By Erica and Karen

Shoe people like us—i.e. women who think shoes are critical to real life—bought shoes during quarantine, even when we had nowhere to go. Granted, they were of the slipper and sneaker variety, but they had color and some had sparkles and they made our steps at home and in the park a little livelier. We haven’t yet decided whether they will be retired on the out ramp together with some of our other well washed pandemic wear. But those shoes served us well and for that they will always be a treasured reminder—in our hearts, even if not in our closets.

Now that we are emerging, we are thinking about shoes again but in a different more public way. And, surprisingly, we’re finding it hard to find exactly what we want. Which is: rubber sole, low heel (not flats) or medium wedge, comfortable. Not a mule. A tapered toe, not a round one fit for a duck’s webbed foot. Preferably closed toe, open strapped back. We’re flexible, to a point.

To give you an idea of what we’re looking for, check out Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Charli Ankle Strap (two heights and reasonable) and Chanel’s sandals (perfect height and not exactly reasonable, but pretty much sold out so not to worry). Neither is perfect. Velcro ankle straps are not a favorite and closed toe would be preferable, but they are on the right track.

Curious why this is so hard. Clearly, the shoe guys have decided we want more sneakers because they are absolutely everywhere. Some windows have oodles and oodles of white ones, high tops and low, adorned and not. Others have decided that stepping out means we want four inch high strappy sandals. They too are prominently displayed in shoe departments and advertisements all over the place.

In truth, some of the sneakers are lovely— leopard ones have a particular appeal. And one can always put a pair of Kamala’s Converse high tops to good use if they’re a good fit. We are also drawn to some of the new bright colors of the very high sandals, yellow and orange specifically. But why isn’t that same color applied to a shoe that is beautiful and comfortable and not sky high? That’s what we’re looking for. Where are they?

There is one bright light here. If you want shoes that are flat, flat, flat or on a platform, closed or sandal, there are tons of great ones around. And that’s a good positive change. Drool over these high end black leather loafers that can dress up or down in any season and may even be worth the investment. How about espadrilles? These light blue woven leather slip ons would be great with jeans, white or blue. Stuart Weitzman (now owned by Coach) is always a well made, excellent basic, especially if you get the fit right. We like these classic open back low heeled leopard delights for a good and walkable addition. And platform sandals. Everyone needs a pair. Weitzman makes some good ones of these too.

Get a pedicure. Try on shoes, even if you don’t buy them. It’s a new found luxury.