I got to know to owner of Bondstreet Shoes when they first opened on Ellsworth Avenue in 2007. It was probably the first week that they had opened and I walked right in to check out the store and welcome owner Karsten Chorus to the neighborhood (I was working two doors down at the

Owner, Karsten Chorus

time). Karsten quickly became one of my favorite people to visit because of his appreciation of

fashion and his great selection of European shoes. During one of those first visits I bought myfavorite pair of flat black knee boots with an optional rhinestone attachment. Trust me, they’re fabulous!

A few months ago I was so happy to find out that Karsten would be moving Bondstreet Shoes up to Walnut Street for a prime spot in the former Cosmetique Destefino space. I was even happier to see that he brought his signature streamlined and chic European style into the space.

Karsten, who is originally from Germany, exclusively carries the Llyod Germany line that features shoes and boots for men and women. I found out that Bondstreet Shoes is the only independent boutique in the whole world to carry the Lloyd women’s collection, the only other place it is available is through Lloyd flagship stores. Bondstreet also has the largest selection of the men’s collection other than Lloyd flagship stores. So, if you didn’t think Pittsburgh had any exclusive European designers, think again!

In addition to many of the classic must-have styles, Bondstreet also carries some more fashion forward options, like a feathered black suede peep-toe bootie. Of course we all know boots of every shape, size and style are in this year but the style that seems to be popping up the most for women is suede ankle boots with cut outs or peep toes. You’ll find plenty of options here. Wondering how to brave Pittsburgh weather in cut out boots? Just add tights in classic black or a fun color or pattern.

If for some crazy reason you aren’t in the mood for shoe shopping, Bondstreet also carries some accessories like scarves and great handbags.

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This is the first of a local shopping series written by Tori Mistick for IheartPGH. Read more of Tori’s love of fashion on her blog, EcoFashionistas.