How to recognize good vs. bad quality shoes | Justine Leconte

How to find good quality shoes? What to look for?
What is good quality and what is bad quality?
This video tackles:
- Materials (leather, plastic, suede, fabric)
- Construction (upper, inside, sole, edges, heel placement, arch, lining, cushions, etc...).
I hope you'll find it helpful.
Thumbs up if you enjoyed this video!
New videos: Wednesday 4pm & Sunday 12pm (Paris/Berlin time).
Take care!
Justine
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MORE VIDEOS:
How to recognize good vs. bad quality in clothes:
• How to recognize poor ...
My shoe collection:
• My (colorful) shoe col...
My natural-looking makeup routine:
• My French make-up rout...
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I AM WEARING:
Jewelry: bit.ly/2TngX9G
Lips: NIVEA x Chantal Thomass in chocolate.
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SOCIAL
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* Legal disclosure: those links are affiliate links. There are here for you to see the products and prices. If you buy a product through these links, I get a small share of the price (without the product being more expensive for you). You don’t have to use those links. It is up to you :-)
#shoes #collection #guide

[@justineleconte]

HI everyone! After "how to recognize good vs. bad quality clothes", let's do the same for shoes :-) Any questions or further wishes? Have a great day!

[@Radiologytutor]

Justine Leconte officiel how I wish I got to wear all these beautiful shoes as often? I'm mostly in scrubs and sneakers at hospital. Of late, shoes other than sneakers feel like they hurt. I love you darling :)

[@JessicaBellisima]

Justine! You're my fashion teacher extraordinaire. Thank you for your videos! Are there specific brands or types you recommend for a classic fall boot? I'm always searching for a well made boot that can withstand tons of walking and that is well made (I live in NYC). Especially leather boots. I'm usually wary of leather with plastic soles. Can you talk more about wood as a material for shoes? Does leather work best with a preferred material? I've even considered getting custom made shoes because it feels so confusing taking a gamble on some fashion brands. Thank you for all your help!

[@nomado3650]

Hi Justine, can you do a series on styles and dress codes? Some of us maybe invited to events asking to adhere to a certain required dress code. For example, we all know what 'casual style' means, how is it different from 'casual elegant style'? How to look good and what to choose to look appropriate for a 'cocktail style'? What other styles are available out there that we can learn about and understand how to dress accordingly? It could be fun and educational videos (dress to the occasion sort of thing). Thanks for your amazing work :) Always fun!

[@jaimezuniga4702]

Keshika Koirala my Tieks brand ballerina flats are just about as comfy as my tennis shoes. I walk miles and miles in them with no trouble.

[@goldwolf0606]

Justine Leconte officiel Keep Smiling😁when I'm annoyed from annoying people and turn on your channel, I always get back into a good mood.

[@jelenaozgur8408]

I worked in shoe industry for 12 years, I highly compliment on this video, very informative and true to the point. Bravo!!!

[@justineleconte]

+Jelena Ozgur thanks! 🤗

[@hotnews9688]

goo.gl/82MtAZ

[@JiaPia3]

Hello there! I was wondering if one should get a size larger when using the shoe inserts, I had never had gotten them until I found a pair of shoes I just Had to have, but they were one full size bigger than my foot. The saleswoman suggested I get inserts, and when I got them the shoes did fit much better. This heel and arch insert confuses me because of this. I hope someone can give me an answer. I’m also posting this comment in places throughout the thread to help ma get an answer.Thanks in advance!

[@isabellahu4606]

@@JiaPia3 the shoes should be bigger than your feet if you wanna have inserts in them. I'm no expert tho so idk if it's the right thing to do

[@marylhere]

Jia Drisdom I have measured the vamps (upper) of 'wide' shoes compared to M width. The sole is wider but the vamp is not - making the depth shallower....horrible for inserts.

[@lovelyDragon100]

Her channel is helping me to become more of an elegant woman. She is teaching the beauty of women in such a sensitive and educated way. I'm very thankful!

[@joannaOttawa]

My mother used to say she's not rich enough to buy cheap shoes (meaning you replace that $20 pair of shoes more often so you might as well spend $80-100 shoes- assuming wear time and frequency is the same)- although I do buy "cheaper" quality shoes if I know they're only going to make an appearance a few times a year

[@MariaRodriguez-hb4ix]

In reality ; one spend more if the quality is poor . As is required to replace the merchandise more often . This applies to almost anything .

[@aerialpunk]

So true! I used to spend $50-60 a year on winter boots, but these boots would always be falling apart before the winter was over (usually getting holes and cracks in the bottom *just* as we get into early spring when everything is melting and thawing over and over, which is fun). Then I asked my family, for a combo birthday/Christmas gift, to get me these boots I'd had my eye on for years, but they were like $180 so I could never afford that much in one go. They've lasted me 3 winters now, and are like 70% good as new - I just need to re-waterproof them and buy new insoles, but otherwise they're good to go and still look great. They're also *super* warm and comfortable; I'm from a place that gets to -30 or even -40 celcius in the winter fairly regularly, and where winter lasts aabout 6 months, so that's saying something. Well worth the money, and they're at the point where buying cheap shoes every year for 3 years or having these awesome boots for 3 years has balanced out financially - but my good boots just keep going and were a real joy to wear.... unlike my cheap plastic boots that made my feet smell bad and fell apart all the time.

[@mirai9069]

@@aerialpunk In my country 50 dollars is enough to buy you a pair that can last up to a decade. My mom has always had the best eye for quality, all of her shoes have lasted that long and she also somehow buys them at the best prices

[@aerialpunk]

@@mirai9069 oh wow, I wish I could get quality shoes for $50! That's pretty nice, haha.

[@user-qo7vq6yx8q]

@@mirai9069 what country and what brand???

[@annberrios9759]

In the U.S., shoe repair is becoming a lost art. Actually hard to find a competent shoe repair shop, in the northeast U.S.. There is one in my neighborhood and this person is an ARTIST. I am lucky.

[@bullirish]

Unfortunately, there are no more shoe repair shops in or near my neighborhood. Shoe repair became more expensive than simply buying another pair of shoes and that was what most people seemed to prefer. Sad....

[@biancat7761]

That's a shame. I have plenty in my area. They double up as shoe repair and key cutting lol. I always get my shoes re-heeled. $15 and my shoes are ready for another year.

[@hayabulmann8632]

Oh wow,, I recognized how lucky iam having shoe repair shops everywhere next to me 🙄! So thankful

[@ninatouchdown2500]

I feel sorry for you. I have one within close by (he also makes keys and sells shoe laces, sharpens knives etc.) and he ALWAYS has a lot of shoes to be repaired in his shop. Usually get them back within a week, but I live in a rich country (Denmark), and not everyone simply discards their shoes.

[@jglobetrotter2830]

I would do some looking around if I were you. I live in a rural area, but there are still shoe repair places in neighboring towns. They usually work on and sell all kinds of leather goods, replace zippers in leather jackets, sometimes even do leather upholstery. I bought a pair of shoes for work for $60 and one them was defective and came unstitched. The shop wouldn't refund me as they'd been worn a few times. So I went to the repair shop. Sure, it cost $12, which is 20% of what I paid for the shoes, but I have been wearing them for two years since then. They are wonderfully comfortable.

[@christinemott2878]

Ijr it sux.i have extremely narrow feet and id just run around the corner in Belen - NM. I loved the cobbler.but the closest one now is an hour away boo hoo

[@IndieRockerHippy]

They are now using pinatex - a fibre made from pineapple leaves - to make vegan leather, as well as cork. Both are much more environmentally friendly than P.U. and more comfortable/flexible. They look great too.

[@zilam98]

can't wait to see manufacturers make them in sizes 4 or 4.5. i'm so frustrated with my shoe size

[@christinemott2878]

Where do u buy?

[@zilam98]

which brands feature pinatex? i've seen on kickstarter a bag manufacturer using pinatex, but not yet shoes

[@krystynaoldakovska2233]

And also there is a new leather like material made from grape invented in Italy.

[@AmazingRebel23]

I frickin yeet for this, what a fantastic idea... I hate plastic so much and would like to see it seldom used.

[@Frunze42]

Thank you for calling ballerina flats for what they are - uncomfortable shoes. I've been saying it for years.

[@lupa6956]

There’s no support, it’s like walking on the flat pavement 😣

[@BernadetteHubbart]

I find them comfortable, but I have hyper mobile arches and prefer walking barefooted

[@piccadilyroad66]

That's why my mom never recommend me these kind of shoes since kindergarden. She always said to me, 'these shoes will give your feet gets tired. Without sole, these shoes just make your look shorter' 😊

[@PianoGirl091]

I have rigid flat feet (no arch), so for me they tend to be very comfy.

[@hotwax9376]

@Frunze42 Yet so many women wear them because they find heels to be uncomfortable. :P

[@walanglovelife8862]

The way she looks at the camera, the way she moves her hands, tells that she knows the topic well. She experienced it. It is not mere information. Glad to find your channelm

[@amethyst_travelbug468]

Please continue giving us tips about spotting quality of clothes and accessories! I am moving out and trying to purchase my first place so I would prefer to invest in stuff slowly. Thanks

[@lunarosa321]

Amii L she has a video on this look it's in the DB or you can search on her videos

[@aminathshama2369]

I do now what you said

[@michellebyrom6551]

You can transfer the tips for checking quality to many household products. Midrange is usually where you'll find the best quality for price balance. If its well made with quality materials basic but boring will serve you better than expensive bling. Secondhand is the proof in the pudding. A bit of paint for colour, changing handles, pretty cushions and accessories give you style. Plain white crockery and kitchen appliances work with many styles and colours. Plain glassware too.

[@OlgaRykov]

Here in Canada most shoe stores are selling expensive garbage. Heels are ALWAYS put at the back of the foot, outside of where the weight actually falls. And there are no arches in the soles of high-heeled shoes. I once happened upon a Brazilian high-heel shoe in some special store and they felt like slippers. The heel was high and thin, but placed under the center of my heel. They also looked fabulous. And then I tried some common-occuring expensive garbage that people usually wear around here and it just feels like you're wearing meat grinders on your feet!

[@hotwax9376]

@Olga Rykov I read an article on Gianvito Rossi, the Italian shoe designer, some time ago, and he said that one of the reasons many women find heels uncomfortable, especially high heels, is because they are made by people who are not highly trained in foot anatomy or how to make good-fitting shoes. He added that he's seen countless younger women whose feet have been ravaged by bad-fitting heels, but often their mothers and grandmothers have beautiful feet despite wearing heels for several decades. Your comment seems to be consistent with his experience, though I can't say for certain whether that's typical.

[@usagi18]

There was a time I spent aaaaaall day in the mall, and my feet were killing me (wearing snickers). Then I remembered I had to buy a pair of high heels, well, against all my wishes I tried a good pair... felt like memory foam slippers from unicorn heaven

[@jglobetrotter2830]

One problem is that widths are so limited. I have narrow feet, so one time, after trying on a pair that was two wide in the store, I ordered the narrow size online. I kid you not, when they arrived, the heel still had almost half an inch of extra width, but I could barely cram my toes inside. Seriously, some of these shoe designers and manufacturers seem to think our toes are narrower than our heels!

[@jackandalex788]

Hi, I'm also in Canada and noticed the same thing. Have you discovered any hidden gems regarding high heels? I would really appreciate any suggestions.

[@Pawsandflwrs]

Hey, do you happen to know the name of the brazilian shoe brand?

[@corifranchescaco]

The heel placement! wow! ---a real eye-opener! I only shop for essentials and for an added challenge, I always set a budget. I recently got a pair of heels at 50% off which I thought was a great buy. But now gaining an eye for shoe quality, I realized it was actually overpriced. Glad to learn something new today!

[@jeniferbarns2438]

I treated myself for my 40th, I went to Browns in York and bought myself 2 pairs of quality Italian leather shoes, before I wore them I took them to a shoe repair shop to get rubber soles on them to protect the soles as they were all good quality leather shoes ( loafers in tan and navy blue) I also bought shoe horns to keep them in good shaped I'm 63 now and they're still good I wear them regularly, and still look good, today ,mind I'm a shoe person so I've lots of different styles nearly all flat but I love shoes, mind I do love fashion

[@violettafaulkner963]

Justine, despite not being a youtube follower/subscriber, I subscribed to your channel several months ago, just because I enjoyed what I saw at the time and wanted to see more. Since then, "thumps up" for every new video. Your work is impeccable, informed and informative, light hearted, in depth, and well organized (content wise as much as visually). Your sense of simplicity in delivery, as much as clear message, without self promotion, is admirable and works in your favor. My weeks are marked by your new videos, I feel like I have a good friend coming to visit me twice a week! My best wishes for all your endeavors. Whatever you decide to touch will work, follow your dreams.

[@justineleconte]

+Violetta Faulkner thanks a lot for your kind comment! Lovely 😊

[@shaziasheikh9303]

Violetta Faulkner Hiiii, I wasn't a KZbin follower/subscriber either. I found Justine through an app I downloaded from Google Play. The app has a collection of KZbin videos and Justine is in there. I wanted to watch more of her videos, so I found here and became a subscriber. Here Justine's videos are 'light and fun' ! In the app they are intense and detailed as she teaches how to sketch design ideas and bring them to life on paper first. I am not much of a sketch artist. I design in my mind and my designs 'evolve' too quickly! So quickly that most times I can't make and wear an idea fast enough! By sketching as best I can :) I manage to 'capture' an idea before it 'evolves' into the next stage and next, etc I could pause and 'capture' numerous stages if I could sketch faster. I need practice to sketch better and faster. Life used to b easier. I had no responsibilities and when I had an idea, I would plan it in my mind and grab some fabric and make something. My ideas were mostly different necklines and sleeves. As my figure got curvier and curvier, I had to add into the process a pattern drafting stage which lengthened the process. Now adding a sketching stage is lengthening the process further!!! (Grrrrr!) It's the most versatile way to 'capture' an idea I think.

[@liesg7880]

Violetta Faulkner ññ

[@hithisisme2009]

also sole should bend. and to check if heel is comfortable height you should be able to lift up to stand on the toes.

[@justineleconte]

+hithisisme2009 true! Thanks 🤗

[@webworkerone]

Sometimes high heel shoes are not balanced correctly. If they don't stand upright on their own on the shelf, leave them there.

[@jessicaltownshend7691]

Yes! This is another important tip. Make sure they don't wobble when you tap them. They won't be magically better with your feet in them.

[@gracefulvintage]

hithisisme2009 yes I agree the sole should bend. More comfortable and you don't have to clomp around like Frankenstein!

[@rhonda5288]

I disagree, the sole and heel (the back of the shoe) should not bend. This means the shoe actually is supporting your foot as your walk. This is advice from my Podiatrist and let me say, it has been really hard to find shoes that do actually support your feet.

[@gd-ty9jp]

This video is timeless . I like to watch it when ever i need to buy a new pair of shoes to remind my self to keep away from buying cheap quality shoes Thanks 🎉

[@justineleconte]

Happy to help!

[@audrey5941]

Ok!! I did learn something and I am so grateful! I consider myself quasi-expert on shoes but I didn’t realize I could polish all colors of leather shoes with a neutral colored cream! I have a pair of red loafers that are FINALLY broken in, but they needed polished badly and I cannot find red polish. After watching this video I added shoe cream to my shopping list, and I just finished putting it on my awesome loafers that will now last my forever without making me look homeless (not that there’s anything wrong with that!) Thank you, Justine!!! ❤️

[@monikastupalova8667]

Please do a video on how to choose heels size properly! It's a struggle!

[@reeafu9290]

Thank God I'm not the only one feeling so frustrated after looking so much for a pair and then discovering after 1 wearing that it's not the right size (I'm in between sizes). Just Italian, Romanian, Spanish and Portuguese shoes fit size correctly so far. Also, the German ones sometimes.

[@lydiawheeler4514]

Yes!!! Why am I a different size in every store?

[@jncite]

I like how you get right into the video without too much unnecessary talking! Saves a lot of people's time. Your content is always so well thought of and worded very accurately!

[@justineleconte]

+Sushma Reddy thanks. Yes, I wouldn't watch blabla intros myself so I don't want to do it to you 😊

[@sarahmclin2434]

I just had to tell you that I had an opportunity to use this knowledge today at a shoe store with my husband. The inner liner only went 1/2 way down the shoe (like the shoe you showed to us in your video). I avoided spending $80 on a lesser quality shoe and my husband thought it was pretty sexy to watch a woman look at the details so closely. Thank you, Justine!

[@valgeronk]

For those interested in vegan shoes that are also biodegradable, you can buy pineapple/mushroom etc "leather" shoes as well. That way you can avoid plastic 😃

[@graup1309]

Do those natural leather replacements breathe? So far I couldn't convince myself to go for vegan shoes bc plastic doesn't breathe and I'd rather own three pairs of real leather shoes that I can wear every day for 10+ years than having sweaty feet all the time and probably therefore be buying more shoes.

[@100spoonsonatable9]

@@graup1309 I bought vegan cork shoes recently. They're very comfortable, not sweaty at all and waterproof. Probably the highest quality shoe I've owned in years.

[@katherinemargeson8082]

valgeronk Great tip! What do you think about bamboo?

[@christinemott2878]

Where-at? And how much$? Love to know!! Please

[@christinemott2878]

Hemp?

[@mattbellamynotreally4475]

Hi Justine! Your videos are so short yet so informative. Whenever I watch them I suddenly feel so much more aware! Thanks for doing a great job, you're amazing! Greetings from Poland, Iza

[@justineleconte]

+matt bellamynotreally thanks a lot 😘

[@s.a.livingston3815]

I agree! There is not one word wasted, and always right to the subject at hand. Sometime I feel impatient when I watch a video on a subject and the host takes forever to get to the point. Not Justine. She always jumps right into the meat of the matter. I love that.

[@colorcodedcreature7750]

Justine Leconte officiel Justine can you please please please tell me which stores have a very very good organized shoe store, with good quality basics like basic but comfy flats, ankle high boots, boots, heels, slip-ons etc?? If only stores were color & type coded instead of only organized by size😧

[@jodicompton5561]

In the United States, Nordstrom is good for shoes -- I am not so sure about organization, but a large selection and the sales staff will really help you find what you need. Prices will vary, but shoes are worth spending some money on -- when your feet hurt, all of you feels exhausted (ask me how I know! I have an inflamed Achilles tendon as I write this ...)

[@colorcodedcreature7750]

Jodi Compton Thank you so much for replying! Will definitely check out Nordstrom! Yes I'd like a good quality pair even if it means paying more

[@gm-fi9lt]

Hi Justine, you were in my recommend section and this clip is exactly what I needed. Turned 30, I need to step up my life and stop wearing 'modern' shoes that are from the cheap stores and also with clothing. I've just read a beautiful comment about finding a friend who stops by weekly and I think you are my new digital friend also :)

[@gracefulvintage]

Hi Justine! I'm 61 and I just learned about how to look for quality in shoes.....thank you for your valuable contribution! Keep up the excellent work! And please do one on good vs poor quality handbags. I've never seen soooo many plastic bags as I have the the last decade!

[@justineleconte]

+gracefulvintage will add this topic to the wishlist!

[@ssmt1234]

Great video! My arches are naturally very high, so I find it really important to find shoes that fit that arch shape. Otherwise the lack of support can get really painful after a couple of hours. The other thing I always check for, is that the shoes should fit really, really well. Any slight rubbing, tightness etc can become blisters after 30 minutes of walking. The salesman do tell you they will relax with wear, which is true sometimes and sometimes not. Better be safe than sorry

[@TheMuffinKitty]

Do this with accessories like bags, hats, scarfs, etc! :))

[@TheMozhganism]

Nia L please make the same video for essential wardrobe pieces like leather jacket etc.

[@dt8118]

Yes bags please! ❤️

[@NataliaBiasi]

Bags! yes please!

[@SerenaLA14]

Oh my goodness!! For many years now people ask "What size shoe do you wear?" and I ALWAYS reply with "it varies. Somewhere between 6 - 7.5" I always thought it was just due to brand or whatever. Turns out it's because of the time of day that I try on/purchase! 😅 Literally had no idea until just now. Thank you for giving me the real answer! So grateful to know there is a more legit reason! Also, I love your videos! I've never been a fashion girl. Always worn whatever makes me comfortable. Don't follow trends, or brands, or any of that stuff. But I still absolutely love all of your videos and the tips and tricks you share with us. Keep up the great work! ❤️

[@divyaranaji]

Hi Justine. Greetings from India. I am a chronic you tube viewer but this is the first time ever, I am posting a comment on ANY video. I really like and appreciate your videos. They are so crisp and informative unlike many other youtubers who digress and often go off topic. I also like the simplicity with which you present your ideas and thoughts. Thanks.

[@FoulBayRd]

While it is true that plastic will last in the landfill for 100's of years, I don't think you can say it lasts longer as far as wearability goes. It's vulnerable to uv rays and age. It does change colour, become brittle, stiffen and crack. Generally speaking older leather still has it's charm (perhaps not for formal wear).

[@phantomkate6]

FoulBayRd Yes, I find that plastic tends to crack and flake, especially on the cheaper shoes (that I stopped buying because of that). I live in a cold, snowy climate in the winter and I had coworkers who were buying new vegan boots every season. All those boots are still sitting in a landfill somewhere, though.

[@salvagemania]

Leather requires care. If you clean the shoes and put leather conditioner on them regularly, the leather will last longer. You can also polish leather shoes to bring back the color if you can find the right color polish.

[@SaBoTeUr2001]

What Justine says at the end about keeping the papers that hold the shape of the shoe is very true. I had a pair of leather pumps, still "alive" after 20+ years, started to sag in front because I do not wear them often. Most of the time, the shoe stores just stuff the shoe with scraps of wrapping paper, so I throw it away without thinking. I bought a shoe tree and this restored and preserved the shape of the shoe.

[@ledzepgirl92]

Your channel is incredibly helpful not just from a style, but also pragmatism perspective. Many people have a bone to pick with the fashion industry for many different reasons (erhical concerns, racism and sexism in marketing and behind the scenes, etc) but everyone still needs clothing to protect themselves from the weather. Your videos on how to spot poor quality are incredibly helpful, even more so for people who don't have a high budget. Quality can vary amon different manufacturers at different price points. But knowing how to spot a poor quality piece of clothing is incredibly helpful BC people with a low budget in particular can't afford to buy everything new repetitively. I try to avoid buying new and particularly fast fashion, but for budget reasons I can't always do that. Your videos help me making the most out of my socks and underwear budget 😃

[@rmkpilates]

Thank you again Justine! Not feeling well lately, but when you smile and fill my head with your knowledge and insight, I am smiling. Peace and Love

[@shaniiiw]

I have learnt so much about quality in products thanks to you. And I keep passing it on to my friends and family whom I can see needs the information. You're a gem in the world of KZbin! More power to you to keep doing what you do for us. Much love ❤️❤️

[@yuukihoffner8433]

Chère Madame Leconte, Merci pour votre travail et votre sourire. Every time I see your videos I feel empowered in this world of cheap commercialism. Taste and quality, this is the formula!

[@enricoilmarchigiano]

Something important in serving knoledge / quality/ innovation...now really exist...please contact us for collabs

[@jennytaylor4165]

Wow, I am learning so much from your videos, Justine. I recently saw an item about a place where you can learn (re-learn) to walk properly, and re-learn how to 'stand on your bones', trusting your skeleton to support you, rather than just muscles. The teacher was decrying shoes and trainers with thick, inflexible soles, which apparently confuses the sole of the foot, putting it, with its nerve endings, out of touch with the ground and preventing a proper rolling movement to each step. Very interesting. Agree with you about ballet flats. They're OK for me with my 'flat' feet, but not so good for walking on a gradient!

[@asq92]

Hi Justine. KZbin suggested videos worked well for me once cause this is how I found your channel. I must admit your videos are very informative, you seem to be a very passionate about fashion and you have a lot of integrity which isn’t that common these days in the industry. Keep up the good work!

[@shinyunicorn4745]

Omg, I just watched like 10 of your videos! They're truly informative. I subscribed, and am already looking forward to new vids 😍

[@katharinad.9450]

Thank you for making such great videos! After watching this particular one I went into a large shoe store that sells all kinds of shoe brands (€ - €€€) and I did some of the tests that you talked about and really paid attention to the stitching, finishing, scuff marks, flexibility etc. And I was shocked how many low quality shoes were being sold at such a high price! Even some middle class designer shoes were badly made. I definetly feel more empowered to make better purchase decisions now and I'm so glad that I now know what to look out for. If the quality is good I would be willing to pay a higher price if it means I will have that item for longer than just a Year! Merci pour les conseils Justine :)

[@justineleconte]

+Katharina D. Avec plaisir 😊

[@Abeja913]

I’ve been going back through these previous videos of yours for about 10 days now and I’m completely in agreement with your other viewers: you are wonderful in your presentation, your information, your research and preparation as well as just being incredibly personable and charismatic. Loving all the videos I’ve seen so far and avidly making notes - my little “Leconte crash course!” Haha Looking forwards to putting it all into practice. Merci Justine!

[@inesinesinesitaines9908]

I am looking forward to the day you dedicate a whole video to the nuances in the topic of COTTON. Understanding the huge differences in quality between garments all apparently qualified as «100% cotton» is so so interesting. Finding out why on earth we do not get thick cotton sheet size towels anymore unless we check luxury brands such as Descamps when it used to be something so so common back in the day...Knowing the difference between combed cotton and the rest and why it is so important to value and maintain these level of high quality crafting to prevent it from disappearing or we will end up knowing about it only by fashion history books...Thank you so much for your efforts in raising awareness about the importance of details.

[@Tvianne]

That's exactly how I do it! Finding good shoes takes time, it's unavoidable. A little tip? if you don't have the waterproof spray or want to avoid using some unknown grease to protect your leather shoes, try avocado oil and jojoba oil. I used them this past winter and they were perfect. The leather soaked them up fast, ended up glossy and waterproof (it rained those days). Do NOT use on suede!

[@bethgrimes9642]

I just discovered your channel back in June and I love it! I am no fashionista but I love learning from your tips, and especially the factual stuff like vegan leather and where your feet get the most shocks! I am living in Avignon at the moment for my year abroad - you are a friendly French face! Thanks so much for your videos Justine! :) x

[@valeniricibar6644]

I just realised why I simply cannot wear a pair of my prettiest heels, despite them being fairly short...the heel is not in the middle! No wonder they're so uncomfortable! Thanks for pointing out the details that make all the difference (I've sent a couple of shoes to be soled now). Your videos are insanely helpful and informative, sending all the best from Argentina! :)

[@yanamiakshyla1683]

I love how genuine you are in these videos. Keep shining!

[@gabrielaidania]

Thanks Justine! This was very helpful. I hope everybody could understand that quality shoes (not necessarily designer ones) are a little bit more expensive but all worthy; for the environment because they can be repaired more than cheap shoes, and for the feet because the fit prevents blisters. Plus, good quality shoes are made with more human and less machine involvement, so I think it's fair to pay more.

[@Pippi-Longstocking]

Very good high level video. There is of course so much more. Leather: split vs full grain. How long a shoe stays on a last (the form the shoe is built on). 99.9% of the time: if the shoe doesn’t feel good now, it will not feel good later. Pinching, toe squishing, etc will not go away. Boots slip a bit in the back and that’s how they fit. That’s pretty much the .1% final thing. Do not keep your shoes in the box. It does not breathe. And do not use the paper forms as suggested. They do not absorb moisture. While they will help keep the shape, they trap foot moisture which eats away at the shoe. Use cedar shoe trees (they have them for heels too) to maintain shape and keep the shoe dry. Rotate shoes daily (don’t wear the same shoe every day) to allow the shoe to dry and increase shoe life. Great video!!

[@amyjelacic909]

Excellent tips!

[@aditikhandelwal1823]

Thanks for helping me pay attention to the details that matter. Truly insightful video.

[@seaworthysleeper]

your sound effects crack me up. I love your vids! I've been learning so much and I'm so happy about that. thank you

[@pelikanolbjorg]

Aaaaand I finally polished my docs again. It's been a while since that happened. Thanks for reminding me of the importance of shoe maintenance 😁

[@xJeanine81]

Not if you buy them from a good brand. Bought balerina's from Ecco lasted 3 years and had a super supporting sole. Unfortunatelly Ecco's are most of the time not fashionable. Aka my mother wont even buy them 😂

[@starryky8823]

Thank you for pointing out that vegan leather is PU!!! I've been looking for a content creator who points this piece of information out!

[@TheTwinkleXD]

i agree bc i find plastic is more harmful!!

[@lilacblue3331]

I wish she had given information about canvas though. I don't wanna use leather, but I don't wanna use plastic thingos either.

[@michellebyrom6551]

@@lilacblue3331 canvas can work but you have to check the stitching and the linings. Satin too needs to be cotton or silk. Like leather, fabric will breathe and stretch. Polyester in the stitching doesn't stretch so you don't get the give in wearing in. I have broad feet and sometimes need this. Even buying shoes when my feet are hot and swollen doesn't help. I've learnt what is just tight across the foot at the base of the toes becomes agony after a couple of hours. Even with brands that were previously reliable. Also, spraying canvas doesn't properly waterproof it, seasonal use only.

[@susanjohn6506]

There are many vegan leather shoes made from natural materials & no one had to die to make them.

[@angelisvegan5826]

There are options like pinatex and a bunch of other materials which are both cruelty free and eco-friendly. You don't have to have an excuse for buying animal skin. Eat meat but leather is unnecessary. Please care about the fellow beings.. you shouldn't pay for their murder .. we shouldn't be their death sentence

[@meeradimeerkat8640]

I am so excited I've found your channel! Videos are great and you talk straight to the point without any unnecessary blaadeeblaaa information, which is just perfect. Very useful.

[@annabizaro-doo-dah]

When I worked as cabin crew for an airline (pens ago😂) we were issued two pairs of shoes. Heels for ground work and flats for during the flight and the flight shoes were *at least* half a size larger, always. Your feet swell in a plane, so always take roomy shoes on board when you fly...together with your flight socks!

[@jimenarivera7512]

Beautiful tip, thanks

[@juliejo91]

I never comment on videos I watch but I had to here because I found this video very useful and practical. Please do more of these videos relating to how products (good vs. bad) are made. Love from Toronto

[@gin6270]

Great video! Could also please do a video on proper shoe maintenance and which products to use? I'm terrified of using a wrong product and ruining my shoes forever.

[@efstzm8815]

I loved the way you said "there is leather and leather". We have the same expression in greek, too. Great advice, thanks!

[@telhado55]

Every couple of years or so I come back to these videos. Useful, joyful. Thanks Justine.

[@justineleconte]

You're so welcome!

[@reth31]

I like the way your laugh, thanks for your work.

[@slporter722]

This was a very informative video. I didn't realize the differences between good and bad quality before but now I will be checking. Thank you so much for these videos sharing your expertise.

[@Esen99153]

Hello :) Just wanted to tell you that your advice and videos have already saved me over $200 in clothes and shoes. I took your advice about fabrics and cheap clothing and it has literally changed how i shop. appreciate it.

[@lilli2914]

Dear Justine, I know this video is over two years old, but I just found your channel and absolutely love it! It is so frustrating to go shoe shopping because all shoes seem to be lined with PU and/or the insole is made of PU nowadays. The 4 pairs of Nine West shoes I bought a few years ago when I visited the U.S. I had to throw away recently because the PU lining and straps just crumbled into nothing when I put them on. It seems to me that especially fast fashion labels lure their potential buyers in with shoes marketed as leather, and nobody seems to care about the fact, that only the upper is (partially) leather, and they are actually buying rubber boots coated with leather. Maybe you could make a video comparing shoes from Zara, Mango, etc. like you did with the clothes from ASOS? Anyhow, I love your educating and inspirational channel, please keep up this great work. You are awesome! 🌸

[@mrssmiff4155]

*looks down at my $8 dollar general shoes*

[@cherylseybert5669]

*looks down at my dollar tree flip flops*

[@PlayLyss]

@@cherylseybert5669 oh those are the highest of quality

[@Camarila]

Aaand this is how I end up with multiple pairs of used up shoes

[@merehell8566]

Thanks, Justine. Your videos are so fun and educational. It's sad that I've only found this channel a week ago. I'm binge watching tho, and I have a lot to catch up on. Haha. ❤

[@justineleconte]

happy catching up! Welcome to this channel :-)

[@kelseyassel6569]

Justine, your videos are always so helpful and educational. Thank you for taking the time to make such good, interesting, helpful videos!! You're awesome!

[@SilverSerpent705]

Hey, thank you a lot for this! I am not a fashion person, I just want to choose a pair of shoes that'll last me a while, and this is so helpful. Most other videos didn't tell me what to look for, and you basically taught me how to test the potential new shoes for quality.

[@TheSerendipia]

OMG, you put a name on the things I look for. You can find good quality without spending a fortune, love your tips!

[@LizzyDeBoomBoom]

This year I've decided to replace all of my shoes to leather, good quality ones. And the difference is hudge. Legs are not that 'tired' at the end of a day, walks are much more comfortable even in stiletos (which I absolutely love). I also reccommend ballerinas with small heel (2-3 cm). It makes me walk much more comfortable.

[@LSSYLondon]

Those would be called kitten heels.

[@phantomkate6]

Lissy London - Yes, if it's a narrow heel. If it's a wide but short heel, it sounds like she's describing loafers.

[@rachaeldinsmore1827]

Do you have any favorite brands that you've discovered?

[@usagi18]

As someone with big feet arches, I find good quality stilettos as the most comfy shoe ever. No exaggeration, since I was a teenager, I purchase my shoes after I did my whole shopping and my feet are already swollen. One time my feet were already killing me when I decided to buy a pair of high heels, tried them on all scared (come on, they were stilettos!), surprise!! Felt like heaven!!.. of course those babies came home with mamma

[@sarah-ui1gd]

LizzyDeBoomBoom can u pls mention brands

[@bettys7298]

I can't remember I've watched this how many times. I need to review it whenever I am considering buying a new pair of shoes. Thank you so much for sharing the insights from a designer's point of view!

[@MusiceWoman]

Thank you Justine. Great info and you are one of the best KZbin presenters. You are sweet, sophisticated, pleasant voice, and peaceful to listen to.

[@komandantData]

Great work, Justine, excellent tips, thank you! I never thought of trying to bend the sides of the shoes when buying, I will add that to my "shoe inspection" routine :)

[@masha7377]

Hey Justine, can you please do a video on different types of leather and how to take care of them? :)

[@chandaharkins4418]

Marie Bach Good idea!

[@Shaaala]

Yes, I would like to see that as well! I think I make mistakes and I don't know how take care of suede leather...

[@StephtheWordWizard]

Marie Bach It would be cool if different non-P.U. vegan leather alternatives were discussed as well.

[@nannalambert3980]

How informative and educational are your videos Jusinte. Love ya

[@conyshieg8800]

Wow! This is incredible !! Real useful tips ! Most of the famous youtubers have no idea what they say when they talk about quality. But you do know what you are talking about! Thank you so much!!!!

[@justineleconte]

+Conyshi EG thanks 😊

[@strawberry1025]

Another fount of Justine wisdom. :] I completely agree about rubber soles. I find shoes far too slippy unless they have a rubbber sole but never realised that I could simply ask someone to put them to shoes I like with none......ahem.

[@sunupontheflowers]

Thank you !!!! I really enjoyed and learn a lot from this

[@anapaulacaiadomachadohoe]

AS usual, awesome tips from Justine! I love your videos, darling!! Keep up the great work!! 👏❤❤❤

[@rashmika9742]

Thanks so much, Justine! Your videos are so informative and easy to understand, especially for me as a newbie to these fashion choices! I've never really thought about the variety of options available out there, for every shape and size of person, and for every need.

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

I love your videos! I always learn something from them :) And you always light in the video too with that smile :)

[@justineleconte]

+Jenny thanks 🤗

[@SciFiGirl007]

More difficult to find quality made shoes....slowly transitioning to vintage shoes. Less money and better quality.

[@SaraH-jn5db]

Thats why I got into thrifting. I was tired of paying so much for subpar clothing, meanwhile at a thriftshop I got a practically new Pendleton skirt for $4, runs almost $200 retail

[@maryammasud8345]

This was perhaps one of the best videos I've seen for assessing the quality of women's shoes. I've been envious of men's shoes for generally having better construction and women's shoes being so cheaply made. These are great tips to navigate the options available to us ladies. Thank you kindly!

[@ihgomez]

Oh my God! where have you been all my life? I feel like kids should watch these videos at school... seriously, this is such a great channel. Thank you very much for your work.

[@justineleconte]

thanks!

[@julianburr2750]

“The shoe will tell you.” That’s deep.

[@kymberlynhall2039]

Yes I'm so excited!! Also your lipstick looks amazing in this video!:)

[@Katerinkja]

i like you, you're so natural, modest, and you give good advice

[@LaraFirsova]

I've bumped into your channel yesterday and i just love it! Your style to explain the things its just so agréable !

[@adeletome9812]

This was excellent.. thank you!

[@anammuresan]

"The salesperson is going to think you are weird, but that's alright because you know what you are doing!" XD Love it!

[@a.moment.of.exhale]

You have such a pretty smile! And you never make weird noises or insert random exclaimations like all the rest of youtube. I actually learn stuff from your videos and it shows that you do your research for us. Thanks for this channel! P.S. I must have accidentally unsubscribed somehow but then yesterday I was like, "wait a sec, why am I not seeing anything new from Justine?", so I searched for your channel and re-subscribed.

[@lilliansanteix363]

Marvelous. Really helpful, concise, calls things by their name. To be kept where it can be consulted before going to the store.thanks.

[@ProfessorMusice]

Hey Justine, loving these informative videos! Indeed, just because something is expensive, does not mean it is necessarily of higher quality. And now we know what to look for :) I was also wondering if you'd be able to do a video on the different kinds of stitches on clothing and what they are best used for? Something of a guide for dressmaking beginners so to speak? How to recognise them in clothes and how to choose the best stitch for a garment you are making?

[@JulieM-bx1ou]

It always makes me smile to hear you say hi everyone it's Justine. I feel like I'm going to have a lovely chat with a friend. You're so lovely.

[@cheyenneyasminsutton9377]

Thank you, Justine. I am really enjoying your fabulous videos!

[@ruthdorward6105]

A very informative video which showed much that I didn't know. Many thanks!

[@o.o4566]

I wear and make moccasins and mukluks. We hand bead our shoes with sinew because it dries supple and durable. It doesn't ruin the leather because it's a natural material usually from the same animal the skin comes from. It bonds to the leather and moves with it. The beads don't fall off either. We also sew leather with the sinew. For example I made my father a pair of moccasins from 4 oz elk hide upper and 7oz bison sole in a natural tan using only sinew for stitching. And I hand beaded full rosettes on the toes about 3" round for the air, earth, and sun symbols as well as adding the water swooshes on the side. It's been over ten years and the beads are still on and the shoes look nice and are supple. I also have some 3oz buckskin and mink mucklucks from the 1970's that I only use for powwows. They're also sewn and beaded with sinew and they're soft and the sinew hasn't pulled holes in the leather despite me and their previous owners vigorous powwow dancing. I understand why many modern craftsmen don't use sinew to sew because it must be done while wet. And is tricky to prepare and must be done by hand. It is a shame though because it is an amazing construction material.

[@nopenopenope678]

Kwandaioha O.o where do you sell your Mocs?

[@shaziasheikh9303]

Kwandaioha O.o Do u hunt down animals yourself? Then skin and sew? 10 years later, pieces of the animal are still being scraped along the ground. When do you actually put the memory of the animal To Rest With Respect?

[@o.o4566]

Genevieve Fields I usually sell them at powwows. The ones I make are all lather soles for off pavement. Mostly for regalia. For on pavement I buy manitobahs.

[@o.o4566]

Shazia Sheikh My family hunts them and we always kill and and use them according to our tribal traditions. Nothing is wasted. Everything is used or traded to someone who will use them. Bones and antlers are frequently made into tools or handles for tools. For us letting the body go to waste is horribly disrespectful.

[@BIOL6895]

Damn now I want some, are they comfortable?

[@crystalzhong4793]

This is helpful，I will go over my shoes tomorrow with new ideas in mind. All my shoes last long years coz I switch them every day. they needs to air out after each wearing，otherwise foot mist damage them.

[@lola1033]

I never bothered buying or using heels but I started in a law firm now and can't avoid it anymore.. But didn't know where to start my "education" on this topic so I wouldn't kill my poor feet or waste my money... This was extremely helpful, thank you so much, a hug from Madrid 👏

[@sarahingerson6202]

I never thought about heel placement, waxed threads, and such. This video was very helpful! Thank you!

[@lllovesalll]

Brilliant video! I'd love to see more about shoe care - for example, can I clean fancy satin uppers at home vs sending to a dry cleaner, colour safety of spraying waterproofing on white leather shoes, taking care of scratches on white leather, shoe care routines, and the best way to store shoes in tight space without scratching or crowding? Thank you so much, I look forward to each video and am always smarter and inspired after watching!

[@pegsbarton6353]

Though I have not tried it on shoes, [having no silk slippers!] I use a chalk stick, trade name 'Janie' stick which brings grease and marks off fabric overnight, you just rub it on the mark, leave it overnight and brush it off and the marks disappear. You can buy a colour thing for white shoes, aimed I think, at the sneakers market, but it should colour over a scratch. A clear cobblers cream should keep suppleness and shine any any coloured leather shoe; and as for storing shoes safely, you can't beat stuffing the fronts with tissues to support them and then wrapping individually in tissue and keeping in the box, or at least a shoe bag. It's a faff and you have to write on the boxes which shoes are in there, or, as I have seen elsewhere on youtube - you take one of those pics that come out of the camera immediately and stick it on the box. Then you can see at a glance which shoes are in which box.

[@loligarcia5145]

Great tips!!!!! Thanks again for a top Video, Justine ❤️ I personally use disposable soles - specially in summer - to protect my shoes from sweat, dirt and smell ☺️ i agree with buying good quality its a must, and taking good care of them, of course ❤️ besitos

[@justineleconte]

nice tip!

[@denisescull4227]

Really good idea!

[@anassorbestiak]

Loli Garcia i do that too! My feet are able to chew through the sole of a shoe very fast! I am able to make shoes last longer and not stick even if I sweat a lot. I this way I can buy higher quality shoes.

[@patriciadelorenzo1]

I love your videos!!! Thanks for the shoes tips! I am brazilian and here is easy to find all types and quality levels, it is important to know how to evaluate them!

[@VampireSpork]

Hey Justine! I just recently found your channel and i can't stop watching your videos! Very very useful! I adore the way you explaining everything in every video, as well as the fact that there is no music! (as its distracting for me) Keep up the good work! Proud subscriber here! :)