Shine Into the New Season: My Labor Day Shoe Revival

I know you know—we all know—that after summer, when the work season is back, there’s something deeply satisfying about finding and buying your next pair of work shoes. That process of scouting, trying, and finally bringing home a new pair? It’s a joy we all understand.

But here’s the thing: while I love breaking in something new, I also believe in honoring the shoes that have been with us through the grind. Those workhorses that carried you through meetings, long commutes, rainy days, and even a few after-hours celebrations. Maybe they’ve been sitting at the back of your closet all summer, collecting dust. This is the perfect moment to bring them back to life—and trust me, a well-cared-for pair says more about you than any brand-new purchase ever will.

Preston’s Picks: My Work-Ready Favorites for Fall/Winter 2025–26

You know me—I love a shoe that speaks before you even say a word. This season, I’ve been scouting models that not only fit the office dress code but also carry a little personality. Here’s what caught my eye:

Myrqvist Alsten in Black Calf
View the Alsten | Matching Belt
A clean, timeless wholecut Oxford. The single piece of calf leather gives an uninterrupted, sleek profile—perfect with your sharpest suit. And yes, match it with the belt. That harmony between shoe and belt instantly elevates any look.
Velasca Medich
View the Medich
A derby with Italian charm—open lacing, rich brown tone, and just enough personality to work with navy, charcoal, or earth-toned suits.
Tricker’s Regent Oxfords in Black Calf
View the Regent
If you want heritage and authority in a shoe, Tricker’s delivers. Built like a tank but refined enough for the boardroom.
Christian Louboutin Chambeliss Cosme
View the Chambeliss Cosme
Classic black upper with a removable silver-tone collar pin across the vamp. Confidence with a twist.
Herring Chaucer II Oxfords in Rosewood Calf
View the Chaucer II
A softer, warmer take on formalwear. The rosewood patina is stunning—rich, layered, and versatile.

Your Old Work Shoes Deserve a Revival

Before you put those new pairs into heavy rotation, let’s turn our attention to the shoes that have already proven themselves. Giving them a proper makeover not only extends their life but also saves you from unnecessary replacements. Here’s my step-by-step revival guide:

1. Deep Cleaning

Remove laces and insert Saphir BDC Cedar Shoetrees.
Use the Saphir BDC Horsehair Brush to remove dust.
Apply Renovateur Cleaner & Conditioner with a soft cloth.

2. Restoring Color & Nourishment

Match leather with Pommadier Cream Shoe Polish – Saphir Médaille d’Or.
Apply in thin layers and buff after absorption.

3. The Shine

Use Pâte de Luxe Wax Polish for daily elegance.
Add Mirror Gloss for high-gloss occasions.

4. Protection

Finish with Super Invulner Waterproofing Spray.

This Labor Day, Make It About Respect

Your shoes work as hard as you do—and they deserve more than a quick once-over before Monday morning. Whether you’re stepping confidently into the season in a new pair or restoring your trusted Tricker’s, the care you invest is a statement about your standards.

Warm regards,
Preston Soto
The Elegant Oxford – Excellence in Every Step

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