
I take all of my shoes to my favorite repair guy, with the exception of Louboutins, which I schlepp to another place ( Leather Spa in NYC). Now, Louboutin shoes are a bit different due to their signature red bottom. If I’m just getting heels and tips done (without a sole), I pay $10-$20. If you want specifics, I usually just tell them, “I need protective soles and heels.” Typically in NYC, I pay $30-$50 per shoe depending on where I’m going and how much work it entails.

In most cases, you won’t even have to say anything and they’ll know exactly what needs to be done. One thing to keep in mind is that most good shoe repair places can do this for you. My red slides are fine for now (meaning no, it’s not urgent I bring them in ASAP) but I plan to take them in soon and I know they’ll be good as new. In most cases, the rubber sole will last for years depending on how often you wear.

The black pair on the right has a new layer of rubber sole protection, both on the foot and the heel. The red pair on the left is without any form of repair. For example, look at the below photo of my Gucci slides. Think about it: There’s a completely new layer of cushion for your feet and way less slippage, especially when it comes to higher heels. Not only does a rubber bottom sole add new life to your shoe but when it comes to heels, it improves the comfort level significantly. I do this for a) Shoes I absolutely love and that I’ve invested a lot of money on b) Shoes that need more comfort and c) Shoes that are in bad shape and that I want to revive. I’ll often take it one step further and get the bottom soles protected. I wear my favorite pairs on a regular basis and then several times a year, I’ll bring them to my shoe repair place to get my heels and tips fixed. I’m all about trying to bring some fun or happiness into the everyday, even if it’s from something like a pair of shoes. I often get asked the question, “But aren’t you afraid of ruining your shoes?” The short answer: Absolutely not! I don’t believe that the pieces we love should be saved or not worn in fear of ruining. I received so many questions: “What shoes? Why? Where I go?” To be perfectly honest, I was a little surprised how many people didn’t realize what a good repair place can do for them. A few months ago, I shared some before and after photos (on instastories) of shoes I’ve had repaired or protected.
