While it's easy to suggest shopping in the children's section, if you've been to one lately, you've noticed that the color choices are often limited to those that kids would like (think Barbie pink), or styles with bows, lights or other features with "kid appeal."
This is another one of those things that the web has helped to change. Now, anyone taking a smaller or larger shoe size than what is usually stocked actually has choices beyond those offered in her own city or country.
I won't kid you - finding stylish shoes in small sizes is still a task - but it's better than it used to be, and the following options should help.
If you need help converting sizes, this Women's International Conversion Chart should help. And to insure a perfect fit measure your feet at home and compare them with any vendors you purchase from.
Vintage Shoes in Smaller Sizes
The owner of VintageVixen.com recently pointed out to me that vintage clothing and shoe stores like the one she runs are a great place to find women's shoes in smaller sizes. In fact, it's actually pretty rare to find larger sizes, but 4s and 5s are relatively common.This is not only an opportunity to find a great fit, but often superior quality at a more affordable price.
If the idea of vintage footwear appeals to you, be sure to check out some of these top sites for Vintage Shoes.
If you prefer more modern approach to footwear, take a look at some of the following retailers.
Women's Shoes - U.S. Sizes 3 and Up
If you wear a U.S. women's size of 4 or above, there are several online retailers that carry shoes for you. The stores with the widest selection are:Zappos.com - Offers styles in U.S. size 3 and up (some really great sandals in these sizes), but a an even better selection starting at size 4. (Buy Direct)
Shoes.com - Carries a fantastic selection of shoes in U.S. women's sizes 4 and up - with especially nice dress shoes in those sizes. Unfortunately, there are very few choices in U.S. sizes 3 and 3.5 - some of the links below will be more helpful for those sizes. (Buy Direct)
Women's Shoes - U.S. Sizes 1 to 3 and Up
If you wear smaller adult sizes, I'm sure you already know how difficult it is to find stylish footwear that fits. Below are a few web sites that carry shoes in women's sizes 1, 2 and 3. Be sure to note where the company is located as a U.K. women's size 1, is not the same as a U.S. women's size 1.Dainty Feet- Women's shoes in smaller sizes ranging from U.K. sizes 1 to 3 (which converts to U.S sizes 3-5, and Euro sizes 32.5 to 34.5). A little pricey, but offers some very stylish footwear in small sizes. (Vendor's Site)
Cinderella of Boston - Has a good selection of smaller sized women's shoes, including some very sexy, strappy sandals and cool wedges. Sizes offered include U.S. sizes 1.5 - 5, although most of the styles I checked started at U.S. size 2. (Vendor's Site)
Small Shoes - If you're in Europe or the U.K., there are some treats in store for you at this site. Based in the U.K., Small-shoes.co.uk carries some extremely stylish shoes in smaller sizes (Euro sizes 32 to 35). Most of their shoes are made in Italy or Spain, and they also offer a few great boot styles. (Vendor's Site)
For Women who Wear Children's Shoe Sizes
And for those of you whom wear even smaller shoe sizes, such as children's sizes, being aware of certain brands will help in your quest for stylish shoes that fit.For example, Mia, Born and Tommy Hilfiger all offer casual shoes in children's sizes that don't look so much like kid's shoes.
The kid's section at Zappos.com offers these brands and more, and has such a huge selection of children's shoes, it's a great place to look if you wear these sizes. (Buy Direct)
