On the back of last week’s investment dressing post, a girlfriend and I got talking about shoes, and whether or not they qualify as an investment piece.
For me, the answer is simple.
While I certainly consider an excellent pair of shoes an investment worth making, I can’t consider them an investment piece.
Let me explain.
In my mind, for an item to count as an investment piece, it needs to be able to be worn day in, day out, sometimes for years. It can’t date and ideally it will improve with age – either by becoming more comfortable or perhaps by developing a gorgeous patina, as a vintage handbag might do.
Shoes however can date and tend to look shabby fairly quickly if you wear them every single day. And I definitely belong to the school of thought that suggests that scruffy footwear can bring an entire outfit down.
But as I mentioned above, I do believe that quality shoes are worth the investment.
Well made shoes usually last longer and they are often more comfortable. I decided a long time ago that life was too short to wear shoes that make your feet hurt.
But don’t think that comfortable shoes mean you have to forgo style. In fact it is quite the opposite, as the French designers prove.
While my budget does not yet allow for names like Christian Louboutin or Roger Vivier, it probably comes as no surprise that I am a fan of French shoes.
From the moment I purchased my very first pair of red Repetto ballet flats, I was hooked. Apart from the Repettos, I can also recommend sandals from K. Jacques and boots from both Heyraud and Inès de la Fressange.
Every pair of French shoes I’ve ever purchased has been made with the highest quality leather, has been super comfy to wear and has lasted more than one season.
So while I wouldn’t technically call them an investment piece, they have absolutely been worth the splurge.
Do you agree that shoes are not an investment piece? Or do you hold the opposite view? Either way, I’d love for you to share your thoughts – as well as your favourite French shoe makers – in the comments sections below.
And until next time – au revoir.
Please note – this is an unsolicited post and no compensation of any kind has been received from the brands mentioned in this post. I just love their shoes.
6 thoughts on “Investing In French Shoes”
It’s important to get good-quality shoes that fit well. I had a pair of extremely comfortable stacked-heel lace-ups that I had resoled several times. If you buy leather, you can polish it to make it look good longer.
Oh yes, I’ll swoon at a beautiful pair of heels or boots. 🙂
I own a pair of Arche, which are French made, but most of my shoes are Italian.
I always look for quality and comfort when buying shoes.
If I bring home souvenirs from my upcoming trip, I think it will be shoes.
Shoes are my favourite souvenir Claire.
I have the best pair of lace-up black leather ankle boots with a tiny heel. I bought them in 1998 (not in France) but I can walk for miles in them (an absolute must) and I wear them almost all the time. Great with skirts, dresses and pants. They have been re-heeled and there is no tread at all on the sole, but I am so reluctant to give them up. They have that beautiful soft leather patina you speak about. They were not expensive but a real ‘investment’ that is now paying for itself. I have just bought a beautifully-crafted pair of brogues in three colours (black, grey and burgundy). I hope they will become another investment. I have never bought French shoes, but will look out for some of those labels later this year. And I agree with you saying they must be comfortable. I need to be able to run in shoes before I buy them, so no more ultra-high heels!
Thanks Jan. You’ve reminded me that quality and care go a long way together. And your brogues sound gorgeous. I wear heels every day to work, but comfort is my number one consideration. Once I find a pair of comfortable shoes I love them forever.