Haute Concept

Allen Edmond is a US-based shoe company that has been making superior quality shoes since 1922. We were immediately attracted to their distinctive designs and quality which maintain elegance through their reserved appearance. Their attention to detail allows for superior comfort through techniques like shankless contruction, which eliminates break-in time, allowing shoes to move naturally with your feet from the initial use. The shoes are offered in an exhaustive selection of size and width combinations. Materials are meticulously selected using the highest grade leathers even for the lining, which allow the shoe to breathe better than synthetic materials. High-quality touches like cork insulation between the insole and outsole allow the shoe to mold to the individuals feet.

However, the point that sealed the deal for us is the unique “Recrafting” process offered by the them. The shoes are made so well, the company boasts that they can actually restore them to a near-new condition, if need be. It was the actual process that piqued our interest. According to their website, when you send your shoes in for “Recrafting”, their experts will first free the uppers from worn soles. Stretched over the proper last, the original uppers become shoes again through their unique manufacturing process. After your shoes are re-welted, soled and heeled, old finishes are carefully removed from the leather and new polishes and waxes applied. In about four weeks, shoes that look surprisingly new are returned to you. A great way to reinvest in a prized possesion, according to them.

They also offer a wide selection of belts for dress and casual wear, that complement their shoes well. And, of course, a collection of shoe-care products.

The New York Times has reported that French fashion house Christian Dior has chosen to not renew Hedi Slimane’s contract as designer of it’s men’s wear line, Dior Homme. According to the Times,

“Mr. Slimane, the designer of Dior Homme since 2000, had been involved in contract negotiations since last July and had made no secret of his ambitions to exact greater creative control at Dior and design women’s collections under his own name.”

Apparently, the design house wanted Mr. Slimane’s forthcoming signature line to be operated under the Dior name, which would also mean control of the creative process. Dior has chosen Kris Van Assche to replace Slimane as artistic director for men’s ready-to-wear and accessories. Dior has become a formidable presence in menswear under Hedi Slimane’s watch. Slimane is known for his trademark slim fitting suits which have revolutionized menswear the past decade. This is part of the reason Dior has chosen Mr. Assche, as he was a former assistant of Hedi Slimane at Dior and previously at Yves Saint Larent. [source]

Photo credit: Jennifer Graylock/Associated Press