Don't fall for fast fashion
The fast fashion industry attempts to force excessive consumerism by making slight changes each season to make you feel like what you already own is “out of style”. But a great pair of leather boots should last you many years if you maintain them correctly. In this post, I’m sharing my favorite boots, what to look for when shopping, and how to care for them.
Facebook official
A few weeks ago Facebook reminded me of a memory from 5 years ago of one of my BFFs and I doing some karaoke! When I looked at my outfit in the post, I realized I was still wearing the exact same boots. So it’s Facebook Official that I’ve been wearing (and loving) these boots for over 5 years!
To promote conscious consumerism, I’m celebrating all three pairs of my gorgeous, high-quality, classic leather boots that I’ve owned for many years.
The fashion industry’s style changes
Slight changes usually include adjustments to toe shape, pushing the heel forward or back, changing the thickness or shape of the heel, and adjusting the ankle height. You’ll also see changes in leather colors and textures. Last year I noticed trends including shortened ankle heights and this year they are higher. I’m also noticing blocky heels, square toes, slouchy boots, and western styles.
My boots
When purchasing my boots, I opted for high-quality construction with a classic style. I also prefer ankle boots rather than knee-high because they are more versatile with outfits and seasons, easier to care for, and take up less space when storing. Here are my boots:
Flats
My flat boots are The Cachi by M. Gemi (exact style is no longer available). I purchased them in February 2016 for $248. They are my go-to boots and I wear them to pretty much everything, even when I’m on my feet all day. You’ve probably seen them in pictures of me on film sets, at client meetings, and around town. I’m still thrilled with these boots and have no plans to replace them.
Years owned: 4 years
Purchase price: $248
Care costs: $240
Total investment: $488
Cost per year: $122
Mid-heel
My mid-heel boots are 2.5 inches high by Madewell (exact style no longer available). While I won’t wear these for a 12-hour day, they are my go-to shoes for hitting the town. I can stand in them for several hours (like going to a standing room concert) and they are a comfortable way to add some glam to my outfit. I’ve have these the longest and may end up replacing them in the next couple of seasons.
Years owned: 5+ years (can’t find the purchase date)
Purchase price: $178
Care costs: $360
Total investment: $538
Cost per year: $107
Stilettos
These are my fancy boots! Can’t remember the style name but they are also from M. Gemi. I wear them the least often since the heel is 3 inches (my max) but they look amazing with slacks and dresses. They help keep me warm since I can wear socks—especially useful when wearing dresses in the cold weather! I also love that they stay on my feet much better than normal pumps. I’m still thrilled with these boots and have no plans to replace them.
Years owned: 4 years
Purchase price: $248
Care costs: $180
Total investment: $548
Cost per year: $137
What to look for in leather shoes
High-quality leather
Full-grain is the best quality of leather you can buy, but if the label says "made with full-grain leather," that might mean that some of the good is not full-grain. Meanwhile, "genuine" leather doesn't just mean that the product is made of real leather (which it is); it also means it is the lowest quality of all products made out of real leather.
Look at the edging of the leather. If it's blue, that means the tannery didn't allow the leather to properly tan. You'll notice the edges will sometimes be painted to hide the blemish—a sign that the piece you're looking at isn't the finest.
Strong, even stitching
Look closely at the stitching and try moving it with your finger nail. Does it look sturdy and even? Are there loops or loose ends? Does the leather meet flushly without gaps?
Durable hardware
Big buckles and spikes are fun and edgy, but these are the “fashion forward” adornments that go out of style each year. Instead, I opt for low-key, durable hardware. Make sure the metal is not painted (look for chipping) and test out any zippers and enclosures.
Comfort
This goes without saying, but if they aren’t reasonably comfortable for standing and walking, they aren’t a good investment. Boots are made for walking!
Caring for your boots
Proactive protection
Rather than waiting to “repair” my shoes after some wear, as soon as I buy them I take them to the cobbler (just search for “shoe repair” in Google maps). The cobbler applies a sole cover, rubber heel, and protective polish before I even wear them. This work runs about $60 per pair, depending on where you live. In addition to when I first purchase, I do this after every season to keep my boots looking sharp and in good condition. I also buy fresh inserts each season (about $12 a pair).
At home care
Get a leather care kit that includes a brush, shoe polish, and polish applicator. Use the brush to remove dust and debris before applying the polish.
Storage
During the off-season, I store my shoes in fabric bags with cedar wood inside. Cedar is an alternative to mothballs that removes moisture from the air, so in humid climates, it will act as a natural dehumidifier and keep your clothes and shoes from developing mildew. Cedar also smells lovely and will keep your items smelling nice.
Rae’s recommendations
If you happen to be looking to invest in high-quality leather shoes or boots, here are some of my favorites available now.
Men’s shoes
Aston Grey Edoessa Wingtip Oxford
$90 at DSW
I found these on DSW as a good option for a men’s dress shoe that isn’t looking to drop a ton of money. Great if you don’t dress up much and need a pair versatile enough for a suit, but still wearable with jeans and a blazer.
Fifth Avenue Cap-toe Oxford
One of my closest friends, Kurt, is a diehard Allen Edmond fan and he takes great joy in lookin’ fine in his fine shoes. He’s got a kit for caring for them too.
Men’s boots
Bullboxer Keldon cap-toe boot
My brother-in-law has a pair of these and likes them for casual wear in the fall and winter around town.
Grant Stone plain-toe boots
My husband, Ryan, has a similar pair. They look great with jeans and he’s also worn them with a suit when we had a fall outdoor occasion.
Women’s flat boots
Leather Chelsea Boots
These are a classic Chelsea boot with a nice almond toe and stitch detailing for a bit of uniqueness. Slightly dressier looking than other flat boots.
The Ainsley Chelsea Boot
These are a classic Chelsea boot that look extra durable. I like the ribbed leather detailing and have had an excellent experience with the quality of Madewell boots in the past.
The Square Toe Chelsea Boot
I like Everlane for their ethical manufacturing, transparent prices, minimal style and focus on comfort. These Chelsea boots have a slightly urban, edgy twist that I really like.
Women’s mid-heel boots
The Regan Boot
This is the next generation of my mid-heel boots! I love the stacked wooden heel to add texture and create the perfect balance of casual and dressy.
Women’s dress boots
Fiona kitten heel in suede
If you’re like me and are just pretty much over high-heels, I love kitten heels because they are slim which gives the dress factor, but low which covers practicality.
Pointed-toe Sadie boots
I love these as a two-in-one option for the mid-heel and dress boot combination. If you’re looking to invest in a pair of boots that can serve both situations, these might be it!
Pointed toe high-heel ankle boots in suede
The high heel might be something to carefully consider for practicality. The ankle is also higher which is trendy now but likely not in seasons to come. That said, I still think these are classic enough in all the other areas to be an investment contender.
The Arcata Bootie
This is the closest bootie I could find to the pair I own. That said, they are a big investment so you’d need to absolutely love them and have lots of occasion to wear them.
Let’s not fall for fast fashion! Investing in high-quality leather shoes and taking care of them is cheaper in the long run and much better for the environment.
More like this
Share
Did you enjoy this article? Let me know in the comments and share on social.
