High Quality Italian Shoes

This thread is not limited to Italian shoes, but I love an elongated toe, like such: This look isn't ideal, but I still like it quite a bit. I would imagine the leather and craftsmanship does not compare to say Borgioli, but the Dolce and Gabbana main line is a healthy cut above D&G. Now before the more conservative crowd unsheathes their swords , you must concede I have made strides since the hideous blue, patent leather Bruno Maglis. Moreover, I'm not exactly seeking your approval for this pair of shoes, but rather looking for a better made alternative for under 500 dollars. The Allen Edmonds' Tresana is fairly appealing: But it exceeds my budget, and AE was sort of unprecedentedly reproached on this forum for putting out a line that is inherently a marketing gimmick, and not 200 dollars better than the traditional line. I'm looking for my first good pair of shoes that will last me for years, and I'll probably always work in an environment with a very liberal dress code, but I'd still prefer something that could swing both ways (leisure+formal). Feel free to throw anything at me that you believe may strike my fancy, use the images as a template.

Yes, the staid traditionalists won't like them, but the Dolce and Gabbana main line (I believe it's call black label?) are very nice if you like pointy toes.

I got a pair on sale and the craftsmanship was pretty good by "designer" shoe standards - they're still going strong after a few years - and they give a more contemporary look with the right pair of jeans or with other less formal wear.

As for a "good shoe" equivalent, you might look at some of Cheney's models - they tend to be a bit more fashion-forward than some of the other more traditional English shoemakers, and they aren't at the top end of price either. E.g. http://www.cheaney.co.uk/product.asp?id=12

Try and avoid Loake L1 and other cemented-soled English offerings though, they're not as good as the welted equivalents offered by the various makers.

Originally Posted by Prince of Paisley

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Try and avoid Loake L1 and other cemented-soled English offerings though, they're not as good as the welted equivalents offered by the various makers.

I thought Loakes were goodyear welted...or is it just the L1 line that isn't?

Santoni FAM and Sutor both make some pretty flashy shoes on elongated lasts, as does Martegani. If your budget is only around $300 though, prepare to look hard.

Martegani Luccas:





Siena:


Aldo:

Originally Posted by Cary Grant

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Martegani Luccas:

These ones in burgundy are sweet.

Don't forget the Comos and Reggios by Martegani!

Originally Posted by UnFacconable

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Don't forget the Comos and Reggios by Martegani!

Pics?