Store Guide: Studio D, an uptown footwear boutique devoted to niche European designers

Name: Studio D Sells: Women’s footwear and handbags Contact info: 2570 Yonge St., 416-486-7693 Hours: Monday–Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

After a quarter century in the footwear departments of Holt Renfrew and the now shuttered Zola Shoes, Derrick Adams has opened his own boutique at Yonge and Eglinton. Studio D currently carries sandals, stilettos and sneakers from nine European designers. (Despite a small selection, it’s sort of a big deal for the neighbourhood’s female residents, whose local footwear options have been limited to Sporting Life and The Shoe Company.)

Most of the labels are Italian, meaning that in addition to expert craftsmanship, shoppers can also expect plenty of pizzazz (think Swarovski crystal or oversized pearl embellishments). Our favourite pieces manage to be laid-back while still showing off a bit of flair: Missoni’s bohemian flats, edgy kicks from cool-kid label MSGM or metallic slip-ons from Sebastian Milano, for example. Toronto designer Ela provides all the handbags, and her structured, colourful (and sometimes sparkly) clutches blend in perfectly with the statement shoes. Prices range from $195 all the way up to $875.