I bought this shoes because of the discreet color and comfortability.  Laces could be better, but, oh, well.  I'm a 38 lawyer, I tend to be too formal for dressing, but wore these shoes  on a weekend, and was very surprised when a 14 yo girl fell in love with them and asked her mom to pay me for them!  So,  if you are looking for shoes for a kid or think they're too old fashioned, forget it, this shoes are ageless!