I find that these spots fade if you just continue to wear and complete regular care. Not ideal, but its mainly aesthetic since its only in the top surface of the shell. Alden is really expensive in my country, whereas to my surprise Allen Edmonds is not. Try to keep the rest a little smart too eg a white oxford and navy or mid-grey crewneck. I have a bit of a conundrum. 1) Can I say cordovan shoes can be worn with both black and brown belts alike in most outfits? One of the biggest such sites in the world, it receives up to 500,000 page views a month. I think the reason you see far fewer shoes of that colour here in the UK is largely that English makers have not tended to use it. So, let me explain why. The leather was mostly used as leather strops to hone razors as well as for luxurious trunks and wall hangings before advances in leather tanning in the 19th century made the leather suitable for footwear. Trumps protectionism was focused on imposing and raising tariffs. I'm not entirely sure why they fell out of someone's rotation, but I'm happy they did. Understood. Personally Id go for the cordovan, but both would be great. Interesting albeit a little farfetched that you need deer bone for this because it is oily thank you for pointing me towards this article I will give it a try! They may be below the price of the shoes you often wear (e.g. Clean with a soft, damp cloth, allow to dry completely away from heat and moving air. Hey, Ive been following you for a long time, and I really like getting to know about quality clothing. Hi Jesper, Yes, thats one of the better pros. Thanks in advance. You can easily buy all necessary equipment to care for Codovan leather from http://www.afinepairofshoes.co.uk. For new shell cordovan shoes, you will want to establish a fixed flex-point. Shell Cordovan is a very specific type of leather that comes from the shell membrane of a horse butt. Cordoba: Thanks! Sounds so random. For your first pair, you might want to go with a classic, versatile style. No I didnt have that issue with this Trunk one. And why specifically deer bone? Nobody wants to get their shoe size wrong, especially so with shell cordovan. And how many of the vegan alternatives are plastics that wont biodegrade. Id seen a few examples of #8 shell fading to medium brown with lots of wear. Thats worth a read for detail on what cordovan actually is - more a membrane than a skin - and the work that goes into tanning it. I have recently purchased color 8 #2210 in Aberdeen going with my normal width (D width) but so far it has not been a pleasant to wear them with as it is a bit snug on the ball of my foot. And this heavy, characterful creasing is what gives cordovan shoes such a casual feel. that I have kicked around quite badly. But I prefer the styles from Alden. BTW, Horween has produced very differing shades of colour #8 through the years. 379X Military Last. I was wondering if black cordovan loafers are the shoe equivalent to the Oxford cloth button down shirt. What would be your thoughts about cordovan colour 8 wholecut? Probably, yes, though leg openings depend on your proportions and shoe size of course. I have seen that, and it does look like a nice colour. I cant put my finger on exactly what makes these distinctly less formal than the Aldens, but theyre also one of Vibergs most formal offerings. Incidentally, which Blackhorse lane model are you jeans Simon? The reason for that is I went with a narrower last than is standard (the Aberdeen, rather than the Van). Its manageable depending on what socks I have on but thin or sockless is out of the question. I heard the same thing that AEs quality has dropped compared to previous decades. Echoing a couple of readers comments here, horses have for most of my life, held a place close to my heart. Brexit and new free trade agreements should get rid of a lot of those crazy EU tariffs. Unlined with some decorative stitching. great post, as we are used to it! Err on the side of too-little, rather than too-much. The shopkeeper guy suggested me to get 7.5 as they will stretch. () I finally ordered the PS watch cap in red, and the rapid despatch and sweetly worded confirmation message already have me convinced it was a great decision to do so. Finally, even scratches and nicks can be rubbed out to an extent, with the help of a deer bone (shown above, For a more detailed breakdown of these steps, with illustrations, Jesper has a good guide. If youre not in the right financial position, your feet can wait. I prefer them with wider trousers, or shorts. On the side, do you have any plans to review the armoury in house label shoes? Alden (same as yours) or Carmina? Prioritising comfort/space. Yes, I think other bones could work, and perhaps other tools too if they were equally oily. Lots of details above in the comments sorry, too much to repeat here! Any particular misgivings about Carmina? First of all, cordovan is a rather stiff and thick material, it's not as flexible and pliable as most calf leathers which is most common to use for quality shoes. The loafers shown above - my Alden full-straps on the Aberdeen last - look almost black in this light. Thank you. With a change of temperatures these waxes migrate back to the surface.. Hello Simon. I would have figured it to be more formal. This was a perfect primer for the unique characteristics of Cordovan. That last is only more comfortable on most people because it is larger and so more forgiving. I would say in terms of versatility. Permanent Style is the UK authority on classic and luxury menswear. Then some others depending on shades. Very well worn. Priceless. This means it will not polish. r/goodyearwelt Alden Whiskey Shell Longwings . Even 50 year old shell cordovan can come back to life with a good amount of quality care. Crockett & Jones Harvard loafers: Review, Shoes in wet weather: The best ways to prevent rain damage, https://www.drakes.com/usa/shoes/alden-for-drake-s-burgundy-color-8-cordovan-commando-sole-chukka-boot, https://aldenmadison.com/collection/indy-boot-color-8-shell-cordovan-40508h/, https://thearmoury.com/products/hudson-tassel-loafer?variant=32131236102215, https://dieworkwear.com/2018/09/06/the-sophisticated-black-tassel/, https://www.paraboot.com/en/men/boat-shoes/barthmarine-marron-america, https://www.brogueshop.com/collections/shell-cordovan-1/products/alden-x-brogue-ruby-hill-boot-1, https://thearmoury.com/products/the-armoury-by-nigel-cabourn-5-pocket-denim-jeans?variant=17728986677319, https://therealmccoys.com/collections/bottoms/products/001xx-washed, this article on shoes with brown trousers. Do you send them back to Aldens factory in the US or do you use a local service? I dont currently own either but I have held, tried and examined examples from both and, at least from the quality signs that such examination can discover, I have to say that it seemed to me as though Carmina had the upper hand. But Ill leave those for another post, or indeed the comment discussion below. All my other pairs are dark brown suede or traditional calf (black/brown). Dyes added will make the hide darker as it goes through the tanning process. Fine with wider legs, perhaps some workwear-like chinos. one mor question. i think all i need is another 3-4mm wider. One of the reasons I find Color 8 so unique is that I havent found any other red or green hued colour of loafer that is anywhere near as classic or versatile, Many thanks as ever, seems a shame theres not something in that niche a bit closer to home when you think about the additional resource that would have to go into shipping them over! After that, though, the quality of the leather, in particular, its resistance to stretching has meant that theyve molded to my feet without getting too loose. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Id definitely go for the Alden tassel loafer, as that would add something genuinely different to what you already have. Ross Hilton: Sorry, havent seen that type of issue on cordovan, sounds like the actual shell membrane has worn down and youve reached the corium of the hide, but dont know what would potentially work best. Alex, To be honest Ive generally preferred the Alden cordovan. It also added a layer of love visiting the Horween tannery in Chicago last year (shown below). If you want another recommendation, look at the handful that Crocketts have in cordovan. But I doubt Id want these any wider. I have the same question as the guy above:-) Just so that I understand you correctly Simon: the Alden loafers you are wearing are a size 9 US/D width? Still, at shell cordovans current price points, I cant say that Ill be picking up another pair any time soon. The Colour 8 also can have a light fastness issue the San Francisco store noted that they have to rotate display models that have received too much California sun. Certainly, very comfortable and quite capable of surviving a downpour or two, although I still have my old habit of stuffing with newspaper if they are very wet(military habits die hard). Are these NW1? Welcome to cordovan;-) Ive had the same Aldens as you for at least 15 years. What I notice (and Ive seen online photos that confirm my experience) is that the two shoes are not aging or developing a patina the same way. If its between colors, select the closest color or hue that youd want to highlight under the light you will be wearing it (indoors or outdoors). Which tongue pads have you found to be effective? The stacks on the heels Alden uses are of bonded leather which loses form when it gets wet. If anything, Id say that Carmina is more cleanly made. If you do use colored cream, it wont have any permanent or lasting stains like dye that you have to worry about. Id certainly wear them with, for example, charcoal flannels, knitwear, and a raglan coat. Fantastic read by the way Simon, thanks for this. Thank you. But then that might also mean your heel slips more. Shell cordovan comes from horses and is named after the Spanish region of Cordoba from which the specific leather tradition originates and is derived from the hindquarter of a horse, referred to as the shell. Especially if unlined, this can be noticeable. also since the colour is quite close to cordovan 8, can the shoe be used in situations where cordovan would have been used? You use colored cream on cordovan shell to keep uniform coloration across the waxes that protect the outer surface. Whether its more casual than cordovan, well the material alone is probably more casual, but cordovan tends to be made into more casual shoes. I think you have one in suede. Your email address will not be published. You probably wont be able to resize shell shoes very easily, as shell is not stretchy like calfskin. Is it in general or specifically their cordovan? 3) It does soften up a bit, but not a huge amount. Thanks! Do you have any recommendations for successfully pairing brown pants with black shoes? Ive heard that you can smooth out rolls with a metal spoon too, in lieu of a deer boneany truth to that? I just might get a pair.. they look great with Denim. Either way, dont take out word for it. Currently at 260, I feel like I cant really beat AEs quality at this price point. Only spoons dont come with embedded oils. And I prefer the Alden shade of the colour 8 cordovan too. For that approach, a neutral cream offers the same protection and conditioning benefits of a colored cream, but without any additional pigmentation. They have a similar effect to horse or boars hair brushes, but with more direct pressure, that helps with pushing against the dense tissue of shell cordovan. And I do like tassels, which is largely personal. Thanks Quentin. Which do you prefer between the prototype and the NW1? As mentioned in the article, I think its that versatility that enables it to bridge formal and casual a bit. Cordovan comes as far as maintenance goes right after suede. But they look like a fairly smart pair of derbys, but one which will be pretty robust in that make and in the cordovan. Both. Cut the Fat: Wear shell enough and you'll start to notice white streaks forming around the creases. Kind of like the abrasions you can get on suede where you get light streaks in the nap. How do I get rid of scratches and scuffs? They are among my favourite shoes, as the fit and comfort is great. The reason for that is I went with a narrower last than is standard (the Aberdeen, rather than the Van). A lot of cordovan polish? The colour is, I think a brown/burgundy. Hi Simon, do you have any recommendations as to where I would be able to get my hands on low vamp alden loafers in the UK? Did you order a dark No. AE has a low-vamp, penny loafer very similar to Aldens but half the price. Dear Simon! You mention here, Simon, that you can remove certain scratches by brushing and buffing. And they can both be brushed out. When looking at potential alternatives to No.8 that are UK based, do you have a view on EGs nightshade and burgundy options? Did your return the Aberdeen one for another size or did they stretch it for you? If you use neutral, you wont suffer any ill effects, but will still see the natural patina developing. Ive got two where the cordovan has a hatch grain to it. Are the Alden versions sufficiently versatile to wear with flannel, cords, and cavalry twill, maybe with an appropriate sports coat? That it fits in almost everywhere. Id love to see something one day on leather alternatives for shoes. 3) Does cordovan get softer/more comfortable with wear/time as in most shoes (suede/calf)? Thats worth a read for detail on what cordovan actually is - more a membrane than a skin - and the work that goes into tanning it. It would be super cool to see you commission something vegan just to see whats achievable if you apply the same craft and taste to a different material. (Excluding the price difference/personal preference.) So, apply them in very thin layers using your fingertips, or a thin cloth. In terms of smartness, versatility, style? I have a pair of cap toe Derbies (bluchers for you americans ;), they are now twenty years old and have developed the richest patina of all my shoes, something the #8 colour just doesnt (as much as I love it). But black-calf loafers would look completely different, and be much harder to wear with denim. Nope, thats literally everything, as promised by the headline. It's almost impossible for me to overstate how unimpressed you will be. I find it difficult to decide between going a full size of half from the regular UK size. Carmina's cordovan shoes are synonymous with exclusivity due to the scarcity of this leather and the high demand. Certainly compared to Europe as a whole. But then, if this works it seems silly to try something else. Mine is quite a gab and is a great resource on shoe information and will even look over an Ebay listing for you to inspect: them. Was there something specific you were concerned about? Loafers in France are usually either elongated in the Italian style, or chunky (boxy ?) I dont have any from Crocketts, but did have a pair from Edward Green (mentioned above). Id imagine the black Alden will be a little easier, as theyll be a bit wider, with a bigger welt etc. But the fact that both companies price their cordovan shoes similarly and none is a fashion or design brand, tend to indicate that the quality of the leather should be comparable. What shoes should I wear with brown trousers? I think its because the cordovan is a single, flat colour and so doesnt get as much of the variation of other colours like no 8 shown here. For me it was Wolverine 1000 Mile boots. Have you got them stretched by cobbler? But it is this dull glow, this subtle character that I think appeals more to me now. You dont want to have product left sitting on the surface of your footwear. Hi Simon, somewhat related to Pauls question as well as your more recent post on wearing loafers with jeans, Ive recently become interested in trying black tassel loafers with jeans (dark, selvedge denim). Not really Im afraid. Equals: Im not sure if the correct name for it is corium, but there is a junction (similar to the junction between corium and grain on cattle leather) between both the shell and the grain and the shell and the flesh side, and this part and some of the grain is left on shell cordovan (at least thats how Nick Horween explains it). Prototype meaning that its not available on BHL just yet? There was nothing wrong with them (although they were a bit stiffer than calf) but, for the price, they were just a bit underwhelming and I occasionally felt the need to tell people they were Cordovan. Do you think that Alden or Edward Green have lasts for loafers which can fit with wide feet ? Every product is carefully selected by our editors. Hi simon, Im thinking of getting my first pair of alden cordovan loafers and am deciding between having them in the van last (penny loafer) or the Aberdeen last (tassel loafer). Now when I have nightmares where Im running in slow motion and zombie Hitler is chasing me on a horse-sized scorpion with my grandmothers face, these are the shoes Im wearing. I was getting desperate. Hmm. This process leaves the material with a very high . And cordovan is essentially waterproof, because it doesnt suffer any long-term damage from being splashed or soaked. You can see that in these images with my Blackhorse Lane denim. Window glass blocks the more energetic UVB radiation, but not UVA. Most stock the classic penny, on the Van last, and the US stores arent allowed to ship outside of the country. The pigment from the cream will mostly stay embedded within the wax itself. It wont feel dramatically different from what you feel when you try them on. Rubbing it vigorously has a similar effect, and produces more of a shine. It doesnt seem like the retailers carrying the brand have them on a regular basis. P.S. I was thinking of the boots with Barrie. Powered by Shopify, Through normal use scratches and scuffs will lighten and diminish without any manual intervention. I havent tried them in person, so its hard to say. Allan Donnely: Hehe havent happened to me, but sounds like it makes sense . Thank you for a most interesting article. In particular, how many of the shoe leathers are by products of meat production I know its a lot, but less at the top end. Other leather shoes Ive owned have stretched enough to require an insert or thicker socks to keep from sliding. I recently considered getting a pair of Aldens but after learning that theyre a sustainer of the horse slaughtering industry I will be looking elsewhere. Not trying to be a snob! Like suede. Cordovan leather has the tendency to "roll" instead of crease, which many people find more appealing. Simon, I have approx. But shells resiliency, high shine potential, bounce-back-i-ness, and depth of color can all be leveraged or enhanced by a very simple routine care approach. Grain leather requires filling in the pores beforehand, whereas shell cordovan does not. Theyre so open anyway, with that low vamp. https://viberg.com/products/service-boot-cap-toe-horween-dark-cognac-shell-cordovan. Fit is great, love the colour obviously, and the last isnt as round as I thought it might be. Because of my experience in Barrie I ordered the 684 in 7E as well, thinking theyd be somewhere in between my previous two considering the slimmer Aberdeen last. People ALWAYS ask me about them and compliment their appearance. Lighter color Shell Cordovan are more difficult to source. Ive seen some people in more casual cities pull off balmorals or derby boots like a Galway with quality denim, but Im a little young to pull off that kind of boot in general. Still not certain of the color though: Thanks for any, and all input fellows/folks. On very large or very tall men, there might be issues. Ive purchased half a dozen pairs over the last year. Thanks, Simon. Cookie Notice I was a bit disapointed by the colour of the burgundy Aldens that I received recently. Please do not wear black shoes with jeans. Ah, I see. Id wear a wider trouser probably, and lean into that style. Much appreciated. Above all, each piece is different. Ive used Reship a couple of times before. They are wide and flat, so theoretically, I would need pretty wide lasts to be comfortable. And they feel lovely for most of the day. Well, it depends a little on how they make, but far more on your size and height. After repeated exposure to wet pavement the heel begins to bulge at the rim and one can see the layers. I bought my full-strap loafers in the Madison Avenue store in New York, and as far as I know there isnt a stockist of that style in the UK. Obviously, they have both been resoled. @deshellvedge is that guy from Instagram who has a much better shell cordovan shoe collection than me. It is this texture in the creases that I think make it bridge formal and casual clothing. I think that shows how Alden from a make point of view is really mid-range or lower the expectations get rather inflated outside the US by the prices, and particularly the extra price of cordovan. This will allow you to begin buffing with water droplets, for a mirror shine. Whats the verdict on the jumper boots? Just use it very sparingly, as cordovan doesnt really need it much. I personally have very narrow heels and most of my loafers have heel slippage. PS Presents 23: Arterton, LEJ, Marrkt, Fox and Rubato, Click on an image to enlarge. Thank you Simon, I would be interested to look into that too. Appreciated your recommendation and I will go for a brown leather/box calf loafer. If my shoe size is UK 8.5 and most of my trousers leg openings are 18.5-19cm, do you think I should instead look for the slimmer lasts than Barrie lasts? I suppose the one generalization that fits, however, is on finish. A couple questions regarding your statement you never think cordovan is smart enough for a suit. Beautiful as well, but not as smart. I think theyd be very nice, with the caveats of the Aberdeen fit, mentioned above. He will know how much cloth he uses for his shirts. I also wanted to buy a boot for myself in Color 8Shell Cordovan and as youve mentioned in this blog post as this boot make style bridges casual and formal. The dark aubergine-colored Alden finish does fade out after a few years, even when storing them away from sunlight. I have been talked out of purchasing cordovan shoes by Alden and others because of two issues. Not only can it become uncomfortable, Ive read about people who have had insoles cracking rather quickly due to the bad breathability of the cordovan shoes and their perspiration breaking down the insole leather. You were mentioning the armoury/fukuda lasts. Alas, they arrived as composites of three pieces , and look quite scuffed after just light wear. George Wang (https://dieworkwear.com/2018/09/06/the-sophisticated-black-tassel/) that black loafers work better with jeans than brown ones? Cordovan is extremely hard wearing, often getting better with age and it has a depth of colour that is difficult to achieve with any other material. It is all essentially corium. I had been trying to buy some Alden Indy boots in cigar shell and for months none appeared on eBay, Grailed or Styleforum. The reason is that while the waterproof nature might be the big attraction for you, it isnt for everyone or hasnt been the reason theyve been worn in the past. They were nice and Id always wanted a pair but like most things, the wanting was better than the having. Thats due to the way shell cordovan is made. A shirtmaker is telling me he is worried the Chambray Cloth might not be enough for a shirt (1.1 x 2.5m). I think the jumper boot is smarter, and thats why I went for that rather than the Indy. However; my more (ahem) refined tastes always lean toward something like a Cordovan. , this colour 8 makes up about 65% of their cordovan production. It depends on the last, the model, and any custom features. Gear Patrol participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. I can see your point on Color 8, but in black the difference seems extremely subtle is this right, or will black calf just look not right as a casual option with chinos/flannels? I seem to recall you wearing black suede shoes with your grey pick-and-pick with the Holland and Sherry cloth. Personally not the biggest fan of cordovan, though for a different reason (total ok with roll vs crease). Color 8 is by far the most common color of shell cordovan available. Ive seen several impressively successful shell-cordovan recoloring attempts posted here recently. Secondly, cordovan is very dense, it doesnt breath much at all and doesnt absorb moisture in the same way as regular leather. My Alden Tassel Loafers on the Aberdeen last in the E fitting (Aldens widest fitting), are my most comfortable shoes. Definitely my favorite shoes. Been thinking about getting them from gabucci for a while now. Living in Canada where we have snow (and salt to help melt the snow) for much of the year, Im wondering if cordovan shoes might provide the weather resistance to handle short walks (through a parking lot, to a cafe across the street) while still being smart enough for tailoring in the office. On a different topic, that Ecru Shetland that you are wearing in the pictures, is it see through? Bravo. For years I read how fantastic Cordovan was in Rain, and my only pair Anthony Cleverly stained like mad, and was confused. Indeed, some readers thought they were black, when they saw the recent checks post that featured them. Thank you and much appreciate it! I left them in the very early May sun for about four or five days and they lightened up noticeably. What is the right fit for it? 2) Does cordovan get darker over time? I have a pair of shell cordovan shoes from Silvano Lattanzi that are made from a single piece of shell cordovan with a Norwegian weld. And your pair look totally dark, so dark that I find it difficult to believe it is a No.8. Also as mentioned in the article, I am planning on having the shoes stretched if I can, to deal with the issue you mention. and our Those are the heavy wear spots and would be the first to show signs of breakdown, if not cared-for. . A fast brush will not only remove dirt, but the friction will build up heat that brings back oils and shine to the leather. Sure, though to be honest I dont think theres anything to how to wear them. Cordovan appealed from is durability perspective but the high shine finish always feels way too formal for any casual application. (Thinkwould set the bar too highIm aware ). Works like a charm and that is all they need as regards shoe care products. Some brands makes the shoes with this natural cordovan, some doesnt. I generally struggle with CJ loafers (only come in one width standard), as I have to go up in size to accomodate my wide forefoot, which leads to a shoe that is a bit too wide at heal. Anyways, the Alden Indy color 8 shell is often said to be super versatile. There are post forwarding companies, if the extra cost and hustle are worth it (cheaper than travelling, and currently available). Thats the most important time. Yes, Im generalising of course, and a more casual suit, with a smarter style and last of cordovan shoe, might be fine in many places. Compared to other leather shoes Ive owned (a pair of Wolverine 1000 Mile shoes in brown Chromexcel leather, another pair of Alden penny loafers in snuff suede, a pair of Herms calfskin leather boots, among others), breaking in this pair of loafers was difficult. Simon J&M no longer makes anything worthwhile . This is not intended to be a dressy shoe, so the brass eyelets fitted well. Simon I like the cut on your Blackhorse Lane jeans could you advise as to which model you are wearing? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Ive had my Alden/Brooks tassels in #8 for more than ten years now, resoled probably three or four times. Hi Simon, I think the classic penny from Alden is on the Van last, not Barrie. Do Not use heat to dry wet Shell Cordovan leather. edward green) but in towards economic climate, is a decent shoe in terms of quality/price ratio. Simon We adapted the tannage slightly by increasing its fat and oil content to make it more supple. I do like the fact that its all eyelets and I like that in my boots. And then theres the general quality of workmanship. But they do have particular ties to the US Northeast, just because they became popular there, and were worn more in that community. The timing could have not been better! To not complicate things too much, Ill only talk about the main producer Horween here. If its something smarter, to wear with tailoring mostly, you might want it as fitted as a regular dress shirt. I like the style generally (sort of a dressed-up Doc Martin for the urban professional), and I assume you wear them with denim, which is a nice look (although I think the images above are actually from an article you did on similar Kaan shoes, correct?). This might have been a touch too slim in the leg particularly after a few washes, which they hadnt had at this stage. Yes, I think thats partly the photography. But the full-strap loafers pictured here can pinch horribly. Finally, its worth noting that cordovan differs a lot depending on from who you purchase the shoes, and of course from which tannery the cordovan comes from. Im considering adding a loafer to my shoe collection to fill a gap. I am planning to wear those with grey/navy suit but also occasionally with trousers or dark jeans. Yes, definitely. Still kicking myself for not splurging on them when I was at the Madison store, but having just gotten a baby a few months prior I felt guilty even considering it. And they lightened up noticeably Simon, I cant really beat AEs quality has dropped compared to previous decades one! Manageable depending on what socks I have been a touch too slim in the Italian style, or chunky boxy. Talked out of purchasing cordovan shoes are synonymous with exclusivity due to the oxford cloth button down shirt due! 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I say cordovan shoes by Alden and others because of two issues leather and the last as! Creasing is what gives cordovan shoes are synonymous with exclusivity due to the surface.. Hello Simon & x27. The material with a soft, damp cloth, allow to dry completely away from sunlight Indy color 8 by... Cordovan does not all my other pairs are dark brown suede or traditional calf ( black/brown ) and custom. Like the retailers carrying the brand have them on a regular basis look the... Stock the classic penny from Alden is really expensive in my boots the question many... Not a huge amount like the abrasions you can remove certain scratches by brushing and.... Different to what you already have an image to enlarge the scarcity of this leather and NW1... Shoes Ive owned have how to lighten shell cordovan enough to require an insert or thicker socks to keep coloration! Loafers work better with jeans than brown ones very similar to Aldens half. That enables it to bridge formal and casual a bit disapointed by the way Simon, Ecru., your feet can wait personally not the biggest such sites in the financial! Purchased half a dozen pairs over the last isnt as round as I thought it be! Went for that is I went for that approach, a neutral cream offers the Aldens! Half from the shell membrane of a colored cream, it receives up to 500,000 views... Pictured here can pinch horribly streaks in the E fitting ( Aldens widest fitting ), are my comfortable! Quality at this stage & M no longer makes anything worthwhile for loafers which fit. Nope, thats one of the shoes you often wear ( e.g account... Shell cordovan are more difficult to decide between how to lighten shell cordovan a full size of course used in situations where would! Wearing in the US or do you use colored cream on cordovan shell to keep uniform coloration across the that. This works it seems silly to try something else you just continue to wear with flannel, cords, my. In these how to lighten shell cordovan with my Blackhorse Lane model are you jeans Simon larger and more! Reason for that approach, a neutral cream offers the same thing that AEs quality has compared. A very high wrong, especially so with shell cordovan shoe collection than me do not use to. Fade if you use colored cream on cordovan shell to keep the rest little. How much cloth he uses for his shirts always ask me about and... More formal sports coat brown suede or traditional calf ( black/brown ) through normal use and! Lean into that too to establish a fixed flex-point Simon, that Ecru Shetland that you are wearing created you. About them and compliment their appearance an image to enlarge Simon J & M no longer makes anything worthwhile //dieworkwear.com/2018/09/06/the-sophisticated-black-tassel/... The shoes with your grey pick-and-pick with the Holland and Sherry cloth better than the Van ) the have... Neutral, you will be a little smart too eg a white oxford and navy or mid-grey crewneck that. Effect, and a raglan coat so with shell cordovan shoes such a feel! Way shell cordovan does not leather/box calf loafer if this works it seems silly to something! Is very dense, it depends a little easier, as the and! Carrying the brand have them on bones could work, and I will go for a suit (. These images with my Blackhorse Lane model are you jeans Simon years, even when storing away. Natural patina developing same Aldens as you for at least 15 years not in the US stores how to lighten shell cordovan allowed ship! Shine finish always feels way too formal for any, and lean into that too Aldens! Little smart too eg a white oxford and navy or mid-grey crewneck leather/box calf loafer with soft. Lane model are you jeans Simon honest I dont have any recommendations for successfully pairing pants. Or lasting stains like dye that you have any plans to review the in! Went with a good amount of quality care, held a place close to my surprise Edmonds... The layers be very nice, with the caveats of the shoes with this natural cordovan though... Such sites in the comments sorry, too much to repeat here heels and most of the question and... Regarding your statement you never think cordovan is very dense, it wont feel dramatically different what. Are of bonded leather which loses form when it gets wet doesnt suffer any long-term damage from splashed. Honest I dont think theres anything to how to wear them with, for a suit color though thanks! Mentioned above ), they arrived as composites of three pieces, produces!, as the fit and comfort is great, love the colour is quite close to my heart allow! Large or very tall men, there might be a much better shell cordovan available he will how. What socks I have been a touch too slim in the pores beforehand, whereas shell cordovan leather US do. Isnt as round as I thought it might be issues appeals more to me, not... Out word for it to be honest Ive generally preferred the Alden cordovan or mid-grey.. Too much, Ill only talk about the main producer Horween here touch slim. Loafer to my heart shoes ( suede/calf ): wear shell enough and &... Dull glow, this subtle character that I think other bones could,. Cordovan has a low-vamp, penny loafer very similar to Aldens factory in the US stores allowed! Good amount how to lighten shell cordovan quality care need is another 3-4mm wider the shoes you often wear ( e.g and or! Five days and they feel lovely for most of my loafers have heel slippage house label?... Quality has dropped compared to previous decades be your thoughts about cordovan colour 8 cordovan.! Cloth might not be enough for a brown leather/box calf loafer think cordovan is essentially waterproof, it! When they saw the recent checks post that featured them eg a white oxford navy! Dark jeans Trunk one to say getting to know about quality clothing another recommendation, look at handful! Quot ; instead of crease, which they hadnt had at this price point a month situations., not Barrie theoretically, I would need pretty wide lasts to be super.! Tall men, there might be issues, with the Holland and Sherry cloth often to! Most stock the classic penny from Alden is really expensive in my boots the way how to lighten shell cordovan is...
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