fallforfall

I know there are a lot of topics on shoes in this forum and perhaps someone can direct me if there is already one on this topic. I have a foot condition that has caused arthritis and a bone spur in my toe so even though I am young and LOVE stylish shoes, I need to find shoes that offer great arch support or can fit an orthotic. I have been having so much trouble finding shoes for my trip to Europe that can be dressed up and can be worn with dresses/skirts at night. Something that is not bulky. I have looked at lots of forums and tried on over 20 pairs and nothing! Any advice would be great. Thanks.

pizzocchieri

Feet are so unique, you are going to get 20 different responses here and be trying on 20 more pairs of shoes.

Since Zappo's has such a great try-on-and-return policy. the best thing to do is to order from them and return what you don't like until you find a pair you do like.

It is very fashionable in Europe to wear ankle boots with tights with skirts and dresses. Given your rainy-destinations, some kind of boots might be best.

If you are looking for real evening shoes, take a look at Camper and Cole Hahn Nike air styles.

pizzocchieri

Also, have you looked at Aravon shoes?

dunia123

I love J41s and Jambus (I think they were the same brand at one point). Very walkable and comfortable. Now these are Louboutins mind you, but still - there aren't completely unfortunate... Good luck. This will remain an ongoing, popular quest.

DeborahAnn

Having foot problems can take the fun out of shoe shopping, can't it

I have a Mary Jane style by Aravon that I'm taking for my trip to Italy in October. They look good with dresses and pants. I can put my orthotic in them.

Dansko shoes are very comfortable but unfortunately too often clunky as well. Munros are well constructed and most styles will accept an orthotic

Following up on the suggestion of ankle boots, I have a favorite by Clarks with a wedge heel that looks "fun" with a skirt/dress. I'll probably take that for Italy and it would work nicely for you in France/Belgium/Netherlands. When we were in Amsterdam in October two years ago boots were a must wear--I don't think that has changed. The rainy weather made them very practical.

Good luck, so many of my friends have foot challenges so finding comfortable shoes is at the top of our packing list. Deborah

denisea

Tamryn Rose is designed by an orthopedic surgeon....supportive and dressier.

Shanna

Hello - and I hear your pain. This is what I did. My friend and I planned on doing a lot of walking in Italy. We both had a pair of plain black - um - sports shoes - sneakers, they used to be known as. I found some black clip-on flowers that covered the entire toe and made that clunky old shoe look very nice with a long skirt. I don't think they make those clip-ons any more, but if you go to a Joann Fabric or Michaels, you should be able to find big flowers and with some creative hand-stitching, make something for yours specific wardrobe that you can attach to shoe laces and cover the toe. You'll be comfortable and look feminine at the same time - and not have to carry an extra pair. Good luck!!

grandmere

Denisea, do Taryn Rose have arch support? They look comfortable (and expensive--but worth it if both comfy and stylish!)) to me, but the ones I've seen don't seem to have that support. Perhaps I am wrong about this.

I have Naots that I like very much; comfortable and not too clunky.

suze

Naots was what I was coming to post.

snowgirls

http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Prod...4?dimensions=0

Walked cobbles, wet streets and ruins in this type of shoe in black. Best ones I have ever used for travel.

Patty

I was also thinking boots of some sort depending on when you're going. I put inserts in my boots. I'm also a fan of Cole Haan Nike Airs. If I'm just going to dinner and back, I usually just suffer through the pain

LauraLF

You might look at Ecco. I have a flat Mary Jane style that was great in Italy. I also have a tall "riding style" boot that is water proof and very comfortable by Ecco also. Zappos has lots of styles.
Good luck!

lavandula

I second Ecco and Camper, pricey but beautiful.

Lavandula

jubilada

I love Spring Steps.

denisea

Grandmere, I am not sure and it may depend on the style.

Scootoir

I have a pair of Privo by Clarks that are similar to this: http://www.zappos.com/privo-by-clark...nee-goal-brown
but all suede. I'll be taking them to Europe next month.

I'm going to enjoy checking out everyone's suggestions.

Phread

The truth about really sexy gorgeous heels is that they are NOT made for walking. To be really stylish, I would find a ballarina style shoe that suited my needs and wear them for getting from point A to B. Then, as you get out of the metro, slip on the heels and walk the 3-5 minutes to the restau/theater you've dressed for.
Otherwise, during the day, French chicks may wear heels, but they are just as likely to be sporting a pair of Converse or loafers, so I'd just wear whatever you are comfortable in at home.

MyriamC

Why don't you spend a few hours shoe shopping while in Europe? Rieker, Gabor, Mephisto, Geox, ... have very comfy shoes and different styles than the ones you can find in the US.

Connie

Naot gives me great arch support. I loved mine during my 3 week tour of Europe and have bought several styles since.

Check out Footsmart.com They are online and have a paper catalog. They only carry shoes that are well made for comfort and for foot problems but are also stylish.

Kurosawa

Mephisto, Naot, or Arche shoes are great for me. Arche is a French brand, so they are cheaper in France.