Ruia Shoes

While I was window-shopping in Soho, I came across the cutest shoe store, Ruia (65 Mercer Street) -- full of brands I'd never heard of!

From my view on the street, I spied a pair of gorgeous lace booties. I stopped in my tracks and headed straight inside to get a closer look. Upon closer inspection, I could tell I was in for a treat.

The sales associate I spoke with mentioned that these brands are all quite popular in Europe, and the owner wanted to bring a bit of the European class to the US. I was astounded by the quality and detailing on shoe offerings.

My favorite pair in the store was the very pair that caught my eye from the street. From designer Lislie Yeung, these are certainly one of the more unique pairs I've had the chance to see.

I am a sucker for anything lace, and I loved the overlay that zippered in the back.

Lislie Young Solstiss Chantilly bootie and Black Calf bootie

I only got the chance to try on the Chantilly bootie, but the sizing was true-to-size (I took a 37). The pitch was a little steep for me, but it was difficult to gauge comfort since I had been walking around all day.

All of the shoes in-store were interesting and unique. Some of the brands carried include Dora, Twice, Missoni, Loriblu, and Baldan.

Loriblu shoes

Baldan shoes

Some of the boot offerings at Ruia

Ruia offers free messenger service in the city and will ship shoes across the globe! Check out their website for some amazing and unusual shoes you probably won't find on Zappos.