If you're like the thousands of other people who are obsessed with designer shoes, you may have noticed how difficult it is to actually shop for them - especially if you live in a small town that is short on high-end boutiques.

So, how about turning to the web for your designer footwear needs? It's a great idea, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Choosing an Online Retailer for Designer Shoes

While shopping on the web is usually extremely safe and enjoyable, not all online retailers are created equal. You'll want to excercise caution, especially when you're shopping for a high-ticket item like designer footwear. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when for designer items online.

• Stick with major retailers and sites. All too often places claiming to have shoes "styled" after a certain designer's shoes are not selling the actual label, but a cheap knock-off.

• Learn about the retailers shipping and return policies before purchasing. Items should be in stock and ready to ship within a few days - you want to be sure you'll receive your order when you need it.
  
  Return policies should also be of utmost concern. Most reputable sites will allow returns of unworn shoes within a certain time period, and several top shoe sites will even offer free returns. If the shoes aren't returnable, look elsewhere, or know you're taking your chances.
  

• Stick with sites that have been recommended to you by a friend; or sites that you already know. New shoe sites are popping up all the time, and some of them may be great - but it's best to check them out by asking around before placing an expensive order.