A universal shoe holder having a detachable mounting member for securing the holder to a work surface, and a supporting member which supports the shoe holding mechanism perpendicular to the mounting member. The shoe holding mechanism consists of a holding member fastened to the support member, and a heel support member which is pivotally attached thereto. A tightening mechanism is provided which exerts pressure on the heel support member and the holding member, allowing the shoe holder to securely hold various styles and sizes of shoes during repair and polishing procedures. An adjusting mechanism is included to allow the shoe holder to be adjusted to fit different sizes of shoes.