2017-01-20

Above a size 10? You’ve got more options than you think.

Unlike shopping for, say, swimwear or denim, buying shoes should be fun! There’s no freakishly terrible fitting room lighting to contend with, no breaking a sweat as you pull on pair after pair — and best of all, no struggling to squeeze yourself into a smaller size than you probably should.

That is, unless you — like I — happen to have feet larger than a size 10, the point at which most footwear brands inexplicably drop everything and call it a day. I’m a true 10.5, but for years, I insisted my toes could fit into 10s so I could still shop the stores and brands I loved. Several costly visits to the podiatrist and one surgical boot later (yes, really), I can assure you that forcing your feet into too-tiny shoes is a very, very bad idea.

But Carrie Bradshaw-level shoe hoarders with larger feet needn’t fret; after all, there are so many great brands out there that cater to women who wear upwards of a size 10. I did all the legwork — er, footwork — and singled out seven of my all-time favorites below.

Stuart Weitzman

Sure, his designs don’t come cheap. But whether you’re blessed with large, small, wide, or narrow feet, Stuart Weitzman is sure to have a pair that’ll fit — and feel — like a dream. Perhaps best known for his blogger-beloved over-the-knee boots and the Nudist sandals you’ve seen on literally every single celebrity, Weitzman makes a wide (and narrow — see what I did there?!) range of stellar flats and heels for non-standard sizes.

Topshop

Looking for something slightly more affordable? This British fast fashion standby has a formidable footwear department; several Racked editors, in fact, name Topshop as their favorite source for budget-friendly shoes. It’s packed with styles both classic and trend-driven, most of which are available in up to a size 11.5 (the equivalent of a European 42).

J.Crew

When it comes to high-quality classics (and customer service!), J.Crew always delivers. The brand’s shoe selection is full of everything from oxfords to glittery Mary Janes, and offers styles in up to a size 12, including half sizes.

As an added bonus, J.Crew has an active online commenting community — which means that if you’re wondering whether to go with an 11 or an 11.5 in those pony hair pumps, a past purchaser might be able to help you out.

Loeffler Randall

There’s a good reason why so many editors swear by designer Jessie Randall’s shoes: They’re the perfect balance of fashion and function. Most of the brand’s famously comfy heels and wear-everywhere booties are available in up to a size 11.5, although you’ll sometimes spot 12s, too!

Sam Edelman

Even if you’ve never purchased a pair of Sam Edelman shoes before, you’ve probably spotted the company’s versatile Petty ankle boots and bestselling ballet flats (hi, Felicia!) on friends and stylish coworkers.

Sam Edelman also happens to make some of the most miraculously comfortable strappy heels on the market — in sizes up to 13, no less.

M.Gemi

This direct-to-consumer brand makes all of its shoes in limited quantities in Italy, and drops new styles every Monday. As you might expect, things sell out fast — so if you’re looking to snag some size-42 sandals or grab those suede driving mocs in a 43, you’d better act quickly!

Nine West

Whether you’re seeking some colorful suede mules, practical pointy-toed pumps, or over-the-knee boots, this wallet-friendly brand has you (and your feet) covered. The most tempting styles are available through a size 12, but technically, Nine West sells up to a 13.5.

Long Tall Sally

A whole site dedicated to women above 5’8 and a size 10 shoe? Believe it! A longtime go-to for things like extended-inseam jeans and tops tailor-made for lengthy torsos, Long Tall Sally also stocks a variety of sneakers, flats, sandals, and heels from brands like Dolce Vita, Cole Haan, Barefoot Tess, Steve Madden, and more — in sizes up to 15, no less.

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