First off, let’s be real: faux leather ain’t real leather. It’s plastic-y. So, all those fancy methods for shrinking *actual* leather with water and heat? Might just melt your shoes or, like, make ’em stiff and weird. Trust me, you DO NOT want stiff and weird. Been there, done that. It’s not a good look.
So, what *can* you do? Well, let’s think. My grandma used to say, “If it’s too big, make it fit!” (She was mostly talking about clothes, but the principle still applies.)
* Socks, socks, and more socks! This is the easiest, most obvious one, right? Stuff those puppies with thick socks. Like, hiking socks. Or two pairs of normal socks. Or even those fuzzy socks you got for Christmas that you never wear. Boom! Problem (kinda) solved. It’s not shrinking, per se, but it’s filling the space. I mean, hey, it works!
* Insoles, my friend, insoles. This is my personal favorite. You can buy all kinds of insoles – gel ones, arch support ones, fluffy ones. Get a thick pair (or two!) and stick ’em in your shoes. Not only will they make your shoes fit better, but they’ll also be way more comfy. Double win! Just, y’know, make sure your feet can still breathe. Sweaty feet are the WORST.
* Stuffing is your bud! If socks and insoles aren’t cutting it, get creative. Crumpled paper towels? Tissues? Old rags? Anything that will take up space in the toe box. Just make sure whatever you use is clean and dry, okay? Moldy paper towels? No thanks! You get the idea. It might sound a little *ghetto* but it works in a pinch.
* The “Maybe It’ll Work, Maybe It Won’t” Method: So, I’ve *heard* some people have had *some* success using a hairdryer on low heat, pointed at the areas that need shrinking. The idea is the heat might cause the fake leather to tighten up a bit. But seriously, be *super* careful. Start with the lowest setting and don’t hold it too close to the shoe. You could end up with melted plastic or, even worse, a fire hazard. I wouldn’t really recommend this, but hey, if you’re desperate…
* Embrace the Baggy Look (Just Kidding…Mostly): Okay, this isn’t shrinking them, but if all else fails, maybe just wear them with confidence? I mean, if they’re *really* too big, that’s a no-go. But if it’s just a little bit, maybe you can pull it off. Just own it! Unless they’re like, clown shoes. Then, yeah, return them.
