Such good thoughts here--thank you all!
Jenni NZ, stylewise, I agree that the Topshop booties are really attractive. I haven't worn Topshop before, and I'm always torn between going for a new-to-me brand at a bargain or going for the tried and true. Of course returns to Nordstrom are easy enough. The Maddens are a style I really love, but I need a lower heel for a lot of walking, and the Fluevogs, surprisingly, have that kind of heel that feels to me like no heel.
Anchie, Brooklyn, Ummlila, and Angie, I appreciate your comments on the higher shaft. I'm wondering if that may be part of the reason I'm wanting to replace the Munros. I bought the Steve Maddens specifically for the higher shaft and the heel; maybe a lower-heeled high shaft is my next move.
Karie, Kkards, and RobinF, good thoughts on the wait-versus-buy now question! Kkards and Robin, I think it really does only make sense to buy now if I get a really good deal AND if it's something I know I'm going to love next fall.
StyleFan, I think my feet are a bit fussy. They may be Princess Feet; they seem happiest in my more expensive shoes! But then, I typically don't spend a lot on shoes unless they are very comfy. The Fluevogs would be in that category. If they are the right fit for me, I know they would be the kind of shoes I could walk for miles in. Your thought on the lower shaft is intriguing. I like the sliver of skin look, too, but I've been mostly closing the gap through colder months, so I think I might be okay with a higher shaft this time.
Viva, yes, the Fluevogs are gorgeous, and so NOT on sale right now.
Momo, Fluevog does make a lower-heeled Chelsea boot that is just as stunning (Find below). It wasn't nearly as comfy to me, though, surprisingly. It was a narrower fit through the toe box, and didn't have the same comfort in the arch as the one with the heel. The do have the Mariana (flat version) on sale in a dark burgundy, which I saw in the store but not online. Black is not on sale, though.
Joy, you've posed an ingenious solution. I wouldn't have thought of holding on to shoes till July--and didn't know about Zappos year-long return policy. I don't know that I would do that, but it's worth a thought. I did consider trying the Cole Haans anyway, just to see if they're at all what I'm looking for. You're right that if I went with the Fluevogs, even if I do so later, it's the kind of purchase that I would make and not look back!
JAileen, I know, the store is dangerous, isn't it? I am most tempted by Fluevog's more classic styles.
I appreciate all the great wisdom, everyone! Thank you! I might order the Topshop and/or Cole Haan pairs just to see how they fit and feel in person, but I think I should try to refrain from buying now, since I probably won't get much wear out of them till next fall.