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After expanding into more than 30 countries, this Taiwan-based footwear retailer brought its signature sporty wedges and thick rubber-soled sneakers to the U.S. in late 2007 with the opening of its first Stateside boutique. The 800-square-foot Soho space presents stylish, street-friendly shoes for women and men, with eye-catching pairs made of mesh, metallic canvas, and patent leather popping against black walls and painted gold shelving. For women, the brand gussies up the traditional sneaker by propping it up on a durable three-inch rubber heel, showcasing revamped classics like casually chic navy wedges toped with white shoelace bows, canvas mary janes, and candy-colored patent-leather pumps outfitted with foot-hugging elastic lining. The men’s collection includes a wider variety, ranging from the reserved—distressed dress shoes in black or white, leather loafers with a tapered toe—to bold red leather sneakers with metallic and suede detailing. While the brand enjoys a loyal following among in-the-know tourists, most sales come from New York women who view the shoes as the ultimate commuter kicks: tough enough to withstand a beating on city streets, but still delivering a little lift. — Lauren Murrow