Aravon Lauren Sandal : Black is Back

Sometimes you want sandals that are a little fancier than your every day sandals because sometimes you have to go to a wedding, and clunky sandals just don't complement your little black Ann Taylor dress.

In such a case, one turns to Aravon shoes. Owned by New Balance, Aravon makes a range of women's dress and casual shoe and sandals to feet all sorts of feet. You're a size 62A? 11D? No problem. All styles and sizes come in a range of widths. Since I'm in the 11D-11E group, I was happy and relieved to find a shoe company that helps me bridge the gap between comfortable shoes and dress-worthy shoes.

The picture above is a bit deceiving; in real life my Lauren sandals are sleeker and dressier than they appear here. They're made out of super soft black leather that extends all the way to the rubber sole. The sandal has a contoured footbed with arch and metatarsal arch support, something I really need. Underneath the soft suede footbed is dense padding. Thankfully, the sole provides excellent traction--on wet grass (yes, it rained throughout the entire wedding, most of which took place outdoors) and slippery dance floors.

Also available in grey and orange.

Bottom Line: The first shoes I've ever taken straight out of the box and worn all day and all night, and didn't have sore feet the next day. I'm ready for a season of weddings and dance floors!--E.D. (May '06)

Price: $114

Manufacturer's Site: www.aravonshoes.com

BUY ONLINE : Dress Sandals, Aravon,