Trend Setting

Put Your Best Foot Forward

It’s understandable to spend a fortune on shoes with 565 platinum-set Kwiat diamonds, including 55 carats of clear diamonds and a 5-carat stone, like those designed by Stuart Weitzman for singer Alison Kraus for the 2004 Oscars ceremony. But really, what makes shoes designed for every day wear cost upwards of $500?

Expensive materials play a major role in a shoe’s cost. The best leather, wood, jewels and feathers are pricy, and other rare materials increase the value. The best leather comes from Italy, and some feathers are only available from archives of designer workshops. The price reflects this rarity since some of the shoes could be considered museum worthy.

High-quality design and structure of the shoes also figure into the cost. Some designers use specific mechanics to construct the shape and height of the heel, the way the heel attaches to the shoe, and the shape of the arch. These mechanics are unique and increase the shoe’s quality and comfort. Overall, the more the shoe costs, the better the quality of constructing the shoe, which translates to comfort for the consumer.

High-quality men’s shoes are just as expensive as women’s shoes. According to Forbes.com, “expensive [men’s] shoes are made with the kind of craftsmanship and materials that allow them to age as well as that favorite Bordeaux.” High-end men’s shoes can be either handmade or ready-made. The best-quality handmade shoes are built around a form in the shape of the man’s foot, making the shoes unique to each man. These shoes are expensive, and take some time to make, but their quality is superior to those you can buy off of a store’s shelves.

You don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort, but you may sacrifice part of your budget.  You really can walk a mile comfortably in pricy designer shoes, but would you really want to?

What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a pair of shoes?