Guide: How to choose the right women's leather shoes
Leather women's shoes are a wardrobe essential: elegant, comfortable and durable, they transcend seasons and trends without losing their charm. Whether ankle boots, loafers, ballet flats, sandals or pumps, a beautiful pair of leather shoes is always a good investment.
But how do you choose the right women's leather shoes? Several criteria must be considered, including leather quality, style, comfort, and care. Here's a complete guide to help you make the right choice.
WHY CHOOSE LEATHER SHOES?
Leather is a noble and vibrant material that offers many advantages over synthetic materials. Leather shoes can last for several years. They offer ideal comfort as the leather softens over time and molds to the shape of the foot. Leather shoes are particularly elegant, timeless, and adapt to all outfits. They are a classic of the women's wardrobe. Finally, let's note the breathability of a pair of leather shoes.
The different types of leather used in shoes.
The smooth one
THE VELVET
THE PATENT
Not all leather shoes are created equal. Depending on the finish and the part of the hide used, the quality and appearance vary.
- Smooth leather: the most common type, it is polished and shiny. Ideal for pumps, loafers or ankle boots.
- Velvet leather (suede, nubuck or suede): soft and delicate, it gives a refined look but requires specific care.
- Patent leather: shiny and elegant, perfect for special occasions.
Tip: Always opt for full-grain leather (the top layer of the skin), which is more durable and luxurious.
Choosing the right leather shoes for your body type.
Choosing shoes depends not only on style, but also on your body type. For petite builds, opt for shoes with thin or wedge heels that lengthen the silhouette. If you have strong calves, prefer stretch boots or ankle boots with low shafts. Finally, if you have wide feet, choose models made of supple leather, such as loafers or ballet flats. If you have narrow feet, prefer fitted models or those with straps to hold the foot.
Comfort: an essential criterion.
A pair of leather shoes should be as comfortable as they are beautiful. Here are a few things to check:
- The size: leather loosens slightly over time, but a shoe that's too tight will still be uncomfortable.
- The insole: opt for models with a leather insole, which is breathable and more comfortable than synthetic insoles.
- The heel: for everyday use, avoid heels that are too high. A heel of 3 to 5 cm is ideal for combining comfort and elegance.
- The suppleness of the leather: test the shoe by bending it slightly. If the leather is too stiff, it may cause injuries.
Caring for leather shoes: an essential step.
Choosing your leather shoes wisely also means thinking about their care. Neglected leather ages faster and will develop flaws that won't enhance your outfits. Therefore, you should clean them regularly with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Condition the leather with a suitable cream. Polish them to protect and waterproof them (especially for suede leather). And use the essential cedar wood shoe trees to absorb moisture and preserve the shape of the shoes.
Regular maintenance is the secret to a pair that ages well and develops a beautiful patina over time.
Invest in quality rather than quantity.
Rather than accumulating several cheap pairs, it's better to invest in one or two pairs of high-quality leather shoes. They will last longer, be more comfortable, and add a natural elegance to your outfits. Good leather is recognizable by its suppleness, its visible natural grain, its characteristic smell, and its neat finishes (strong seams, leather or sturdy rubber soles).
Women's leather shoes combine style, comfort, and longevity. To make the right choice, it's essential to consider the quality of the leather, the shape of your feet, everyday comfort, and of course, your personal style.
By opting for a timeless and well-maintained model, you are guaranteed a pair that will accompany you elegantly for years to come.
