How many of you are into shoes... (Dress Shoes)?

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Well, Cleverly has my lasts...but perhaps they have to do a (new) "casual last" if I am not getting lace ups.

I have been watching several videos on Youtube from the Hangerproject / Kirby Allison. Great factory tour and interview with Tony Gaziano. The RTW shoes feel pretty bespoke. Not quite sure out it all works, but I would like to learn more. Maybe my short wide feet will get lucky.

G&G is a great shoemaker and I’ve always been extremely pleased with their RTW shoes. The level of detail and finishing is top notch but then again you are talking top tier shoemaking. MTO really is nothing more than a specific color or leather and generally nothing more. You get to chose a specific sole and lining but it’s far from bespoke. I do have a few in Kudu which I’ve never seen offered in RTW. So other leathers are sometimes available. They do have their Deco Last which is more of a special order but since that was described as more sleek I steered clear.


Anyway, here’s hoping something works out for you as this would open the door and give you more options. If nothing else you will now know for sure if G&G will work for you.

Good Luck.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Well, Cleverly has my lasts...but perhaps they have to do a (new) "casual last" if I am not getting lace ups.

I have been watching several videos on Youtube from the Hangerproject / Kirby Allison. Great factory tour and interview with Tony Gaziano. The RTW shoes feel pretty bespoke. Not quite sure out it all works, but I would like to learn more. Maybe my short wide feet will get lucky.

G&Gs main Lasts at the time I was buying were all the same with exception of the toe. May very well be slightly diffrent for their loafer Lasts. But anyway very possible in a wider size and maybe if required their wider toe Last may work just fine for you.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by dddrees

G&Gs main Lasts at the time I was buying were all the same with exception of the toe. May very well be slightly diffrent for their loafer Lasts. But anyway very possible in a wider size and maybe if required their wider toe Last may work just fine for you.

Ah...I see. I thought there was some degree of customization, but I must be mistaken. The availability of a wide last ala Alden’s “E” / Barrie Last might help me.

I think these shoes are a fraction of the cost of Cleverley’s...So I would be interested. Hoping I can stop by next week.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Ah...I see. I thought there was some degree of customization, but I must be mistaken. The availability of a wide last ala Alden’s “E” / Barrie Last might help me.

I think these shoes are a fraction of the cost of Cleverley’s...So I would be interested. Hoping I can stop by next week.

There are slightly diffrent rules depending on the shoemaker but for a good many shoemakers a Last modification is only possible when going bespoke and then of course it’s a Last designed specifically for you. However I still think it worth a little time to verify whether G&G may or may not work for you.

St Crispins is a shoemaker where they will make a custom Last without charge. The customization is something they accomplish by adding space to specific areas of an existing Last. But their RTW and MTO shoes cost more than G&G. But there is no upcharge for their MTO shoes.


Yes, the Alden Barry Last is a wider Last, and I would imagine it probably would work for you. They are a mid tier level shoemaker and cost less for that reason but they do make real nice shoes.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by dddrees

There are slightly diffrent rules depending on the shoemaker but for a good many shoemakers a Last modification is only possible when going bespoke and then of course it’s a Last designed specifically for you. However I still think it worth a little time to verify whether G&G may or may not work for you.

St Crispins is a shoemaker where they will make a custom Last without charge. The customization is something they accomplish by adding space to specific areas of an existing Last. But their RTW and MTO shoes cost more than G&G. But there is no upcharge for their MTO shoes.


Yes, the Alden Barry Last is a wider Last, and I would imagine it probably would work for you. They are a mid tier level shoemaker and cost less for that reason but they do make real nice shoes.

Yes. I have several pairs of Alden Shell Cordovan on the Barrie Last...but now that I have a pair of bespoke, I think I’m done with Alden! They are comfortable, but not snug ala Bespoke.

I believe Cleverley is supposed to start with a block of wood for each pair of new lasts...but I wouldn’t swear to it. I understand adding / subtracting from a “blank” shoe-shaped Last is technically referred to as “Made to order, on modified last” - and not truly bespoke.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Yes. I have several pairs of Alden Shell Cordovan on the Barrie Last...but now that I have a pair of bespoke, I think I’m done with Alden! They are comfortable, but not snug ala Bespoke.

I believe Cleverley is supposed to start with a block of wood for each pair of new lasts...but I wouldn’t swear to it. I understand adding / subtracting from a “blank” shoe-shaped Last is technically referred to as “Made to order, on modified last” - and not truly bespoke.

The custom fit of bespoke with anything just simply can’t be achieved with off the rack or with RTW. Cleverly may very well be your sweet spot with regards to something that you can get so customized but at a more reasonable price. I don’t personally own any bespoke shoes but then again I can attain some real good fits with EG and G&G. EG not doing Bespoke and G&G Bespoke being a bit more than what I would be willing to pay for something I don’t personally require or need.

For me the additional cost for something in the range of EG, G&G, John Lobb, or St Crispins over say an Alden is for other reasons than just fit. It’s for refinement of their Lasts, greater detail, better designs or patterns, better finishing, and a little better leather.


Anyway don’t give up before you try, and hopefully you”lol find something there that will work for you.

[Abdullah71601]

Originally Posted by Speed

Ah...I see. I thought there was some degree of customization, but I must be mistaken. The availability of a wide last ala Alden’s “E” / Barrie Last might help me.

I think these shoes are a fraction of the cost of Cleverley’s...So I would be interested. Hoping I can stop by next week.

G&G's F width is a good place to start for a wider fit. They are almost never in stock, so you'll probably need to try them at a trunk show. The fit is the same across their range. For example, the KN14 loafer last fits exactly the same as the MH71 last. I found the deco last to be a tad more snug on the instep, but the rest of the shoe fit very well.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by Abdullah71601

G&G's F width is a good place to start for a wider fit. They are almost never in stock, so you'll probably need to try them at a trunk show. The fit is the same across their range. For example, the KN14 loafer last fits exactly the same as the MH71 last. I found the deco last to be a tad more snug on the instep, but the rest of the shoe fit very well.

Thanks! Hopefully I can sneak out to their show.

I’ve seen the F width listed on their web site.

I have a pair of Churches in their F width and a pair of Trickers at their widest. These are wing tip brogues... both pair look visibly long on me and are a bit loose. The 1/2 size lower on both models were too tight...

With Alden’s I get a decent fit.

All this to say Bespoke is not a necessity, certainly could not afford a variety at these prices, but I do like the idea of wearing a well-fitting shoe meant for my hobbit feet

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Thanks! Hopefully I can sneak out to their show.

I’ve seen the F width listed on their web site.

I have a pair of Churches in their F width and a pair of Trickers at their widest. These are wing tip brogues... both pair look visibly long on me and are a bit loose. The 1/2 size lower on both models were too tight...

With Alden’s I get a decent fit.

All this to say Bespoke is not a necessity, certainly could not afford a variety at these prices, but I do like the idea of wearing a well-fitting shoe meant for my hobbit feet

Although the G&G RTW or MTO wouldn’t be Bespoke you stlll might get a good fit, however the only way to tell is to try them on. As Abdullah said all the Lasts for G&G fit the same with the exception of the toe area. Some narrow as with their chisel Last and a bit wider with their rounder Last.

[Syed117]

Feeling pretty good.

Does suede open up or break in way faster? They were a bit snug and I worm them for a few hours with socks last night and there is already a big difference.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Syed117

Feeling pretty good.

Does suede open up or break in way faster? They were a bit snug and I worm them for a few hours with socks last night and there is already a big difference.

Looking Good!!


Frankly it takes very little time for my calf shoes from EG and G&G to break in. So there's little difference if any for me with regards to my suede shoes.

[Speed]

Just a shot of my Cleverleys - with a fresh shine - and jeans.

[Wesley Crusher]

This thread sucks. You guys are a bad influence....


.... incoming

[Wesley Crusher]

Originally Posted by Syed117

Feeling pretty good.

Does suede open up or break in way faster? They were a bit snug and I worm them for a few hours with socks last night and there is already a big difference.

Originally Posted by Speed

Just a shot of my Cleverleys - with a fresh shine - and jeans.

Looking good!

[Speed]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

This thread sucks. You guys are a bad influence....


.... incoming

Oh???

[Speed]

I was bad as well...

Getting a pair of these double monks in chocolate brown - not burgundy as pictured.

[Wesley Crusher]

Originally Posted by Speed

Oh???

2 incoming, actually. 1 I think you guys will like, the other some of you will not like (Dan will hate).

Originally Posted by Speed

I was bad as well...

Getting a pair of these double monks in chocolate brown - not burgundy as pictured.

Very nice. You’re on a roll!

[Speed]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

2 incoming, actually. 1 I think you guys will like, the other some of you will not like (Dan will hate).



Very nice. You’re on a roll!

Can't wait to see it.

Going to visit Gaziano & Girling Trunk show Saturday to browse MTO options.

Somebody help me!

[Wesley Crusher]

Originally Posted by Speed

Can't wait to see it.

Going to visit Gaziano & Girling Trunk show Saturday to browse MTO options.

Somebody help me!

I’d like a pair of G&Gs, but I wouldn’t dare to buy without being properly fitted first. I kind of rolled the dice with my EG Galways and they worked out, but if they didn’t, I would have been SOL since they were MTO. When I bought my Lobbs, I drove 2+ hours to the nearest store to get a proper fitting. I’ve made some mistakes in the past, luckily with less expensive shoes.

I really like the Ishams and Thorpes from G&G. I know many people like the MH71 last, but I prefer the looks of the GG06. It’s still a sleek last, but with a nice rounded toe. Modern British, I’d say.

Ishams on the GG06 = perfection

[Speed]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

I’d like a pair of G&Gs, but I wouldn’t dare to buy without being properly fitted first. I kind of rolled the dice with my EG Galways and they worked out, but if they didn’t, I would have been SOL since they were MTO. When I bought my Lobbs, I drove 2+ hours to the nearest store to get a proper fitting. I’ve made some mistakes in the past, luckily with less expensive shoes.

I really like the Ishams and Thorpes from G&G. I know many people like the MH71 last, but I prefer the looks of the GG06. It’s still a sleek last, but with a nice rounded toe. Modern British, I’d say.

Ishams on the GG06 = perfection

I like the Ishams as well...Hope they have a wide last for me. I am also interested in a Loafer - the Monaco.

Dean Girling will be at the Trunk Show tomorrow. I think I will be in good shape -IF- and that's an IF...I go for MTO.

[jakjakman]

Just got my first pair White's Boots delivered yesterday. I' have a couple pairs of Nick's Boots already. Quality and fit are pretty close between the two, it's almost hard to tell them apart. Both brands are great quality and I'm really pleased with these new White's as well as my Nick's.

[daveathall]

Originally Posted by Speed

I was bad as well...

Getting a pair of these double monks in chocolate brown - not burgundy as pictured.

I think that is a perfect choice, I have a pair of burgundy shoes and have sort of gone off the colour, if they were the classic brown or chocolate brown I would still love them. Great pick, looking forward to seeing them.

Edit; Just to expand, the one's I have are Loake 1880, still not classed as cheap, but certainly not high end money. I would recommend the Loake 1880 range as a good choice though.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by daveathall

I think that is a perfect choice, I have a pair of burgundy shoes and have sort of gone off the colour, if they were the classic brown or chocolate brown I would still love them. Great pick, looking forward to seeing them.

Edit; Just to expand, the one's I have are Loake 1880, still not classed as cheap, but certainly not high end money. I would recommend the Loake 1880 range as a good choice though.

Thanks Dave. Much appreciated.

I hope to have my first fitting around April 2019!

I will be sure to post some pics of the initial shoe / temporary sole...and then a complete shoe in June or July.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

Just a shot of my Cleverleys - with a fresh shine - and jeans.

Very nice!!!

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

This thread sucks. You guys are a bad influence....


.... incoming

Who, me?


But whoever it was it appears to be working.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

I was bad as well...

Getting a pair of these double monks in chocolate brown - not burgundy as pictured.

Good choice!!

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Speed

I like the Ishams as well...Hope they have a wide last for me. I am also interested in a Loafer - the Monaco.

Dean Girling will be at the Trunk Show tomorrow. I think I will be in good shape -IF- and that's an IF...I go for MTO.

Two great choices. Good luck.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Wesley Crusher

I’d like a pair of G&Gs, but I wouldn’t dare to buy without being properly fitted first. I kind of rolled the dice with my EG Galways and they worked out, but if they didn’t, I would have been SOL since they were MTO. When I bought my Lobbs, I drove 2+ hours to the nearest store to get a proper fitting. I’ve made some mistakes in the past, luckily with less expensive shoes.

I really like the Ishams and Thorpes from G&G. I know many people like the MH71 last, but I prefer the looks of the GG06. It’s still a sleek last, but with a nice rounded toe. Modern British, I’d say.

Ishams on the GG06 = perfection

Split toes rule and G&G makes some of the best out there in my opinion. I have both and you would have a hard time finding any better. The MH71 is probably the best fitting Last for me that I have found and works extremely well with both of these G&G shoes and Boots.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by jakjakman

Just got my first pair White's Boots delivered yesterday. I' have a couple pairs of Nick's Boots already. Quality and fit are pretty close between the two, it's almost hard to tell them apart. Both brands are great quality and I'm really pleased with these new White's as well as my Nick's.

I've read where some of had issues with Nicks from time to time but I've always heard nothing but good things about Whites. At some point you might want to look at Viberg. A bit more but definitely worth it in my opinion.

[breitlings]

I've been into dress sneakers recently like the Bally Ascan. https://www.bally.com/en_us/man/shoe...t-6223114.html