One Pair of High Value English Shoes? Which and Why?

[dcginwv]

I'm headed to London, later this summer, and I'm interested in picking up a pair of English dress shoes. For the most part, probably an oxford (in some shade of brown) that I can easily wear with a navy suit, tan trousers or even a decent pair of jeans.

I'm new to this little end of the pond and starting market research now. Any suggestions on decent brands for no more than $500? I'm currently musing Cheany, Church's and possibly Crockett and Jones.

Any suggestions on English manufacturers (and models, for that matter) that yield a great bang for the buck invested? Huge thanks in advance for any insight given.

 

[SW1Y]

If you want to stay within your budget I would go to Cheaney (bought back by members of the Church family), if you are willing to increase your budget, go for Crockett & Jones. Given that Church's are owned by that big italian brand and seeing their recent collections and the quality of leather, I'd say driving sales up is more important than delivering an outstanding product.

Include the cost for a decent pair of shoe trees in your purchase as well. You are about to spend a significant amount of money on a fine pair of shoes, it would be a shame if you don't look after them properly. Keep in mind that, albeit the quality, finishing and grades of leather used, are usually of a higher standard than less expensive shoes, these won't necessarily last you any longer than said less expensive shoes. The refurbishing services offered by most brands obviously extend the lifespan of your shoes, but prices vary from 100 to 150 GBP for the shoes in the price range you have in mind.

That said, my first pair of English made, goodyear welted shoes was a Hallam in dark brown (see below). A more contemporary take on an all time classic, the cap toe Oxford, the Hallam has a slightly extended and chiseled toe.

To be honest, I find this shoe a little too dressy to wear with jeans unless you would opt for the suede one. If you want to go for slightly more versatility and be able to dress your shoes up and down, I'd go for a half brogue like the C&J Westfield or a full brogue (wingtip) like the C&J Finsbury. The round toe of the latter models is not as contemporary as the Hallam, yet it's not an overly conservative wide round toe as C&J's Connaught.

Crockett & Jones Westfield

Crockett & Jones Finsbury

Apart from the brands you mentioned you might want to look into brands such as Bowen (Alfred Sargent), Barker, Trickers as well. I don't have any personal experience with these brands, but they are made (for the most part) in Northamptonshire, price range varies.

Enjoy the ride!

 

[dcginwv]

Thanks for the detailed feedback SW1Y. Points certainly worth considering.