We put our shoes through a lot. They carry us from our homes to our workplaces, from local haunts to undiscovered places, along city sidewalks and hiking trails. But while we’re accustomed to caring for our clothes with gentle wash cycles and the odd patch-up job, our shoes don’t typically receive the same treatment.
Aside from the occasional shoe shine or waterproofing spray, shoe maintenance is rarely a DIY job. Cobblery is a dwindling art. The skills needed to repair, restore, dye and stretch shoes are honed through experience and education. Here are eight Melbourne shoe repair businesses that stylists swear by.
Jenna Flood, Melbourne slow fashion stylist
“I recently scored a pair of Maison Margiela Tabi loafers from Mutual Muse. The bottom had been worn down, so I took them to Condello’s Shoe Repairs and they made them look new again. I will always trust them with my shoes from now on!”
Jade Leung, Melbourne stylist
“Steven from Rekaris has been in my life for close to 20 years. He’s taken over his family business that has been open since the 1950s. I can’t think of a single pair of shoes or heels he hasn’t topied, resoled (I have a thing for very heavy shoes) or mended for me to perfection. And never without a great chat about shoes!”
Sally MacKinnon, Melbourne personal stylist
“My shoe guy in Collins Place in the CBD is the best. He is a man of few words but his craftsmanship is old-school – meticulous and attentive.”
Holly Karas, Melbourne stylist
“Cobblers of South Yarra! I had an amazing experience with them when I brought in a pair of vintage knee-high boots to be stretched for a friend. It was a game-changer! Vintage sizing is notoriously tricky (and often way too snug), but they worked their magic. Stretching boots isn’t something most people realise is even an option, but trust me, it’s a lifesaver for giving vintage finds a second life.”
Jasmine Knights, Melbourne stylist
“I personally love The Cobbler’s Last. I trust them for their attention to detail and excellent customer care.”
Karinda Mutabazi, Melbourne stylist and creative director
“Rekaris, which has moved to Coburg from the city; Evans for high-end shoes and bags; and Parigina in Brunswick.”
Jam Baylon, Melbourne stylist and creative director
“Been going to Mister Minit for over a decade and I trust them with all my shoe and bag repairs.”
Elliot Garnaut, Melbourne stylist and commentator
“Evans in the Royal Arcade. They have turned some seriously destroyed wheels into brand new magic in my time visiting their stunning store.”
For more shopping advice from some of Australia’s top stylists, read the rest of our Where Stylists Shop series.