Monday, January 2, 2012

Review: J.Crew Coddington Suede Platform Pumps

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Shoes: J.Crew - size 5 (buy here)
As I said in my previous post, I ordered these pumps just as a filler to get free shipping on J.Crew.  I figured these will probably be either too big or they won't be worth the hefty price tag. Well, nonetheless they ended up fitting perfectly and I love them so much that I can't let them go.  This are officially my first pair of J.Crew shoes and will not be my last : )
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Size/Fit: These fit me with no gap in the back of the heel. I am a true size 4.5 so most size 5's are too big for me. The biggest issue I have with my small feet is the gap in the back which forces me to grip my toes when I walk just to keep my feet in.  To help with this issue, I have added insoles and padding but the fit is never right.  I would suggest sizing up 1/2 or even a full size for the best fit. If you normally wear a size 5 in Ann Taylor pumps, you will need to size up.  
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Heel Height: 4 1/8" with a small exterior platform. With the exterior platform, these do not feel as high and definitely elongate your legs. I walked in them for hours and my feet were very happy. They are by far the most comfortable shoes I own. If you don't think you can wear or walk in platform pumps, these will change your mind!  The heel is a chunkier style but not crazy big where it wouldn't be work appropriate. I love the silhouette of the shoe and the platform is just right (not too thick).  These can be worn to work and on the weekends- major plus. Most platform shoes I've seen are just too big and chunky for someone my size.  They may work for some but it looks ridiculous on me. 

Quality: Made in Italy. Supple Italian suede.  I compared them to my Christian Louboutin's (also Italian made) and they both have the same smooth leather soles. I checked all the stitching and craftsmanship very carefully and it is beautifully made. The only downside I could think of is that the pretty leather soles get scuffed up and marked very easily.

Price: $228 full price but if you get lucky, you can score them on sale when they run their 25% or 30% off promotions.  At one third of the price of Louboutin's, you get a high quality Italian made shoe.  

Verdict: Highly recommend. I know the price tag is high so I would suggest waiting for a sale and hopefully your size is still available. 

Has anyone tried these?