Does repairing luxury shoes make sense?

Published on 10/15/24


In the world of fashion, every pair of luxury shoes is a true investment in elegance. Like a jewel, it's the accessory that sets the tone for an outfit. A favorite pair is often worn if it's the chosen one of our hearts and our outfits. But what to do when these precious heels show the first signs of wear? Let's explore together the essential habits to keep your shoes for a long time, and not just in your closets.


Ecological benefits not to be overlooked

Choosing to repair your luxury shoes isn't just a matter of style; it's also an eco-responsible choice. By reviving our beloved footwear instead of buying new, we significantly contribute to waste reduction. In an era where global warming is a direct result of our overconsumption, this approach makes perfect sense.

Each repair extends the life of our shoes, thereby limiting the demand for new resources and mass production, which are often sources of pollution and exploitation. Furthermore, supporting local artisans strengthens the circular economy, preserving valuable traditional skills. Thus, repairing, or even evolving, our shoes can be an act of environmental conservation, highlighting our commitment to more sustainable and conscious fashion.

Selecting a Qualified Craftsman: Our Advice

When deciding to revive our luxury shoes, the choice of craftsman is paramount. Who hasn't tested all the cobblers in their neighborhood (or even their city?!) until they found that rare gem? The one who might "not look like much" but has golden hands and knows like no other how to breathe new life into your shoes, no matter the repair needed. We advise you to "test" your craftsman with a first pair and listen to their diagnosis, which will already give you an indication of the work and care they will put into your shoes. A good cobbler will strive to respect the original while offering solutions for the durability of your precious footwear. The volume of business handled by the shop is also a good indicator. Finally, when you pick up your pair, it's also interesting to get feedback on the repair provided. You will also notice the care taken with the finishes. You will very quickly form your own opinion. You can also rely on recommendations from your loved ones and online reviews to find a trusted professional whose expertise is recognized.

Our recommended pairs

Michel Perry vintage cognac pumps size 40.5

Miu Miu Khaki Patent Leather Ballerinas EU 37

Louboutin Spikes Ballerinas Size 36

Classic yet essential repairs

A leather pair will need sole protectors to protect its leather sole, and to prevent us from slipping if we wish to wear our little gems in "real" life. Rubber heels or "bonbouts" must also be replaced often because walking on asphalt in 12cm heels is wearing! and we don't want to damage the leather of our shoes, or even worse, walk on the metal shank at the risk of damaging nearby floors! Also pay attention to our pointed toes, which a skilled cobbler can repair by re-soling or other straightening techniques so that it looks as good as new. Snags on the heel are also repairable. This is called heel re-covering, which can be done and redone. Really? Yes! And twice yes.

Trust your artisans, and in the meantime, choose the pair that suits you on the MyPrettyFrenchShoes website, it has also been refurbished by our little hands with great care.