InStyle
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Q. How should I store my fancy dress shoes?

First, make sure they're clean. George Malkemus, president of Manolo Blahnik, recommends brushing fabric shoes with a soft felt cloth and having any stains removed by a professional cleaner (Shoe Service Plus, 1.212.262-4823, accepts shoes by mail). Malkemus suggests taking leather, lizard or alligator-skin shoes to a shoemaker to be treated with mink oil, which keeps skins supple and extends the life of the shoes. (Or treat them yourself with a dab of petroleum jelly). Once they're clean, stuff shoes with tissue paper or cloth inserts and store them in a soft fabric bag, often sold with the inserts. For easy access in your closet, take a photo of the shoes and attach it to the bag. - Sara James

Satin inserts, Gutzees, $60 for two pairs, with storage bags; 1.877.488.9337.
Shoe, Richard Tyler, $400;1.713.871.9993.

volume 8, number 12, october 2001