I got DD1 some from Betts when she started school. They were Mary Janes with Velcro even though should could tie laces as I wanted everything to be as easy as possible for her. They were about $90 on sale. I nearly had a heart attack, but knowing how much she grew I wanted her to be in the best shoes possible as it was a long time for her to be in them.
However, In true Darcy style she had worn through the toes and grown clear out of them before the end of first term :O She is not having expensive shoes again until she evens out. Since she's now in ladies shoes the cost is hideous.