Any clue who makes this shoe? (Ralph Lauren Collection Rivington)

[eidolon]

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/27735722/c/5270.html This is driving me nuts. These things are on sale at the RL site (not for much less than they are there), and I like them a lot better than AE Thayers because apron toes are not something I am a fan of. But for the life of me I can't get any confirmation on who makes these shoes, and I want to know if they're of a solid quality before I plunk down $300+. There are differences between the stitching on these around the lip and stitching on EGs, I've seen the name Sesto Meucci but I am unfamiliar with them, and C&J has been brought up in connection with the style of some other RL shoes. Can anyone solve this mystery for me?

 

[EL72]

They are made in Italy (so not C&J) but there is no certainty on the maker afaik. They are fine shoes but I have seen these at discount (in brown and black) for less than $200 and they are not worth $300+ imo. You're approaching C&J territory and these are definitely a step down. They seemed quite narrow and tight across the instep when I tried them on btw.

 

[eidolon]

Originally Posted by EL72

They are made in Italy (so not C&J) but there is no certainty on the maker afaik. They are fine shoes but I have seen these at discount (in brown and black) for less than $200 and they are not worth $300+ imo. You're approaching C&J territory and these are definitely a step down. They seemed quite narrow and tight across the instep when I tried them on btw.
For me it's a toss up between spending my stimulus check (heh) on these or a pair of RMW "forum specials."

I've just never really been able to find a pair of monk straps I thought were extremely attractive before I saw these, but I'm tempted to go with the RMWs.

 

[Wvillager]

Not to turn this into the "discount store bragging thread" but I bought a pair of 9.5 Rivingtons today at DSW in Union Square for $75. I didn't know the store even sold these!!

 

[SkinnyGoomba]

wow i just paid $255 for a pair on RL's website.

They called around to the regular stores and couldnt find any cheaper prices. you could probably make a good few dollars on the b&S forum if you buy more @ $75

 

[Wvillager]

I didn't see any more--it seemed like somewhat of a one-off. DSW shoppers seem to prefer generic italian-sounding brands of dress shoes. I think the shoe is a great buy at $255 also.

They were in the clearance rack-- 149 with red tag meaning 50%. My best guess is it was a return they didn't really know what to do with. It feels trashy doing this, but I enter DSW and go straight to clearance because that is usually the only place something worth buying can be found.