Evaluating Payless shoe stores
For many years, Payless represented nothing more than cheaply-constructed, ugly shoes. At least, that was what it meant to me. I cannot tell you how many times I was dragged there by my well-intentioned parents, only to stare glumly at the racks of “old-lady” shoes (that observation needs to be taken with a grain of salt, as I was a child at the time). I detested the place.
As I grew up and became a teenager, then a young adult, I only shopped at Payless if I needed a cheap pair of sneakers. I’ve never been one to buy into the trend of uber-expensive designer sneaks, so Payless came in handy for that. I would on occasion take a look around, and never did I find anything but those same poorly-constructed, completely styleless shoes. You know the ones, the fake leather flats with the ridged soles? Do they still sell those?
Then I came into my mid-20’s and before my very eyes, Payless reinvented itself. And just in time, too, because their reinvention coincided with my falling in love with shoes!
STYLES
I was amazed, and still am, at the variety of adorable styles that Payless has to offer now when compared to just a decade ago. Whatever you see in the fashion magazines, you’re bound to find it at Payless for a fraction of the price. Don’t forget the coordinating purse for those shoes, either – Payless also offers a wide selection of bags, too!
QUALITY
The quality – well, I can’t say that the quality has changed too drastically. This is not a win-win situation. I have had several pairs of Payless shoes which have stood the test of time quite admirably, after having been put through the gamut of wear by yours truly. However, this is not a common phenomenon. But a lot of that is my fault as well – I have a bad habit of finding a pair of shoes, falling in love with them, and wearing them constantly. This is simply not possible for most Payless shoes. I’ve found over time that Payless is a good place to indulge yourself in a few pairs of adorable shoes which you’ll wear every once in a while to work or when going out. Don’t look for everyday shoes here or you’ll be sorely disappointed after a while.
PRICE
The price couldn’t BE more right! That’s why it doesn’t bother me that the shoes aren’t terribly durable – buy a bunch, space out the number of times you wear them, and bask in the compliments of everyone you know! Because they will surely come your way. So it’s still a good value for your money.
If you can’t find what you want in the stores, visit Payless.com. The entire line is available there. You won’t be sorry!
SneakersFashion Magazines, Leather Flats, SolesJuly 05, 2010
No Comment