Essentials

Brandy has gotten in my way again.  No, not the drink but the shoe color.  While on the lookout for a black split toe lace up shoe, I was distracted by this great pair of Magnanni shoes at Nordstrom Rack. 

These shoes are almost as versatile as a black shoe, all leather, and the sole is stitched rather than glued.  I'd already figured out that the shoes would be a great addition to my wardrobe and that they'd add interest to something like a solid blue suit.  But I was still hestiant since I was originally shopping for black shoes.  However, when another shopper and shoe aficionado suggested I view the purchase as an investment because of the quality of the shoes, it was a done deal.