Some bad-ass clogs

Biker Strap Clog by Sven

Fall is quickly approaching and one of my favorite shoes for the cooler weather is the clog.  Sven, which has been around since the clog-tastic 1970s, is the maker of classic clogs as well as many cool modern variations, for the entire family.  All the clogs start with a wooden base from either Austria or Sweden.  The shoes are then assembled in the U.S.A. in a vast array of styles and colors. The clogs are available in three heel heights.  They even make boot clogs with shearling lining!  Sven also does custom orders if you can't find exactly what you're looking for within their extensive selection.  And the added bonus is they are actually good for your feet!

'Stivale' is Italian for boot

As I have previously mentioned, shoes are a major obsession of mine.  But boots in particular are the one type of footwear that I cannot get enough of.  Tall or short, heeled or flat, I love them all!  That is why I'm very excited that Garnet Hill has just introduced their own line of Italian-made boots (and for very reasonable prices too.)  Plus they are offering free shipping through September 13!

Isabella Tall Riding Boots, $248

Donata Elastic-Detail Boots, $198

  Rosella Suede Wedge Boots, $188

Happy shopping!

Shoes are my weakness

Isla platform heel from J. Crew

I am a firm believer that a girl cannot have too many pairs of shoes.  There is always a different occasion (or mood) that requires a specific colorful wedge or a comfortable ballet flat.  According to an article in yesterday’s Wall Street Journal, 78% of our shoes are made in China.  (Interestingly, the article was actually about how companies are finding it too expensive to produce their goods in China and may move elsewhere.)  Despite that discouraging figure, it is actually getting a little easier to find shoes not made in China (or some other country with cheap labor).

J. Crew  jcrew.com

Many of their sandals, wedges, and heels are made in Italy.  And the prices are very reasonable!

Garnet Hill  garnethill.com

Shoes made under the Garnet Hill brand are made in Italy.

Donald J. Pliner  donaldjpliner.com

Many of their shoes are made in “the mountains of Italy”!

Rag & Bone  rag-bone.com

Fashion forward shoes made in Italy.

New Balance  http://www.shopnewbalance.com/information/madeinusa

Recently, New Balance has made an effort to return some of their manufacturing to the U.S.  As far as I know, they are the only athletic shoe company to do this.

I do my best to be on top of things, but always double check the label or the product information for country of origin.   And happy shopping!