While the styling on the Merge shoe is current, the quality is questionable.  In the last few years, Kenneth Cole began manufacturing shoes in China.  Consequently, the quality quality of materials and construction have degraded.

When worn periodically (evenings/weekends), these shoes should last 12 to 18 months.  When worn on a daily basis, I doubt they will longer than 6 months.  Eventually, the inexpensive leather cracks and the sole wears.

However, I just purchased my second pair of these shoes.  They are a bit expensive for low quality shoes, but I need the extended size and appreciate the styling.

UPDATE:  Well, the leather split on these shoes like they did on my first pair.  The Kenneth Cole shoes coming from China are garbage in my opinion.  Since I paid full retail for these, I sent them back and Amazon customer service worked with me to find a replacement.