Q and A

I found a little treat in my inbox this morning that totally made my day!  It was a question from a wonderful Design-Muse reader about a topic near and dear to my heart...flats.  She asked:

Hello Gabrielle,

Maybe you could help with this dilemma!  I am dating someone that is the same height as me, so the shoe situation is always a problem for me.  I am always looking for cute flats or super low heels more on the cheaper side, unless they are so cute they are worth it!!!

Considering I'm barely over 5', one would think I'd take advantage of any opportunity to supplement my height.  But one would be wrong.  Although I own my fair share of 4" heels, when it comes to shoes I'm more of a flats addict than anything else.  I raided my closet and consulted my wish list to come up with a few recommendations for stylish, inexpensive flats.  With the exception of the Steve Maddens (1.), all the selections below are less than $50.  In terms of stores that give the most bang for your buck, your best bet is to stick with places like the great equalizers: Forever 21, Target, and DSW.  Now...I want to add one more place to that list, but you have to promise not to make fun first.  Believe it or not, if I had a secret weapon in terms of shoes it would be Burlington Coat Factory.  Shocking but true.  Their shoes are baller (and yes, I did just say baller).  I hope this was helpful!  Anyone else have a question?  Shoot me an e-mail here!

1. KOOOL Blush Patent Leather Round Toe Flats, Steve Madden $69.95  2. Venessa Ribbon Flat, Christian Sirano for Payless $24.99  3. Cheetah Ballet Flats, Target $12.99  4. Gold Flat, Corso Como via Piperlime $39.99  5. Marled Sweater Skimmer Shoe, Urban Outfitters $28  6. Sweet Caroline, Chinese Laundry $39  7. Kilty Suede Moccasins, Minnetonka via Zappos $45  8. Silver Cutout, Corso Como via Piperlime $49.99  9. Grey Stone-Washed Twill Classics, Toms $48