Don't fall for fast fashion

February 26, 2020 Raechel Lambert

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.

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

Men’s boots

Women’s flat boots

Women’s mid-heel boots

Women’s dress boots

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.

See this gallery in the original post

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