I’m a huge fan of Celine knee high boots. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that go into these boots set them apart in the world of luxury fashion. But owning a pair of these beautiful boots also means knowing how to take care of them properly. One of the most crucial aspects of care is storage. If like me, you want to maintain their pristine condition and extend their life, then storing them correctly is essential. With proper care, these boots can last a decade or more, which is impressive for a piece of luxury footwear.
First things first, let’s talk storage environment. Leather, which most high-end boots like the Celine style are made from, needs to breathe, and an ideal storage environment would be one with a relative humidity of around 50-60%. This prevents the leather from drying out and cracking or, conversely, becoming too moist and developing mold. In my experience, a small dehumidifier in a walk-in wardrobe works wonders. The initial cost might be around $40-$60, but it’s a worthy investment considering the longevity it adds to your boots.
Temperature also plays a significant role in preserving these boots. Aim to store them in a cool, dry place where the temperature stays between 60-70°F (15-21°C). This temperature range helps keep the leather in optimal condition and prevents it from warping or losing shape. I learned this from an article discussing luxury footwear care, which mentioned that significant temperature fluctuations had damaged leather goods at rates up to 30% faster than constant temperature conditions.
A proper storage method also involves using boot shapers. These are fantastic for maintaining the boot’s shape and preventing creases, which can emerge from incorrect storage positions. I once skipped this step and noticed small wrinkles around the ankle area after a few months. A good pair of boot shapers can cost anywhere from $15 to $30, which, in my book, is a sound investment for maintaining the structural integrity of boots that can cost upwards of $1,500.
And let’s not forget about dust bags. Celine knee high boots often come with branded dust bags, and for good reason. They help protect the boots from dust and accidental scratches. If, for some reason, you don’t have the original dust bags, any high-quality cotton bag will do. Just make sure you’re not using plastic as it can trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew, which can ruin the boots.
Regarding keeping them in or out of the box, my advice is to keep them in the original box when they aren’t in regular use. This practice shields them from light exposure, which can cause discoloration over time. According to some fashion industry experts, light exposure can fade leather at an estimated rate of up to 20% over three years if left in direct sunlight.
After wearing them, I always let my boots air out for at least 24 hours before storing them again. This airing period allows any moisture from wear to evaporate completely, thus preventing odor and damage. For instance, in high humidity areas like Florida, neglecting this can lead to moisture buildup, which leather insoles particularly dislike. It’s little things like this that make a huge impact in the long run.
One might wonder if special products or treatments are necessary for these boots. The truth is, yes, occasionally using a high-quality leather conditioner can work wonders. Applying this every six months will keep the leather supple and vibrant. I once went two years without this step due to sheer laziness, and the leather appeared visibly duller compared to when I first bought the boots. A good conditioner will set you back around $20-$40 but provides an excellent return on investment.
And do not overlook the soles and zippers. Ensuring the soles are free from dirt and debris can extend their life by preventing undue wear and tear. As for zippers, a light application of beeswax or a specialized zipper lubricant can keep them running smoothly. I saw a fashion show feature once highlighting how malfunctioning zippers are more common than one might think due to neglect. Spending five minutes on this can prevent a fashion emergency at the worst possible moment.
In summary, maintaining these stunning boots is a commitment, but given their beauty and the statement they make, it’s a commitment worth making. If budget is a concern, remember that with each step of care—be it boot shapers, dust bags, storage boxes, or conditioners—you’re not just preserving a material item; you’re extending the life and value of an iconic fashion piece known for its timeless elegance and impeccable quality. By treating them with the respect and care they deserve, you can enjoy wearing these boots for years to come, confident that you are maintaining their elegance and functionality.