payless shoes

Let's talk shoes, in particular shoes from Payless. I have been shopping at Payless for years upon years. Back in my college days I could not afford shoes above their price range. I would wait for their BOGO sale and go in and buy up an average of four pairs at a time. And after all this time, I still shop there. But I've learned a few things. One, is that you must see their shoes in person and try them on. They have many cute styles but not all are comfy. Also, sizes can vary. I may have a size 8 in one style, but need a size 9 in another. It just depends on the shoe. But it is still a store that I enjoy shopping at. In recent years, they have brought some very nice brands into their stores. My favs are Airwalk and American Eagle. A couple of years ago I bought a pair of Dexter heels, they are my favorite pair of shoes, no joke (I'll have to share a pic). I also find nice shoes for little guy, and believe me when I say, I am VERY picky about the shoes he wears. It's not about the name, it's about the fact that children's feet are constantly growing. They need good, supportive shoes during this important time.

When Payless came to Riyadh I was super happy. It felt comfy having a store from home here. I hate shoe shopping in Saudi. I'm more of an independent shopper, I don't like to be bothered. If I need assistant I will ask, if not please let me shop in peace. Here, the sales guys sort of flock to you as you enter any store....annoying. Also, everything is overpriced. I can not justify paying more for something that I can find with a much lower price tag in the US. I feel like they're being sneaky, but I'm onto them. ;) Here's a perfect example, and of all places, at Payless.

See these Airwalks?

I bought these for little guy last summer. He grew out of them and I donated them. Then I found them again this summer in our Riyadh Payless. I didn't bother to do the money conversion. They were 115 riyals, and I thought that must be a good price ( I couldn't remember what I paid the 1st time, which was in the US). Then I got home and saw under the Saudi riyal sticker was the US dollar sticker (which btw, they had tried to black out with a sharpie...lol). The US price is $19.99, and right now on the website they're on sale for $14.99. Do you know how much 115 riyals is in dollars? About $30. Which means I paid double the price. Geez. In all honestly, little guy was in desperate need of shoes. He had a sudden growth spurt. Truth be told I probably would've bought them anyway. These shoes look super cute on, he likes their comfort, and they hold up well. Also, there aren't many other options. But still.

As I checked out Payless.com for their new arrivals I told myself to be patient and wait until I'm in the US this summer. Saving up to 50% on each pair of shoes is worth the wait (saved money means more money for summer vacation fun). Here are some styles that I'm patiently waiting to try on:

Must have white for summer.

Love this pop of color!

Girlie flip-flops, these are super affordable!

I love the braided detail on these.

I wasn't sure about the whole gladiator trend but I like these.

I always forget that Payless has accessories too.

I may need to buy this cross body bag from our store here. A cross body bag is a MUST have for traveling, esp when with a little one. ;)

I'm not sure why, but I like this wooden ring. :)

Ooooo, I'm getting way too excited for my summer vacation. Little guy and I counted today. We have only 51 days left. Then we get to be in the US for a whole 30 days! Yay! Can't wait! :)

all images via Payless.com