| Steps:
1. Examine the sole to make sure it is firmly attached to the
shoe. Keep in mind that some soles are cemented to the upper shoe
and others are stitched. Either type is acceptable, and some shoes
will be both cemented and stitched.
2. Check the heel. High-quality dress shoes have leather heels,
sometimes with a layer of rubber or nylon on the back edge of the
heel. Heels on high-heeled shoes for women are usually made of
plastic and covered with leather. The higher the price, the higher
quality the plastic.
3. Inspect the shoe's interior. Leather interiors absorb foot
moisture best. Good-quality shoes are fully lined from front to
back.
4. Consider the shoe material. Shoes with an oiled, natural
finish are durable, while patent- and polished-leather shoes resist
dirt
.
5. Examine buckles and any adornments on the shoe. They should be
securely attached and reinforced with even, smooth double stitching.
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