Yes, I'm an environmentalist -- and I love shoes.

Shoes have somehow become a poster-child and symbol of sorts for rampant consumer culture. A recent episode of "Samantha Who?," for example, shows a would-be do-gooder Samantha stuck in her real estate job because she's gotta work to pay of tens of thous of credit card debt -- due to her shoe addiction.

But love for nice footwear doesn't have to mean financial and environmental disaster! Take it from a girl who owns mostly designer shoes. I'm not in debt, and I'm still eco-friendly than most. How? I don't buy new pleather (PVC = Ew!), and I heart consignment stores.

All the pics here are those of shoes I own. Yes, I buy designer. Why? I like high quality shoes that'll last a long long time. After all, my feet aren't gonna get any bigger!

Buy nice shoes in classic styles and colors, and you'll get compliments -- for years and years to come. They'll keep nicely, and they'll be worth fixing at your nearest shoe repair store. You'll notice that -- aside from the red Prada loafers -- my shoes are all classic, neutral colors. They go with everything, and I wear them with everything.

My opinion's that it's better to have nice shoes -- even if expensive at first -- that're sexy and last a long time, than to buy a whole buncha cheapies that scuff and get misshapen after just a couple wears. I spend less on shoes than most -- but I'm pretty sure I collect more compliments on the pairs I own.

Want pretty shoes? If you troll consignment stores, you're sure to eventually find yummy shoes in your size. If you're nice, and if you visit regularly, shop owners and employees will get to know you -- and even give you a call if you ask them to let you know if a certain something comes in that's perfect for you.

Plus, you'll be getting gently-loved goods. Reuse is always more eco than buying new!

BlogHer Contributing Editor Siel also blogs for the Los Angeles Times at Emerald City, and at greenLAgirl.com.