Driving shoes. Never figured out perfect way to change back into outfit shoes, when they were knee-high boots, and someone was already coming to greet me as I pulled in. I know a car guy or three who pride themselves on wear patterns that develop on the right heel of their restorable-sole shoes. Sadly, that studied casualism doesn't go far on women's office footwear, no matter how rare and fascinating the transmission that gets you where you're going.
Patent, when I wore it, I treated after EVERY wear. Special conditioner in the shoe's color, and a rubber tipped tool for easing scrapes back down, then a specific protective polish, and dedicated textiles. Years into frequent wear, regularly got compliments on one pair of black knee-high boots. "Those must be brand new!" Often, of all places, at airport security, with the boots in a bin on a counter, under bright lights. I could have pointed out every ding, but they were just making conversation and maybe they only meant, "who wears boots like that to fly?!" (Boots weren't deemed work-appropriate, so maybe I just enjoyed stretching dress code when possible. Plus, really comfortable, and warm in winter.) Now I'm wondering, why did I have so much patent footwear, although all of it black or burgundy IIRC, and why didn't I have a hobby like knitting to pack materials for, instead of pouches of patent-care supplies?
Oh! On reading Joy's tips, I'm reminded: when you have patent footwear re-soled, or heels adjusted, or otherwise repaired, choose your professional with great care. Some, even otherwise good ones, aren't careful with patent, perhaps thinking they can polish any scratches.
Also from Joy's insights: When I buy leather shoes, I only buy leather-lined, or sometimes unlined, never ever ever synthetic or fabric. This helps a great deal with breathability. I also have and use porous wooden trees for each pair of shoes. That absorbs additional moisture, and keeps creases from deepening, I also use insoles, which I remove before inserting trees. Doesn't sound remotely minimalist, but I like good footwear and I like to wear it frequently for a long time.
#dontwearscentsofanykindtoflyortosymphonyjustdealwithunpleasantodorsliketherestofusdopleasedontinducemigraIneswhichcanincludeaurasandnauseanobodywhowearsscentsbelievesthatitimpactsthosearoundthem
