When a Shoe Looks Like a Piece of Art

The problem with bespoke shoes, is that sometimes they look so damn good that they don't even look like footwear, more just look like art for the sake of showcasing. For me, Riccardo Bestetti's shoes resemble this idea, probably more so than any other maker that I know. The reason that I say this, even though I may believe other makers make shoes more directed to my particular taste, is the fact that when I look at his shoes, they look like they were done by hand, without a second guess, just like a piece of art would be. The lines (and/or curvature) in his footwear from heel to sole, from toe to vamp, to the shaping of the last and the coloring of the leather are all things that you could never really see on a RTW shoe (a shoe done by machine). These are all things that he has done himself, with his passion for footwear, and trying to make the best final product possible. And he does a damn good job at doing so, because I must say that even if I don't like a shoe that he does, say because of the style or shape of the toe, you can be sure that I will at least respect and admire it and still find it beautiful. There is no denying that each shoe that I have posted here is an absolute work of art. You can't help but like them, even if you would never wear them. That's inspirational, and I commend Mr. Bestetti for his talent!

On a side note, I wanted to say that I appreciate everyone that either left a comment or emailed me directly in regards to the email that I received from that reader. I truly appreciate all of the support, the kind words, and vote of confidence that many of you have for me. And while I would never let something like this ever stop me from doing what I feel that I need and want to do, I must say that it is all of you (no corniness here) that help to keep me going, especially when the end of that tunnel looks miles away. I therefore truly thank each and every one of you that continue to read my blog, make comments and support my dreams. And I hope that with my growth, I can continue to repay you all with something entertaining yet knowledgeable to read, as well as great footwear and the complementary products!

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

Shoes Of The Week - Jan Kielman

This is one mega-boot! Most likely not something that I would ever wear, as I don't go hunting, but definitely something that I can appreciate and admire. If only it was about one foot shorter whereby that first buckle from the bottom was actually the top of the boot, then it would be something that would get ample use out of me! Nevertheless, these boots by Jan Kielman, are something to admire, as they represent an amazing amount of craftsmanship and detail. They actually make me wish that we were back in the early 1900's where many people actually wore riding/hunting boots as a daily article of clothing (maybe not in the streets of London, but outside yes), because these ones would be baddest around, putting everyone else to shame.... There is something so elegant about boots like this, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly what that is. A feeling, yet seems to be an indescribable one. But sadly enough, as most trends circle around in stages, I am feel as if wearing boots like this will never really make it back into popular culture, thus leaving them solely for the people who need them as practical footwear for their hunting activities....too bad!