The Red Shoe's Sioux Falls location

Inspired by a visit to The Red Shoe in Fargo, N.D., Shantel Krebs franchised the luxury concept, setting up a branded boutique in Sioux Falls, S.D. The high-end store features unique, contemporary designer brands that are impossible to find anywhere else in the area. “There are no department stores that carry luxury brands—this boutique fills that void,” says Krebs. Business is solid despite economic conditions, but customers are scaling back—buying one pair rather than two or three. This emphasizes the need for versatile styles that can transition from office-appropriate to special-occasion chic.

In addition to the exclusive styles, the shop is famous for its antique Victorian décor. Krebs skips traditional shelving and instead creates unique displays within china cabinets or even on top of a fireplace. “I have people who bring family members in just to show them the store’s décor,” she enthuses.

Bright colors (especially yellow), metallics and shiny accents are all popular this season; here are a few of the top styles showcasing these trends.

Carma by Cole Haan

Price:

Retails for $275

Why It’s A Top Seller:

“The slingback in Dark Denim is a great shoe to pair with khaki or yellow. In addition to its unique color, the shoe features Nike Air technology, so it’s great for the office even with the 3-inch heel.”

Andrea by Beverly Feldman

Price:

Retails for $210

Why It’s A Top Seller:

“It’s a thong sandal with a 2-inch heel that has big, beautiful Swarovski crystals. I see this as a special occasion shoe, but it still has the flexibility to be dressed up or down.”

Popstar by Arturo Chiang

Price:

Retails for $125

Why It’s A Top Seller:

“The black patent peep toe has cutouts throughout the shoe, and the 2 3/4-inch heel is a little thicker so it can be worn to the office. This is a good looking shoe and a great value for the price.”

Rachel by Frye

Price:

Retails for $169

Why It’s A Top Seller:

“This is a more casual, lower wedge—perfect at the lake or a barbeque. The lemon-colored yellow patent is really the most appealing thing about this shoe; it’s very well done.”

Takia by Donald J. Pliner

Price:

Retails for $265

Why It’s A Top Seller:

“The bronze metallic color of this slingback goes with everything; it can be worn so many different ways. Also, the gator-look texturing picks up other colors in the shoe, like soft gold.”

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