Prince Charles Shoe Polish

It says something about me, but I kept a photo of Prince Charles' shoes as my desktop background for a while. I marvelled at their shine and their almost knackeredness, the juxtaposition with the trouser cloth. I imagined his love for them, the smile on his face as he greeted his two old friends once more - always there for him over the years, ever dependable. I understood that. Nothing showy or ostentatious, but shouting style in a whisper. I think he dresses incredibly well.

Whenever I'm in Italy, a country that respects classic style, he is often held up as beacon of the English look that they try to emulate. These shoes are the epitome of that style, but I think they're a bridge too far for most Italians. They don't much go for shabby chic. It's a remarkable feat (for feet) that they have held together long enough to achieve that patina and crustiness, like a vintage bottle of port.

Would I patch-up a pair of my shoes? Not sure, but patched and polished has never looked so good.