Brogues – Herring Shoes Journal

The rock star finesse of the pointed shoe and boot

13 May 2024

In the last of our series on men’s shoe shapes, we come to the pointed or elongated shoe or boot. Not just the go-to toe shape for court jesters and Teddy Boys, the pointed toe offers an opportunity to lengthen your foot shape and to add an edgy elegance to your outfit.

Court jesters aside, the pointed toe was a 15^th century phenomenon, known as crakows or poulaines, and were said to be a sign of virility. Some even featured bells just to really get them noticed (cue eye roll)!

The British rock scene, often a leader in fashion, adopted the winklepicker style in the 1960s, accompanied by drainpipe jeans and trousers. Punks and goths were keen on the pointed toe too, while these days, Russell Brand and Noel Fielding continue to carry a torch for the winklepicker.

Like any extreme fashion, a softer version can be adopted to make a less shouty statement in the office or when you’re out and about. A bit like sneaking a cowboy boot vibe into everyday life, you can find them in the shoe collections of the manufactures we work with, including Barker and Loake.

These styles simply have an elongated toe, a bit like the almond-toed shape shoes, but longer! The narrow, long toe shape does not mean you need to cram your toes into such a tapered area; you get that bit as extra.

This is great if you have small feet and don’t want them to look quite so small. Even if you do not have smaller feet, the elongated toe is great if you just want to command attention. You will see what I mean when I show you some of the styles we have here at Herring.

Check out the Clint brogues. I feel these could have bells on and still make you look like a rock star. Made from black polished leather, this is a seriously sexy shoe! A little less stadium tour and a bit more arena are Loake’s Larch Oxfords. Available in chestnut or black calf, these are snazzy but snappy shoes that will look great with a suit.

Barker’s McClean brogues also have extra space in their toe… all the more space for some beautiful brogue detail! Barker has several other pointed toe shoes in their portfolio, such as the rather fine Woody brogues.

At Herring, we have applied the elongated toe space and swagger to our Thatcher brogue Chelsea boots. Like all the pointed toe styles, this Chelsea boot is oh-so sleek and just that little bit special.

The Z401 last allows for that extra bit of space too. See the Fleming loafer and the Roche monk shoe as excellent examples. While the 205 last has given us the Henley two-tone brogue and the Z160 is the foundation of the Chaucer wholecut and the Farnham two-tone brogues.

I think it is true to say that often toe styles begin to merge into one another with square (see shoes made on the Z460 last – you can filter by last in our website search facility) and almond toes flirting with the elongated looked of a pointed toe.

And, having been through each toe shape now, my underlying feeling is to just go with what you like the look of! If you need guidance on fit, please contact our excellent customer service advisors who can help you choose the right shoes or boots for your feet.

Find our other toe shape guides here:

Herring Shoes

What’s the difference: Oxford and Derby shoes

21 November 2023

Let’s dive into one of the most asked questions we receive here at Herring Shoes HQ: What makes a shoe a Derby or Oxford?

You can thank the students from Oxford University for the terminology ‘Oxford’. Back in the 1800s they were the ‘in’ style to be seen wearing and they became well known for wearing them almost exclusively and from then the name has stuck.

We should start by saying we know it’s a common misconception to picture a shoe with a line across the toe cap when someone mentions an Oxford. But this is not what defines an Oxford, this line is called a ‘capped toe‘ and can be found on both Oxford or Derby styles, so it’s important to know any good shoemaker will not refer to an Oxford capped shoe as an Oxford style purely because of the cap.

So, what exactly is an Oxford style? When referring to shoes as an Oxford, this terminology means the construction of the lacing area has a closed-lacing system (a V shape when worn) which is stitched flush with the rest of the upper. It is a classic form of a dress shoe and considered the most elegant, neat and tidy variation. It has nothing to do with the pattern on the shoes.

Tip: If you find that the V shape disappears when tying your shoes, this is likely a sign they are a little too large for you.

The Herring Knightsbridge is an Oxford style with a toe-cap.

The Derby (AKA the Gibson). Instead of the V shape lacing above, you have what looks like two flaps of leather that sit above the upper to create an ‘open lacing system’ which is stitched over the facing. This means there is more space in the instep area.

When would you wear an Oxford?

Traditionally this style is synonymous with suits and smart dress only. The truth is, you can wear them with pretty much anything depending on the pattern. For example, an Oxford toe capped style is best suited to smart dress and formal occasions, but if you were to swap the toe cap out for a lovely brogue pattern then all of the sudden you can get away with pairing them up with jeans, chinos, and more smart/casual attire.

A brogued pair of Herring Munster with Oxford lacing

Why would you wear a Derby?

So, the above also applies to the Derby style but there is one key element that may make you consider this construction instead: Flexibility over the instep. If you have a higher instep (it is more common than you’d think) then you may find yourself buying shoes larger than your actual size to compensate for your prominent instep and ultimately this is not great as the rest of the shoes won’t be a good fit. A Derby will allow you to buy your regular size and also have the flexibility to expand to your instep, the difference in comfort is immediately noticeable, especially if you have always struggled to find shoes to fit you properly around the lacing area. Let’s not forget that the Derby is the perfect style for that country chic look, especially when paired with a thick country sock!

Herring Shoes

Boot season is here!

9 October 2023

Autumn spells the start of boot season in the footwear world. It is time to face the fact that our sockless days are virtually over, and we require something a little sturdier for the colder months. For so many people, autumn and winter will be greeted with joy, just because they pull their boots back on again.

We love boots at Herring. I mean…we really love them. They come in so many different styles and colours that there must be a boot for everyone. From super-smart boots that can be teamed with a suit or a dress to rugged varieties that withstand the worst weather can throw at them, we celebrate this time of year.

Most of our customers will have at least one pair of boots they rely on in the colder months but have maybe not considered other styles they can wear at work, on the trails or for a formal occasion or night out.

We had a few suggestions for both our men and women customers as part of our autumn/winter edit but have a few more that you may have overlooked.

For the office
For men, our A/W edit included Milton (below) for a super-smart suit accompaniment, while the Muswell Chelsea and Milner chukka boots would work well too. The black styles will look wonderful with a dark suit. These are from our Handgrade range making them hand-finished, Goodyear-welted and repairable, so come with an investment price. However, we have more affordable options with our Flynn laced toe-cap boots, plus our Jude Chelsea and Cannock chukka boots from our Classic collection. Take a look!

For women, a knee-high boot works well with fitted skirts and dresses. Our Bracciano boot is made from a lovely soft suede for true work-wear glamour. While the shorter Trasimeno suede ankle boots work well for longer dresses and skirts…but you can style these with trousers and any length skirt too.

For the trails
Our male model wore the Cambridge and the Corsham at our photoshoot at Lympstone, but the boys in the office and warehouse love a rugged boot so always have plenty of styles for our customers to choose from. Maybe consider the Ambleside for that brogue with a Commando sole look or the Exmoor if you like a spot of tweed. For real tough-guy boots, take a look at our Churchstow Norwegian rubber-soled boots.

We have a tan brogue and cleated sole version for women too. The Stephy is simply stunning! But for real tramping around in wet fields and along muddy tracks, we have excellent wellies from Aigle. I can thoroughly recommend them.

For going out
For the chaps, the Thatcher is a handmade Chelsea boot with brogue detailing on a sleek and slender toe made from handsome burgundy calf. Or what about the Geneva? This is another gorgeous Chelsea boot but in dark brown mock-croc. Lastly, we love the Laverton II. It is a luxurious, two-tone boot that blends suede with beautiful calf leather.

Herring does not do spiky heeled boots for women, but we have some great statement boots for nights out. The Garda (below) adds a bit of glitz with its patent finish while the Como’s over-the-knee style with a chucky sole and heel will make heads turn. Lastly, the Varese is knee length with a daintier toe and sole that comes in two shades of suede – black and a rather lovely green.

Whatever your boot leaning, we have plenty of styles you can choose from. Take a look for yourself. If you want to celebrate the start of boot season with a purchase, please remember that if you need further advice on fit and care, please do not hesitate to contact out customer service advisors.

Herring Shoes

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

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.

Sole mates

Sole mates: Joe Marchant

14 April 2023

Our latest sole mate is Joe Marchant. Last seen on the international stage playing for England in the Six Nations, it’s back to club rugby for the rest of the season with the Rugby World Cup 2023 hot on its heels. With two appearances for England in the Six Nations and some standout performances for his club, Joe is hoping his ability to play at centre and on the wing will stand him in good stead for selection for Steve Borthwick’s 33-man squad.

But first a little background detail. Joe was an England debutant at centre in 2019 having made his way through the age groups at U18s and U20s levels. He joined the Harlequins academy in 2014 and made his club debut in 2015. A brief sabbatical with Auckland’s Super Rugby team, the Blues, gave him a new string to his bow though when coach Leon MacDonald made it clear he would be playing on the wing as well as at centre. Wing and full-back are often interchangeable and, as we have seen from the England’s line-ups in the past few seasons, fly-halves and centres often swap, but not so much centre and wing.

“I think it is a good thing to play a number of positions, especially at club level. I often play 60 minutes at centre and then the last 20 on the wing. It also depends on who we are playing against. For example, for teams that kick a lot, one of my strengths is being under the high ball, so it makes sense for me to be on the wing. I just love being on the pitch, to be honest.”

The centre partnership conundrum continues for England with more than a dozen players in the 12 and 13 shirts since the last Rugby World Cup in 2019.

“It’s hard because there are so many good options, but the centres have seen the most change, especially with Faz (Owen Farrell) being able to play 12 and 10. There’s always going to be a lot of changes and combinations. Even this campaign, the centres were so different. First week was me and Faz, then it was Ollie (Lawrence) and Sladey (Henry Slade), and Manu (Tuilangi) came in at the end. There are so many different options and strengths, so it has to come down to who you are playing against.

“We all want to play. It’s about keeping your head down, training hard every day and waiting for the opportunity; any one of us could get picked.”

Joe has returned to his club to help battle for a top-four spot. With just four rounds left with the middle of the table so tight and some clubs due for a bye week, it is tough to call who will take the play-off spots, but few would ever write-off Quins!

Whatever position Joe plays, he seems to shine the most when he plays alongside his familiar club mates, such as fellow England team mates Marcus Smith, Alex Dombrandt and Danny Care (who received an England call-up as recently as 2022). Quins’ convincing win over Exeter Chiefs earlier this month saw Joe speed over for the fourth and fifth tries of a whopping 40-5 win, potentially fuelled by his enthusiastic dancing to “It’s Raining Men” in the changing room beforehand. Check out the video…it will bring a smile to your face!

“We were so excited to play at Twickenham and there have been a few times when everyone has been singing and dancing before a match. It was definitely good for us. When we our enjoying ourselves as Quins, we can do a lot of good things!

“Me and Marcus had pretty clear comms from Steve (Borthwick) to go away and play like international players for our club. Basically, go back and put in a good performance. Marcus went straight back in, and I got back on the bench against Ireland.”

Joe will be swapping London for Paris next season as he heads to Stade Francais where he will hook up with Quins’ former head coach Paul Gustard, who is now defence coach at Stade Jean-Bouin. Joe will still be able to take part in this year’s Rugby World Cup but will not be able to play for England afterwards. All in all, this was a decision he did not take lightly after nine years at The Stoop.

“It was really hard. The England stuff was on my mind even though I was not in the squad at the time. I have really enjoyed my time at the club and love playing for England, but I felt it was the right time to try something new.”

Away from the rugby pitch, Joe has a black belt in karate and a dog called Otis. He is a keen guitar player, is learning French and is dating singer-songwriter Hollie Shearer, daughter of England football legend Alan. He has recently been part of an LGBTQ+ Pride event on behalf of the club. Quins seem to be leading the way when it comes to inclusivity having founded the sport’s first LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, Quins Pride, in 2021. This season’s Pride game against Newcastle Falcons is scheduled for April 15.

Joe also likes a good pair of shoes with the Herring’s Sussex Oxfords and our Carnaby brogues in his collection. These are full-on, traditional shoes and are perfect for black tie events, weddings, and other formal occasions, but also for date nights!

“Hollie and I like to dress up and just go out for dinner. I really like that smart look. I am not the most fashionable person out there; Hollie is a big influence on my fashion sense. But I like a nice long jacket and a smart pair of chinos with good shoes. I think that looks really strong and the shoes make all the difference.

“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.”

Good luck to you Joe. We wish you all best for the World Cup and life in Paris. You’ll be taking a bit of British flair with you though with some of the smartest shoes we have to offer.

Sole mates

Sole mates: Teddy (Ed) Draper

18 January 2023

Having the same values and philosophy as we do here at Herring Shoes is important to us, not just anyone can be a ‘sole mate’. A great feel for quality footwear and clothing helps too, as is understanding sustainability and slow fashion. For these reasons and many more, we are over the moon to have Teddy on board, it’s been a real highlight for us here at Herring Shoes HQ.

For those of you that perhaps don’t recognise Teddy’s name, you will almost certainly recognise his face. He describes himself as a journalist, tv presenter, radio broadcaster, and podcast host. Having worked for Absolute Radio, Rock N Roll Sports podcast, and presented some of the 2012 Olympics, it’s fair to say he has an impressive CV.

Let’s fast forward to the present. Teddy is perhaps the most recognised Sky Sports News presenter on our TV’s, often breaking the latest stories whilst seamlessly transitioning from newsreader to interviewer. Naturally, he is always immaculately dressed too (especially now he’s wearing our shoes of course).

Teddy’s friendly and personable character is an unteachable asset that has no doubt helped him throughout his career and when paired with his journalistic qualities, it’s no wonder his personal podcast is such a big hit. ‘Sport and Life‘ (available on both Apple and Spotify) has been a labour of love. On his pod he chats to people in the world of sports, fitness, business and health. When you start delving into his episodes you soon realise he covers these topics and much more, the variation of guests is truly refreshing. Here are some of my personal favourites on the podcast: Dr Chidi: Lifestyle Medicine, Former boxing champion George Groves, Dr Mark Draper on Vitamin D, Matthew Mansell: Former pro rugby player and Athlo app founder

‘I’m very excited and honoured to join the Herring family and to partner with these great people on my podcast. Primarily, it’s the history and quality of the handmade shoes that go all the way back to 1966 (epic year for English sport!). I’m grateful and proud of the opportunity to be associated with a family business based in Britain that has a growing global reputation. I love my Herring brogues for their classic smart appearance, but also the incredible comfort – you can wear them all day, in and out of the studio. They feel almost like a trainer, and still feel fresh and supported come the close of play on my work day. Massive fan of my Red Wing boots – stocked by Herring – too as they, again, look fantastic, are very practical and you can wear them all day long.

Teddy enjoying his Red Wing classic Moc’s

Looking to grow the sport and life podcast has created a dilemma – you require partners to amplify the show, but I’m determined to stay true to my principles and promote something of quality and benefit to the listeners. My conviction that Herring was a great match was cemented when my father-in-law shared an anecdote: his wife bought him two pairs of Herring shoes in 1986 and not only does he still wear them, but maintains “they’re the best shoes he’s worn.” As far as recommendations go, that’s hard to beat. ‘ Teddy, January 2023

If you haven’t already given ‘Sport and Life‘ a listen, then I strongly implore you to do so. You wont be disappointed. If however you do need some encouragement, then his latest episode ‘Sports broadcaster Richard Graves‘ may contain a little gift for any new order on our website 😉

Uncategorised

“Oxfords, not brogues”

9 September 2022

We can’t help it, it’s in our DNA to find the above quote from The Kingsman quite annoying.

Let me explain why.

When referring to shoes as an Oxford, this terminology is referring to the construction of the lacing area. The lacing is a nice simple V shape; it’s the classic form of a dress shoe and considered the most elegant, neat and tidy variation. It has nothing to do with the pattern on the shoes.

So, maybe you are wondering what a brogue lacing construction is? Well…there is no such thing. As I am sure you are aware, a brogue refers to the punching on the shoes that can form many different shapes, from long-wing to austerity, but imperatively it has nothing to do with how the lacing area is constructed.

At this point you may be wondering what the shoes are called with the ‘line’ across the toe, as the above quote would have you believe this makes it an Oxford. Well, this is called a capped toe. Quite self explanatory, right? Again, there are many variations, but this terminology has no bearing on the lacing construction.

Let’s add in the mix the alternative lacing construction: the derby (AKA the gibson). We have written about this before but it’s worth talking about again. Instead of the V shape lacing, you have what looks like two flaps of leather to create an ‘open lacing system’. This means there is more flexibility in the instep area, ideal for those who have higher arches or like to wear thicker socks. It is considered a more country, casual style.

Let’s summarise: You can have an Oxford brogue style, an Oxford toe cap style, a derby toe cap style and a derby brogue style…. Let’s not forget a wholecut which is completely plain with an Oxford lacing.

Are you still with me? Good, I didn’t doubt it for a second. Hopefully you now understand why we dislike the quote “Oxfords, not brogues”, as really it should be “toe caps, not brogues”.

Next time someone asks if you are an Oxford or brogue kind of person, remember this journal entry….

A quick test for you, can you work out from the photos which styles are which? I will post the answers below, no cheating, lets see if you know your Derby brogues from your Oxford toe caps!

Example 1) Oxford lacing with an Oxford toe cap

Example 2) Derby laced Brogue

Example 3) Derby laced toe cap

Example 4) Oxford laced brogue

Shoe style guide

Why it makes sense to spend more on your shoes than your suit

16 May 2022

End of season or term parties, summer balls, sporting events and weddings are beginning to gather pace. As the warmer weather begins to creep in, the social calendar starts to fill up. With so many people still working from home or with more relaxed dress codes now accepted in offices, these events are a rare occasion to don a suit.

It got us thinking about suits and the shoes we wear with them. In our mind, it is better if you spend more money on the shoes than the clothing and here’s why.

Other people notice your shoes!
Whether you have forgotten to polish them, or they are down at heel or are just a poor choice, other people will notice and probably form an opinion of you. You want this to be a good opinion. Here, are two positive scenarios to consider.

I suggested my colleague might need a shoe upgrade when I noticed his shoes were looking worse for wear. Bless him, he heeded my advice and got himself his first welted pair of shoes… and it took less than two minutes for someone to compliment him on his shoes after he left the shop!

At the last wedding I attended, the standout guest was a super-tall gentleman with a long beard, but these attributes were not what made him stand out. His patent black Oxfords, similar to our Waltz 11s, did all the talking for him! He looked awesome and attracted many admiring glances. I could not tell you what kind of suit he was wearing!

While these are positive examples, we can probably all recall memories of when people have made the wrong shoe choice or have not taken care of their footwear. It does not matter if you are wearing head to ankle designer gear if your shoes let you down. Shoes make an outfit. (By the way, I feel this is a safe space as I know I am preaching to converted here. Herring Shoes’ customers love shoes!)

Shoes can outlast a suit
If you buy welted shoes and take care of the uppers, your shoes can last a long time. Sadly, expanding waistlines or too many knee slides on the dance floor mean suits get worn out. Fashion also changes. The double-breasted dinner jacket of your university days may not be what you want to wear anymore!

If your shoes are repairable – we have a clear logo indicating this on this website – and you regularly polish them and use shoe trees, they should fit you and complement your outfit choice for many years to come. You need to think of your shoes as a true investment.

Shoes for all occasions
Whereas black-tie suits are for formal occasions, the black Oxfords you wear with them can be worn with a lounge or morning suit, so will see you through days at work and other occasions too. Equally, a tan brogue or spectator shoe can be worn with a suit at work, as well as with chinos or jeans at the weekend.

In conclusion
The gentlemen filling suit hire places ahead of their summer occasions have got it right. Get the fashionable suit you want for the day but invest in your shoes for years to come. Take university under-graduates, for instance, the shoes you wear to celebrate the end of term will work equally well for job interviews, for work, and for friends’ weddings in the future.

You want to ensure you stand out for all the right reasons and a good pair of shoes will help you do that.

Herring Shoes

Breaking in your shoes

25 February 2022

For those of you that are well aquatinted with welted footwear, this article may well be a case of preaching to the converted, however it could help you determine the styles and construction you decide to try next.

So, what should you expect when you purchase your first pair of welted or stitched shoes or boots? Of course, you are expecting to be blown away by the quality and aesthetics; this is a given when you are spending your hard earned money. No doubt you are also expecting them to be the most comfortable pair of shoes you have ever worn too, and this is where it becomes important to understand why your new shoes are as expensive as they are and how this affects their comfort.

Firstly, let’s talk about the fitting. Without going too far down the rabbit hole, the size needs to be right. You are looking for a snug, but not tight fitting, and they certainly mustn’t be loose. You should have a nice ‘V’ in the lacing area too which over time will close a little as the leathers stretch. If the fitting is correct then you are good to go and it’s time to walk around the house to get a feel for them (you would be forgiven for posting a sneaky Instagram photo to really rub it in your friends’ faces how nice your new shoes are). But you have probably noticed that while they feel supportive and snug, they are perhaps not particularly comfortable straight away, especially when compared with your trainers or sneakers. Fear not.

Herring Jacob with a classic Goodyear welted leather sole

Let’s swing back to why you have paid so much for these shoes and where most of that cost has gone. Simply put, it’s the materials, construction and the manual labour of the shoes to go through 200 odd processes from start to finish…by hand. The leathers will be real. This means they are thicker and in turn a little stiffer. Calf leather will always be softer than a polished leather though, so they will feel more comfortable straight away in comparison, but still it is thicker than imitation leather or thinner leathers used on casual shoes. This means they will last many years, but they will also require more breaking in. There is also a cork footbed between the sole and insole. This feels stiff, but again, it is designed to mould to your soles as you wear them in, the same way the leather uppers will and you will likely find the stiffness is often most noticeable around the heel because of the heel card inserted between the leathers (this is essential to help the heel keep its shape). It is not uncommon for you to get a blister or some pain in the heel when wearing them in. This does not mean they are poor quality or that there is a fault, it is simply part of the breaking in process and it will ease by wearing them indoors for two to three evenings before you first wear them outside. They will have already started to soften and mould to your feet in this time.

Ok, so now it’s time to talk about the sole and construction. The thicker the sole, the harder it is to break the shoes in, similar to the thickness of leather uppers also having a say in how hard they are to break in. When you think about it though it’s quite logical: A thicker material has less flexibility than a thinner material. So, a single thickness leather sole (most dress shoes have this) will break in quicker than a Dainite rubber sole. Both of these would wear in quicker than a double or triple thickness leather sole. Again, and logically, a single thickness leather sole is going to also wear quicker than the a Dainite or double/triple thickness sole, so it is a case of weighing up the pros and cons when deciding what style you are going for, and the same can be said for how the uppers are stitched to the sole (the construction).

Herring Silverstone II with a cemented rubber sole

Goodyear welting is known as ‘the world standard’ of shoe construction (see this blog for a more in-depth read on construction) and quite rightly so, it makes shoes extremely hardy and resilient. It allows for the shoes to be resoled many times. It also means that, again, the shoes will be less flexible straight away due to the amount of stitching and welting, which also adds a little weight.

If you are desperate for a pair of shoes that you won’t need to spend so much time breaking in, then you should consider looking for a pair that are Blake stitched. They can be repaired still but as not as many times as a Goodyear welted pair. They are also lighter and more flexible due to the stitching process, so they will instantly feel less ‘stiff’, this method is used more in casual shoe styles like loafers and moccasins.

Finally, you have glued soles. These cannot be repaired and they are often less expensive than any of the above methods because they are much simpler to make but they are not as hard wearing or long lasting. The major advantage is that they will need very little breaking in though and will feel more ‘instantly’ comfortable.

Herring Biker boot with a Goodyear welted commando sole

At this stage you are probably wondering why you would put yourself through all of this for a pair of shoes and I don’t blame you! But I can assure you, it is worth it. Once you have broken in your shoes, which can take anywhere from one week to four weeks, they will be the most comfortable shoes you have ever worn and they will also look superb thanks to the supreme leathers.

As they say, no pain, no gain…

Herring Shoes

Men’s shoes for dating

23 November 2021

This blog isn’t just for those who are single and on the dating scene, hopefully it helps encourage those of us who already have partners, and perhaps don’t have enough date nights, to make a bit more effort.

A lovely shot of Hugo and Lily. Hugo is wearing the Herring Canterbury

Let’s face it, we are well and truly in the digital age of dating and whether you like it or not, it’s here to stay, but I think it should be embraced, especially after the last couple of years where going out and meeting someone in a bar has become virtually impossible. Dating sites and apps offer a safe place to get to know someone and help you make a decision on whether you want to take things to the next step; it can be a huge confidence booster too.

So, you’ve found your perfect match online and the time has come for that first ‘in-person’ date. There’s no doubt you need to look your best to impress and this starts with what you’re wearing. You don’t want to just throw on the first pair of shoes you come across in your porch or wear the same clothes you wear down the pub with your mates. It’s time to bring your A-game.

The most important rule: Dress for the occasion.

You don’t want to be in a tuxedo and black patent shoes if you’re just meeting up for a coffee! Most physical dates will involve meeting for either lunch or dinner. I would suggest if you are meeting for lunch or a coffee even, that you take the more ‘smart/casual’ approach. I would go with dark coloured jeans (preferably not baggy, but they don’t have to be budgie smugglers either) paired with a chequered or patterned shirt with the sleeves rolled up. This will give a fantastic first impression when paired with our Grays, Orkney, or Canterbury chukka boots. Chukkas aren’t over the top and just enough on the smart side to show you have put some thought into what you’re wearing. If you aren’t much of a shirt man then I would wear a plain tee and team this with a pair of smart trainers/sneakers, such as the Sebastian or Goodwood and if you can match the colour of your tee with them, even better! Also consider a pair of suede Chelseas, such as the Bronson. These are the epitome of ‘smart/casual’ and work with both of the above dress options.

Carl has matched his shoes and tee to get the smart/casual look. He is wearing the Herring Sebastian

Dinner date? Now we start to think more on the smarter side. You don’t have to go down the ‘black tie’ route unless you’re going to a ball or a themed evening (how cool would a murder mystery night be for a first date?), but I would certainly wear something along the lines of a textured blazer, your best quality dark coloured chinos and a linen shirt. The latter doesn’t have to be plain, but I would avoid too much of a pattern. Details, such as a nice belt, will make a difference too especially as you should be tucking your shirt in. The obvious choice of footwear is a pair of brogues, and this is where the Carnaby come into its own. They are a modern-day classic made on a sophisticated but not pointy last. The chestnut calf will go with anything. I defy you to make these shoes look bad! I would also consider the Munster, which are a bit more understated, but extremely refined. The Byron are a solid option too for those of you like a monk style and love to mix it up a little.

It’s good to be creative and maybe you have planned a country walk for your date, ending up in a nice cosy pub with a roaring fire and hot chocolate. For this I would go country chic, such as a big woolly jumper and waxed jacket would set the tone nicely and we’ve got you covered. Check out our offerings for country clothing here from Peregrine. Footwear wise, you need something with good grip and you can afford to go a bit more chunky with your shoe choice. My first option would be the Leconfield long wing brogue in burgundy or tan: they’re timeless country styled brogues. Or go for the Hardwick, which would be ideal for those who like the chunky look but don’t want the weight. For the real shoe aficionado, the Kirkoswold ticks a lot of boxes, especially in the waxy finish. If your walk is a bit more hardcore and there’s some climbing involved, then the Trekker is the one you need. OK, it may not be the most stylish pair, but they suit the occasion down to a tee.

I could go on all day, but I think we have covered enough bases and I hope it has helped to give you some ideas.

Don’t forget, the above is not set in stone, first and foremost you have to make sure you are comfortable, confident and happy in whatever you’re wearing (as covered by Caz here). The better you feel, the happier you will be, and the date is more likely to be a success. You’ll be planning your second date before you know it 😉

Shoe style guide

Shoes to wear with jeans

13 October 2021

In the first of our ‘What to wear’ series, we are starting with what to wear with jeans. Most of us wear jeans at some point in the week and the shoes we wear with them can change the whole look of an outfit. Here are my top five suggestions.

1) Without doubt, my go-to pair are the Purcell II in Tabacco Suede. We have talked in detail about the history of a Chelsea boot and why they appeal and this particular model works beautifully with jeans as the colour sets off the denim perfectly. And don’t be fooled into thinking suede means they are delicate, this suede is as hardy as anything and will clean up very easily if required ( I personally think they look better when they have the worn look).

2) Yes, another boot style (I promise this isn’t a running theme), but my second favourite style to wear with jeans is the Coniston (or the Coniston II would work). When my fleece gets broken out of the wardrobe and I’m having to clear leaves off my shoes, so I don’t make the porch a mess, I know it’s time to get my ever-faithfuls out. They are not as elegant as the Purcell II, what with their more rugged exterior and Dainite sole, but they are a smarter than average boot thanks to the brogued uppers and the deep burgundy mix of grain/smooth leathers. It must be mentioned that the 12508 last is for me the best country/casual style last there is. It’s not overly rounded or overly sleek, perfectly suited to being worn with your favourite pair of smart or rough-and-ready jeans.

3) I am excited to talk about my third choice… the Voyager in Mustard. A fairly new addition to our ever-growing collection of styles, they have become a real favourite of mine for when I am on the go. At the ripe old age of 35, I feel too old to wear my gym trainers for general ‘around town’ plodding or a trip to the supermarket, so these really are the best alternative. They are heavier and sturdier than my Nike shoes, and look the mustard (pun intended) with a pair of jeans. You won’t look like you’re trying to dress like a teenager, instead you will give the impression you care about your footwear even when they are the ultimate casual style, and adding a splash of colour never hurts. Talking of the colour, this yellow is the perfect tone and any other variation could look garish but the guys at Norman Walsh, who made these for us, have nailed it. To summarise, I would describe the Voyager as an ‘adult trainer’ and a bit of a wardrobe essential.

4) When I am not wearing the above and just need to slip something on easily, I go with the Rock. Yes, they’re deck shoes and usually worn with chinos or shorts but, trust me, they work with jeans too. I wouldn’t wear them to the pub or on a day out, but I will pop them on for walking my dog or taking the bins out. Once laced you don’t really need to unlace them as they will give quite quickly, so you can slip your feet in with ease, maybe you can call them my lazy shoes? Yeah, that would be fair. An alternative to a pair of Crocs, perhaps….

5) For those of us lucky enough to be able to dress ’smart casual’ at work, there are a lot of options when it comes to footwear. The go-to would be a pair of tan brogues and why not? They look great with a pair of jeans and a shirt. But to mix it up I would consider a pair of monk shoes. Forming part of our new handgrade range, the Monkwell in dark brown would be my first choice to wear with smart jeans, either with a shirt or even a nice tee. I could wax lyrical about the quality and finish of these shoes all day, but if I am cutting to the chase, then quite simply they are elegant without being too dressy. You won’t feel overdressed wearing these for that Friday evening pint, while not feeling under dressed at work.

These are just my suggestions. Happy for you to make your suggestions below or send us your photos on our social media channels.

Herring Shoes

Back in the clubhouse

24 September 2021

Following a fantastic win on American soil for the European women in the Solheim Cup, we can now also get excited about the delayed Ryder Cup starting today. Meanwhile, amateur golfers were quick to get back to their favourite courses as soon, as social distancing restrictions, were lifted to enjoy some fresh air and a sense of normality.

It made us think about what people wear on the golf course and in the clubhouse. Plus-fours (knickerbockers) and tweed jackets were all the rage back in the 18^th century, although golf fans will remember that the late Payne Stewart had a penchant for plus-fours in the 1990s. Slacks took over in the 1930s as more casual attire became more acceptable. Tailored shorts are now common in the summer months and are usually worn with a collared shirt.

Simply put, there are glorious, traditional standards to uphold. While they are not written into the Royal & Ancient handbook, there are dress code rules that are recognised by most clubs. No shirts untucked, no short shorts, no ankle socks and no denim are common no-nos.

As golf attire usually transfers straight from the 18^th green to the clubhouse, it got us thinking about what you wear on your feet once you have removed your golf shoes. I think the same sense of decorum needs to be applied. My father was a fan of a post-round loafer…after all, the quicker he got his shoes on, the quicker he could order a rewarding pint of bitter!

There is sense in his thinking and loafers or moccasins are perfect for slipping on after four hours out on the course. They are smart and work well with long shorts or chinos. You can whip your socks (short or long) off too to allow your feet to breathe a little. Regular readers of our blog will know we have plenty of loafers to choose from, but for this purpose, I am suggesting the clean and lightweight Enzo or the Maranello moccasins.

Now into September, we must admit that autumn is around the corner and loafers may not be the ideal choice as the weather gets colder. The brogue though fits the bill perfectly. They ooze country style and a robustness that was needed back in Scotland where the game was invented in the 15^th century. To give a nod to the tweed, you could go for our Exmoor style or go for a classic, more elegant Munster.

Somehow though, I cannot see the likes of Rory McIlory, Tommy Fleetwood or Ricky Fowler rocking up in brogues, but then who is going to turn them away from the bar for not sporting the right footwear? Even the top players will need formal ‘street’ shoes. The slightly cringey opening ceremony of the Ryder Cup usually sees the players in suits or jackets and slacks, so check out what they are wearing on their feet. A monk shoe, like the Monkwell or Jacob, would look super smart while Golding derby would also look the part.

Not all clubs are so strict though and some accept a more casual dress code. Not sure they are ready for high-top sneakers just yet – my dad would never approve – but along with aforementioned loafers, you may get away with brown/dark green leather trainers, like the Ensign or the Silverstone II which has brogue detailing. But please do check!

In summary, it seems churlish to make the effort on the course and not continue the sense of formality into the clubhouse. These shoes will be more than adequate for eating out and many work situations. With these transferable attributes, you can be both the king of the clubhouse and boardroom.

Herring Shoes

How will you be wearing your sporting colours this summer?

6 July 2021

Summer means sport and this year sees a bumper number of tournaments with the Euros, delayed from 2020, in full flow and the Olympics just two-and-a-half weeks away.

Apologies in advance if you are not an England fan. I will make this brief. For those of you that are, you will know that we play Denmark in the semi-final tomorrow night at Wembley. Unless you are lucky enough to have a ticket, you will no doubt be watching at home, on screens in gardens or in the pub. Even lacklustre football fans cannot help turning half an eye to the television when it gets to this stage. Why? Because sport makes us feel good.

The out-pouring of national pride and enthusiasm in supporting and celebrating the endeavours of our countrymen and women is uplifting. Australians will re-member the joy of 2000 Olympic Games and the British were full of pride in 2012. I’m sure, despite the delay and strained circumstances of this summer’s Tokyo Olympics, the Japanese will get swept up in the euphoria of the event too, along with all the other the nations who send competitors.

Meanwhile, rugby fans will know that the British & Irish Lions have begun playing in South Africa – another once in every four years occasion – and the home nations have undertaken a series of international matches too.

The fact these three competitions have collided in one summer is due to COVID, which although frustrating last year, is rather wonderful for the sports fan in 2021. Meanwhile, Wimbledon and cricket is a constant in the summer with the addition of a new tournament this year called The Hundred. The Tour de France is wending its way through, well, France, The Open features at Royal St George’s in two weekends’ time and the Paralympics start at the end of August. It’s just brilliant!

So how will you be flying your colours and turning out for these events? This is where this blog came from after I saw a group of young men on their way to the pub to watch the football…all wearing pristine white trainers or sneakers. We can help with that!

In fact, our Sebastian sneaker has a choice of red, white or navy suede at the topof the heel, so can you choose how you display your national loyalty. These colours work for many countries across the world too!

If you prefer a trainer, than the Voyager in navy and white could be a good option or the Goodwood in white calf is a super smart classic too.

If you happen to get tickets to Wimbledon or the cricket, then a two-tone spectator must be the way to go. Named after the rowing regatta, the Henley would be perfect or the Henley II for a lighter shade or the Farnham for a bit of navy suede.

Light-weight brogues could also work, such as the Carnaby or Longford, and loafers will see you through all of the occasions above. I would suggest the Cannes or Ibstock for summer suede.

After 15 months of worry and waiting, it feels good to be able to celebrate something again and to be with family and friends. Sport brings people together in a truly unique way. If you are still home working and do not have any excuse to buy new shoes for the office, then why not treat yourself to a new pair of shoes to enjoy a truly packed summer of super sport…whoever you support.

Herring Shoes

Why the brogue deserves attention

10 September 2020

The handmade brogue deserves attention. In the BBC’s recent adaption of Vikram Seth’s ‘A Suitable Boy’ (catch it on BBC iPlayer if you have not already), there are scenes that get the shoe nerd all excited. Yes, really!

Starting with the fact that Seth’s father was an executive at Bata Shoes and was known as Mr Shoe in Delhi, it is a handmade brogue that really does it for me. It is not the main thrust of the plot, but this shoe is key in determining the future of one of the lead characters.

Here is a brief synopsis that does not spoil the ending. In 1951, a young Hindu woman called Lata chooses between three men to be her husband.

One of these is Haresh Khanna, a spectator-wearing manager of a shoe factory. When he leaves his position on a matter of principle, Haresh approaches a European shoe factory and the owners set him a manual task after initially dismissing him for having soft thumbs. He is asked to “make a first-class pair of shoes” from the design pattern to the finished product. The shoes they choose are Blake-stitched brogues. The factory owners chose the most difficult design in their production line expecting Haresh to fail. He uses his so-called soft thumbs to produce a stunning pair of shoes that convinces the owners to take him on as foreman, while winning the respect of the shoemakers on the factory floor.

I appreciate you may not be as excited as me by these snippets from this six-part programme, but it does give a brief insight into the care and attention that is put into handmade shoes and why they are worth their higher price tag.

This highly-skilled process involves following a pattern to cut out the leather required, punching the brogue design, assembling and sewing the pieces together on the last, making leather stiffeners, heel building, and finishing, including waxing and polishing, before using the Blake stitching method to sew the sole onto the upper.

Invented in 1856 by Lyman Reed Blake, the Blake method now uses sewing machines to sew together all the layers. You would need tough thumbs indeed to achieve this by hand as seen in Herring’s range of Blake-stitched shoes and boots, including the Ilfracombe brogues, the Coleford rubber-soled boots and Barker’s Rugby two-tone rubber-soled Oxfords.

Haresh, though, went on to find success for his new employers by pushing a Goodyear welted line. Invented by Charles Goodyear Jr, a welted shoe sees a narrow strip of leather – the welt – sewn separately to the upper and the sole. This means that by simply slicing through the welt with a sharp knife, the sole can be cleanly detached from the upper, making repairs much easier.

Our Goodyear-welted brogues include the Henry II, the Burford rubber-soled style, the Chamberlain semi-brogues, the Thatcher brogue boots and the Henley two-tone, which Haresh would have been proud to be seen in!

A welt makes shoes infinitely more repairable, as worn soles can be removed and new ones sewn back onto the welt. You can repair a Blake shoe but not as often, as the upper is more likely to be damaged when the sole is removed.

Unsurprisingly, the repairability of these shoes is reflected in the price difference. A cemented shoe, where the sole is glued on, is cheaper than a Blake-stitched shoe and a Goodyear-welted shoe is more expensive again. The price of a shoe is determined by the material used, the craftmanship involved and the durability. Repairs were key in the post-war era as most people were still feeling the pinch of rationing and austerity.

At the end of the 20th century and the start of this one, consumers began to lean towards buying cheap for short-term gain. We are seeing that trend reverse now, as people have begun to recognise the negative effect it’s having on the environment with landfill sites overflowing with clothing and footwear that have only been worn a handful of times.

Classic Goodyear welted brogue, the Herring Canning II

For shoe nerds like me, this BBC series very briefly shone the spotlight on the precious skill and workmanship that goes into handmade shoes, especially a brogue, and the different construction methods that are used…and why they are still relevant to the quality of shoes today.

Herring Shoes

Staying true to yourself, even for an interview.

27 November 2019

This blog has been written by one of our longest standing customers, Jerry Tharapos. His insight is invaluable.

So, what is your favourite quote or anecdote about style?

Recently I came across a quote from the legendary and dapper, handsome Hollywood leading man Clark Gable, who said “a well tailored suit is to a woman what lingerie is to a man”. There is no doubt that he was correct, as he was never at a loose end when it came to having a beautiful woman by his side.

Is it really that simple? At a time when fast fashion and the sloppy hoody or sweat pant seems to be de rigueur, what drives us to counter the norm and wear a tailored suit, tie, hat or handmade shoes? We are all individuals and I am sure we all have many and different reasons. As for me, the French poet and playwright, Jean Cocteau said it best, “Style is a simple way of saying complicated things.”

A man’s style says a lot about him. Colour, layers and texture speaks to depth and complexity. A bespoke commission suggests the desire to differentiate yourself from the norm and to make a statement about your individuality. There is definitely an eccentricity associated with cultivating and evolving a style that defines who you are.

But what about your workplace? how do you dress when you are in your 9 to 5 persona? Do your work colleagues view your style or eccentricity with contempt or do they enjoy it. My experience is both, but typically I have found that most welcome the eccentricity. Especially if you are good at what you do and get the results. Nonetheless, you will get the few (and some may even be your boss) that view you as self indulgent and in some cases ridiculous. My counter argument and defence, in these cases, is to be bold and back myself and say, “you like the results that I bring and change that I make but, it is those that are different that make the difference.”

Clearly it is easier to be yourself when you are in a familiar environment or workplace. But, how should you dress for a job interview? Recently, I have had to think about this. A few years ago, this was never an issue for consideration in a professional environment. In order to make a good impression, a suit and tie and beautifully kept shoes was the norm for an interview. This in not the case today. Few to no-one wears a tie any more and suits are also somewhat a thing of the past. In fact, even going to an interview unshaven appears to be the norm these days.

To my horror, I have found myself having to go from wearing a 3 piece tailored suit to chinos and an open necked shirt. Only then did I get some traction with interviews. But, I did make sure I wore a waistcoat, braces and my favourite tan Herring country brogues. I got the job.

There is a lot written about what to wear at an interview. Simple tips are, be cognizant of the culture of the organisation and don’t be too dramatic with what you wear. Comply somewhat but be true to who you are. Think about how to differentiate yourself along the lines of your cultivated style. For me, that was, the waistcoat and Herring brogues.

I start my new job in a few days and I need to start thinking about my wardrobe for day one.

Herring Shoes

Herring Shoes collaborates with Anatomic & Co.

8 February 2013

Quintessentially British brand Herring Shoes has collaborated with Brazilian men’s footwear brand Anatomic & Co, to create a range of shoes that are not only beautifully crafted but extremely comfortable and flexible as well. The Herring by Anatomic range incorporates Anatomic & Co’s patented gel technology and features Chelsea, Brogue and Chukka boots along with Brogue and Gibson shoes. See the full collection below:

Herring Shoes

Harry Potter star wears Herring

30 May 2012

Attitude magazine had the opportunity to interview Matthew Lewis, the actor who played Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter films. Here he is photographed wearing the Herring Westminster belt and a pair of classic Herring Canning brogues. Read the full interview below…

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Live for Fashion.

12 March 2012

This weekend GQ’s Editor, Dylan Jones, chose his favourite items for a weekend away. Printed in Sunday’s Live magzine, his edit included our classic Canning brogue.

Browsing Tag: Brogues