The Row-Inspired Shoes & Handbags

It took me a moment to fall in love with these wrinkly, wicked witch shoes — but fall in love I did. The square toe, the elasticized strap, the 0.62 inch heel — each of these traits by itself would usually turn me off but together, they somehow work. They demonstrate the power of ugly-chic by adding a purposeful sophistication to otherwise contrived sundresses and maxi skirts. And this is to say nothing of their tremendous comfort, which also helped convert me. This is a summer shoe that doesn’t expose your toes (think of the moments when you’re in dire need of a pedicure) — every woman needs at least one pair of these slingbacks.

Square toe is a recurring theme in the world of ugly cool. This clunky shape requires styling attention but when you do it right, it lends a tough-girl feel to even as feminine a silhouette as the ballet flat.

So The Row really sells a rubber flip flop for $650. Yes, it’s a leather sole with rubber straps – but still. You can get the same look (if you want?) for significantly less.

Structured but not stiff is what The Row’s most famous handbag is known for. This work bag from Quince gestures in a similar direction with a laptop sleeve and protective metal feet.

The Row is known for a Mary Jane or two and these old-school-nurse-but-make-it-fashion MJs feel like something you’d see (but not be allowed to photograph) walking down the runway.

You didn’t think we were going to omit a slip-on leather mule, right? With the right outfit (and a good enough prune), this shoe could get you mistaken for Mary-Kate.

I will never be able to disassociate slouchy leather hobos from the Olsens (circa 2008). This ultra-supple leather purse has a faux tortoise buckle and a soft sash so it doesn’t feel too too bare bones.

A knotted mule is one of the least adventurous and most elegant silhouettes that you’ll find at The Row. Sometimes you just want something pretty to wear to a friend’s wedding.

I feel like what often makes The Row feel like The Row is that the designs make you go: But why? Why this heel height? Why are the straps this width? Why is there an ankle strap? But then you just run with it.

Compared to The Row’s Tote Hook Bag ($1,950) — not a bad dupe. For white leather that is going to be discolored in a matter of days (if not hours), maybe the smarter choice is the cheaper one?

Kitten heel? No thank you. 70% of foot coverage? Usually my least favorite amount. But miraculously these are giving rich mom with an impeccably designed home (that still feels lived-in): the Kelly Wearstler of shoes.

Just what you need: more ballet flats that look like a cross between an elfin shoe and a disposable spa slipper. The silver is sort of perfect, no?

A seasonal stalwart is the raffia tote bag. Whether you buy an ultra-luxury version or a discount bargain one, you basically get the same look. It’s hard to elevate raffia far beyond beach bag so don’t break the bank if you don’t have to.