Between the cheetah print carpet that lines the floor and the pink-hued walls that create a feminine feel, The Little Shoebox in Ruxton is the ultimate shop for shoe-loving women in Baltimore.
In 2005, two long-time friends, Janie Griffin and Emilie Blaze, were compelled to open a boutique that would cater to a unique clientele—refined, chic women—in the Baltimore area. At the time, Janie was a schoolteacher and Emilie was a stay-at-home mom of four, both looking for a change from making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and doing arts and crafts. The twist? Before even deciding to go into business together, the two women were looking at the same exact space—unbeknown to each other. After deeming it fate (and wrangling the truth out of their real estate agent who promised to keep the “other” potential buyer a secret), Janie and Emilie combined their passion for shoes–and their business instincts–and The Little Shoebox was born.
The boutique carries several different designer shoe brands, including Isaac Mizrahi, Delman, Bettye Muller, Kors by Micahel Kors, Ella Moss, Butter, Something Blue, Repetto, Elaine Turner, Pour La Victoire, and Sacha London. Whether you’re looking to jump through puddles in Hunter rain boots or walk down the aisle in Badgley Mischka heels—The Little Shoebox provides shoppers with options for every occasion.
When searching for new footwear to bring to The Little Shoebox, the two trend-setting business partners seek “color, style, and sophistication.” By keeping their customers in mind, Janie and Emilie are able to shop for shoes that are bound to appeal to any Baltimore fashionista who wants to put her best foot forward.
Not only does the shop offer classic pairs of shoes, like nude patent leather pumps, but also fresh and funky ones, like patterned wedge booties. It is no surprise that the boutique’s bestsellers are fun pumps with an unusual design. The Little Shoebox strikes a perfect balance between flirty and feminine and sexy and glamorous.
After spending the afternoon with the owners and ogling the gorgeous footwear on display, I am now coveting one (okay, two) pairs of shoes! As soon as Baltimore sees its first snowfall, I will be sporting Hunter’s “Cathie” duck boot in olive green. I especially loved the faux fur lining—stylish and warm! Pour la Victoire’s strappy red heels would be the perfect complement to any party dress, so I will be adding them to my holiday wish list as well.
The Little Shoebox is located at 7625 Bellona Avenue in Ruxton. For more information, please visit The Little Shoebox website. Colleen Kochesfahani writes the local fashion blog jimmychoosonthetreadmill.
