About Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman is an American luxury footwear brand founded in 2004 by industry veteran Sam Edelman and his wife Libby. With over 40 years of footwear design experience, Sam Edelman established the brand with a vision to create "extraordinary, fearless, fashionable, and chic" footwear that combines American classic elegance with contemporary style.
The brand gained significant recognition after its famous appearance in Jurassic World (2015), where the protagonist wore Sam Edelman heels throughout the film, including running from dinosaurs in the Hazel pump model. This Hollywood connection, combined with endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift, Angelina Jolie, and Gigi Hadid, has cemented Sam Edelman's status as a celebrity-favorite footwear brand.
In 2010, Sam Edelman was acquired by Caleres Inc., a leading footwear company, which helped expand its global presence. The brand entered the Chinese market in 2015 and has since established retail locations in major cities including Shanghai, Beijing, and Chongqing.
Detailed Review
Product Quality & Design
Craftsmanship & Style
Sam Edelman is renowned for its distinctive designs that blend classic American style with European sophistication. The brand offers several iconic collections including the Loraine loafer with its signature metal bit hardware, Felicia ballet flats, and the legendary Hazel pump that gained fame in Jurassic World.
While the brand maintains generally good quality standards, some customers have reported occasional inconsistencies in craftsmanship and materials. Reviews mention that certain products may show wear more quickly than expected, with specific complaints about leather quality and durability in some styles.
Comfort & Fit
Sam Edelman receives high marks for comfort across many of its styles. The Loraine loafer, in particular, is frequently praised for being "completely non-biting and non-slip, with very soft leather" that requires minimal break-in time. The brand incorporates comfort technologies like cushioned footbeds and ergonomic designs in many of its styles.
Some customers note that sizing can be inconsistent between different styles, which is common with American footwear brands designed for wider feet. The Hazel pump, despite its Hollywood fame, receives mixed reviews for comfort with some users finding it less comfortable for extended wear than other styles.
Value & Pricing
Sam Edelman positions itself in the contemporary luxury segment, offering designer aesthetic at more accessible price points than true luxury brands. Regular prices range from approximately $100-$250, with frequent sales and promotions making styles even more affordable.
Customers generally find good value in Sam Edelman's core collections, particularly the perennial styles like loafers and ballet flats that offer longevity and versatility. As one reviewer noted about their Loraine loafers: "The quality and comfort are truly reliable" even after years of wear.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Celebrity-endorsed designs with Hollywood appeal
- Excellent comfort in core styles like loafers and ballet flats
- Wide range of sizes and widths available
- Strong brand recognition and retail presence
- Competitive pricing for designer footwear
Cons
- Inconsistent quality and durability across different styles
- Sizing can vary between product lines
- Limited customer service channels for direct support
- Some styles prioritize fashion over comfort
Final Verdict
4.5/5
Hollywood Glamour Meets Everyday Wearability
Sam Edelman successfully delivers celebrity-inspired style at accessible price points, making designer aesthetics available to a broader audience. While quality can be inconsistent across different styles, the brand's core collections—particularly their iconic loafers and ballet flats—offer excellent comfort and versatility for both professional and casual settings. The brand's strong retail presence and frequent promotions make it easy for customers to find their perfect fit and style. For fashion-conscious consumers seeking designer appeal without luxury price tags, Sam Edelman represents a compelling choice in the contemporary footwear market.
Rating Summary
Key Features
Hollywood Heritage
Featured in Jurassic World franchise
Celebrity Approved
Worn by Taylor Swift, Angelina Jolie
Iconic Styles
Loraine, Felicia & Hazel collections
Global Presence
500+ US stores, 30+ countries
Iconic Collections
User Reviews
"The Loraine loafer is completely non-biting and non-slip, with very soft leather. I've worn my white pair so much it's full of scars, which prompted me to immediately buy the brown color too!"
"Years ago I bought a black Loraine at full price and wore it until it broke. The quality and comfort are truly reliable. Even though the style isn't trending now, comfort never goes out of fashion."
"After only a few wears, my sandals showed peeling leather. The store suggested painting over it rather than proper repair. Disappointing for the price point."