Insider Tips for Stretching Shoes Like a Pro

Learn insider tips and techniques from a costume craftsperson with almost 30 years of experience in stretching shoes for actors. Discover the secrets to achieving the perfect fit and maximum comfort for performers who need to move, act, and even fight in their shoes. Subscribe to La Bricoleuse for expert advice on stretching shoes like a pro!
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[@Nessi-dances]

From an Irish dance perspective: don't freeze or put shoes in hot water! Both temperature extremes can mess with the glue and/or materials. Since Irish dancers generally want their shoes to be tight, most do the fluffy socks style of stretching. I do it for about 1-3 hours per day over several days, while making dinner, doing yoga, or cleaning. Something with some movement that also keeps your feet warm. 💜

[@LaBricoleuse]

See, the "freeze the shoe" part of that stretching concept gave me pause for exactly that reason--that it might affect the structural integrity of the shoe. Thanks for your comment!

[@Northernmormon]

Wow. OK. That was an excellent video. I never saw myself subscribing to a channel about costume design, but... here I am.

[@LaBricoleuse]

Glad you found the video helpful and welcome!

[@jackiejames4551]

Dang, I wish I'd known this earlier. I had a pair of shoes that I loved, but they were just a tiny bit small.

[@leilanilandful]

Informative!! ❤

[@LaBricoleuse]

Glad it's helpful!

[@FantasticalFolliesCostuming]

So, 50/50 vodka to water, too?

[@LaBricoleuse]

Great question! Because vodka isn’t 100% alcohol-the brands I’ve used in costume contexts have been 80-100 proof-you can use it “straight.” In shoe stretching.