I was specifically looking for a wholecut tuxedo shoe (the most formal and elegant option for formal wear), and I wasn't willing to pay $1300 for Louboutins. I found Thomas Bird via Google, as they have one currently selling for $348. Since I had about 6 weeks, and since they offered free returns, I figured I would try it out. I'm consistently a US size 11.5 in almost all shoes (Allen Edmonds, e.g.), so I was a little concerned about the lack of half-sized shoes. I read the FAQ about sizing, which suggested rounding down. For me, this would have resulted in a much-too-tight shoe. Thankfully, while perusing their accessories, I happened to find the leather insoles, which purported to reduce the shoe fit by a half size. So I figured, I'd go that route, and wear thicker socks, as a worst-case scenario, if they were still too big. If the shoe ran small and fit without the need for insoles, as suggested by the FAQ, I'd only be out $13. The shoes arrived in 4 days (UK to USA east coast), which was impressive! I tried them on, and they were slightly too large. Also, the built-in insole wasn't very comfortable. Once I added the leather insoles, the shoes were EXTREMELY comfortable! The construction quality and finish of the shoe is impeccable, and the look is stunning! It looks almost identical to the Louboutin version (minus the red sole) for nearly $1K less. Now for the TRUE test: a 15-hour Eastern European wedding celebration... Well, I'm shocked to report the shoes performed perfectly! Yes, my feet were a little sore at the end of the evening, but that would have been true even if I'd been wearing runners. I couldn't be happier with this shoe! I can't say that it would have been as comfortable for that length of time without the leather insole, so if you're a half-sizer like me, you're in luck. Buy these! I was also surprised at how nice they looked afterwards. They held up really well! Not a mark on them, even after hours of dancing! I haven't even cleaned them up yet, and they still look great! Now I just need some TB shoe trees... And some belts... And at least 5 more pairs of shoes/boots I realized I can no longer live without...