Last year I decided to procure a pair of Hermès Oran sandals in “gold, ” or the cognac color. I did this only after getting real about the price; I calculated how many post-tax hours it would take to buy the sandals. After making peace with that, I marched my hiney to the CityCenter Hermès outpost and took my place in line.
After waiting for a solid forty-five minutes, I inquired to the snappy young gentleman in line behind me, “Is Hermès French for ‘We take our fucking time?'” hence establishing a best friendship lasting all of the remaining fifteen minutes I had to wait for an available sales associate. Knowing exactly what I wanted expedited the rest of my time in the boutique and before I knew it, I was on my way to my plans for the evening.
I tried on at least two sizes in the Hermès Oran sandals, eventually going up to a size 42. That is to say that while my foot is admittedly large, this style runs small. The leather also stretches out width-wise. I experienced a painful break in period, of which the sandals wore blisters during a quick sub-half mile walk to Butcher Bar from Rittenhouse Square, and back. My feet managed to get over it after my blisters healed from that initial maiden voyage.
I went on to consistently wear them throughout the summer, at least until my pregnant feet began to swell. I had to preserve the leather from stretching out too much!
I cannot tell you whether or not these sandals will be worth it for you because I don’t know your life i.e. your financial situation. I can freely advise to never make a purchase for which you do not have funds earmarked.
On that note, within the past few years, brands have released their own version of the Hermès Oran sandals. Some people would call these “dupes,” which, gross. However, these are not coming from a Canal Street vendor claiming to be authentic Hermès, rather more reputable brands and retailers knocking off the style. In the case that the Hermès version is not in your budget, consider either of the below options that ring in at a fraction of the price.
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