Shoe Of The Week - Maftei

As the world progresses, it becomes harder and harder to say that one thing, whether it be a product or service, is best found here or there. This used to be the case many years ago, but as people become more and more curious about the arts and crafts that were once famous in a certain area, they begin to take it upon themselves to become just as good. Some even go as far as becoming better. So, for me it's very nice to discover shoemakers that come from areas that one not might suspect would be a place that offers bespoke shoes at a high caliber. While this might still be the case in some countries, it is definitely not in Austria, as this shoe by Maftei looks just as good as any prominent maker in the industry. Not only does the shoe look good in a construction aspect, but the style is among my current favorites, pairing two colors that I love together and doing it in a very unique and beautiful way. Have a look through his site and maybe you too will find something that strikes your fancy and presents itself as unique and individual.

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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

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Today's Favorites - Bespoke Balmoral Boots

One of the most exciting things in the world for me (literally), is seeing the outcome of designing an existing shoe style in a new way, and it coming out wonderfully. That is the case for this balmoral boot presented here. Designed (having made the pattern) by my friend, who is just as crazy about shoes as I am, yet most likely much more knowledgeable, and made by a freelance maker, produced the outcome of this very appealing new way to create a balmoral boot. Everything to the ribbed (cushioned) top line, to the facing piece meeting the balmoral brogued line, and the way that the upper heel area is stitch free, are all things that I have yet to see in a boot. Even the medallion, albeit derived from the base of most medallions, is very unique and pleasing. That detail alone, I actually appreciate a lot, because having done one myself (with a bit of help and influence) know just how hard it is to create something new, that looks good too.

As most of you know, I am crazy for balmoral boots, so having the pleasure of seeing this and putting it up on the blog to share with all of you, gives me great pleasure. I must say though, that the gentleman who put the shoe together wishes to remain anonymous, so I would appreciate it if no one emailed me asking me who that was. Thank you for your understanding. I hope that you have enjoyed seeing this design as much as I have...

-Justin, "The Shoe Snob"

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Shoes Of The Week - Bespoke by D.W. Frommer II

Hand-sewn shoemaking may not be as prevalent in the public eye as it was 60-80 years ago (when shoemaking machinery was not as readily available), but the more time I spend in the shoe industry, the more I discover that it is still very much alive, only that it is on a much more private (and/or smaller) scale. And every time I hear of someone trying to find a course or apprenticeship in order to go learn, or someone that has simply taught themselves out of pure passion, I find myself smiling, knowing that people still care about quality shoes. And that, my friends, brings me to the subject at hand. While I have known about Mr. D.W. Frommer II for some time now (perusing the pages of Style Forum), it wasn't until I saw these pictures that I understood the magnitude of his making abilities. Having been a western boot maker for 40+ years (and being 66 years old), it was only until 5 years ago that he translated his knowledge in bootmaking and took a stab at shoemaking, in order to have something to enjoy during retirement. After 5 years (which is not long in this profession) you can see just far along he has come, especially with this beautiful balmoral oxford! For more information on Mr. D.W. Frommer II, you can email him or visit his website.

Email: frommer@bootmaker.com

Website: http://www.bootmaker.com/bespoke.htm

 

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