That is why I have become more selective in shopping for quality shoes and boots and sandals that will be comfortable, practical and sexy yet won’t fall apart as I walk. For example I have a pair of Amalfi shoes that have been with me for about 8 years. They go with suits and the little black evening dress without needing to switch from day to evening footwear. They were a little expensive at around $350 but they have been well worth the price.

I also have some Dolce & Gabbana boots, a Prada or two and a pair of Chloe that are divine. Each of these purchases seemed extravagant at the time, but they have saved me from spending a lot more should I have bought a pair of shoes to match each outfit as the cheap shoes fell apart after only a few wears. Quality pays off. Shoes for the ladies are an investment like jewelry or fine silk blouses. Quality shoes do not go out of fashion as quickly as cheep knock offs.

So I have prepared a list of designers who offer high quality shoes, and I have also selected some of the most important wedge shoe selections for the 2009 seasons…what’s left of summer and what’s coming for fall and winter. Here is Part IV – Wedge Sandals & Shoes -from Donald J. Pliner to Kate Spade:

Donald J. Pliner

These concept shoe stores offer theater effect with influences from Africa, Santa Fe, and Morocco. Donald has concept stores in Beverly Hills, Houston, Las Vegas and San Jose. His footwear is casual luxury.

• Donald J. Pliner – Nona – Black Patent Wedge Sandal-$260.00
• Donald J. Pliner – Nona – Brown Wedge Sandal -$260.00
• Donald J. Pliner – Sienna – Black Wedge Slide – $275.00
• Donald J. Pliner – Sienna – Bronze Wedge Slide – $275.00
• Donald J. Pliner – Bliss – Black Patent Cork Wedge – $275.00
• Donald J. Pliner – Bliss – Bronze Metallic Cork Wedge – $275.00

Franco Sarto

From Venice, Italy, Sarto’s women’s shoe passion began at 14, by sitting on a stool with a hammer and nails. Now Franco Sarto is known for fine Italian leather boots, wedge shoes, and the popular Mary Jane shoes.

Jeffrey Campbell

For 2009 Jeffrey Campbell shoes has a special line of ladies wedge shoes and ballets. All made in Spain but available online worldwide.

Juicy Couture Shoes

The Juicy Couture name comes from the phenomenon of juicy girls, or hostess bar workers, common in Asia. Since 2003 Juicy Shoes has been part of Liz Claiborne Shoes. Some of my favorite wedge heel shoes and designer wedge shoes are available through Juicy Shoes at very reasonable prices. They have wedge shoes, wedge boots and wedge sandals in every color including this season’s yellow platform wedge shoes and the hottest pink wedge sandals for the beach.

A funny thing about Juicy Couture Shoes is that they not only sell shoes, sunglasses, umbrellas, belts, perfume, socks, scarves, key chains, perfume, dresses, wallets, cosmetic cases and baby diaper bags, but they also have an exclusive line of designer dog accessories including leashes, collars, and doggy clothing.

Kate Spade

Designer Kate Spade is a no-nonsense all-American girl from Kansas City. Her low wedge shoes have a fresh sense of simple practicality. She also has a line basic elegance which offers cork wedge heel sandals, ballets and uncomplicated high heels.