Shoe Talk + Proper Care
As an avid shoe lover, admittedly, I've developed quite a collection. It's also probably no surprise that one of my most frequently asked questions, is on the topic of shoes. Whether it's "should I get this style versus that style..?" or "what's the best way to care for them?" I figured it's about time I properly answer your shoe related questions.
So, first, the brand breakdown of my favorites.
The Manolo Blahnik BBs : Out of all the "fancy" heels that I own (rather than my trendier, more disposable, pairs) The Manolo BBs are hands down, the most comfortable (I buy the 4" heel height). With these, it's not as necessary to walk around with a backup pair of flats in your bag. If you're looking to invest in a sleek, classic heel, that you can actually wear for multiple hours a day, I highly recommend these. Granted, if you're a commuting New Yorker, you'll still want that backup pair, but you get the point. While I don't mind these with dresses or skirts, I like them best with jeans. Totally just my own personal preference.
I only own the red pair, but am thinking of getting the grey for fall. I've been lusting for them since last year and might take the plunge. Already have multiple outfits brewing in my head....
So, first, the brand breakdown of my favorites.
The Manolo Blahnik BBs : Out of all the "fancy" heels that I own (rather than my trendier, more disposable, pairs) The Manolo BBs are hands down, the most comfortable (I buy the 4" heel height). With these, it's not as necessary to walk around with a backup pair of flats in your bag. If you're looking to invest in a sleek, classic heel, that you can actually wear for multiple hours a day, I highly recommend these. Granted, if you're a commuting New Yorker, you'll still want that backup pair, but you get the point. While I don't mind these with dresses or skirts, I like them best with jeans. Totally just my own personal preference.
I only own the red pair, but am thinking of getting the grey for fall. I've been lusting for them since last year and might take the plunge. Already have multiple outfits brewing in my head....
The Christian Louboutin So Kate: Aesthetically, these are my favorite. I'm convinced that they make any outfit look better, whether it's a fancy dress or a distressed pair of jeans. My nude pair, is the #1 pair of heels I reach for in my closet. Cost per wear, these have paid for themselves 10x over. As far as their comfort, honestly speaking, I wouldn't rank them high on the list. They're definitely a pair of shoes that I'm either a) hopping in a car in or 2) changing into right before my final destination. I also prefer these over the popular Pigalles. They have a slightly longer/pointier toe box, which I love. Now, there's also the Pigalle Platos, which are actually quite comfortable!
Something else to keep in mind: most of these shoes, particularly the Christian Louboutin So Kates and Pigalles, take time to "mold" to your foot. No, they don't become walking shoes, but they become significantly more comfortable than what they first feel like. Also, can we take a moment and discuss the new forest green color?! Holy moly.
I should also add that I get so many questions asking me "how the hell do you walk in your shoes?" For starters, I always have a back up pair in my bag and I often change at my location, especially if I'm walking or taking the train. Secondly, I've always had a pretty high heel tolerance. I don't know if it's because I have an extremely high foot arch, which I heard has a lot to do with how your foot handles heels, but either way, I've become an expert heel wearer.
PROPER CARE 1. Whenever I get a new pair of designer shoes, I try to get the bottom soles protected right away! Even though I'm somebody who is VERY hard on my shoes, this is a one time thing. A major added bonus, the rubber sole will significantly improve the comfort of your heels, especially if there was a thin sole to begin with. If you're not already getting rubber soles, they will give you life! I cannot stress it enough. Go out and get them! And of course, make sure you get red soles for your Louboutins.
*In NYC, I like Leather Spa for my Louboutins, primarily for the red sole. They're a bit pricey, but they always do such a great job. This is also the place I bring my designer handbags, when something needs to be repaired or cleaned. For my other shoes that don't require a red sole, I'll go to my local shoe cobbler that I trust. If any of you guys have any recommendations other than Leather Spa, I would love to hear!
2. Make sure you replace your heel tips as soon as you see metal coming through. For me, it happens often, but it will make your expensive shoes last for years and years. Side note: one of my biggest pet peeves in the world is hearing the metal *click clack* sound when a female, including myself, needs to get her heels replaced. Nails on a chalkboard....
3. Make sure you properly protect them before/after wearing. Below are my favorite ways to properly care for them.
Satin: Apple Garde Rain and Stain Repellent.
Suede: Apple Rain and Stain Repellent, immediately before wearing.
Leather: Apple Leather Cleaner.
Other tips:
1. For removing black marker lines, try Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
2. For keeping patent leather shiny, try baby wipes a drop of petroleum jelly.
3. If your heels slip out of the back (always a problem for me) try heel liners.
4. When you travel, make sure you store the shoes in your dust bags!
5. Edited to add a reader tip: taping your third and fourth toes together, before slipping them on, helps a lot with comfort! Did a little research and many claim that it helps! Something to do with our nerves. Definitely going to try it!
Well, I think that's it! I hope I answered any questions and if I didn't, feel free to ask below!
And remember... xo, Helena
Something else to keep in mind: most of these shoes, particularly the Christian Louboutin So Kates and Pigalles, take time to "mold" to your foot. No, they don't become walking shoes, but they become significantly more comfortable than what they first feel like. Also, can we take a moment and discuss the new forest green color?! Holy moly.
I should also add that I get so many questions asking me "how the hell do you walk in your shoes?" For starters, I always have a back up pair in my bag and I often change at my location, especially if I'm walking or taking the train. Secondly, I've always had a pretty high heel tolerance. I don't know if it's because I have an extremely high foot arch, which I heard has a lot to do with how your foot handles heels, but either way, I've become an expert heel wearer.
PROPER CARE 1. Whenever I get a new pair of designer shoes, I try to get the bottom soles protected right away! Even though I'm somebody who is VERY hard on my shoes, this is a one time thing. A major added bonus, the rubber sole will significantly improve the comfort of your heels, especially if there was a thin sole to begin with. If you're not already getting rubber soles, they will give you life! I cannot stress it enough. Go out and get them! And of course, make sure you get red soles for your Louboutins.
*In NYC, I like Leather Spa for my Louboutins, primarily for the red sole. They're a bit pricey, but they always do such a great job. This is also the place I bring my designer handbags, when something needs to be repaired or cleaned. For my other shoes that don't require a red sole, I'll go to my local shoe cobbler that I trust. If any of you guys have any recommendations other than Leather Spa, I would love to hear!
2. Make sure you replace your heel tips as soon as you see metal coming through. For me, it happens often, but it will make your expensive shoes last for years and years. Side note: one of my biggest pet peeves in the world is hearing the metal *click clack* sound when a female, including myself, needs to get her heels replaced. Nails on a chalkboard....
3. Make sure you properly protect them before/after wearing. Below are my favorite ways to properly care for them.
Satin: Apple Garde Rain and Stain Repellent.
Suede: Apple Rain and Stain Repellent, immediately before wearing.
Leather: Apple Leather Cleaner.
Other tips:
1. For removing black marker lines, try Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
2. For keeping patent leather shiny, try baby wipes a drop of petroleum jelly.
3. If your heels slip out of the back (always a problem for me) try heel liners.
4. When you travel, make sure you store the shoes in your dust bags!
5. Edited to add a reader tip: taping your third and fourth toes together, before slipping them on, helps a lot with comfort! Did a little research and many claim that it helps! Something to do with our nerves. Definitely going to try it!
Well, I think that's it! I hope I answered any questions and if I didn't, feel free to ask below!
And remember... xo, Helena
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