DCFashion Fool at Sky Valet Shoes

I have to admit I do love a pair of shoes. I’ve tried lots of different brands from the inexpensive to some very high end. And while I tend gravitate toward the high end my wallet prevents me from getting all the ones I want. But that doesn’t stop me from seeking out some of the luxury shoe beauties whenever I can. Naturally, I said yes when I was asked to host an evening at Sky Valet Shoes.

Sky Valet Shoes is one of those rare gems located in Washington. The original shoe store located in Georgetown has been around for over 30 years. Now, there’s a second location in CityCenterDC sitting right at home with some of the most exclusive stores in the Washington metropolitan area. For men, you can find some pretty terrific brands that are hard to find anywhere else in the city.

It is these brands that make the hardcore shoe lover drool. While women may lust over the latest Manolo Blahnik or Jimmy Choo, guys can find their statement worthy footwear from names like Zonkey Boot, Alden, Crockett & Jones, and one of my favorites, John Lobb. Let’s just say, I fall in love multiple times with every visit to the store.

While the store does carry some beautiful shoes, it’s not just the selection that makes a visit to Sky Valet Shoes so special. It’s storeowner, Hetom Hodikoglu, who is the backbone behind store. To call him just the storeowner, does not really do him just. He’s a shoemaker in his own right and a master in the care and repair of shoes.

As part of my event, Hetom demonstrated the proper way to polish and care for a pair of shoes. I have a feeling he can make any shoe look like a million bucks. I was a little embarrassed to walk into his store in my shoes. However undaunted he proceeded to shine up my shoes like nobody’s business. My John Lobb’s haven’t looked this good in a long time. Secret tip: Not only is a shoeshine at Sky Valet Shoes one of the best in the city, it’s also one of the most reasonable pricewise.

Shop My Look/Details

For those that know me, know I love to mix high-end pieces with more affordable ones. However since this event was being held at CityCenterDC, I chose pieces that were available from brands from the Center. To shop my look, I created both a high and low version.

High

Grey Plaid Suit – Canali | White Dress shirt – Gucci | Bow Tie and Pocket Square – Paul Stuart | Double Monk Strap Shoes – John Lobb

Low

Grey Plaid Suit – Indochino | White Dress shirt – Saks Fifth Avenue | Bow Tie and Pocket Square – Ties.com | Double Monk Strap Shoes – Beckett Simonon

Photos by Gabriela Alarcón for Capital File Magazine