Glittery Finds at Shoe-Lover Haven

Our deal-savvy shopper scours DSW for the best and most unique foot fashions

By Laura Shanahan

How would you like to walk all over Jessica Simpson ? I mean, literally, walk all over the name Jessica Simpson? All you need do is purchase a pair of the singer/designer's, (hmmm, what is her primary occupation now?), glittery sandals that have her name repeatedly imprinted in a flowing script on the bottom of their soles and ? voila ? deed done.

These are flat, faux-leather, stylized thong-sandals ? instead of the dual parts of the thong forming the traditional V-shape as they head between the toes, one part asymmetrically crosses over the other. The thong also doesn't embed into the sole toward the back, but rather slings around the heel. And last but not least, rather than the usual rubber or plastic, the comfortably wide thong is fashioned of soft white fabric completely bedazzled with sparkling-clear bugle and seed beads. Not showy enough for you? There's also a bronze-goddess version. Much glamour, as my friend Gino would say.

You may pay $69 for these elsewhere, but we are not elsewhere ? we are at DSW, the three-level discount designer-shoe emporium, where you can snag the sandals for just $49.95. Last month we explored Fox's, the brand-new women's off-price designer label shop, which took over the site of the late, great Filene's Basement/SYMS Tailored and Tux at the southeast corner of Broadway and 80th ? and while we noted it when DSW debuted this past summer at the former establishment's northeast corner of Broadway and 79th (only Zales sits between), I thought it timely to check in again on the other half of these "bookending" stores, now that they are indeed ? finally! ? in place.

Works out kinda neat ? you can fashion up at Fox's and then get your kicks at DSW. But do note: Fox's also has shoes on its upper level (the ballet flasts are adorable); but space constraints make it impossible for it have as many options as DSW ? not to mention that DSW also has men's footwear, plus related accessories for both genders. (If you're in Midtown, there's a behemoth of a DSW on 34th, 'twixt Seventh and Eighth: You can't miss it; it practically has its own zip code.)

But back to where we began, when you, I and today's column was still young: If you want to bring sexy back this spring with a sizzling four-inch heel, check out Lulu Townsend's peep-toe, ankle-strap number completely covered in sparkle-plenty silver lame ($54.95, "compare at $79").

Men ? please descend to the lower level where you are offered such buys as Steve Madden classic leather saddle shoes in a sophisticated color combo of stone gray and taupe. The slightly squared toe is gently tapered for an updated twist, while white overstitching on the outsole sports things up; $79.95, "compare at $110."

Guys who need a wide width, you're in luck if you're in the market for a Skechers Sport Stamina sneak ? great for running or just running around, it's well-cushioned with inserts of real and faux leather plus breathable mesh; in charcoal, black and white, it's tagged at $49.95, "compare at $55."

Also sprinkled throughout the store are such accessories as socks, umbrellas, messenger bags, wallets and much more. A nifty find on the first floor: Michael by Michael Kors iPad cases in cushy neoprene, with an attached "MSRP" tag of $48 (pay just $24.95). Try not to browse when you're hungry (as I just did): Color choices include the most luscious lime and tangiest tangerine you've ever licked, er, I mean, seen.