Franco Sarto Shoe Review: Are These Italian-Made Shoes Worth the Investment?
Franco Sarto has built a reputation over the past 30 years for their exquisitely crafted Italian shoes. Known for their tailored silhouette and premium leathers, the brand caters to sophisticated women looking to invest in shoes built to last.
But are Franco Sarto‘s iconic pumps, booties and sandals worth splurging on? This in-depth Franco Sarto shoe review will give you insider info to determine if these designer kicks are a sound investment or an overpriced letdown.
Overview of the Franco Sarto Brand
Franco Sarto was founded in 1990 by designer Gionata Pagni. Inspired by traditional Italian cobblers, Sarto aimed to bring old world Italian craftsmanship to stylish yet wearable women‘s shoes.
The brand quickly built buzz in the fashion world for their European-inspired aesthetic and attention to quality. Franco Sarto shoes stand out for their tailored architecture accentuated by subtle details like custom hardware, exposed side stitching and signature piping along the topline.
Today, the Franco Sarto label offers an array of footwear ranging from loafers and oxfords to boots, pumps and sandals. They are sold online as well as at major department stores like Nordstrom, DSW and Macy‘s with price points typically ranging from $100 to $250 per pair.
While not cheap by any measure, Franco Sarto positions itself below premier luxury brands like Gucci and Jimmy Choo but a step above fast-fashion names. The goal is to deliver shoes reflecting Italian opulence that busy professional women can wear every day.
Now let‘s take a deeper look to see where Franco Sarto excels and where they may disappoint.
Franco Sarto Boot Reviews
Boots make up a strong segment of the Franco Sarto assortment. Ranging from edgy combat boots to sleek over-the-knee silhouettes, their Italian craftsmanship takes center stage in their boot lineup.
Franco Sarto Landry Combat Boot
The Landry combat boot proves that rugged military-inspired style can still look undeniably feminine. This all-weather lace up boot has the perfect amount of slouch thanks to the slightly rounded toe and collar lined with soft genuine shearling.
The Landry feels broken-in from the first wear while the lugged rubber outsole and partial side zip ensures all-day walkability. With a 1 1⁄4 inch heel, you gain a bit of added height making these combat boots the ideal pairing for leggings and jeans alike.
For under $200, the Franco Sarto Landry offers excellent value and will fast become your cool weather go-to for seasons to come.
Pros:
- Buttery soft leather upper with shearling lining
- Lightweight and comfortable right out of the box
- Versatile to dress up or down
Cons:
- Lack of arch support
- Runs large so size down
Franco Sarto Caroline Over-The-Knee Boot
Exuding pure elegance, the Caroline over-the-knee boot brings a luxe sensibility to any ensemble. An almond toe and block heel create a timeless silhouette while the back gore inset allows this boot to conform perfectly to your leg without uncomfortable bunching.
Despite the thigh-high cut, the Caroline feels ultra lightweight thanks to the stretch microsuede upper. The synthetic lining also makes these boots comfortable for all-day wear while the gripped outsole provides shock absorption with every step.
For the modest price tag, the Caroline delivers premium quality rivaling premier brands at twice the price. Expect these OTK boots to become your cool weather go-to for work, weekends and everything in between.
Pros:
- Lightweight and moves with you
- Back gore prevents uncomfortable bunching
- Shock absorbing outsole
- Excellent quality for the price
Cons:
- Runs slightly narrow
- Areas of exposed glue around sole
Franco Sarto Sandals Review
Come spring and summer, Franco Sarto has you covered with an array of chic sandal styles perfect for wearing morning to night. Ranging from dressy to casual, their open-toe offerings provide a tailored interpretation of classic warm weather silhouettes.
Franco Sarto Clarissa Ankle Strap Sandal
This versatile ankle strap sandal has day-to-night versatility perfect for the girl on the go. Made from soft nappa leather, the Clarissa features a sturdy block heel set on a grippy rubber sole making this sandal comfortable enough for all-day wear.
An oval buckle closure keeps the silhouette clean and modern while the padded insole delivers reliable comfort and arch support stride after stride. For $100, the Franco Sarto Clarissa competes favorably with designer brands at twice the cost in both quality and wearability.
Pros:
- Soft leather straps won‘t rub
- Supportive footbed ideal for city walking
- Stylish enough to wear to the office
Cons:
- Runs large so size down
- Thin sole lacks durability
Franco Sarto Harlowe Slide Sandal
Effortlessly chic, the cage-inspired Harlowe slide makes weekends feel a bit more relaxed. Designed in rich leather with woven cross-foot straps, this laidback sandal looks and feels luxurious against the skin.
While flat in design, the slight platform heel keeps comfort top of mind while a well-cushioned arch ensures all-day support. At just over $100, the Harlowe can fast become your everyday slide sandal ready for impromptu day trips or last-minute brunch plans with the girls.
Pros:
- Luxe design at an affordable price
- Cross-foot straps prevent flopping
- Well-cushioned arch support
Cons:
- Runs narrow
- Straps prone to stretching over time
Are Franco Sarto Shoes Worth the Cost?
Given their tailored Italian craftsmanship and premium material quality, Franco Sarto shoes are considered a sound value purchase by most customers. While not cheap, costing anywhere from $100 to $250 per pair, the brand prices well below luxury designers which can easily run $600 to $1200 for similar styles.
For shoppers willing to invest a bit more for shoes built to last multiple seasons, Franco Sarto brings old world artistry interpreted through a modern lens. Expect nothing less than soft premium leather uppers and expert stitchwork accentuated by subtle hardware and piping details.
Comfort also remains a key priority with ample padding through the insoles to prevent blisters or soreness even during all-day wear. This meticulous attention to quality and fit has garnered Franco Sarto a loyal customer following that continues growing season over season.
How Franco Sarto Compares to Similar Shoe Brands
Sarah Flint: This emerging contemporary label founded in NYC offers comparable quality and styling to Franco Sarto also made from Italian materials. Priced slightly higher, Sarah Flint excels in wearability thanks to hidden comfort technologies like memory foam insoles and flexible chainlink shanks built into each pair. For the woman constantly on the move, Sarah Flint ensures all-day comfort without sacrificing an ounce of style.
Stuart Weitzman: Considered one of the premiere American shoe brands, Stuart Weitzman offers exceptionally crafted heels, boots and sandals designed for everyday wearability. With an average price point of $450 per pair, Weitzman shoes are an investment purchase built to last thanks to studded rubber outsoles, padded insoles and flexible materials that move with your foot. While more expensive than Franco Sarto, Stuart Weitzman exceeds expectations for fit, quality and staying power.
Sam Edelman: Offering trend-driven footwear at an affordable price point, Sam Edelman fills a key niche for fashionistas on a budget. While they lack the polished tailoring of luxury brands, Sam Edelman wins fans through accessibly priced leather boots often marked down to $100 or less. For shoppers coveting of-the-moment styles over timelessness, Sam Edelman hits the sweet spot blending quality and affordability.
5 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Franco Sarto Shoes
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Use shoe trees when not wearing. Shoe trees help leather shoes maintain their shape and absorb interior moisture.
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Rotate shoes every 2 to 3 wears. This helps shoes bounce back and retain their comfort.
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Store properly in breathable dust bags. Never pile shoes tightly or store in plastic which traps moisture.
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Clean regularly with leather cleaner & conditioner. This lifts dirt while nourishing materials.
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Resole whenever worn. Adding protective rubber soles extends a shoe‘s lifespan dramatically.
Customer Questions About Franco Sarto Shoes
Are Franco Sarto shoes true to size?
Franco Sarto shoes fit most people true to size. However, some tight fitting styles like over-the-knee boots run small so consider sizing up a half or full size.
Where are Franco Sarto shoes made?
Each pair of Franco Sarto shoes is handcrafted by artisans in Venice, Italy. A few select styles are produced in Brazil using the same Italian materials and construction methods.
How long do Franco Sarto shoes last?
With proper care and maintenance, most Franco Sarto‘s deliver 2 to 3 years of wear before signs of deterioration. Boots and sturdier styles often last over 5+ years before needing replacement.
What is the benefit of buying directly from FrancoSarto.com?
The Franco Sarto website offers full-priced styles not discounted elsewhere plus access to exclusive new arrivals before other retailers. Sign up for emails and you‘ll receive 30% off coupons along with early access to sales and seasonal promos.
Do Franco Sarto shoes ever go on sale?
Yes! The Franco Sarto site features a sales section where discontinued styles are marked 30% to 60% off original pricing. Nordstrom, DSW and Macy‘s also heavily discount Franco Sarto shoes at certain times of the year so sign up for alerts at your favorite retailer.
What is the best way to clean Franco Sarto leather shoes?
Mix a gentle leather cleaner with warm water to create a solution. Dip a soft clean cloth and gently wipe dirt and residue away. Finish by conditioning with a leather moisturizer to restore suppleness. Avoid submerging shoes directly in water which can strip essential oils. Stuff with paper to maintain shape as they dry.
How do I know which Franco Sarto style is right for me?
Franco Sarto categorizes their vast array of shoes into Classic, Trend Right and Premier options.
Classic Franco Sartos deliver timeless, investment-worthy silhouettes handcrafted from Italian materials to the highest standards. Go-to styles include the heeled Varina loafer, Deirdre riding boot and heeled Versa pump.
Trend Right Shoes offer of-the-moment detailing on best-selling Franco Sarto models to create an on-trend look still grounded in comfort and quality. Great picks include lug sole oxfords, chunky Chelsea boots and track-inspired sneaker mules.
Premier Styles spotlight Franco Sarto‘s finest materials and construction to deliver shoes mimicking luxury designer quality at a fraction of the price. Ultra-soft nappa or snake-embossed leathers take center stage for dressy evening looks and sophisticated workwear.
The Final Take: Is Franco Sarto Worth the Money?
For polished versatility complementing jeans to cocktail dresses alike, Franco Sarto continues excelling season after season. Their tailored silhouettes feel broken-in from the first wear while studded rubber soles ensure all-day traction ideal for busy professionals.
While more affordable brands exist, few rival Franco Sarto‘s balance of quality materials, precise stitchwork and everyday comfort. For style-driven shoppers wanting a rotational mix of boots, pumps and sandals guaranteed to earn compliments, Franco Sarto proves a sound investment that pays dividends in both fashion and function.
