To have survived for over 6 years on the back of a niche idea still seems crazy, yet here I am writing an article that the stats say is still being read. 

When I started, I looked at the traditional craftspeople that were out there from blacksmiths to tailors to carpenters to leatherworkers. But most of my research honed in on the romanticism and history around shoemakers. 

I knew I couldn't come near their skill but I could learn from their traditional approaches to making and telling those history steeped stories. 

Someone I trust once told me that there are three things in life that you should spend your money well on; shoes, coats and mattresses. 

Sleep is the most undervalued practice in all of our lives and one remedy to so many ills, but I will leave that chat for the Hubermans and Ferris's of this world. 

Jackets I built a business on, so I can and do wax (too easy a pun?) lyrical on them for days, weeks and hours. But shoes and mainly boots, are a love of mine. It's fair to see why spending generously on those 3 things is worthy.

Good shoes. can and will always be 'fixable' and I love it when the time comes to resole my winter Red Wings. I love cleaning my boots too. I'm odd, yes, but I also get great gratification when they earn a new scuff or crease. 

A few years back I bought a pair of Chukka Boots from Sanders & Sanders, one of those shoemakers I looked at when creating Mallin & Son. They have a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 1873 which I genuinely recommend you take the time to read. 

The reason I bought these particular boots were because I'd one of my style heroes, Steve Mcqueen wearing them. And I wanted a bit of that. 

After much wearing, the crepe sole started to wear and flake a little so last week I got in touch with Sanders to get them in for a touch up. 

Here's how they were looking:

Within a week, I have them back looking as good as new. 

I could have bought some new elsewhere, I could have bought something secondhand for cheaper than it cost to fix but these boots are mine and hold memories. Clothing is so much more than the fabric on our bodies, it's pinned to good times, bad times and so many other experiences. 

Much like the jackets we rewax, I love the thought of my boots being serviced, much like the tyres on your car, ready for the next chapter. 

In a world where things are made cheap, sold cheap, break and repeat, we need more of this. Buy quality and look after it. 

We paid £55 for the boots to be serviced and you can find out more at www.sanders-uk.com