I am picky with J's shoes, not mine, though. LOL. Mom got me a really cool pair of brown pant shoes...with a little heel. I love them! Some sandals, too. But it is a mite too cold for those right now.

Patent leather...yeah, I would prolly pick them up- but not track shoes or every day wear shoes. J is currently wearing his second pair of Ugg boots. I catch some grief for that. But, they are so nice and toasty warm. I did pass his last year's size on to a girl friend's child. Some of my friend's buy their childrens shoes virtually anywhere. I think when the feet are so formative, higher quality shoes are worth the price. This is just my quirk (my only one, mind you).

Consignment is nice- reduce, reuse and recycle!!!