Edward Green – Going to MRket
As everyone probably knows by now, it’s show week in New York city, with (capsule), MRket, and a few other scattered shows around the city. While perusing MRket yesterday, it wasn’t anything new or revolutionary that caught my eye. Instead it was the traditional, fantastic shoes of Edward Green that had me mesmerized.
If you’re familiar with fine footwear, you’re probably already acquainted with Edward Green to some degree. They have been in Northampton, England, the shoe-making capital of the world, since their inception in 1890. Mr. Edward Green set up shop making hand-made shoes in a small factory, only utilizing the most highly skilled craftsman he could find. The brand promotes itself as “the finest shoes in England for the discerning few.” That’s quite the tall order, but I can’t say I think it’s far from the truth.
Their standard ready-to-wear and made-to-order shoes are from from standard. The leathers are exquisite, and from the moment you pick the shoes up you can tell they are something special. As with most things, it’s the details that make them what they are. The stitching is all tight and even, the welts and backs of the heel stack are finished beautifully and cleanly, and heels are pitched differently for each last. They offer a variety of slightly antiqued leathers with burnishing on the toes and quarters, but it is subtle enough that you don’t feel like you’re buying pre-distressed hooves. The level of attention to detail is really impressive, even compared to other shoes at this price point.
Then if you’re willing to take the plunge you can hop up to the Top Drawer model. They’re the closest thing I’ve ever seen to a bespoke shoe that wasn’t. While they certainly come with an appropriate price tag, the difference between Top Drawer and bespoke will leave you with enough in your pocket that you can go enjoy the shoes in public and not be stuck wearing them around the house. The waists on typical (again a terrible word here) Edward Greens is gently contoured, while the Top Drawer feature a true sculpted waist and even more impressive detailing. Truly a sight to behold.
If you want to get your hands on some in New York, I highly recommend stopping by the ever-dependable folks over at Leffot. They carry a great line in store, as well as doing the made-to-order program. If you’re on the other side of the pond, the Edward Green London shop, just behind Beau Brummel on Jermyn Street, is a great destination as well.
Sadly I left MRket in the same kicks I showed up in, not shod in some Mushroom Suede Dover Split Toes or Antique Burgundy Westminster Double Monks. C’est la vie, I guess. But I did get a sneak peak at some things around the corner for Edward Green that I can’t quite tell you about yet, so keep your eyes peeled and I’ll be updating you as I can.
