One of the sad facts of life when one goes to live abroad for a year is that one’s beautiful shoe collection (if this totally hypothetical “one” were to have a vast and much-prized shoe collection) must remain behind.

Yes, I’m separated from most of my footwardrobe by an entire ocean.

So when products come along that can spruce up my shoes and give them a new look, I’m all on board.

Faithful readers may recall one of our posts from back in March about boot wrappers.

That was about a company called Freckles N Fran and a stretchy piece of fabric that can layer over the top of your boots and change up their look.

Even more faithful readers may recall one of our posts from March of last year about Muleos, which are ties and straps that can switch the look of your backless shoes (or your boots, if you wear them like I do.

I have brought both those little goodies along with me to London, and am making good use of them.

If you’re interested in the next step from either of those options in terms of variety (and, sadly, price), then point your browser to The 2 Bandits, who have a collection of boot straps.  No, not the kind you pull yourself up by.  Much prettier than that.

These are fabric and brass decorative straps to be fit around your boots.  There’s a handy dandy video explanation here.

But the concept is pretty self-explanatory, and this California/Texas designing duo has a pretty little product to offer during boot season.

Deck out your stompers with the Napoleonic bee-motif Gypsy.

2 bandits gypsy

Rock an Egyptian scarab beetle and a Grecian style with the Athena.

2 bandits athena

Or forego the brass charm entirely and stick to the bright woven look of the Santa Fe.

2 bandits santa fe

Prices range from $48 to $78, which ain’t cheap, but hell, it’s still cheaper than a new pair of boots, and I’m completely sold on the versatility they add to your footwear (wear ‘em up, wear ‘em down, wear ‘em over tights with no boots at all… the options are many).