A pair of prom shoes can last you a lifetime, but not if you knock them about.

Like anything worth keeping, you’ve got to treat them right. It’s simple, really. These are the four steps you need to know.

The key to crack-free, shiny leather shoes is a good old moisturise. First things first, remove the laces (you don’t want polish on them). Next, wipe away any surface dirt with a brush. Then apply leather conditioner to an old t-shirt and rub in a circular motion to fill in any cracks.

Choose a cream or wax based polish in a shade that matches your shoes. If in doubt, go lighter, unless you want to completely change the colour. Apply the polish in a circular motion, then buff vigorously with a brush and leave your shoes to dry.

Grab that old t-shirt again and dab some polish on it, and add a few drops of water onto the leather. Next, you’ll need a bit of elbow grease. Polish the water away until you’ve got a smooth, shiny, mirror-like finish.

It’s time to admire your handy work.