Cydwoq at Mongo

It might sound like a foreign language, but Cydwoq is at Mongo.

Cydwoq’s (think “SIDEWALK”) unique shoes started when owner and extensive walker Rafi Balouzian decided he needed a pair of shoes that were better for walking. Balouzian felt that “space-age materials, fancy padding, and air bubbles of all shapes and sizes impeded rather than promoted a healthy, efficient stride.” His father was a cobbler, and he opened his own factory and store featuring handmade, vegetable-tanned leathers with as few separate pieces possible (and therefore as little stitching as possible, for maximum comfort and the feel of a second skin). I’ve never owned a pair, but my guess is that they last a very long time if it’s very little stitching.

All of the following pairs were at Mongo in Carroll Gardens, on Smith Street. Prices varied, but these handmade leather shoes do not come cheap. Most are over $150 or $200, but the look is so unique that if this is what you’re going for, you’re not going to find it in many other places.

Bird Brooklyn’s Sturdy, Well-Curated Selection

Bird has long been one of my favorite South Brooklyn boutiques. Now there is also a North Brooklyn location. They have the kind of luxe yet solidly practical shoes Brooklyn women seem to depend upon to get through the winter.

The Belinda by Loeffler Randall is $475 at Bird.

I believe this boot was Loeffler as well, but I’m not sure.

These boots were in an astronomical price range — I believe they were over $600. But the quality was so amazing that I have no doubt your calves would never be cold again in a New York winter. The leather, suede and shearling felt incredibly soft. They are not listed on the website.

DNA Footwear

More post-holiday reports. DNA Footwear has Toms shoes in various styles and a sleek L.A.M.B. boot I’d die to have.

The L.A.M.B. Junee is $649.99 (whew, good thing I can’t afford it).

Shoe Mine is a Goldmine

The Kors Izzie is on sale for $185.

Here is the Izzie at the store. It would look cute with this hat and scarf!

The Frye Grace is $120.

The Michael Kors Frannie is on sale for $445.

The Chie Mihara Toranja is $150. That is a great price for a Mihara shoe.

The Chie Mihara Federica is $180.

Pema Peddles Chelsea Crew

Pema is a great store on Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Originally a Tibetan-focused store, they branched out to include much more mod merchandise.

Chelsea Crew shoes populate their store with prettiness at a reasonable price. These cool twisty gladiators were on sale for only $20! If you’re bicoastal or living in warm weather or just stocking up for spring, go get ‘em! If not, browse their wares online here at Piperlime.