Like most girls, I have a passionate love affair with shoes. I scope out new styles with the same intensity as a girl stalking a crush on Facebook, and give in all too easily to the trendy yet affordable pairs I encounter at the mall or online. It’s hard to resist an adorable shoe after it seduces you ever-so-smoothly with the gleam of its faux leather, the curve of its heel, and its low price tag. With stylish designs available at various price points, you suddenly yourself hoarding cheap pairs even when shoes aren’t on the shopping list.
Recently, I’ve discovered that it pays to stop “dating around”, so to speak, and start making a serious commitment to quality shoe brands. Cheap shoes may promise a more fashionable you at a price you can afford, but you actually end up paying more in the long run. Find out why cheap shoes aren’t worth it at my article in Philippine Star’s Unblogged.
What do you think? Is comfort and durability worth sacrificing for a lower price tag? Or would you rather splurge on an expensive, quality pair that feel amazing for your feet?
Hmmmm, it’s not always Low price = low quality. I’ve had expensive shoes that wore out quick and were uncomfortable. I’ve also had cheaper shoes that last me a long time.
I guess what’s important is to closely examine the fit and the material of the shoes before buying, regardless of price.
Everything is made in China nowadays anyway. ;)
True true! But generally speaking, cheap, mass-produced shoes are really uncomfortable and are more trouble than they’re worth. At least, in my experience. :)
Argh ~ I agree. I’ve been a victim of those really low-price tags whenever I see them attached on a gorgeous pair. But then again, not all of my cheap shoes failed me. I’ve got some pairs (flats) from department stores that have been servicing my feet for awhile now. I guess I’m just lucky? Hehe. In any case, I love this article. ?
Thanks! :) Yeah, I think department store shoes are hit-and-miss. Mostly it’s a miss, but when it’s a hit, it’s really a hit! One of my oldest sandals is a department store buy that cost me around 600. It’s falling apart now, but this is only after 2 or so years of regular use.
: O I have a good run of shoes from Divi that lasted quite well that and most of my shoes are from thrift shopping XD so they end up being a lot more durable, maybe would need bit of patching up in some cases but yea. : D Cheap shoes yay!
I guess cause I’m not working yet which is why it’s hard for me to sympathize with that notion XD But I do understand but would probably fully appreciate it later on.
And well I dunno some of the styles I really like can only be found abroad or luckily in thrift shops since I’m all J fashion inspired. Ribbons galore for me XD Find a lot of what I like in Divi because the styles are more HK or Taiwan I guess.
Although I agree that some cheap shoes are indeed no good, I still find that there are some worth the less expensive price.
I have a lot of pairs which were not exactly expensive but have served me well and longer than the most expensive brands I have.
Plus if the shoes are for a one-time commitment deal only (i.e. being a bridesmaid and buying a pair of shoes which do not match ANYTHING else that you have), then cheap is the way to go.
Although I put my foot down on Divisoria and bangketa finds. Those I really find are not worth the price regardless if they’re 50 or a 150. =)
True. I guess when it comes to a pair you’re going to use to death, it’s worth the splurge, especially if you plan on walking a lot in them. Trendy shoes are better off being bought on the cheap, but the downside is that they really murder my feet!
I call the shoes made in china “disposable shoes” hehehe. But for me whether branded or cheap, no pair of shoes can last even a year. I don’t know if I have a problem of walking or I’m just too heavy :((
Not always when it comes to women’s shoes, but yes when it comes to men’s shoes. Original women’s shoes cost less than men’s shoes anyway. LOL.
Not that Zara and MNG have comfy shoes either. :)) I’ve realized that to be comfortable I really have to spend at least PhP 2,500 on a pair of shoes (except Keds! Though Shoe Salon has totally jacked up the price compared to the U.S.) that will last a really long time. I just wish that quality shoe brands like Hush Puppies and Clarks would push designs that target our age group more!
It depends on the shoes. If I just need a pair of shoes to be worn on a night or so, I’d go for the cheap ones. Especially if I know it would be ages before I wear them again. But for my daily flats, I go for the more expensive ones as long as I know they’re durable.