Hi guys! So I know Loeffler Randall isn't a company that I usually buy from or review here on the blog (because they aren't particularly transparent or ethical per see). However, just like being on a diet, one can't consume only the good-for-you stuff all the time. Once in awhile we all need to indulge. And for me, it was a couple weeks ago during Loeffler Randall's Friends and Family sale. I don't normally fall for those F&F sales nowadays, but these Saskia Pom Pom lace-up sandals were calling my name.
Lace-up sandals have been very "in" for about a year now but they've always seemed so cumbersome to put-on and take-off. So I've never bothered, but something about the nude color and the pom poms were irresistible. I purchased these in a size 8 (a half size larger than my usual size) because from past experience (my favorite pair of boots are also from LR), I've known Loeffler Randall to be fairly narrow. And I'm glad that I did because the 8 fit perfectly.
First the Pros:
-The pom poms!
-The leather on these are so soft that they have a natural stretch to them, so it didn't require any breaking in period. They have been super comfortable since they day I put them on and have been getting better ever since.
- The lace-up isn't so bad on these shoes because they have leather loops to hold the laces in place. The only part you have to wrap and tie is at the ankles.
- I also stayed away from lace-up flats in the past because wrapping the laces around your ankles can seem to cut the length of the leg at the ankles. And since my ankles aren't that slim to begin with I thought it might make my short legs look shorter. But I don't think this is the case with these lace-ups because of the nude color.
- The bottom sole of the sandal is rubber from toe to heel so there's no slipping and falling with these sandals.
But the Cons:
- No arch support, which means I'd have to take care not to walk miles and miles in these flats.
- I have no idea the working conditions of the shoemakers. These are made in Brazil. Are Brazilian factories good? Or are they sweatshop-like? ???
Ah well, I try to be an ethical shopper most of the time. But sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants. At least I know I love these sandals and have plenty of opportunities to wear them out. If you're interested, Loeffler Randall makes these lace-ups with stars as well as with tassels.
