Strut is in step with the qualities you want in a shoe

There is a group on Facebook called "I Don't Care How Comfortable Crocs Are, You Look Like A Dumbass." There are 863,583 members. This hurts my feelings a little, because I am an avid Croc wearer, as are my husband and my little girl. They're perfect for gardening and for slipping on to run to the store. And darn it, they are comfortable.

On the other hand, I am a fashionista at heart, and recognize that Crocs are not appropriate for every occasion. I recently saw a photo of Brooke Shields wearing hot pink Crocs under a voluminous Maxi Dress -- not a good look. But it highlights the dilemma many women face when it comes to shoes: cute or comfy?

Paula Kopp, proprietress of the newly opened Strut shoe store in Greenwood believes you can have it both ways. In her store, the medical researcher turned teacher turned boutique owner has brought together an array of options for women and children (men's styles are coming soon) that are stylish, wearable and reasonably priced.

Strut carries sleek casual flats and dressy pumps from Tsubo ($90-$130), as well as classic looks from Israeli brand Naot ($125-$160). New to me are the eco-chic offerings from J-41 (all styles around $90). The collection is owned by Chrysler, if you can believe it, and the "J" stands for jeep.

J-41 shoes feature partially recycled rubber outsoles and are packaged with recycled materials. The collection includes sandals that are perfect for Pacific Northwest women who want a durable and weather-resistant shoe that also has a little flair.

In the kids' section, you'll find sweet styles for little feet from Swedish brand Vincent ($36 for most styles) and Primigi ($32-$58) from Italy.

Kopp has created a welcoming and unpretentious boutique that features cork flooring and recycled cherry-wood planks from an old barn for shelves. Strut is a kid-friendly store, and a toy box in the corner helps ensure a calmer shopping experience for parents. And, I'm told, Strut will soon carry Crocs for kids.

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