Edmonton: Mayfair lady
The shoe bootie, which I am affectionately calling the shootie, is the quintessential shoe of the season. I can’t wait to wear mine with a cardigan and pencil skirt à la Michael Kors. But the shootie is not just about secretary chic; it will also add a dose of punk to my fall wardrobe when worn with leggings and leather. What other shoe (or boot, for that matter) can claim to be quite so versatile? This gorgeous pair from Donald J Pliner ($525), found at Mayfair Shoes, is a well-stacked heel above the rest.
With two stores in Edmonton, including a new location in the West Edmonton Mall (Phase 1, 780-444-1971; 236 Edmonton Centre, 780-428-9313; mayfairshoes.ca), Mayfair is my top destination for fall footwear. Desiree Noga, the store’s buyer and manager, and owner Robert Nimmon have made these shops into the authority on fashionable footwear in the City of Champions.
The stores carry over 30 brands (including Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman and La Canadienne’s waterproof leather boots, perfect for Edmonton winters), and the highly trained staff knows all about lasts and fit. It’s no wonder Mayfair has a devoted clientele that includes some of Edmonton’s most stylish women. The WEM outpost is worth checking out, if only to walk on the heavenly rubber floors, stamped to look like slate. I guarantee you’ll be tempted to pick up enough pairs to make even Imelda Marcos green with envy!
