Herring Shoes – Page 3 – Herring Shoes Journal

Rugby World Cup 2023 preview

1 September 2023

With the Rugby World Cup about to kick-off in France, we thought it would be a good time to remind ourselves of the rugby ambassadors we have worked with over the years, with the newest being our very own current England squad member Joe Marchant. As an English business, I am afraid all our ambassadors wore the red rose of England but that’s not to say we are not appreciative of the talents of our worldwide rugby community, not least the hosts of this year’s tournament.

With Herring’s roots embedded in Cheltenham, just a short distance away from Gloucester, the rugby fraternity were always on our doorstep. Our very British shoes and boots seemed to appeal to the Twickenham-bound set too, including former captain Will Carling OBE. Given the captain’s role at a young age, Will played in two World Cup tournaments, taking them to the final in 1991. More into cycling, leadership mentoring and his family now, Will has been on board with Herring for several years, and is a fan of our desert boot and monk shoe styles.

Internationals-turned-TV pundits David Flatman and Ugo Monye are also keen on a bit of Herring footwear with the former favouring Oxfords and the latter a big sneaker fan.

But we also have a very own World Cup winner in our midst. Hooker Steve Thompson MBE was one of the heroes who brought the Webb Ellis Cupo ‘Bill’ back to English soil from Australia in 2003. The joy that created 20 years ago was incredible, not just for people watching on their televisions, but to the crowds that turned out at Heathrow for the squad’s return and the thousands that filled the streets for the bus tour.

Thompson’s place in the team, after just 18 months of international duty, was pivotal. His pace and aggression made him a key player for the entire tournament. He bucked the trend for short hookers. He was tall, hefty, strong, but mobile. He was also fearless. Thompson went on to win 73 caps for England and was part of the beefiest front row that had taken to the field for the British & Irish Lions on their tour to New Zealand in 2005.

In terms of shoes, Thompson likes to dress up and dress down. His favourite Herring shoes suit his wide feet. He likes the Murlo II moccasins for chilling out, our Kirkby Chelsea boots for smarter occasions, and the Aigle Sonricker walking boots for days on his feet.

A generation later and Ben Moon (below) joined our Look Who’s Wearing ranks. With Herring now based in Devon, the prop was just up the road in Exeter where he plied his trade as a loosehead with the Chiefs. While a World Cup outing evaded him, he still pulled on the white shirt for England eight times and is a local hero. His shoe choice was delightfully Devonian from our Fowey deck shoes for days down by the water to tweedy rugged boots on the farm and calf grain brogues boots for smart occasions.

More recently, we have introduced current England centre/wing Joe Marchant to our shoes. We were delighted to see he had secured his place on the squad before he settles in France to play for Stade Francais next season. As with so many of our rugby friends, Joe likes to look good and dress up when he can. He really likes a formal shoe with our Sussex Oxfords and Carnaby brogues in his collection.

All these men are internationals that we are proud of being associated with. While they all have slightly different styles, they appreciate a well-made shoe and understand a sense of occasion.

As Joe says: “A lot of the time in rugby, you are going to great places, representing your club or your country, so I think it’s really important to look right.”

Go well Joe and all the others in an England shirt and any other coloured jersey for that matter. We cannot wait for this 10^th Rugby World Cup begin. Let’s hope it is a good one. Enjoy the next seven weeks.

In the spotlight

The Tummel

24 August 2023

New for this season, the Tummel blends loafer chic with an elegant trim for a sophisticated standout look. We have worked with the artisanal craftsmen and women at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal to produce two very different versions of this very fine piece of footwear.

The first feels very European. I am thinking the French Riviera or the Amalfi coast. The dark brown calf weave sets them apart from your run-of-the-mill loafer, accompanied by a woven strap across the vamp featuring two metal links. Not your classic horsebit, but the trim is definitely a nod to that classic style with a modern twist.

The navy version does not feature woven calf but rather an uncomplicated, smooth finish adorned by the woven strap. Again, I can see these being worn by gentlemen that like to lunch in port-side restaurants, but they would equally hold their own at a business meeting or indeed a meal out away from the water’s edge!

What both these styles share is an element of delicacy. They are leather lined and have a leather sole, save for a rubber tip on the heel. However, our friends at Carlos Santos have managed to use the Goodyear welting process to attach the sole to the upper. This is not something you often see in this style of shoe, with other manufacturers often favouring either a cemented or Blake stitched sole.

By using a welt, which is a strip of leather that connects the upper to the sole, the Tummel becomes repairable. This means you can enjoy wearing these loafers – and shaping them to the exact proportions of your feet – but replace the soles when they start to wear out. Sustainable comfort and style in nutshell!

Before the sunshine begins to run out and we start looking ahead to autumn/winter, can I suggest a last grasp at warmer days with these super-stylish loafers? They are just that little bit special.

Herring Shoes

What shoes should I wear to a job interview?

11 August 2023

This is a tough question as the world of work has changed beyond recognition in recent years. The pandemic meant many of us swapped formal office attire for more casual clothing while we worked from our homes. But work life has shifted again, with more of us heading back into the office by request or by choice. Some of the casual nature of clothing is still in evidence but all that needs to be put aside for a job interview.

As an interviewer and an interviewee, I have always dressed smartly. This is usually the first time you will meet your future employee or employer in person. Yes, you may have had an initial call or video meeting, but a face-to-face interview is the real deal where from-the-waist-up attire is not enough!

Shoes are also a good barometer of a person’s demeanour. I am not talking about value here. No-one expects you to splash the cash in pursuit of a new role, but rather making sure what you do wear on your feet is in keeping with the occasion.

Herring Aldgate briefcase and Herring Carnaby brogues

Even if your would-be new career is in a more relaxed industry sector, never wear trainers or flip-slops. You can still exude casual professionalism but not in your sneaks and certainly not with toes and heels bared! If you only have one pair of smart shoes, then plan your outfit around these because, believe me, people will be looking at your feet.

That said, you do not have to quash your individuality! Shoes and boots can be a real window to your soul (not sole), and give an indication of your personality, which interviewers want to see. I am going to offer a few suggestions below, but if you already have your interview shoes lined up, make sure they are clean!

Old shoes can be given a fresh lease of life with some care. Make sure they are polished, brushed and whatever is required so they look as good as they can be. A clean pair of shoes shows you take care of your appearance and your things! If you show care in these areas, the assumption will be that you will take care of your work commitments too.

If you are looking to invest in a new pair of shoes for an interview, then here are a few suggestions that will also work well for a range of other occasions.

A classic pair of brogues vs a classic pair of Oxford capped shoes

Black Oxfords
A classic black Oxford is a real investment, especially if you are going for a role with a formal business or organisation where suits are expected…think law and accountancy firms. You cannot be too smart for these interviews. Aside from the interview, they will be ideal work shoes for the future, and the perfect shoe for black-tie occasions, wedding and funerals too. We have a wide range available that includes Goodyear-welted styles that can be repaired for many years to come to make your investment a sustainable choice.

Brown brogues
I have gone for brown brogues as they look great with navy and dark grey suits, but we have plenty of black brogues and semi-brogues too. Not just the shoe of choice for the country set, they are also suitable for city slickers and town-based go-getters. The brogue is undoubtedly a formal shoe and will prove you are taking your interview seriously.

Monk shoes
Monk shoes show a little more flair but not in a disrespectful way. Single, double and triple buckled monks are super-smart and are just something a little different from a traditional lace-up. This means they stand out but not too much. I think they offer a hint of swagger! They also transfer to the weekend and can be worn in both smart and smart-casual environments.

Boots
If you are a boot man, this is ok too. You can get boot versions of Oxfords, brogues and monks. I am not a fan of the Chelsea boot with a formal suit as I like to see a little detail and finesse – such as lacing or broguing – but for less formal interviews, they could do the trick. Leave your heavy cleated boots at home though especially if they are full of mud! Our aim is to look sleek and stylish not rugged and ready-for-anything…unless you are interviewing for the SAS!

Want something a little different?
These are genres of the above but have a little edge to them if you want to remain loyal to your personality without condemning your chances of being hired. For instance, the Disraeli is a standout slip-on Oxford while a spectator shoe, like our Henley, is a respectful statement. Lastly, what about a wholecut like the Chaucer? These will never be described as run of the mill, but they still ooze sophistication, style and professionalism.

Hope the above guide has given you a few pointers. An interview can be very nerve-wracking but get the shoes right and that is one less thing to worry about…and may even be the clincher against another candidate! Good luck.

In the spotlight

The Colorado

8 August 2023

We have switched our attention to a more casual style for this In The Spotlight feature, but less formal does not mean less quality. The Colorado is a fabulous modern take on the traditional desert boot…and we love it.

The desert boot was brought to the UK by British shoe company C & J Clark, now known as Clarks. When Nathan Clark was deployed to Burma in 1941, not only did he go to fight for his country but to also check out new shoe designs. A fairly unique combination, I think you would say!

He quickly noticed soldiers were wearing durable crepe-soled suede boots that were designed to weather the harsh desert conditions. Mr Clark purchased a pair from a local bazaar and brought them home to Somerset to be re-created and sold to the world four years later.

The ever-so-British desert boot gained a global following, making their debut at the Chicago Shoe Fair in 1950. They became popular with beat poets, musicians and actors to aid their popularity.

And suede desert boots, such as our Dune boots, remain popular to this day, but they have also evolved. For example, chukka boots have the same upper design but are usually leather-lined and have non-crepe soles. Some are even welted, like our Herald, so that they can be re-soled multiple times to enjoy a longer life.

The next iteration of the desert boot from Herring is the Colorado. Still made from suede, but we have offered a few more colours than the classic sand. The Colorado comes in blue, brown and olive to complement a white rubber sole instead of the traditional crepe style.

The plain vamp has been given an upgrade too with a stitched apron to elevate the usual desert boot style. We have also given the Colorado three eyelets – one more than the regimented two of a desert style.

Made by our skilled friends at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal, the Colorado is made from top-quality suede and is finished by hand. It’s a handsome smart-casual option that will take you through the end of summer and into autumn.

Herring Shoes

The history of the horsebit loafer

3 August 2023

Think horsebit loafer and, if you are a shoe fan, you will think Gucci. It is an iconic shoe worn by both men and women. It is an enduring look that originated in the 1950s after Aldo Gucci noticed American men wearing slip-on shoes during a trip to New York. Gucci was not content with just re-producing another slip-on shoe, he added a bit of flair with the horsebit.

It was Aldo’s father Guccio who first used the horsebit to set his leather goods apart from the competition. He had been inspired by the racing set he encountered during his time as a bellhop at The Savoy hotel in London. The horsebit is now as synonymous with the Gucci brand as their interlocked Gs and red and green ribbon detail.

By adding this distinctive metal trim across the saddle of the loafer in place of the usual diamond-shaped cut-out on the traditional penny loafer, Gucci achieved an immediate upgrade and an iconic shoe that is still being reimagined today. They also began making loafers out of black leather to elevate their status from a casual shoe to footwear that could be worn in the office.

Famous Gucci horsebit wearers have included President George HW Bush, Francis Ford Coppola, Wiz Khalifa, Bruno Mars, Madonna, Jane Birkin, Jodie Foster, Zoe Kravitz, Gigi Hadid and so many more. They have also featured on the silver screen on the feet of Michael Sheen in Frost/Nixon, Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street, Dustin Hoffman in Kramer Vs Kramer, Brad Pitt in Fight Club, and Matt Damon in The Talented Mr Ripley.

The horsebit loafer’s popularity is enduring and we have not shied away from creating our own versions. If it’s good enough for Gucci, then we would be mad to miss out!

Our Harlington style is very much reminiscent of the Gucci style with a decadent gold-coloured snaffle. The Dillon has a more modern flair with a silver-coloured horsebit that bridges the vamp, therefore doing away with the traditional saddle. While the Istria is also minimalist but has an elasticated top for a little more comfort and ease when slipping them on and off.

For a bit of suede, our new Saimaa loafers have a brass trim while the Snaffle style is a low-profile, sleek affair made from deerskin, which has a lovely grain to it.

These are all beautifully crafted shoes that are meant to shout aspiration and style. They can be worn with almost anything. They smarten up shorts, look great with chinos and jeans, and don’t look out of place with a suit either. If you are searching for an iconic look, then the horsebit loafer is a great place to start.

Herring Shoes

We like a best dressed list…but what about the footwear?

26 July 2023

The summer season sees a whole host of events held across the world where celebrities are scrutinised for their fashion choices. The Met Gala, Wimbledon, the Tony Awards, Ascot, Henley Royal Regatta, etc. What we find little frustrating at Herring is that the best dressed articles in glossy magazines, newspaper and websites mainly focus on their outfits. The reporters at these events clearly ask: “Who are you wearing?”, but the designer roll call stops at the ankle.

Meanwhile, we are all shouting: “What about the shoes?” As footwear fans, we know shoes or boots can make or break an outfit and yet they are unfairly ignored. Sometimes these photos don’t even show their footwear!

Well, I have had a good look at some recent photos and here is my executive summary.

At Wimbledon, loafers were king! Formula One star Pierre Gasly teamed his suede tasselled tan loafers with a double-breasted navy jacket and white trousers. Ted Lasso‘s Phil Dunster opted for the same type of shoe but complement his loafers with cream slacks and a camel-coloured twinset. Marvin Humes styled cream loafers with a green suit.

Duran Duran frontman Simon Le Bon went for brown calf loafers with white trousers and shirt, and a cream jacket and tie.

House of the Dragon‘s actor Fabien Frankel wore black tasselled loafers with a light-grey suit. Model Oliver Cheshire also opted for black, but no tassels, to go with a cricket style cardigan and chinos.

Not everyone opted for loafers at Wimbledon though, there were plenty of black formal shoes thrown in and some pristine white sneakers, along with some brown Oxfords on the feet of actor Tom Hiddlestone and black lace-up boots from new Dr Who Ncuti Gatwa.

At the Met Gala, the black formal shoe was key…unsurprisingly for an evening event. Tennis legend Roger Federer, and actors Bill Nighy, James McAvoy and Bradley Cooper sported polished Oxfords. They are a classic and finish off a black-tie suit very nicely. At both the Met Gala and the Tony Awards, there was also a fair smattering of chunky soled black shoes too.

Henley Regatta attracted a fair few loafers! We spotted brown and navy versions that go so well with a summer blazer or suit. White sneakers and deck shoes also made an appearance. Olympic diver and epic knitter Tom Daley though went for ever-classic chestnut double monk shoes.

So that’s your round-up. Day-time equalled loafers and night-time equalled black Oxfords! You can hit the internet to see photos of all these stars; meanwhile here are a few footwear suggestions for your summer events and gathering.

For the loafers, the Sagres tasselled loafer would fit right in at Wimbledon or Henley, while the navy Trovatore loafer would hit the spot too. For the Fabien Frankel look, we have our Blackheath tasselled loafers. These are super smart!

For the more formal shoes, you can make a splash à la Tom Daley style with our Braybrooke double monks in dark leaf grain or go for a single double monk with our Monkwell or Roche styles. To emulate the Hiddlestone vibe, our Sussex Oxfords are a paired thing of beauty or we have the rather lovely tan Sligo Oxfords too.

Lastly, the evening attire. For that polished look, check out our Newcastle Oxfords or for the super-shiny dancing feet, we have our Jive Oxfords.

In the spotlight

The Gusborne

26 July 2023

Let’s turn our attention to a very formal, but oh-so lovely and a bit dandy, shoe. The Gusborne is just a bit Gatsby, very much Fred Astaire and just a tad – ok, maybe a little bit more than a tad – jazz era. They are two-tone but not in your classic spectator way, as the Gusborne does not feature any brogue-style perforations. It’s more of a slick and stylish classic Oxford.

I think we need to take them in turn. First the black and white calf version with the contrasting black laces. This is your jazz-age shoe, reminiscent of the spats era when mainly men wore a felt guard around the ankle to protect their shoes and socks from inclement weather and muddy conditions. White spats were then seen at formal occasions with George V leading the way. Over the pond, Chicago gangsters were using them to express their wealth and status. Their popularity began to decline in 1920s, but the idea of a black and white shoe was still alive.

The jazz era loved its black and white shoes, often seeing them converted into tap shoes for the likes of Fred Astaire. As a style icon, you cannot go to wrong with Fred. Always dapper; always classy.

If you want to lend some 1950s swing to your black-tie attire, then these could do the trick. No-one is asking you to tap dance, but they would not doubt you if you said you could! Hey, that’s not to say you need to restrict them to black-tie use only. If you want to resurrect the gangster look then be our guest.

The brown and white calf version is more suitable for the daytime and any occasion where you would wear a more classic spectator shoe. However, the Gusborne will stand out due to its lack of fussy detail. Made in a classic toe-cap Oxford style, it really is eye-catchingly sleek. Combined with a navy or beige suit or trousers, the Gusborne will just ooze sophistication and elegance.

The Gusborne was made exclusively for us by the clever craftsmen at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal using the Z160 last to give it its very elegant shape with a chiselled toe box. Their hand-finishing also emphasises the toe cap and the seams, to give this shoe a wonderful three-dimensional quality that flat colours cannot equal.

Lastly, they have a Goodyear-welted leather sole, so you can repair them to ensure you can wear them for many dancing days to come. These shoes are used to being in the spotlight. They deserve their place in our In The Spotlight collection.

In the spotlight

The Jack II

24 July 2023

Here is something new for In The Spotlight. The Jack II is traditional, summery, and cool…all at the same time. This style also reminds me of the hip shoes that male weather and sports TV presenters seem to be wearing these days!

Jack II is a super comfortable casual brogue. What makes it casual? It’s lightweight rubber sole. It is a brilliant seismic clash between a very traditional shoe style and a modern sole.

Tan brogue with white rubber sole known as the Jack II

The brogue has always stood out due to its distinctive perforations and serrated trims. However, the brogue started life in a more low-key scenario as footwear for farmers in Scotland and Ireland back in the 19^th century. The perforations or punched holes were designed to let out water!

Somehow the brogue made the leap from the boggy conditions of rural landscapes to the toe-tapping dancefloors of jazz clubs. More recently, the brogue has switched from being the shoe of choice for the country set to being seen out on the tiles in cities and in boardrooms.

We would suggest the tan calf Jack II is a casual city-slicker style that gives a significant nod to the summer season. The white rubber sole is sneaker-like, which makes these brogues so easy and comfortable to wear. The leather upper will mould to your feet while the sole will give you a spring in your step.

These shoes have made by in one our excellent European factories to the highest standards. Dedicated shoemakers tend to have a long history in the craft, take pride in using excellent materials and have an impressive attention to detail. These shoes are good example of such craftmanship.

The Jack II features in our Classic range but it really does have a modern twist. Wear them with jeans, chinos or even a navy or light-coloured suit. We think these brogues are smart enough to come to the party but also relaxed enough for everyday wear.

Herring Shoes

Luggage for summer trips

4 July 2023

With the school summer holidays about to begin, or already in full swing in some part of Europe, we thought we would take a little look at luxury luggage. The weeks before holiday season is a good time to reach into the loft or garage and assess the state of your suitcase or overnight bag. Most importantly, ask yourself if your luggage is still secure and, therefore, fit for purpose. Secondly, consider if you still like it! In fact, ask yourself if you are proud of it?

Lovely luggage is a treat. It’s not something everyone prioritises but if someone gave you a super-smart carry-on bag or weekender case, you would be really grateful. So why don’t we pay our luggage a bit more attention when it gives us so much joy?

In response to this notion, we are throwing the limelight on our top three rather fine luggage pieces to get you in the mood for the summer season or, indeed, your next work trip.

Let’s start with the Dorchester II holdall. It’s like the spectator shoes of luggage with its blend of premium canvas and leather trim. It has a roomy interior with a separate zipped compartment for shoes (of course). This has French Riviera chic written all over it!

More robust but no less handsome is the Bovey holdall. Made entirely from brandy calf leather, this would make a great bag for a weekend jolly or a business trip. Again, roomy on the inside with two large pockets, it also features handles that can be fastened together, plus a strap for to give you a hands-free option.

If you prefer to wheel your luggage rather then carry it, may we suggest the new Gladstone? This is a super-smart canvas and leather flight bag that can be pulled along towards the gate but also has handles so you can also quickly grab it off the carousel! There is a backpack, suit carrier and washbag in this range too if you like to match your luggage.

We think you will agree that these are bags to be proud of, whether you are nipping off for a city break, on a work trip, enjoying a weekend away in the UK or anywhere else for that matter. If you want to get in the holiday mood, or want to give someone a real treat, then why don’t you consider a smart piece of luggage? Bagsie the Bovey!

In the spotlight

The Henley

13 June 2023

With the Henley Royal Regatta due to take place at the end of this month, we thought we would turn our attention to its namesake. However, don’t be mistaken for thinking this rather fine shoe is only suitable for boating events; the Henley would be welcome at any sporting occasion or summer outing.

In fact, we have two Henleys in our summer portfolio. Both are rather splendid versions of the spectator shoe. In case you do not know, the spectator is the most common welted footwear design to use two different colours. This two-tone effect is created by using different leathers for the toe, vamp, facings and counters. The wingtip or full brogue pattern is the natural style for this effect because it already has different pieces of leather for these parts of the shoe.

The term spectator derives from its roots as a shoe worn by sporting gentlemen that liked to indulge in a bit of golf or cricket. They became a hit with the men watching these sporting events too, so on-field footwear became off-field fashion…and the spectator was born.

An alternative name for a two-tone shoe is the co-respondent. In the UK, they were considered ungentlemanly and were worn by the “wrong sort”. This perception was encouraged by the most notorious affair of the 1930s when King Edward VIII abdicated from the throne to marry Wallace Simpson. She was a divorcee and still married to her second husband when the King proposed marriage. A co-respondent in English law is the term for a person named in a divorce suit as the wrongdoer. To press the point, both Edward and Wallace were fond of a two-tone shoe. The co-respondent has since dropped its negative connotations and is happily worn by wrong and right sorts alike!

The first iteration of the Henley was made for us by Cheaney. It has been made using an elegant last shape. It features brogue detail on the vamp, facing, counters and toe. The sweeping canvas areas make this shoe very flexible and breathable.

The Henley II was made by Barker. There is no detail on the toe, but the canvass is bisected by a leather trim. It had a full leather sole and is lined with leather too. It is made in tan leather with light-coloured stitching visible on top of the midsole to fully embrace the summer season.

Both are stunning examples of the spectator shoe, and both would be an ideal addition to an outfit worn to regattas, Wimbledon, The Ashes and any other sporting fixture. Sports events aside, they are perfect footwear for wedding guest attire, summer concerts and general gadding-about-in-style occasions.

Both Henleys have also been exquisitely made by these two renowned shoe manufacturers in Northamptonshire. They are quality, welted shoes, which means they can be repaired to last for many summers to come.

Herring Shoes

Casual summer shoe styling for men in 2023

9 June 2023

The summer months can be a little tricky or even sticky on the footwear front for men. While no-one wants sweaty feet, not everyone wants to bare their toes and heels for public scrutiny. Staying sharp while maintaining your cool can be a challenge. Here are a few hot summer shoe tips for this year.

Espadrilles
Not a toe or heel in sight, but still very much all about summer. Our espadrilles are made from gorgeous soft suede and have a light, flexible sole so are perfect for shorts with a tee or polo shirt.

Slippers
Don’t mock it until you have tried it! These are the epitome of louche slouching! The open-backed element makes them the perfect blend of flip-flops and loafers. Team our Baronet slippers with linen trousers and be the lord of lounging, or try our Snaff loafer with dark shorts and an open-necked shirt.

Sneakers
Sparkly white sneakers are a staple for both men and women these days. Thankfully, they are easier to keep clean in the warmer months. Our Split leather style fits the bill but if you want some standout colour, how about our green and orange Voyager trainers?

Deck shoes
These are so easy to slip on and off and wear with jeans or chinos on colder days or with shorts when the sun does shine. We stock Sebago and Sperry classics along with our own range both with and without ties. The Padstow is our bestseller with the Padstow II new for this year.

Moccasins
A softer version of the deck shoe, our Murlo II does not come with the laces and ties but are a great casual shoe for popping on and off as and when required. They come in great shades of soft suede too.

Loafers
The king of the summer shoe when you need to raise your game a little. The St Jean combines a lovely suede upper with a lightweight sole for a semi-casual shoe that will work with jeans, chinos and shorts.

In the spotlight

The Emery

8 June 2023

In a breakaway from the recent routine, this week we are shining the spotlight on an item of clothing…the Emery Polo Shirt, made by Peregrine. A polo shirt is just a polo shirt, right? Usually, but this one has a little bit of ethical decency about it while also being a rather fine piece of clothing too.

Like Herring, Peregrine is a family-run business. Peregrine, though, has been around since 1796. We are a mere toddler in comparison! They specialise in making clothing out of wool from sheep that have been reared and sheared just miles from the main Peregrine factory in Manchester. While some items in their collection may be made in other factories – their polo shirts are made in Wolverhampton, for instance – everything is sourced and made on English soil.

Despite a very traditional upbringing, Peregrine has moved with the times…or the times are now reflecting their heritage. Whichever way around it is, their dedication to sustainability is a standout feature of their brand and their insistence on traceability gives their customers the confidence in the British Wool-licensed materials they are wearing.

Peregrine is also actively supporting regenerative farming in the UK. They work with farms to develop resilient, nature-friendly farming systems that restore biodiversity, combat climate change and protect the livelihoods of farmers. While other brands are investing in regenerative agriculture overseas, Peregrine is 100% focused on restoring the landscapes and habitats in their own backyard. They have committed to transitioning 100% of their British wool sourcing to regenerative farming methods by 2026.

Peregrine also supports the movement to buy less but buy better. We fully back this notion of slow fashion. Just as we want our shoes and boots to be worn for many years, Peregrine feels the same about their clothing. While we make footwear that can be repaired rather than just being thrown away and replaced, Peregrine also offers care advice so their customers can hang onto their favourite pieces of clothing for longer.

The Emery has also been given the same sustainable once-over. It is part of Peregrine’s Zero Waste range. These are seamless garments, knitted in England from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) organic cotton. Unlike conventional tees and polo shirts which are cut and sewn into shape, every garment is carefully knitted to size, with ribbed cuffs and hem improving the overall fit, while removing any unwanted seams and ensuring there is no fabric waste.

The Emery is a lightweight polo, so ideal for summer, and is super soft next to the skin. It is both durable and breathable, and as a natural fibre, has hypoallergenic properties and is moisture wicking.

The Emery is available from Herring in navy, seafoam, sunflower and white. They are currently in our mid-season sale at 35% off. Get one (or four) while you can!

In the spotlight

The Jerry

31 May 2023

The Jerry was new to our Premier Collection last year. Developed by our long-term friend and Journal contributor Jerry Tharapos, this is a really beautiful, bespoke boot that deserves a bit of attention. It is the culmination of a great relationship, expert shoemaking, and a two-tone style, so we are quite sentimental about it!

Where to start? A somewhat Dickensian laced boot with six eyelets and two hooks, this Balmoral-style boot it is now very contemporary care of the 205 last the Jerry has been made on to give it a squarer, chiselled toe.

Balmoral boots are akin to an Oxford in boot form, with some distinct features: a closed lacing system, a distinct upper and lower portion of the boot, low heels, a rounded toe, and above the ankle in length.

The British royal family had their part to play in their existence with Prince Albert originally commissioning them for walking through the Balmoral grounds but also to be worn indoors. Ever a fan of boots, Queen Victoria was quick get in on the act too.

Our version is two-tone with the vamp, toe cap and heel-counter made from calf leather and the contrasting top and tongue made from suede. We have one in burgundy calf and blue suede, and the other in navy calf and suede. Both look superb.

We also added broguing along the lower and toe-cap seam and on the two-cap too. Every detail has been thought of.

The mastermind behind their design was Jerry, who will not mind us saying, is a rather natty dresser. He is big fan of burgundy leather, period dramas and vintage styles. A self-confessed modern dandy, Jerry looks sharp and likes to blend old and new styles, usually with a bit of tweed thrown in.

However, it is the skills that goes into making shoes and boots like this that attracted Jerry to Herring in the first place. His namesake was handmade by the wonderful craftsmen at Cheaney in the heartland of shoemaking in Northamptonshire. They are Goodyear-welted which means they can be repaired again and again, if you look after them. This means that if you wear the sole out; you can get it replaced, but not lose the comfort of that you have broken into the upper.

So, if you want a bit of royalty-approved, two-tone, brogue-ish quality footwear in your life then take a look at the Jerry. As their co-creator Jerry would say: “Be dashing…be daring”.

In the spotlight

The Salcombe

22 May 2023

We called it last week with our Guide to Loafers…the spring/summer season is finally upon us! So, we thought we would showcase one of our all-time classics in the deck shoe world, the Salcombe. Named after the South Hams boating mecca that neighbours our headquarters in Kingsbridge, this has been a mainstay in our casual collection for many years.

Like any of our shoes, there is some serious craftsmanship at work in the background. This style is made for us by deck shoe specialists in the city of Guimarães in Portugal.

A&R Pontes is at the heart of a renowned industrial cluster that comprises footwear, clothing and home textiles. Established in 1999, the company comes from a family business dedicated to the art of shoe manufacturing since 1945. They balance the value of a shoemaking tradition and craftsmanship that has been passed on from generation to generation, but with a forward-thinking attitude. They are our kind of people!

Although based on a moccasin, the deck shoe we know today originates from 1935 when the first one was designed by Paul Sperry (we sell Sperry deck shoes too). There are two theories as to what his thought-process was:

He loved boats and wanted a nautical-style moccasin. He also cut grooves into the bottoms of the sole to create more grip.
He noticed his dog did not slip on ice and upon studying his dog’s paws, he saw the significance of grooves and cut grooves into the soles of his own shoe.

However Mr Sperry developed his shoe invention, the deck shoe was then taken on by the US Navy with their own design, leading to global popularity.

The cleated non-marking rubber sole is clearly a necessity for staying upright in wilder weathers on boats and ships. Deck shoes are also slip-on to make them easy to take on and off. The porthole style eyelets usually feature a 360-degree leather lacing system to ensure they fit securely. The aprons are top stitched often using contrasting thread.

The Salcombe is a little different. While we have retained the lacing feature around the collar, we have done away with it at the front. Instead, we have added a penny loafer-style saddle. Less fuss but still very much a deck shoe with a non-marking rubber sole. One of reviewers on our website commented: “Very comfortable and so happy no laces.” We seemed to have made one customer happy at least!

In truth, we know we have made many of our customers happy as the Salcombe is a very popular footwear choice in the warmer months. The blended deck shoe-loafer style makes them the ideal shoe choice as you leap to shore from your boat in search of the nearest local restaurant for lunch. If you have not got a boat, they work well as a weekend shoe. They are the ultimate in smart-casual and look great with a shorts, chinos or jeans with a polo shirt or casual shirt.

Herring Shoes

Your guide to loafers

17 May 2023

Enough is enough! We are officially embracing the spring/summer season. We have had to wait it out, but I definitely saw the sun today! In shoe world, the sun means loafers. While loafers are good for autumn/winter too, the warmer months mean we can wear them without socks and expose the ankle a bit!

The origins of the loafer are said to come from the moccasin. They are both slip-ons, have a low-slung profile to expose the ankle and feature a stitched apron. However, while a moccasin is seen as a soft-soled comfort shoe, the loafer has much more clip to it care of a separate sole and a small heel.

As has been the case with other shoes and boots, the British royal family may have had a hand, or foot, to play in the development of the loafer. King George VI asked Wildsmith Shoes to come up with a house shoe for him to wear around the palace and other royal residences, and the result was what is known as the Wildsmith loafer.

Meanwhile in Norway, Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger introduced a loafer to the town of Aurland after he had travelled to North America to learn shoemaking. When travelling Americans then saw them on sale in Europe, they took them home where they were spotted by the editor of Esquire magazine.

The European and American loafers continued to develop with the penny loafer first produced by GH Bass in the 1930s. This distinct style includes the saddle, with a diamond-shaped cut-out, that bridges the stitched apron. Apparently, US prep school students used to tuck a penny in the cut-out and that’s what gave them their name.

Meanwhile, back in Blighty, the ever-so-fashionable Edward VII was sporting the penny loafer – he favoured the brown and white calf style. Of course, he did!

Aside from a penny, the loafer has seen the addition of tassels, bows, fringes, full-width saddles, and brass snaffle horse-bits. The introduction of the horse-bit was down to Gucci. They also began making loafers out of black leather to elevate their status from a casual shoe to footwear that could be worn in the office.

Shoemakers across the world continue to produce loafers in these styles and they are still ever-popular with both men and women. An example of the evolution of the loafer is our Snaffle style. Made in black deerskin, this features a silver-coloured snaffle metal bit. These are definitely smart enough for the boardroom!

If you fancy a tassel in your life, then the Guildford is lovely and sharp, but could also be a casual alternative. Made in navy grain or a pebble grey suede, this is a real classic with a part leather and part rubber sole.

For a more casual look, we have some new styles for the season. The St Jean is made from a gorgeous soft suede and has a light-coloured rubber sole, so is definitely a spring/summer shoe. The Matira has a boating feel to it with an elasticated heel and cushioning for extra comfort.

We are officially calling it! It is time for loafers. Let’s go people; lets embrace spring/summer 2023.

In the spotlight

The Rigoletto

15 May 2023

When spring gets going, we always start rolling out the loafers. Considered a preppy, smart-but-happy-to-be-dressed-down shoe, the loafer is a perennial favourite…but sometimes a style comes along that is just a cut above the rest.

The Rigoletto is actually a loafer AND a monk shoe. This is where the upgrade from other loafers lies. While plenty of loafers feature buckles or an equestrian-style horse-bit trim, the Rigoletto’s brass detail is set to the outer side, like a monk shoe buckle.

The monk shoe has had a renaissance in recent years, potentially due to Daniel Craig sporting them as James Bond in Skyfall. However, its origins are low show biz and can be traced back centuries ago to European monks who wanted a more practical, closed-toe shoe rather than their usual sandal. The monk shoe began to emerge in the early 20^th for fashionable gentlemen that wanted a little more flamboyance in their lives. More dapper than dandy, the monk shoe is sleek and brilliantly bold.

The Rigoletto is very much a loafer too with classic defining features, such as its low profile to expose the ankle, plus the small heel and stitched apron.

While many loafers are Blake-stitched, by combing glue and a single row of stitching to connect the upper to the sole, these beauties are welted. The additional layer of cork makes them more comfortable but also means they are satisfyingly repairable, and you can hang onto them for many a year.

The Rigoletto is made by our incredibly talented friends at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal where each shoe is hand-patinated, which means they are intentionally aged and coloured with a lustrous coating to give them a vintage appearance. As you can see from the photo, this does not mean they are scuffed and falling apart but have a characterful patina that is akin to an artform.

Our website claims these are suitable for the ‘confident dandy’, but I reckon these are slightly more conservative than that. The Rigoletto is a standout blend of two shoes that have been handcrafted by some of the best shoemakers in Europe. What’s not to love?

In the spotlight

The Longdon

12 May 2023

When the sun starts to shine, it starts to feel a little bit like wedding season. I went to my first wedding in a fair few years last weekend, where I was keeping an eagle eye on the footwear. Tottering women’s heels that get swapped for flip-flops aside, the gentlemen sported a range of shoes and boots that befit the more relaxed wedding.

With morning suits eschewed in place of more comfortable lounge suits, the traditional black Oxford is not needed. This means any colour formal shoe fits the bill and I think our Herring Classic, the Longdon two-tone semi-brogue, is just perfect.

This really is a fine shoe. In fact, we think it is one of the most beautiful styles we have ever created with the help of our skilled friends at Carlos Santos. It blends so many elements of our other favourite styles that it really is the pick ‘n’ mix of the very best of our bespoke shoes that are created at the behest of our request!

It’s a semi-brogue. It has the touches of perforated detail that lift the look of a plain calf shoe. The sprinkling of decoration is definitely from the less-is-more school of thought and makes a real, but subtle, impact.
It blends calf and suede. This gives the Longdon a nod to the spectator or correspondent shoe. Spectator shoes are made to be noticed care of their two-tone construction. While the Longdon has a navy and rosewood version, the mahogany style still achieves a gentle two-tone look by contrasting the calf against soft, soft suede.
It uses calf leather that is hand-patinated. This means every shoe is different but the colour and shine just sings.

Underneath, a leather sole supports every step or shimmy on the dancefloor. While the Longdon’s welted make-up ensures your shoes can be re-soled time and time again so you can keep them for longer.

Like many of the shoes that are made especially for Herring, the Longdon is designed to be repairable, so they should see many a wedding, job interview, party, boardroom discussion, etc. for years and years to come. This makes them a great investment in a true piece of craftsmanship that will get your footwear noticed for the right reasons.

Focussing on the mahogany version, the Longdon will look great with a navy or beige suit, or the equivalent pair of chinos. Complement with a white or pale, mid or dark blue shirt, and you will be ready for any occasion. If you want to turn heads, then consider the Longdon for your next pair of formal shoes.

In the spotlight

Aigle boots

3 May 2023

https://www.herringshoes.co.uk/aigle/parcours-2-vario_rubber-soled-boots/green-and-bronze

We really do hope summer is almost upon us, but the puddles and muddy tracks would suggest otherwise. There is still a real need for a good pair of wellies! However, even when the sun does begin to shine and festival season kicks in, a decent rubber soled boot is always very handy.

Aigle has been making natural rubber boots by hand in France since 1853. As you know, we love handmade footwear. Just like our British Goodyear-welted shoes, Aigle used the Goodyear-vulcanisation process to ensure a soft, durable and waterproof product that was ahead of its time.

Moving into the 21^st century and Aigle is now famous for its contemporary boot designs, incredible comfort and for still being authentic to its roots by continuing to be made in France from natural rubber.

Let’s start with the ladies for this In the Spotlight look at Aigle and the aptly named Aigletine. Aigle have somehow made a welly boot look feminine! Made in a dark drown rubber, which looks great with blue jeans, it has an equestrian flair with a contoured fit and an adjustment strap. Meanwhile, the black Cessac is slightly shorter in the leg, so would be good for gardeners that often find themselves on their kneeling pads…whatever the weather!

There is the Cessac version for the men too, while the equestrian style is called Benyl M and comes in a countryside khaki shade. The crème de la crème of rubber boots for men though is Aigle’s Parcours 2 Vario. This features a triple density anti-fatigue rubber sole which will give you greater comfort meaning you can wear them for long periods. The Parcours 2 Vario has a green upper with a bronze and grey cleated sole, so looks very smart too.

Aigle has also put their considerable outdoor footwear manufacturing talents into creating rubber-soled walking boots. With the Army’s Ten Tors Dartmoor-based challenge on our doorstep, walking boots are important round here but also for people who love to walk up hill and down dale in the rest of the UK’s beautiful countryside.

The Sonricker GTX is light-weight and breathable while the Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing and the Vibram outer sole makes it very robust and durable. A little less traditional to look at but no less suitable for what they were made for, the Tenere LTR GTX is a very robust all-terrain hiking boot made from Gortex leather. They have got a military, desert-boot feel to them and come in black or chestnut. These are seriously stylish boots that are made for walking. Lastly, the Muntagna are the most technical of the three and look ready for any challenge!

All these boots have been through an average of 60 manufacturing steps and strict quality tests to guarantee their waterproofing. Comfort is achieved with a foam upper and lining. This means Aigle’s beautiful boots are not your average welly or walking boot. They are fit-for-purpose but look good too. If you are looking for some waterproof footwear in your life, then make a splash with these boots.

In the spotlight

Herring Dunkeld

26 April 2023

Welcome to a new feature for Herring in which we will quite literally shine the spotlight on new and classic shoes and boots we have to offer you, while also throwing in a sprinkling of other products too.

But why? It has come to our attention that we have such a large selection of hand selected styles that you may not have seen some new or classic options (they may well be the ones you have been searching for all year) and by highlighting them here, we are bringing them back to the forefront for you to see.

An excellent example of this is the Dunkeld semi-brogue. The semi-brogue is a true classic and a style of shoe we are known for. A gentleman needs a pair of semi-brogues or two in his wardrobe as they are so versatile. In the office, at a wedding, down the pub, at the rugby club and so on, a semi-brogue can be dressed up or dressed down to suit any occasion with the intricate detailing unique to the semi-brogue making a subtle statement about your style.

When we set about designing the Dunkeld, we wanted to create something that would celebrate classic elegance but would have a twist. Available in a classic black calf, we also requested a rosewood version. Our trained artisan friends at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal have done us proud on the latter with the exquisite hand-burnished calf creating a stunning look.

The Dunkeld is also made on a Z160 last to give it a very slender shape with a chiselled toe box that is highlighted by the delicate fleur de lys-stlye broguing.

The modern twist for this very traditional shoe is in the elastication. It is a superbly hidden feature that is tucked under a fan of delicate leather panels. By incorporating elastication, we have been able to do away with laces that some people find fiddly or just prefer the convenience of a slip-on shoe. However, they still look like traditional lace-up shoes with the inclusion of clever faux leather laces.

So, we know they look good but what’s going inside? Like so many of our custom-made, exclusive shoes, these are welted. A welt is key to maintaining the durability of a shoe. Invented by the Charles Goodyear Jr (from the American tyre family), it is a leather strip that is sewn around the edge of a shoe-upper to which the sole is attached. It is the buffer between the upper and the sole meaning that the sole can be cut off and then a new one attached without damaging the upper.

This means the Dunkeld can be repaired again and again, which means you hang onto your favourite shoes, that have moulded nicely to your feet, for so much longer. To help you choose a welted footwear, we clearly mark all our welted shoes with our “Sustainable: Designed to be repairable logo” on our website. The investment made in these shoes will pay you back as you will not need to replace them for many years but can simply repair them.

Back to how good they look! The black calf style is formal shoe and will look very elegant with a dark suit, while the rosewood could be dressed down a little but would be a standout feature with a navy or grey trousers. For sure, this is a classic.

Herring Shoes

Exclusively made for us

20 April 2023

‘Exclusive’ is a term that is bandied around a lot by marketeers. We are also keen on a bit of ‘bespoke’! It struck us that we may need to explain what these terms mean when it comes to our footwear.

When we mention ‘exclusive’, we mean this style of shoe or boot has not been made for anyone else. Herring has had a hand in designing the final look of the product, whether that is choosing the leather type, the finish, the last, the sole, the colour of the sole or interior, and any decorative design feature.

This means you will not find these shoes sold anywhere else. They are all Herring’s!

We have a proud history of teaming up with the best shoemakers in the UK and Europe, and we like to tell you where our shoes have been made and by which manufacturer. We have worked with the Northamptonshire greats, Barker and Cheaney, Bolton-based Walsh for their sneakers, and Carlos Santos for their beautiful hand-finished shoes from Portugal, among others.

We visit their factories and have built up a professional and respectful relationships with their management and very skilled craftsmen. Together, we create iconic designs that they do not make for any other reseller or store.

This is how we have always worked. We have ideas and passions that we want the very best in the business to turn into stunning footwear. In short, every Herring shoe or boot is custom-made to order with a large serving of our own flair and expertise applied.

Here is short run-through of some of our exclusive styles:

Dunkeld brogues – made by Carlos Santos
If you find laces fiddly but want a formal shoe, it can be hard to find anything that looks sleek and formal. Dunkeld is both, with a faux leather lace and delicate leather pieces covering the elastication, made on the Z160 last for a chiselled toe box. These look stunning with a suit.

Horwich trainer – made by Walsh
Herring Horwich is handmade in the UK for us by Walsh, a famous name in the world of training shoes. Following on from our successful collaboration last year, the Horwich is a completely new addition to the range and focusses on clean sharp contrast colours for a distinctive retro vibe. We have used multiple materials and finishes to elevate this bespoke design.

Burlington II – made by Barker
This is a classic shoe. The Burlington II is a new style incorporating a round-toed, semi-brogue with a Derby or Gibson lace plus a hybrid leather-rubber sole in case it rains. This is a premium shoe, handmade in Northamptonshire by Barker using the finest materials.

Charlton II loafer – made by Barker
Also good for spring/summer, the Charlton II takes its inspiration from the classic tassel loafers of old. On a great-fitting 386 last, this elegant loafer is on a Goodyear-welted leather sole and is, again, handmade just for us in Northamptonshire.

Disraeli – made by Cheaney
The Disraeli is a fantastic new addition to our work-friendly range of shoes as it offers the sleek toe cap silhouette of a traditional Oxford but the convenience of an elasticated front. This is handmade from start to finish in the UK and is repairable at the original factory making Disraeli a sound investment.

These are classic shoes that would not look out of place in a Jermyn Street flagship store, but you will not find them there. You can only find these exclusive, bespoke (got them both in there!) styles in our convenient online store.

We will be introducing our new exclusive styles in more detail over the next few weeks. Let us know what piques your interest.

Browsing category: Herring Shoes