Like many people we know, our summer go-to shoe is a comfy slip-on from Toms. For spring 2010 founder Blake Mycoskie has given us a new obsession in his latest style—the Cordones—available for $69 in colorful stripes and plaids early next year. You'll love these laceless shoes as much as you adored your Keds in the Eighties.
Toms Shoes founder Blake Mycoskie has been all around the world, but he's about to embark on a different, more luxurious adventure: he's launching an exclusive holiday collection at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman this week. "From a design perspective, we were trying to preserve the classic silhouette of Toms, but give an upgraded and exclusive version for the Neiman and Bergdorf customer," Mycoskie said.
Look out for high-quality fabrics like metallic linens for women and silk-tie for men. But just because they're more posh doesn't mean these styles aren't philanthropic. For every pair sold — prices range from $78 to $125 — the company will donate a new pair to a child in need.
Shoes should be as easy to slip on, as they are to walk in. I found myself cursing my tot's footwear until I saw these canvas TOMS Shoes at Honeys and Heroes ($34), I was smitten by their simple design, cheerful prints and lightweight rubber soles.
Already in love with the concept of the brand, I was doubly excited when the sales lady told me that TOMS donates one pair of shoes to a child in need whenever a pair is purchased. For you who like the "one for you, one for me" motto, you're in luck; they make them in mommy and daddy sizes, too!
If you're looking for a cute, casual beach shoe for Labor Day Weekend, why not put your money to good use? Toms Shoes, whose design was inspired by traditional Argentine shoes called alpargatas, are great for skimming across sand, but they also have a great mission. Every time a customer buys a pair, the company donates a pair to a needy child in South America. They're also responsibly made in Argentina using fair-labor practices and minimal environmental impact. Plus, the canvas kicks come in a great array of bright summer colors. You can buy a pair for $38 here.
