Shoes shopping in NYC. $400 budget. Where to start?

[Manhappenin]

I'm really need a pair of nice shoes (actually, i need 2 but i'll start with one). I really like ferragamo but they are a bit out of my price range. I prefer to stay away from the clunky looking AE. I'm pretty slim and don't think they look very good on me. What places should I definitely look at? What brands should I stay away from? If I can find 2 pair in the 250-300 range, I might just get two. I like tbny but i've heard they aren't worth the price. Any thoughts are really appreciated.

 

[Slewfoot]

Best bet in that price range would probably be Brooks Brothers. They have lots of nice, well made English shoes. They aren't deals when regularly priced, but usually there are always some pairs on sale which makes things more compelling.

 

[Manhappenin]

Are they clunky looking like AEs tend to be?

 

[Butter]

If time's not a concern, I'd actually start looking on B&S first.

Some killer deals show up here every now and then.

Ian@Shopthefinest carries some good shoes with good discounts as well.

 

[arc]

Try shoes on in person, then buy them online if you're concerned about cost.

Crockett and Jones (who also make a lot of Brooks Brothers Peal & Co) are a good starting point.

 

[Manhappenin]

c&j was my initial thought. but at least in the pictures, they look sort "clunky" to me. I hope that makes sense. I will definitely check out the store though and see how they look on.

 

[ter1413]

Originally Posted by Slewfoot

Best bet in that price range would probably be Brooks Brothers. They have lots of nice, well made English shoes. They aren't deals when regularly priced, but usually there are always some pairs on sale which makes things more compelling.

Negative....BB are as clunky as AE and the OP said that he doesn't like that look!!

 

[tazmaniac]

I think C&Js are anything but clunky.

 

[Manhappenin]

any ideas for non clunky looking shoes besides ferragamo, which I obviously cannot afford? are tbny shoes worth the price?

 

[edmorel]

Tyrwhitt carries Loake, if you catch a sale you can probably by two pair for $400.

 

[Manhappenin]

Originally Posted by tazmaniac

I think C&Js are anything but clunky.

Great. I'll check them out

 

[ter1413]

Originally Posted by Manhappenin

any ideas for non clunky looking shoes besides ferragamo, which I obviously cannot afford? are tbny shoes worth the price?

where do u live??

 

[Manhappenin]

nyc

 

[dr.no]

Would be helpful to know what purpose the shoes will serve (ie., business, casual/weekend, etc.)

If you're asking the question, I'd steer away from buying online until you are more versed in lasts and sizing.

In-store C&J will exceed your budget. Ed's CT Loake's is a good suggestion. You might also consider hitting Barney's Warehouse sale later this week.

 

[cioni2k]

+1 for Crockett & Jones, there are some very sleek shoes available. And for $400 I'm sure you can afford some Ferragamo shoes.. no?