Not quite

With "second cut" in full force at most department stores, the shoes are quite steeply discounted... but also just as picked over. In my recent outing, I tried on a few pair of shoes that were cute, but not cute enough.

First up, Ann Demeulemeester "Open-front Buckled Sandal boots" (this is what Saks calls them, anyhow). I've never tried anything from this brand. Generally, I find the look a little too utilitarian for my aesthetic (which could maybe be described as "whimsically tacky" or perhaps "sweetly gaudy").

Off the foot, I really liked the look of these shoes. I don't have anything like them, and they definitely have that "I will cut you" look to them that I tend to enjoy. I like how they look on the side angle, but looking at them head on... well, I thought they rather looked like those boots you wear when you break your foot (not that I ever have, I'm very precarious in heels).

Ann Demeulemeester Wedge Boot S/S 2010

They seem very comfortable, and the fit is true-to-size (these are a 37), but in the end they just weren't "me". (Saks has several sizes available on the site, at 60% off, though)

Next, we have Prada bow pumps. These are classic and practical. You can see how that would influence my not-buying-them. They are lovely in person, and Saks had them marked quite low, but somehow I feel like if I am shelling out money, the shoes better be as ostentatious (read: gaudy) as the price.

Prada bow Mid-heel pump, S/S 2010

Fit is slightly large. These are a 36.5, and they are still a bit big on me, but Prada typically runs large for me anyhow. Comfort is extraordinary. (shoes in background are Devotte "Leeloo", a favorite summer staple my dear friend Cecilia tipped me off on)

Side note: pics are blurry as I only had my cell with me.