Shoes Of The Week - Edward Green

Fancy a bit of indigo suede for our lovely Spring season? Well, now you can get some, in the wonderful Malvern model by Edward Green. There really is nothing like a little bit of bluey-purple, purpley-blue suede on a pair of dress shoes. It just really makes them pop, in quite a nice way too. It's bright without being ostentatious, it's tasteful without being overbearing, and it's just plain good because it's Edward Green. A shoe like this is truly amazing for the Spring/Summer seasons and it can really get you through a lot of situations, not only in a casual way, but also in a formal way. Now, when I say formal, I am obviously not referring to black tie, but the sort of formal that happens in the Spring, sort of a casual formal. I feel like formal events in Spring/Summer are usually a bit more on the relaxed side as opposed to a formal gathering in the Fall/Winter. I don't know why...maybe a dark sky needs dark colors and a light sky needs lighter colors....? Nevertheless, for me, a brogue in suede is as formal as one needs to be when the sun is blazing, and this pair here is will certainly set you apart from all those wearing snuff suede....

I hope that everyone who celebrates Easter has a lovely weekend, and those that don't I hope that you have a lovely weekend nonetheless. That being though, I will be in Wales, far away from an internet connection and will therefore be out of commission until Tuesday.

All the best,

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Shoes Of The Week - Blue Two Tone Brogues by Alfred Sargent

These monks, to me, are the epitome of cool. It is the type of shoe that I would love to wear day in and day out. Partially because I am such a sucker for blue but also because it represents the idea of being fun and a bit outrageous with your shoe choices. Yes, I will say that if you are a businessman, it's not the most practical choice, but then again, neither is buying and owning a Ferrari in a cramped city like Florence, Italy. But if you had the money and wanted the car, that practicality is not going to stop you, is it? No! That being, shoes like this appeal to me in the utmost way, as they define my ideal of a dream shoe. A shoe that I can wear with not a care in the world, as I would not need to look any which way for any person. Just basically being able to dress how I like. While I can do that anyway, there still are times where I have to be a bit on the conservative side.....unfortunately.

Nevertheless, I wholeheartedly applaud Alfred Sargent for not only making this, but also releasing it. I also applaud online shoe store, A Fine Pair of Shoes, for buying it to then sell to customers. Much bravery (of which I truly admire) went into the thought of this shoe, from conception to wholesale purchase and for me, it makes me smile as it represents progression in the shoe industry!

Shoes Of The Week - Alfred Sargent

Picture Courtesy of Style Sage

I once did a post talking about how I felt that the brown full-brogue was the most versatile shoe there is and even though this shoe above, by Alfred Sargent, is not considered a "full-brogue," it really makes me feel that my statement was bang-on, as I feel that I could wear this shoe with just about everything! Not only is everything that has to do with the design, like pattern, last shape and contrasted sole, but the color of the upper is absolutely exquisite. Out of the trillion shades of brown that there is, I really think that this is the best one that I have yet to see. It has a perfect blend between a mid-brown and a chocolate, being a bit dark but not so much so that it could be mistaken for black.....Gosh, it's so hard being a shoe freak, especially one that is starting his own range, as it makes me feel that I will have to stick to wearing only my shoes, but that idea alone goes very much against the grain of my soul, as I will continue to yearn for other models.....ah what dilemmas! That being, as you may have gathered from it all, this shoe is lovely and is precisely the shoe that every man needs to complete his wardrobe: a dark brown brogue of sorts....

I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend. Until Monday....

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Today's Favorites - Edward Green Oundle

Have you ever wondered why the majority of cordovan leather comes in a burgundy color when in fact, it can be made in any color, such as this brown pair of Edward Green Oundles? Well, as I don't know why, I cannot comment further on the matter, but if you happen to, please feel free to leave a comment. Nevertheless, I find myself always being attracted to shoes that come in cordovan leather that is in a different-than-normal color, such as the green pair that Stefano Bemer made or this pair here. And even though I have never really been a fan of the idea of wearing a pair of shoes whose upper leather is as stiff as its sole leather, I have always been so curious about them and having one, maybe just for show...However, I think that I would probably commission one in a blue color of sorts, maybe one shady lighter than navy, as I think that the natural shimmer that cordovan creates, would be lovely in blue. But back to the subject, this pair here is exquisite, not just because it's one of the most handsome monk straps ever made, but because that brown shade of cordovan looks fantastic!

Pictures Courtesy of Leather Soul

Shoes Of The Week - Lodger Jodhpur Boots

It's always nice being able to find a shoe that it is truly unique in it's design. I take that back, it is truly amazing to find something that is unique in it's design and looks great. I see a lot of crap design that tried way too hard to go outside of the box to create something unique and ends up becoming something that looks alien or along those lines. But this jodhpur boot here, by Lodger, is simply amazing. I have never actually owned a jodhpur boot myself but have always appreciated them. I even incorporated one within my collection because I know that they are a popular model here in England, but I do not believe that I have ever seen one that I like more than this one. It's so simple in it's look and thought, yet so intriguing and unique. Not only the fact that this jodhpur is created on a derby style, but the fact that it crosses in the front and even more unique, has a stitching (seam) that goes all the way back to the middle of the heel, which is virtually unheard of in classical pattern making. But you put all of these things together and it creates something that is beautiful and very impressive.....I would have a pair of these in every color!

Shoes Of The Week - Crockett & Jones Boot

It's funny because the last time I was in Spain, working out my prototypes, I was thinking of the different combinations of colors/materials to use on my balmoral boots and a medium brown paired with a snuff suede was precisely what I had in mind, until I saw these boots by Crockett & Jones..... While my boot is quite different, aesthetically in shape and pattern, and using similar colors is by no means copying, being the weird individual that I am, I am now having second thoughts about using these colors as I do not want have something that is too similar to someone else's shoe/boot. At least not for my first collection....but then again, I have a couple of months to think about it and when my prototypes are all finalized, I am planning on giving all of you a chance to influence the different color options that my shoes will come in.

But anyway, back to the subject at hand. When I saw these, I was pleased nonetheless, not only because I like them and enjoy shining shoes that I like, but also because these shoes come from an individual that appreciates nice shoes and it always makes me happy to meet people like this. This is already the second pair of his that I have put on the blog and am sure that there will be more to come...

I won't be posting until at least Sunday, so I wanted to wish all of you not only a fantastic weekend but a wonderful New Years!! Enjoy the festivities......and until 2012!

Best,

Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Shoes Of The Week - Alfred Sargent Special Make Up

Following a survey on Style Forum, online shoe store 'A Fine Pair of Shoes' created (based on popular vote & in conjunction with Alfred Sargent) what was considered to be the perfect brogue boot. While I can't say that I agree that this model is the 'perfect' brogue boot, I can say that I do like them very much. Probably the thing that I like most (outside of my obvious two-tone obsession) is the brogue design that leads from the bottom part of the facing/quarter all the way to the back end of the shaft bit. While this boot would be a great option come Spring/Summer, I just can't say that it's perfect for the fact that it cannot be worn during the cold months, for fear of thrashing that lovely light suede during a wet day. Nevertheless, it's a beautiful model that I am sure will become a great seller. If you are interested in this boot, the nice gentleman at AFPS informed me that they are currently available via Special Order at info@afinepairofshoes.co.uk and are going for £420.

I will try and post again sometime this weekend, but if I do not get a chance, there might be a little while before you here from me as I am taking a trip back to Spain in order to sort out some of my other prototypes!

I hope that everyone has a fantastic weekend.

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Shoes Of The Week - Gaziano & Girling Kent

The galosh (or balmoral or whatever you want to call it) style of shoe, that has a separation from the top piece (facing extended to heel) and bottom piece (vamp extending to heel) is one of my favorite models simply for the fact that it's options in leather or material pairings are endless. When creating a pair of shoes that you will release to the public, you have to make sure that you do something that is going to appeal to the majority and not be something that only you or a handful of people would like (which is very difficult to do). So when I saw these Kent model make ups, by Gaziano & Girling, with the top piece being alligator, I was taken aback by how well the combination went together. The patina of the alligator is probably what captures me most, as it truly gives the shoe a feel of antiquity. Now this might be one of those things that is only liked by a few people, as I personally believe that it takes one of extreme self confidence to pull these off. But at the same time, they are not ostentatious and because the alligator is so small and is on the upper part of the shoe, I do believe that this shoe could easily fit into someone's work wardrobe, as well as their casual one.....

In case any of you were wondering, Budapest is beautiful and I will have a nice write up of my trip to Laszlo Vass' store on Monday. Until then, enjoy the rest of your weekends

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Pictures Courtesy Of: Leffot

Today's Favorites - Red Suede Edward Greens

It's not very often that you see red suede shoes, particularly coming from a company rooted in England. It's even far less common that you would see someone wearing these down the street. Yet that would be very cool. Apparently these were an MTO order, for a customer at Leffot (of which the pictures are courtesy of). When you think about it this way, there existence under the name Edward Green makes more sense, as I don't believe that they would ever produce something for their ready-to-wear lines. But then this brings up the age old question: with all of the beautiful shoes being sold each day in the world, why is it that I never see anyone wearing them? Do people only keep their cool shoes for special events? For parties? What? I just don't get it. It's not like I wear my red shoes with white piping everyday, but they definitely get a some wears throughout the year. But rarely do I see something exciting, such as these, gracing the feet of some well-dressed gentleman. It's never too late.....wear your exciting shoes proudly!

Today's Favorites - Foster & Son

When you think of bespoke shoemakers, you tend to get lost in all of the big names: John Lobb, Cleverley, G&G, Koji Suzuki etc. but you rarely will think about smaller, yet extremely credible makers such as Foster & Son, of whom have an incredible history. It's a shame too, because they have some of the most beautiful shoes that I have ever seen as well as make some of the most elegant last shapes around, which makes sense as they have one of the most famous last makers in history (Terry Moore) still providing service there. For those that don't know, Foster & Son, is actually one of the oldest, if not the oldest, bespoke firm still providing a service, dating back to 1840 (even older than John Lobb who started in 1866). Not only that, but as I stated before, they have Terry Moore, who was the last maker of Peal & Co., before they closed down, which was the oldest company in shoe history at the time of closure in 1965, being 400 years old. With that transition, Foster & Son, not only got a great last maker but also all of the patterns, lasts and client list from the old Peal & Co. And still to this day, they are providing a great service, while at the same time, making lovely shoes....Check them out on Jermyn St., London, when you have a chance. You won't be disappointed, especially as they have an incredible archive of old shoes....

Shoes Of The Week - George Cleverley

I love to see shoes made in skins that I have never seen before, so when I saw these bespoke George Cleverley loafers, I was stupefied. Not only had I not seen this skin before, I had never even heard of the animal, carpincho that is. If you have never heard of it too, I will let you know that carpinchos just might be the scariest things ever, being that they look like a mix between a giant rat & dog. But nonetheless, they make an exquisite skin for a lovely shoe. The texture is so unique (it's incredibly soft and supple) and the hair follicles (or what look like it) give off such a beautiful contrast to the skin, giving it that overcrowded polka-dot look, which to me makes the shoe as cool as it is. I mean, these same shoes in just a calfskin would be nice, no doubt, but not nearly as eye-catching as this. And even though I like to see new skins being used on shoes, I am not really the biggest fan of most 'exotics.' I appreciate seeing them to know what they would look like, but I would not wear a lot of them. But I must say, giant rat-dog shoes, I would wear, especially these!

Pictures Courtesy Of: Leather Soul

Life's Influence On Your Shoe Collection

It's truly amazing how you evolve as a person, not only with the way you think but with the way you behave, with the way that you dress, with the way that you do most things really. Thinking about what I wanted to write about this morning I was just think about me being in this place in time, and how different I am compared to 2 years ago, when I was in Italy, and even 5 years ago, when I was just getting out of university, in Seattle. It's amazing to think of the transformation of being since that time, particularly with how my shoe tastes have changed. I wish that I never had to get rid of any of the shoes that I have owned as of 7 years ago so that I could put them into a line, in order of purchase date. This would allow me to truly capture the details in how my thinking and tastes have changed, and ultimately --as I would regard-- evolved.

When I was younger, I used to just buy shoes because I liked the way they looked, that being, I liked their styling. I would buy them, and wear them proud. But when I moved to Europe, I started to noticed how I no longer liked my old shoes and wanted to have things that I actually loved the shape of, not just the styling of them. I wore things before that were way too elongated and pointy. And even though, that was the style and what was available back then in the States, it quickly became quite boring for me. It's a shame too, because I had so many nice things, that I wished I would have been able to keep. But I could just not stand them anymore. So, thinking about what I like now and what sits in my closet, I still have some classics that I have had since the very beginning, things that have managed to withstand the time of trends and passed through them, as well as things that I would have never like before but that I do now, such as my Gieves & Hawkes (by Edward Green) loafer  that I have Paulus Bolten give a patina to.

At the age that I am, I feel like I have gone through all of my changes and will no longer have such drastic alterations in my thought and dress sense. Granted, I will always go through phases where I will love loafers versus everything else or maybe only want to get full-brogues, but overall, I have come to know that a shoe's shape is what draws me to it. It's credibility in it's quality (does not have to be only the high end, but good enough to stand a couple of years in London weather) is what is going to sell me and it's styling is what's going to capture my attention. But you never know, if I one day move to Japan, and have another culture influence my very being, I just might start wearing only crazy colored shoes, and never go back from that! (not likely...)

All Shoes By: Gaziano & Girling, Top 2 Pictures Courtesy Of: Leffot

My Shoes #23 - Carreducker Winkers

I just recently acquired a pair of the 'Winkers resort shoe' by Carreducker, and man do I like them. They are just so different from your normal kick-around loafer. As you can see, they are not made from your ordinary materials. They are made by Harris Tweed. And being such a sucker for shoes made with fabrics, as opposed to leather, I have been eye-balling them for awhile now. Being that the sun is such a rare commodity here in London, I went for a color that could be easily worn in all seasons.Plus, gray is a win-win anyway, it's just so versatile.

You see me here wearing them in a kind of dress-casual way, but I have to say, that they did not go that great with my outfit. For me, they fit much more the jean look or something a little bit more casual in the upper area. Not to say that my outfit was not good, but there could have been a better representation of how to wear these. I just don't always have time to ask people to snap photos of me when I am wearing my best outfits, so sometimes I have to just settle with what I decided to throw together during my morning rush. When I start my shoe line (which looks like it could be very soon), I can get a PA and have them do it!

Anyway, if you have been looking for something different to put on your feet, the winkers are a great direction, as they are fun, comfortable and unique!

Enjoy your weekend,

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Shoes Of The Week - Edward Green Brummell

As a lover of brogues, I must say that to this day I have not seen one that I like more than the Brummell, by Edward Green. Named after the well known dandy of the early 20th Century, Beau Brummell, this model of shoe, has taken the idea of the full brogue, but has altered it ever so subtly to create something that is not only unique, but in my opinion a lot more elegant, as it captures the curves of the last shape ever so much better. Late last year, Edward Green re-released this model as a mark of their 120th anniversary, only supplying the world with a selected amount. It makes me sad that this is not a model that you can just buy at any time, as for me, I would prefer it all day, everyday over the traditional full brogue. But I guess such is life and in fact makes this model that much more special...

While I am not sure about this, I am hoping that they will still make MTO requests for this shoe, because this will be the model that I will want to buy, when I am able to afford a pair. As I stated in my post, 3 Piece Suits & Edward Green's, there are two things that I have been yearning for since I began to appreciate style, and as I am waiting for my MTM 3 piece suit to arrive, the only thing that is left, is a pair of Edward Green Brummell's!

Today's Favorites - Alfred Sargent

It's always mind-boggling to know how many cool shoes are sold each day, around the world, yet how few people I see actually wearing something that is worthy of being considered 'cool.' Take these MTO Alfred Sargent's, for example. They are wonderful! And what's even better is that the customer, had these made with his own design requests, almost a little bit like going bespoke. But even though I know that this is not the only guy in the world with a pair of gray suede dress shoes, I have NEVER seen one gracing a well-dressed man's feet. And as sick as I am for shoes, I am the guy looking at everyone's shoes as they walk passed me. So, as I write this blog, and see all of these cool shoes on the internet and on the shoe shelves, it makes me think about where they go when they get purchased? Maybe they just get put on a pedestal and become an object of admiration for the customer? Who knows? But if you are reading this and wear unique shoes and don't mind sharing a picture, please feel free to send me one, so that I can have some proof and even put you up on the blog, if you so desire....

Customer Finds - Old Cleverley Bespoke

One of my colleagues recently brought me two pairs of shoes that his grandfather had passed down to him. Now when this happens, it may be a really old pair of Church's, Allen Edmonds or an older label like Poulsen & Skone or Nunn Bush, but these puppies just happen to be George Cleverley bespoke shoes, from the early 1960's, and while that may not seem that old, 50 years is still a good amount of time. I asked my friend to figure out how much they cost at the time and after a little bit of questioning to his grandfather, he told me that they cost 21 Guineas. That does not sound like a lot, but when you think about the time difference and the inflation rate, I will have you know that this amount is now equivalent to about 3000 GBP. It's always amazing to see how much the value of money has changed and how much more it will change, maybe one day being worth virtually nothing at the rate that it is going. Nevertheless, I found it to be quite interesting to see a shoe that was made when Mr. George Cleverley was actually around and overseeing production. And while the shoes were relatively similar to the standard we have today, there were some small details in the stitching of the upper that seemed to stand out, as a mark of the era.