Bakersfield, California: Shoephoria Brings In Designer Shoes

Shoephoria is one of the latest, upscale boutiques to open up in Bakersfield, and every time a new one pops up I'm basically obligated to check it out. I'm sure you figured it out by the title, but Shoephoria specializes in selling shoes.

Something I always pay attention to when I walk into higher end stores like this one is how the shop girls (or boys, in this situation) react. Let's just be honest here; some people make assumptions based on race, among other things I'm sure. I call it the first impressions test; a test that the owner of Shoephoria failed with flying colors. My mom was with me on this particular shopping trip and also noted the way the owner looked at us when we walked in. He was polite and friendly enough, albeit somewhat standoffish and not really helpful beyond telling us which brands were on sale.

The store is well organized for the most part, although the clearance section in the back could've been a bit more tidy. Shoephoria carries high end brands like Charles David, Jessica Simpson, Kenneth Cole and one of my favorites, House of Dereon, designed by Beyonce and her mother. Up until now I've only seen these shoes online and they're not quite as impressive in person. Their prices start around $70 and go well into the $100's, which I would consider reasonable. Shoephoria pretty much only carries dressy heels and high heeled boots. I was slightly surprised at the limited product depth. How about some cute ballet flats? Or colorful Michelle K sneakers? I love heels just as much as the next girly girl, but I also love having choices. And I have a feeling some of those would sell better than imitation mink ankle boots.

Shoephoria is a great treat for women who like very ornate, unique looking shoes. I would definitely recommend this shop over any of the department stores or independently owned shoe stores in town, but only for evening events. The shop does have a great selection of sexy pumps and boots, but most of these can be found at Macy's, so why go out of the way? But overall I felt the merchandise was more geared towards the older woman who still wants to look young. Basically, I'm saying the buyer could use a more youthful eye.

In addition to selling shoes from their physical location, you can also check out what Shoephoria has in stock at their website, www.Shoephoria.biz.