As a style reporter, I've learned a lot of tricks of the trade from professional wardrobe stylists and models about achieving a winning look. At the end of the day, it all comes down to fit.
Ready to wear items are the way I typically go, but learned a seamstress or tailor is a good friend to have on your speed dial to take a garment from so-so to something that people will be raving about.
If you're a fashionista who's already hip to these rules then it's time you graduate into the big leagues: invest in your style by adding bespoke items to your closet for a fit that's custom-tailored for your body shapeand personality.
Cinderella for a Day
I can think of tons of situations when Shoes of Prey would be a fabulous idea.
- If you are an aspiring designer
- If you have a hard-to-match outfit
- If you wear a hard-to-find shoe size
- When you need a one-of-a-kind item
- If you are shopping for the girl who has everything
- To wear with a costume, think: Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz stilettos
- For a special event like your wedding, prom, sweet 16 or quinceañera
My Review
Cons- Luxury price point. From $140 to $330 a pair, Shoes of Prey footwear is a splurge purchase, but one that wins worthiness for novelty.
- Oh the agony of waiting. Advance planning is a must for an event.
Pros- I designed my own shoes and now I can wear them. Seriously. Awesome.
- Many ways to customize with many different materials.
- High tech design tools that are incredibly easy to use.
- Totally risk-free and satisfaction-guaranteed.
- The end product is flawless and fabulous.
- Worldwide shipping via DHL.
- Super staff.
Tip- Give yourself at least 12 weeks lead time if you're ordering the shoes for a certain day to ensure time for a re-do or tweaks if necessary.
If the Shoe Fits...
According to the Shoes of Prey website, the company runs a 70 percent average of getting a perfect fit on the first try. Considering the use of European shoe sizing and the fact that you can't try them on, that's a pretty decent average in my opinion.Unfortunately, I was in the unlucky 30 percent, and my first pair came too large, however, it gave me an opportunity to get full-circle service from the super attentive Shoes of Prey staff. My return experience was as easy and personalized as designing my shoes.The first round "fitting" turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Although it wasn't necessary, I took some photos to show them exactly what was wrong. After getting an eye-full of that first photo and some feedback on necessary modifications from Shoes of Prey, I decided to spare the public my crooked digits and asked them to close the open toe.On the second shot, we got a winner!In My Closet
About Shoes of Prey
Shoes of Prey is the brainchild of a trio of former Google employees, Jodie and Michael Fox and Mike Knapp, which was launched in October 2009. The Australian-based company actually manufactures its shoes in China. Although everyone from iPod to Nike to the Kardashians have been accused of exploiting the area with sweat shop labor, you can rest assured the Foxes and Knapp are on the up and up. You can get to know the crew of 14 team-members at Shoes of Prey via their bios and photos on the site, and put a face on everyone from the shoe curators to a customer service wonderperson...yep, that's a real title.In an interview with Social Media Knowledge, Jodie Fox talks about the care she puts into cultivating client relationships via the company's Facebook fan page, where I've noticed she personally responds to comments from customers. She listens to, and implements suggestions, jumps to resolve fit issues and answers questions. In fact, I agree with Sylvie Romano, a client who commented on the Shoes of Prey page, "I must say that your customer service is excellent! Other companies should take lesson from Shoes of Prey." Of course, Fox left a prompt and polite comment to show her gratitude.They've been written up in major publications like The Wall Street Journal, featured on Oprah and in Vogue and Elle magazines. Following the success of their shoe venture, the group started selling eyewear at a site called Sneaking Duck where you can customize your glasses.The Bottom Line
When you consider a pair of Jimmy Choos will cost you at least 600 bucks or more, it puts Shoes of Prey into frugal territory! Plus we can't forget the extras that are included in the price, that you'll be hard pressed to find in the vast majority of shoe retailers:- Kind and attentive staff that takes initiative, pays attention, makes suggestions and goes the extra mile to make sure you're completely happy. I know it seems like a given that your hard-earned bucks would be met with a smile, but I've had more than a few retail experiences go south when a return or exchange was in order.
- Your shoes are in gift-worthy packaging and come carefully arranged in a sleek black box with foam padding, and wrapped with a ribbon. I'm a softie for stationery and was particularly impressed with the personalized note that included a glossy photograph of my shoes (great for stapling to the outside of the box to organize your shoes inside your closet), and was finished with sealing wax embossed with a shoe stamp. Charming.
- You'll get two plush drawstring bags with your shoes: a smaller one that includes moleskin inserts for your heel as well as padded cloth and gel inserts you can use on the balls of your feet, and a larger two-compartment bag you can use for storing your priceless creations.
Want More Custom Products?
Do you have a favorite makeup product that's been discontinued and you just have a smidgen left? New York cosmetics manufacturer Giella can help. Blush, bronzer, eye shadow, foundation, lip gloss, lipstick, nail polish, pencils and powder are no problem, and won't cost you much more than a department store beauty product. Prices range from $25 to $48.You won't have to fret to find the perfect dress anymore. Eshakti has a huge selection of garments that are custom-made to your measurements, and specifications on neckline, hem and sleeve preference.
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