When a man meets a woman, it’s not only the guy’s eyes that dart uncontrollably downwards. Indeed, the cliché rings true: Women look at shoes, and the right footwear can compensate for so many other aesthetic shortcomings. This year, ditch the department store, square-toed dress shoes and pick up a new pair at one of these fine shops.
OLDgOLD
OLDgOLD’s exclusive shoes – like wood-heeled toe cap oxfords, or the vibrant rainbow of monotone Dudeshoes – share shelf space with owner Jonah Leslie’s international favorites, including YMC hiking boots and Eastland chukkas. 256 Mont-Royal Ave. E., 514-509-1675.
Rooney
Trust Rooney to offer brands that you don’t know, but should, like Mark McNairy, the former creative director of preppy staple J. Press. McNairy’s brown brogues and pebbled leather boots sit alongside more familiar classics, like Florsheim and G.H. Bass. 295 Notre Dame St. West, 514-543-6234.
Duo Boutique
This fashion-forward boutique keeps things somewhat casual with high-end sneakers from the likes of Dior Homme, Lavin and Yves Saint Laurent. 30 Prince Arthur St. West, 514-848-0880, 24 Prince Arthur St. West, 514-845-0882.
U&I Boutique
U&I offers on-trend styles, like Red Wing work boots, limited edition Vans styles and an unbeatable selection of footwear by CYDWOQ – a Southern Californian brand focused on handmade, uber-comfortable kicks. 3652 St. Laurent Blvd, 514-844-8788.
Dubuc
Quebec’s own Philippe Dubuc designs beautiful dress shoes and boots that, like his clothes, offer a bit of flair – via details like patent leather or pointed toes – to help you stand out. 4451 St. Denis St., 514-282-1424.
Image courtesy of savtadotty.
