Shoes Not a Guilty Pleasure

Sunday, 08 November 2009 | by Pat's Picks

Consumers have pared down their spending during the recession to cover only the basics. But the New York Times says in addition to food, rent, and medicine, the basics include a surprising item: shoes. According to retailers, shoe sales have held firm in spite of the stagnant economy because Americans consider shoes more of a necessity than say, handbags or cuff links. Also footwear’s versatility is credited for the sales bump; shoes can be worn every day, while a new skirt or suit can only be worn once or twice a week.