As a 6ft tall woman with size 12 boats - I mean...feet, trips to the shoe aisle have always been my worst enemy. While my sister would prance up and down the aisle trying on the wide variety of shoes they had in a women’s size 9, I would often be left to explore the men’s section in hopes of finding a relatively gender neutral looking sneaker.
Since chopping off my toes is not a feasible solution (and yes I have thought about it-- only kidding, kind of) I am often left to lust after shoes that I would love to own but unfortunately would not be able to fit my huge feet into! Most American shoe retailers do not carry any sizes above a 10, and if they do they are usually far more- for lack of a better word, ugly (and usually more expensive) than their counterparts. Fortunately, after 18 years of leaving countless amounts of shoe stores empty handed, having numerous screaming matches with my feet, begging them to shrink and then lacing up my unisex black and white converse and heading out the door, I have come to terms with the fact that I am stuck with my big boats for the rest of my life. Not only have I come to terms with it, but I have embraced it and added some other fashionable shoes to my collection of unisex converse. I know, hard to believe right? But believe it or not, there are actually some stores out there that carry extended shoe sizes! So if you find that your feet are equally as big or even bigger, look no further because below are five of my favorite stores that carry fashionable and relatively affordable shoes above a size 10!
1. Nine West
Nine West is literally a heaven sent. There are no other words to describe the brand! Whether you are looking for that perfect pair of heels for your sister’s wedding or an everyday bootie for fall, they have it all (and in a size 12!!!!). I have personally never had anything negative to say about any purchase from Nine West- the quality, variety, and price of the products are perfect.
2. Nordstrom
Nordstrom is another one of my favorite places to buy chic, trendy, shoes. Although the price is usually on the higher size, the product is always very durable and long-lasting. When looking for an everyday shoe, Nordstrom is always my first stop. And the best thing- they carry up to a size 14 and larger.
3. Payless
Payless is also one of my go to’s! Their shoes are beyond affordable and they also have a wide variety of styles. They also do a lot of collaborations with designers, such as, Christian Siriano, which means you can get designer quality shoes at a very affordable price and in an extended size.
4. Adidas
Although on the pricier side, I feel as though it is a necessity for everyone to have at least one pair of Adidas’ in their closet! They primarily offer sneakers, but they are so fashion-forward and can be styled in so many different ways. Definitely worth the money spent, especially because they carry so many extended sizes.
5. Dr.Martens
Last but definitely not least, Dr. Martens are an excellent addition to any shoe collection. They come in all different sizes, style, and colors. While they are a bit pricier, they are extremely durable. I have had mine for 5 years, and they still look and feel as good as new!
