Unbranded shoes in last minute panic purchase

I've been on the look out for a new brand of shoes, especially brown leather. Previously, my brand of choice has been Jones the Bootmakers. I've have been very happy with all purchases, however,  recently I've been on the look out for something different. 

In search of simplicity, I purchased a pair of Hugo Boss black leather shoes last summer. They are very smart and perfect for formal occasions. However, I've been looking for a more casual pair of brown leather shoes ever since. 

A brief stopover in Italy to watch the Six Nations rugby and some last minute minute packing, meant I forgot to pack any shoes whatsoever. My only currency was a pair of bright yellow Onitsuka Tigers and a pair of Salomon hiking boots (visiting Tyrol after the rugby). Neither suitable for a night out on the streets of Rome. 

The fear of missing out kicked in and I decided to buy a new pair of shoes last minute. This proved to be a stressful occasion. Although there were plenty of shoe shops nearby, neither stocked brown leather shoes, nor shoes that were a decent size (size 46). Italian men must have small feet!

The result? I reluctantly bought a pair of black shoes that didn't fit, spent the following day with blisters, and eventually giving away the shoes to family. 

Lesson learned: Stick to your brands. Don't compromise. Avoid peer pressure. Simple.