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Today's well-heeled children don't have to walk a mile to school in the snow — all the more reason to start their shoe appreciation classes early. At Madison Park's Plum, high-end shoes in patent-, plain- and suede-leather hail from Spain, Italy and France (Mod8 is a popular brand). Prices range from $50 to $200, with most shoes around $80.

Elementary-school children can choose from practical (and impractical) shoes for school, athletic activities or dress-up events, but babies get to have fun here, too. From zig-zagging Velcro and side zippers to laces and old-fashioned straps, Plum's shoes glide on easily and stay put with style.

Forget traditional patent leather; choices here include slick red boots, shiny white galoshes with circular patent-leather patches, and squat black booties that hug the foot and flare at the top. Extras include multi-colored suede appliqués, exaggerated buttons and dainty flower designs. Britney fans will love the purple glitter boots topped with fur, and hip athletes can choose hiking shoes accented with leopard mohair.

The soles of these shoes even make a statement: Most have the traditional ripple, while some have creative "waffles" — even raised flowers and stems. Forget snow; these kids are walking on sunshine!

By Alison Peacock
Special to NWsource