Shoe shopping can be a dangerous thing — you can never really have too many pairs. None of these seven stores gives you much excuse to stop collecting, as they all offer gorgeous shoes perfect for whatever occasion. The only logical thing to do? Get working on renovating that walk-in shoe closet.
Table after low-rise table is filled with artistic, unique designs in this gallery of a shoe store on West 4th Avenue. Each their own little, hard-working works of art, shoes here hail from England, Italy, France and further afield, featuring stunning details from simple, soft leather to radical heels, minute stitching, angled zippers or coloured buttons. Your shoe purchase here is an investment, as these high quality, superbly made gems don’t come cheap, but your feet will be the talk of the town.
This New York-based store has found a happy home and some loyal customers in Kitsilano on West 4th. It’s hard to narrow down your choices here, with an enviable collection of shoes that manage to walk that fine line between functional and fashionable. Without sacrificing comfort, boots and shoes are tinged with stylish vintage details, while the genuine leather molds to your individual foot. Prices for this quality construction, easily appropriate for daily wear, are more than reasonable, while customer service goes above and beyond.
This quirky, local cobbler is always looking to make a statement. Known for his eccentric shoes, seemingly out of Alice in Wonderland, the flagship in Gastown is hard to miss, too. The stunning glass and brick building perfectly compliments the original works on display. Classic round-heeled boots go thigh-high, dotted with buttons and laces while more conventional Oxfords and brogues are equally stunning. A good Vancouverite, he does a line of bike-friendly shoes so you can still look good while being safe on your commute.
This shoe-box sized store in Mount Pleasant is all about offering an old-school, neighbourhood shopping experience. Carrying unique and hard-to-find brands, each pair of shoes emits an enticing aroma of good leather and carries with it the markings of well made, handcrafted goods. Recently opening their online shop means that now this tiny local store is playing in the big leagues, where it continues to thrive despite (or perhaps because of) its independent spirit and unwillingness to compromise on quality.
Ideally located in well appointed South Granville, Lord’s Shoes is all about quality offerings and impeccable, personalized service. From practical walking shoes all the way to statement shoes for a special occasion, the staff here want to ensure you’re choosing the right pair for your feet and your lifestyle. Opened in 1930, this tony shop has been importing only the best for decades, all with the understanding that women deserve choice, comfort and beauty when it comes to their shoes.
With a gorgeous selection of shoes imported mainly from Spain, as well as Portugal, Germany and France, Ella Shoes on Granville Street downtown provides a truly European shopping experience. Comfort and practicality reign in all their designs, from trendy, combat-style lace-up boots to their wide-heeled pumps ideal for your walking commute to the office. Even their stiletto-style shoes take care of your battered tootsies with their enveloping leather and cushioned soles. A lifelong shoe salesman, the owner and his wife are knowledgeable and friendly.