The Starling Loafer Velvet

3rd pair of Birdies bought. Love the comfy fit and sturdy construction. Size varies between styles and materials, though. Thought they’d fit like my other Starling flats, which are leather, but these are very tight. Second time I’ve had to make an exchange because the different styles and materials fit so differently. Apparently I should wear a size 7. 5 in a velvet Heron, 7 in a leather Starling, and 7. 5 in a velvet Starling.

Although still very cute, the fact they no longer make wide is troublesome. In the past I have worn 11w which were perfect. I have worn out the soles and inquired about 11w. I was told they no longer make wide shoes and to order the regular width since they stretch to your feet. I received them today, they fit but are tight. I'm hoping that eventually they will stretch and mold to my feet. Birdies, PLEASE resume wide widths. This could be a deal breaker.

This is my second pair of the black velvet starling. I had my first pair for several years and I loved them. For some reason this pair is different. They are still the same comfortable shoes, but if you even lightly catch your shuffle your foot, you will leave a big black streak on the floor. It rubs off with a paper towel but it happens quite often and I know that my first pair did not do this. I still love the shoe in spite of this and they are so comfy.

The old design was way cuter. I don’t know why they changed it. The almond shape was much more feminine and fit my feet better. The new design is a cross between a round and square toe, trying to look like a ballet slipper, and it gapes around the middle of my foot. Hige downgrade.