The one, the only: The Legendary Shoe Sale at Army & Navy
Shoe obsessions tend to be extreme: Imelda Marcos had 1060 pairs, Marie Antoinette could buy more than 200 in a year, and Saks Fifth Avenue’s shoe department has its own zip code. But nowhere are there so many shoes on sale at the same time except at Army & Navy’s Legendary Shoe Sale. Canada’s original off-price retailer brings shoppers thousands of pairs, each priced under $60. The sale starts Wednesday, April 26 and runs until Sunday, May 7 at all Army & Navy stores. Army & Navy’s footwear buyer, Silvio Urbani, describes the annual sale as a treasure hunt for everyone from fashionistas to dedicated label-hunters. “We’re all about bringing the best brands to our customers, and we always throw in some last-minute big surprises,” he said. “Every year lucky shoppers are able to find hidden gems from the biggest shoe designers in the world. In the past we’ve had Giuseppe Zanotti, Jimmy Choo and Valentino, to name a few.” This year’s sale features secret one-of-a-kind finds that Silvio couldn’t reveal. “I have to stay mum on that or it’ll spoil the hunt,” he said. “But let’s just say we have some really coveted brands on offer.” Styles that can be mentioned include 2017 designs from premium labels like Nine West, Cole Haan, Steve Madden, BCBG, Guess, Sam Edelman, Anne Klein and Clarks. New to the lineup this year are shoes from Kendall + Kylie. The annual sale, now in it’s 68th year, is a tradition that reflects Army & Navy’s dedication to the deal. “My grandfather Sam Cohen liked to pass the savings onto the customer,” said Jacqui Cohen, Army & Navy’s president and CEO. “I believe Silvio works hard to deliver that same philosophy in his latest stunning collection.” If you’re ready to beat the crowd to the best shoe deals of the season, Silvio offers these tips to help you on your shoe treasure hunt.
MAKE LIKE A BOY SCOUT
Be prepared: The doors open at 8 a.m., but many shoppers line up hours beforehand to get the best pick. All shoes are arranged by size, so it helps to know your section ahead of time. If your dream shoe sells out, there’s still hope: the racks are restocked throughout the day while the entire sale lasts, so be sure to check back.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
This sale is a better workout than spin class. Silvio recommends comfy clothes and shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Hot tip: grab a basket at the door to free up your hands to carry more shoes.
TEAM UP
Bring a friend along for moral support (and style opinions), but also for physical support; two hands can only carry so many shoes. And if you’re not willing to test the bonds of friendship, make it a friend who sports a different size – this is no place for “friendly” competition. To see some of the styles on offer, visit https://www.armyandnavy.ca/pages/legendaryshoe-sale-look-book