Transition Period

Spotlight on: Best Discount Shoe Stores

As a fashion addict, I do not discriminate when it comes to vital wardrobe staples. But my all-time favorite wardrobe enhancer is shoes. (I have the desktop background to prove it).

By channeling my inner Imelda Marcos, I have enhanced my closet until the point that it is overflowing with fancy footwear.

So where do I find such great shoes? Below are just a few of my favorite discount shoe stores.

Famous Footwear: this store carries the likes of Steve Madden and Franco Sarto, but also carries lines whose main goal is comfort (among them being Easy Spirit and Aerosoles). What's great about this store is its range. It is the one place I can find shoes for work and sneakers for the gym without breaking the bank.

Best for: wear to work, cross training, families on a budget

Love My Shoes: New Yorkers in particular should take a closer look at this discount store. If you're looking for a "statement shoe", footwear found at L.M.S. does just that. While some brands are virtually unknown, they never fail when it comes to receiving compliments. My favorite from this store is a pair of Jeffrey Campbell espadrilles in red, white and blue (I was feeling really patriotic). On the whole, however, the store, which has an extensive line of products available on its Web site, has the sexiest, most dramatic foot fashions.

Best for: going out, brightening an everyday outfit

DSW: This store is a combination of the above two. While it can be overwhelming to see rows and rows of shoes, it gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling that there are so many options. It is probably the only place I was able to buy Uggs 25% less than retail price. It never ceases to amaze me that it carries lines found in high-end department stores, but at flea market prices.

Best for: those who want variety

Other favorite shoe sites (discount or otherwise): Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Piperlime.com, Bluefly.com

Accessories galore

I am a major fashion junkie, but what I love more than anything is finding a killer deal. One of a kind of accessories is my bag (pun intended). That's why I turn to Alltherageonline for new and exciting jewelry.

From a to zebra print, this site has pieces for a special occasion, the every day, for work and for play. Almost every item is less than $30. But beware: hot items sell out fast!

Fashion Philosophy 101: An Introduction

I sometimes compare shopping to gardening. Weed out the unnecessary, keep the basics, and always add a touch of you for the final flourish… I am a big believer in trends, but what I believe more is making it your own. 

For instance, getting a sexy satchel from a high-end designer is worth a mortgage payment, but an alternative like Botkier for Target works just as nicely. Personally, I think some fashion trends are not me. And that’s okay. Smart, sophisticated women can decipher between what looks good and what, well, doesn’t. 

You, as a fashionista, should never compromise who you are. While you may have a certain style (say, bohemian), nothing says you can’t incorporate billowy tops with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt. For example, opt to combine funky jewelry with a simply white blouse and slacks. Be a trendsetter by modifying classic and revolutionizing looks. 

Don’t follow the rules… bend them!