars on everyday clothing, they are not actually what I should be acquiring. So good thing they did not fit.
Smittie, I agree that style-wise the Kork-ease Tutsi are maybe 1/2 step up from Birks, which is probably about what I need.
LaP, those Camper sandals are really cute - does that brand fit your foot? Everytime I got to NYC I find myself walking past one of their stores and get totally sucked in. I like the black Kork-ease sandals you are trying. And have my fingers crossed that the Everlanes work out for you - they are truly sharp-looking!
Greyscale, thanks for the links - I really like some of those mules. Of course, I'd really love a pair of the MNZs you mention, but those are outside the budget for sure!
DonnaF, I have one pair of lace-up ghillies and love them - so easy to adjust them on the feet since they lace up.
Donna, I'm guessing we do have very different feet - Earth is another brand that doesn't work so well for me. I do like the bootie-esque look of the ones you have!
Firecracker, I think you are right that a darker denim shoe would be a good option. Thanks for the amazing selection - I'll take a look at some of those!
SaraL, yes, it is definitely the color that is holding me back.
JAileen, I haven't worn Kork-Ease in years, but loved the basic platforms back in the day, and had a second pair at some point (late '90s, early "00s?) when they briefly had a resurgence.
JuniperGreen, I was not familiar with Pons - those are pretty cool looking!
I have much to ponder here. And in the meantime, a pair of my go-to Bernardo Matrix in Navy has popped up on Ebay in my size at a good price. <sigh> When it comes to summer footwear, I seem to be stuck on wanting to wear the same things I did in high school and college - maybe because my feet are the only part of my body that still works for?