Marc Jacobs, Sergio Rossi

Would you wear PVC shoes?

by Amanda Mull

The problem with fashion is that I have rules for myself that I think are a good guide for what I should and should not buy, and then when I see something I love that violates one of them, I’m thrown into an existential crisis. What happens if I violate one of my personal rules, get myself into a situation where I can’t return something that I end up hating, and then feel a tiny bit of rage every time I see them. Not only because I wasted my money, but because I knew better and bought them anyway.

That’s the problem I have with non-leather, and specifically PVC, shoes. I know I’ll hate them once I get them on my feet, at least after a little walking, and yet styles like the Marc Jacobs Wooden Heeled Sandals and Sergio Rossi Plexy T-Straps always tickle my fancy. I really love the look of translucent PVC – it’s something that can’t be replicated by leather, sadly. How it feels is often a different issue. Take a closer look at these two shoes after the jump and then weigh in in the comments.


Marc Jacobs Wooden Heel Sandals, $975 via Net-a-Porter


Sergio Rossi Plexy T-Strap Sandals, $795 via Neiman Marcus

  • http://dontaskmetosmile.wordpress.com/ dontaskmetosmile

    Even if these two pairs are open sandals, the prospect of sweaty moisture still puts me off these. Then again, I live in a tropical country where it is always humid, so it might not be that much of a problem Stateside. 

  • Sandra Rowley

    ummmm….NO!

  • Lula

    I’m not opposed to PVC shoes. I have a pair of fendi boots that’s sort of a mix-match of leather and pvc, which I love very much to wear. however both shoes here are too clear and obvious and sugary, which would be a big NoNo to me.

  • FallonLatrece

    I saw a pair of flats with the cutest flower design on them, and they were made with pvc.  I ended up buying two pairs.  The pvc does give off a smell tough. 

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