Style Dilemma Solved: Sue Over Tory

Back in May, Vivien asked whether to splurge on Tory Burch's Reva or Sue London "London Slipper" flats. She reported in on her results.

While she did take a look at the Nine West pair suggested, the colors just didn't do it for her. Fair enough. So she hit martin + osa to see the London Slipper. They were remarkably comfortable. As were Tory's version.

In the end, and after much deliberation (we're right there with you, Vivien; I guarantee that everyone reading this post has hemmed and hawed over some apparel purchase excessively), she wrote that she's opting for the London Slipper in Malay (hoorah! my favorite), and maybe a second pair in Magnum or Reef (at right, decidedly understated).

Vivien, I applaud your decision. I'm a fan of anything not on everyone else (read: the Tory Burch Reva). When I was out shopping for shoes yesterday, I was very nearly appalled at the number of Tory copies and every day I walk down the streets of DC, I see a bazillion Revas on feet. True, lovely colors, and the logo is not "logo-y," but really, I can't stand to have my feet (or any other part of me, for that matter) look like anyone else.

Thanks for reporting in...

Style Dilemma: Burch or London?

Vivien writes:

I've been trying to find Sue London's "London Slipper" forever, and I can't seem to find any boutiques or department stores that carry them in D.C. Would you know of any places that do carry them?

Also, do you think they're worth buying? I'm trying to decide between Tory Burch's Reva Flats, or a pair of Sue London's London Slippers...any suggestions would be great!

Vivien:

First, Sue London's "London Slipper" (above right, in my favorite Malay) can be found at Martin + Osa in Tyson's. It's a great store with tailored casual clothes inspired by a traveling couple from Kansas. (They left Kansas in 1917 to photograph Africa and the Pacific.)

Secondly, if you've read any of my missives on flats, you'll know I feel for you. Choices between flats are always tough. My answer: it depends on what you're looking for. Both options you name are great higher end flats. But here are the factors I'd consider.

1) Fit. Plain old try them all on (and pray you can remember how they fit between stores). One may come across as the clear winner.

2) What are you really looking for? A comfortable flat or a style piece, or both? There may be other options out there, like Nine West's Tuti, which may fit better.

3) Price. Tory's (right middle, in equestrian orange) are just a leeeetle bit more expensive, at nearly $200 to Sue's $130. Then you can jump down to $70 for the Tuti.

4) Color. Once you have the right fit & price, there are color choices with each option, though the London Slipper tends to neutrals. Are you the sort of gal who just has to match her metals? If so, then Tory's are gold logo only, so that would rule out silver jewelry (but only if you must keep them matching; not matching doesn't bother me in the least - in fact, I relish it!).

Good luck in your search, and let us know what you decide!