Thanks for all of the suggestions so far. I really like Alden's and Allen Edwards -low(er) and of the price spectrum... Now I will ask a few more questions if you all don't mind - What types of shoes are appropriate for suits? Could you perhaps give me an example? Plain oxfords? What type of toe? Are monk straps ever appropriate? Thanks.
Kenny, I don't know any cutom shoe makers as I haven't tried yet. John Lobb and JM Weston. I want some info on them as I am interested. Negative of Berluti is that they don't have any boutique in the USA yet. Only source is some private importers. (that's what I was told by Berluti, but if you guys know otherwise, pls let me know) ralessi, laced shoes w/ plain toe can go with any suits. Depending on the style of suits (british trad, Italian, 3 buttons, etc), I make variation on shoes. I don't always cuff my suits pants because of shoe variation. Slip-ons are good nowadays, so I wear them w/ suits, too, but most tailors/suit salesmen recommend laced shoes for suits. I guess it is more of formality or tradition.
John Lobb 680 Madison Ave. New York City, NY 10021-7246 Phone: 212/888-9797 www.jmweston.com I think they have a store on 68th st. and madison Ave. in NY.
have had a suede pair of guccis as "daily walkers" for 2 years, no complaints! good soles too, not just for look.
Agreed. The construction of the Gucci shoes I have owned seems to be better than the Prada shoes I've had. I still have a pair of Gucci loafers that I bought back in 1998! However, I no longer buy Gucci shoes because their current line up uses a very narrow sole that is not compatible with my chubby 'western' feet. I think the Prada shoes are a little better in this respect.
I've had a pair of black leather Rockports for a few years that are very comfortable and under $100. Made by Reebock and come with an air insole cushion. Very light too, unfortunately it has a rubber sole which makes it a bit too casual for some engagements. A good Italian made shoe with a leather sole is the way to go. I really couldn't care less about the name as long as the leather is good and the shoe is stylish and comfortable.
I would not dream of putting sneakers with a suite! NO way I could pull that off. I just asked what other shoes they had and they brought the sneakers in I thought they look awsome very comfortable.
