Chloe Round-Toe Ankle Bootie

So, I’ve decided to give heeled Oxfords another try. This time, I decided to go straight to the source of designer shoe talent, Chloe. I thought for sure that Chloe wouldn’t let me down; they’ll have made a beautiful creation that I’ll really like, and then I can give this design genre a great review. Unfortunately, it’s got to be the style of the shoe, because every single Oxford-style bootie that I have seen has been absolutely ugly. Chloe’s is no exception (and yes, I’m extremely disappointed).

This design looks like one of those old-fashioned dancing shoes from the early 1900s, except that they’ve tacked a chunky two-and-three-quarter-inch heel on the end. I suppose I should at least be grateful that they covered it this time so that it matches the rest of the shoe. We’ve already covered how much I detest a clashing heel. The navy-blue leather upper is something I’ll never be a fan of, and the cut-out on the vamp with an awkward instep strap makes me want to put on my hoop skirts and go to the big community dance. Or not. Although the shoe’s actual design is flowing, the whole effect is clunky and ultimately ugly. Sorry, Chloe; there’s not a single thing I can think of that would make this shoe look good.

The price of this shoe is even more astounding. I realize that these shoes are in style, but what exactly am I paying the $595.00 for? Certainly not for the privilege of wearing these round-toe booties. If I’m paying for the Chloe name, can I transfer it to a nicer pair of shoes, please? Thankfully, I know Chloe can do better than this. I found these shoes at SaksFifthAvenue.com.

Okay, now here’s a bootie I could see on my feet. The Jessica Simpson Rianna sports a suede upper and a four-inch covered heel. It also has a stretch band over the top of the vamp to ensure that the shoe really hugs your feet. It’s smooth, flowing, and doesn’t have any weird buckles or cut-outs. Plus, the price is definitely right at $113.95. Find it at Zappos.com.

Franco Sarto has made an ankle boot that’s simplistic and elegant. I could actually see myself wearing these with a business suit or skirt. It’s got a squared-off pointed toe, a high topline and a three-inch heel. The whole shoe is covered in a crackled black patent leather. You can get it for $79.95 at Endless.com.