I had to try this one.
The split-toe shoe trend is showing up everywhere right now, and when I first saw the Steve Madden Calico, I definitely had opinions.
After almost 20 years of buying and selling shoes, I love seeing something genuinely different come along—even when I'm not immediately convinced I want to wear it.
So naturally, I ordered them.
What Does a Split-Toe Shoe Actually Feel Like?
This was my first question.
And the best way I can describe it?
It feels like you're wearing a closed-toe flip-flop.
The Calico has a divider between the big toe and the rest of your toes. It's definitely an unusual sensation when you first put it on, especially if you've never worn a split-toe shoe before.
But once I walked around in them for a bit, I started getting used to it.
The Look
This is not your basic ballet flat.
The split toe is what makes the entire shoe—and it's also probably going to be the reason you either love it or absolutely don't.
I actually appreciate that.
There are so many shoes out there that look almost identical right now. The Calico feels different.
And because the rest of the silhouette is so simple, it doesn't feel quite as intimidating once it's actually on your foot.
The Quality
One reason I think the Steve Madden Calico is an interesting way to experiment with this trend is the combination of leather and price point.
If I'm trying something this directional, I'm not necessarily ready to make a major designer investment.
Steve Madden gives you an opportunity to play with the look without making that kind of commitment.
How I'd Style It
I'd keep the outfit simple and let the shoe be the interesting part.
Think:
Relaxed denim + oversized button-down + blazer
or
Cropped trousers + simple knit + Calico
I'd also love these peeking out underneath a wider-leg jean.
This isn't a shoe that needs ten other trends happening around it.
My Take
Would I have predicted I'd be trying on a split-toe shoe this fall?
Probably not.
But that's also why I wanted to review it.
If you've been watching the split-toe trend and wondering what it actually looks and feels like in real life, the Steve Madden Calico is an approachable way to experiment with it.
A little weird? Yes.
Interesting? Definitely.
And sometimes that's exactly what I want from a shoe.
→ SHOP THE STEVE MADDEN CALICO
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