Footwear
How to Buy Designer Shoes
Luxury shoes are unforgiving of a bad fit. No amount of craftsmanship rescues a last that does not match your foot.
Sizing runs by house, not by number
Italian houses often run narrow through the toe box; French lasts tend to be slimmer at the heel. Always shoe-shop in the late afternoon when feet have swollen, and size to the longer foot.
Look at the construction
Blake-stitched soles are flexible and elegant; Goodyear-welted soles are heavier and can be resoled many times. Glued soles are the shortcut and separate over time. Check that the heel is set squarely and that the leather sole has a fine, close grain.
Heel height and balance
A 75 to 85 millimetre heel with a slight platform is wearable for a full evening. Beyond 100 millimetres, the pitch of the arch matters more than the height itself — walk the shop floor before committing.
Protect them from day one
Add thin rubber sole guards and heel tips before first wear, use cedar trees between wears, and keep suede away from rain rather than trusting sprays.
Before You Buy
- Try shoes late in the day
- Confirm sole construction and resole options
- Walk in them before buying
- Add sole guards immediately
Private Appointments
Personal sourcing, authentication and styling — by appointment only.
hello@jlluxuryboutique.com