And yet the shoes lasted a very long time, and when they finally wore out, you took them back to get them repaired. Quality handmade goods made with heart and soul (instead of exploitation, sweatshops, throwaway junk, etc) is such a better concept. [That's why ETSY was born.]
Also, these days with technology, handmade goods are comparable in price to department stores. I make handmade clothing, and it's sweatshop free, and a shirt will cost you in some cases less, in some cases more than what you would buy in a store (depending on Walmart vs mall). So it's making a comeback!