John Lobb, Bath
[Acquire from John Lobb]
The most conservative shoemaker in England, in ice blue.
John Lobb, since 1849 · Unlined suede · Flexible rubber sole
Why it's here
John Lobb is the name people give when asked who makes the best English shoes, and it is known for black oxfords worn in boardrooms. That is exactly why this loafer appealed to us. It is soft, unlined and pale blue, the sort of shoe you would not expect from such a house, made with all of its skill. From a famous maker we always look for the piece few people know about.
The object
The upper is a single layer of fine suede with no lining, so it wraps the foot like a glove. The sole is thin rubber that bends freely, in place of the usual stiff leather. The shape is a classic penny loafer, cut a little lower and lighter.
Living with it
These are for warm months and easy days: off-white trousers, a navy knit, no socks. Brush the suede after wearing and keep it out of the rain. The colour softens over time into something even better.
Maker: John Lobb, founded 1849
Upper: Unlined suede, Ice Blue
Sole: Flexible rubber
Style: Penny loafer
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