Which pair of these dress shoes if your favorite? Let us know! Thanks for watching! If you have any questions please share them here in the comment section. If you liked this video make sure you give us a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel and turn on notifications so that you know when we release new videos.
Fantastic video! Do another in-depth video for the Cleverley bespoke shoes :-) I know you already did for some of them... but still, love them a lot especially the first one you bought and the seamless whole-cut.
As usual, quality video. One suggestion - when you have music playing in video, might be worth bringing its volume down some. It can be distracting, IMO.
What can i say besides thank you Im a blue collar worker and i ever get to dress up your channel has inspired me to start a small collection in fine clothing i particularly like the Englishman style i do have to say your channel is by far the most enjoyable and serves a purpose to keep up a long lost tradition of style for gentlemen
Same here sir. The latest Englishman style which I have joined is the Peaky Blinders sectioned wool cap. It is widespread now as a former working class/gangster cap is now a fashion item. It is very mojo building and I recommend to you. Folks cross the street when you walk along. Banjo/England
As a retiree, I can't aspire to all your super quality stuff, but you have got under my skin, as I always remember my late father going in suit and tie and smart shoes, whereas I went for t shirts, trainers total slob look after 50+ years as a salesman in the Rat Race (although I sold the top quality pricey wallpapers, using the maxim Quality is remembered;long after price is forgotten.. I destroyed/charitied most ties (kept black grey and one red), Gave shirts jackets suits to charity. OK, now I realise leaving work does not mean stopping Smart. All the stuff I bought now on Amazon has referral to Kirby Allison as a mojo restoring necessity of life. I bought horsehair brushes (wood of course),wood hangers, wood shoehorns long and short. Cream linen jacket (oh). irons tow pairs black trousers. polished and restored black shoes, brogues and bought three new pairs brown/tan. bought cream polish restorer. Spend time doing every thing up. Its all your fault Mister Allison! Then i see you in t shirt on office move!! Hmm ... ... I do have well polished guitars banjos and ukes, including a £500 solid mahogany cutaway fisherman pickup Kala. Now that is style..... Thanks again.
I know it is hard to believe for many, but to me it seems a very discerning compilation of footwear. It is very easy to acquire a large number of pairs when second hand shopping. Enthusiasts with the wealth to do so can quickly fill rooms. Mr. Allison however seems to maintain a carefully curated and maintained selection. I am truly impressed.
Andres Mendoza In reality, I probably have eight shoes I’m wearing regularly. A lot of these are older pairs I’ve transitioned through. Eight pairs of AE’s is a pretty awesome collection!
Vintage Allen Edmunds? Newer makes seem rushed to me. I recently considered a pair of cordavon Oxfords that had far from perfect stitching and they were just under 700! I even asked the rep if they were seconds...they were not! Ebay here I come...
Thank you for showing us your personal shoe collection. As for myself, I have a big problem concerning beautiful shoes that I have acquired over the years. It is simply that when I find a pair of shoes that I truly like very much I just prefer to look and admire them in their pristine state and therefore never wear them! For example, for my birthday many years ago I purchased a pair of Ferragamo laced shoes with no detailing that just had the most wonderful curves and shape. So every few months I take them out of their box and just admire them from all angles but never actually wear them. My current pair of Santoni loafers sat in my closet for about five years until I had no more other loafers to wear, so I decided that it was time to finally wear them.
I really appriciate your thoughts and stories on your shoes. I am just starting my shoe collection and learning all the proper use of shoe styles has been extremely helpful. I thought I loved shoes before, but now I appriciate the different styles much more after watching your videos.
Manny Bamberg For me, it’s more about the fit and elegance than being able to order unique, particular styles. Most of my bespoke stuff are models that would be easy to find RTW. But once you experience the fit of bespoke, you really can’t go back....
Hi Kirby, you are terrific. I am not s Alone. I just bought my first pair of Edmonds black tassled loafers ×patent leather shoes here in Manhatten. First time customer! I am thrilled to view your video--nice to hear a refined voice like yours. I was brought up with good values Keep me posted!
Kirby...Just discovered your informative videos last week and I have been binge watching ever since. This video answers a question I was asking as I watched the Baron De Rede Loafer fitting. Great work! Thanks for sharing
Thank You so much, I am in the process of upping my shoe game, not at the 800 or 1600 dollar bespoke level but will get there. I enjoy taking care of my 200.00 oxfords never the lest.
@@carbonado2432 Is it even possible to unlace them in the mere 8 to 16 hours between shifts, let alone re-lace them? I heard the laces were selected for the dual purpose of controlled descent from the top floor.
Amazing collection Kirby ! Recently I met and bought shoes from a factory sale of company which produces shoes for major UK brands. Got amazing quality BAR III boots for 10 pounds (1000 INR) .
I just bought my 100th pair of luxury men's dress shoes. I began my journey by following Sven Raphael Schneider last year. Accordingly, I built much of my shoe collection based on his acquisition principles. Next, in the process of acquiring shoes, I learned that I needed to take care of my investment so I found Kirby Allison and the Hanger Project. Once you start using the Saphir products on your shoes and putting in the work to elevate your "shine game", the power of "pride in ownship" begins to transform you. Next, I found Sartorial Talks which introduced me to more of the artisan shoes makers from around the world. Now, because of the aforementioned peoples, I'm ready to leave the entry level price point for shoes and seek out the best in craftsman's ship and artistic expression that the world of luxury men's shoes has to offer. I'm having a lot of fun and learning a lot about positive self-expression through the introduction of classical men's fashion and luxury shoes into my life. Thanks!
Thanks for the shoe collection tour. I appreciate your passion for the amazing artistry and quality of well constructed shoes. Impressive collection Kirby.
Great shoe collection, it’s interesting how we each have our own style evolution. When I was in college I really loved cap toe and tasseled loafers and then I moved on to favor wingtips, bluchers, bike toe etc. I moved from Florsheim to Alden, Balenciaga and other higher end brands but have to admit I’ve never spent over 1K for pair of shoes, I wait for them to go on sale.
I’ve been wanting the George Cleverley Punched Cap Oxford, but would like in oxblood or dark maroon color. I do have AE Cornwallis, in tan which looks similar, but nowhere as nice. Great videos....even with AE’s, shine makes such a huge difference. As for Saphir products, they are fantastic. Btw, with little stepping on my shoes often, I’ve given up uniform shine, but still get great results with the mirror gloss and pate de luxe combo. Thanks again for great videos.
Mauri used to have a shop in Milan on Via Montanapoleon (Their equivalent of Madison Ave.) They were famous for high end shoes in exotic skins. In the 80"s I purchased 3 pair of tassel loafers there( lack alligator, brown alligator and black Ostrich). Great shoes. As one who loves loafers over laces I lived in classic black tassel loafers. In NYC they were acceptable for formal and business wear. Like you I never loved double monks, too much hardware. There are lots of great classic styles out there. I would recommend 2. A Raywood style loafer a la Peal (C & J) for Brooks, basically a Bal turned into a slip-on. Finally what I feel is Cleverly's most unusual and innovative and perhaps his most famous shoe design. The Butterfly Loafer. Great collection, great video.
Funny story about Mauri. Thank you for that information... I always assumed my grandfather purchased those crocodile shoes at Neiman Marcus in Houston... but maybe he got them on a trip to Italy! Who knows. They're incredible shoes, though.
A fine video. Music volume a little loud, but it's good music, so not a problem. Fine choices to be sure, no question. What really strikes me each time you've spoken about your shoe acquisition journey is that you've always mentioned starting in college at the $150-$200 price points. Feel like I've heard this from you a few times. That's a remarkable place and age to start at! It seems to me quite rare for gentlemen in college to even be able to approach a budget of that threshold for footwear, much less to actually spend such. Many a grown man in their 30's and 40's wouldn't spend $200+ on a pair of shoes, much less on many multiple pairs!
My cousin aged 20 joined a Merchant Bank in London and was told to buy himself 5 Church’s shoes(before Prada ownership). He still works in the industry aged 50 and has only now replaced them!
I am wearing my pair of George from Walmart! Great looks, Smells leather, Great Price! Best of all, if someone were to steals it, I won't feel too badly about it.
I don't know if it's just me, but I find it really difficult to follow what your saying as the melody of the music keeps grabbing my attention. Other than that, awesome content, thank you!
I put thompson's water seal on the bottom of my shoes. a light sanding to get the bottoms smooth, then a few coats of Thompson's wather seal. It seals the bottoms from water and it keeps the bottoms looking newer.
4:59 aren't those semi-brogues? I've always thought Adelaide oxfords were when the quarter & vamp are the same piece of leather that is then sewn to the lacing system--like your shoe at 6:10.
And here I was thinking my assortment of Churchs , Cheaneys, Herrings, Loakes , Barkers and Carlos Santos( 13 pairs in total) were excessive lol Nice videos and many thanks for your advice .. I've been using them to add some extra care to my collection.
Hey Kirby , fine collection. Like you I have a pair of bespoke George cleverly and a ready to wear pair of St Crispins amongst my shoe collection. I would recommend that you look to getting a pair of Edward Green. I think you will be pleased. I will be looking to get a pair of my first Graziano & Girling next. Oh yes , look at Alden suede and leather loafers , calf and cordovan. Sublime.
You've shown off those burgandy whole cut Bespoke Cleverlys a couple times now and I am totally in love with them. They are awesome. I think your shoe collection is worth more than my total net worth lol.
Nice Collection. I wish I still had my black Oxfords I bought over 20 years ago - got lost somewhere. Love shoes so building my collecrion slowly. Bespoke shoes are on my list next.
A bespoke pair of black captoe oxfords would be the perfect place to begin! You can easily wear those shoes the rest of your life. You could wear them every day almost if you wanted!
Coo, thanks for sharingl. I have about 30 pairs or so of dress shoes. Almost all are Santoni and Ferragamo, these two brands fit me really well. I just spent a few hundred with you in Saphir products to work on these shoes since we are stuck at home right now.
It would be interesting to know what types of non-dress shoes you own. Like do you own hiking boots, running shoes, work boots, etc. Those are obviously not the theme of the channel, but it would be interesting to see if your taste in quality shoes extends outside of just dress shoes.
But again I’m impressed with your dress style, and will continue to follow your channel. I’m a bit of a rare bird, in that I tend to dress a little more than my teaching cohorts which kinda makes me stand out around high schoolers with their athletic gear and sneakers.
Sean Z These may have been a personal pair from George Glasgow he Kent me for a video. Wingtips are another style I just haven’t fallen in love with. I prefer a cap toe with brouging to a wingtip.
your gazianos in burgundy look a lot like allen edmonds cornwallis, which they just brought back as a limited release a few weeks ago. i picked up the cornwallis in vintage burgundy and vintage navy
Beautiful collection! I'm fairly new to better shoes myself, and I've stuck to Allen Edmond's so far. Thanks for the inspiration to expand my horizons. I work at an industrial facility (power plant) and don't get to wear nice shoes too often, so I haven't yet found the gumption to get a pair of bespoke shoes. In my early 40's, though, I feel it's time.
JustinHEMI If you don’t wear them often, all the more reason to have two to three really awesome shoes you’ll love and wear the rest of your life! There is just something special about putting on a pair of bespoke shoes!
can you please make a video on how to store shoes you don't wear, for year sometimes and how to take care of them and how often should we condition or polish them?? thank you .
Really like the red GC pig skin loafers and black GC cap toe oxfords-hope to get some myself soon. My walnut McCalisters and oxblood Strands seem sturdy, but the fit and finish are ok. I enjoy them though.
Bet that shoe collection is worth more than my car lol. I'll probably never be able to afford a luxury wardrobe, but I appreciate the quality and style. Glad to see the channel growing.
james Pitt , There's a scene in Grand Torino; the kid asks Clint Eastwood how he could afford such a garage full of tools. Eastwood scoffed at the question and told how he bought one tool then later bought another and later bought another...
Love your videos. I find dress shoes with leather soles can be a bit slippery. What’s your opinion regarding having them topied to improve its grip and possibly longevity.
Hello mr Allison I dress w originals from the 1890s do u have any idea where one could get an original pair from this era in a modern size (size euro 44 or up)? I scanned ebay and etsy without any results.
A similar journey for me. I'd always appreciated half decent shoes from an early age. This started with the likes of Loake (and various shoes made by loake under other names), which are much like the AE of UK, a solid, well made range of welted shoes. That said the 1880 Range from loake punches above its weight and offers good leather on a well made shoe. Then I bought my first pair of Crockett & Jones, and that was really the start of the "habit". The crocketts were just another level up, and I ended up buying several crocketts, followed by some Cheaneys, which of similar quality, actually fit me a little better, albeit that I still prefer crockett leather slightly. Then I discovered Alfred Sargent, and in particular the Exclusive range, which in hindsight, push well well above their weight. The 724 last is highly reminiscent of the G&G TG73 last, and in fact my Moores appear almost identical in many ways to the G&G St James II. They are made from excellent leather, and have lots of high end touches like the rolled (and narrow) waists, and lasted shoe trees. But then I bought some G&G's! Although I love my Gazianos, what I will say, is that having experienced G&G, Edward Green and Clevereley shoes, I'd suggest that the Alfred Sargent Exclusives / Handgrade, are actually sitting at an apex of price / quality / value, where spending a lot more gets you very little, and spending much less can get you significantly less. In fact when I came to buy the Moores, I did consider buying the G&G St James II, but I genuinely couldn't find any detail, finishing, or styling difference that would convince me to pay double the money. So I stuck with the AS. I'd love to get a few more Gazianos, but perhaps some AS handgrade first :)
I purchased two pairs of Allen Edmonds upon your recommendations of a starter brand to upgrade your wardrobe. One pair makes quite a bit of noise when walking, I do, now have shoe trees in my shoes to help prolong their longevity and decrease the creasing of the shoes. Do you have any suggestions to help work the shoes in, so they don't make so much noise, but not create a lot of creases that mar the overall appearance and second do you have any other suggestions to decrease the amount of creases the shoe holds on to with normal use?
16:35 Here you spoke about a made-to-order program for these slippers. I didn't see where that is on your website. Is this still something you offer? I would like to get my husband something like that if it is available.
Hi Kirby, can you still get the Foster & Son house slippers with monogramming? They only seem to have a handful on their website and i didn't see the monogramming option. Is there another comparable house slipper out there that you like?
Kirby, As usual, thank you for your expert advice. Also it's refreshing to know that there is someone with nearly as many shoes as I have! I haven't tried Cleverley but would like a pair of their Churchill loafers. I seem to prefer Edward Green and Crockett and Jones to my G&G's, and have several pair of Alden Shell Cordovan shoes which are also outstanding shoes. Thanks!!
Hello Kirby, I am a fan of your channel and each episode is immensely watchable. Thanks for educating many of us on shoes and caring for the shoes. I have a question: What kind of belt do you wear with Burgundy shoes? Perhaps a better question is where can I buy good quality formal burgundy belts?
I now own over 30 pairs of shoes from a small family company based in the Neatherlands called Reinhard Frans. Very good shoes and through a MTO program I am always sure the last that suits my feet best is used. Have you ever heared of the Company?
Thank you Kirby! All of your videos are informative and educational. I have seen them all and have learned a lot. How long does it take for you to get a suit custom made for you???
Hi Kirby, I have a question : I live in Norway, where the climate is wet and cold most of the year. Can you recommend some shoes of more robust build and that has rubber soles? Thank you for your videos, I am learning a lot, keep them coming 😊
Kirby, great to see another man showing his shoes, one thing that I would like explained is, why do some shoes sit flat on the floor, while others curl up at the toe. I know which I prefer but just what is going on.
Colin, this primarily arises from two reasons: (1) cheap construction or (2) the shoes not being stored with shoe trees. The latter is preventable. When you wear a pair of shoes, you flex the shoe as you walk naturally, which is what creates the shoe's predisposition to curve. When you store your shoes using shoe trees, they stretch the shoe flat as it dries so that this crescent shape doesn't become permanent.
Good video Kirby. I have a query however. In Melbourne on the weekend I bought a pair of Louboutin suede oxfords.The saleslady advised that I should have them sprayed to make them waterproof. What is your thought on this recommendation? I should say where I live (Adelaide) there is minimal rain and I do not intend to wear them in the rain if I can avoid it. I suppose I am more worried if I go to a "stand up" function and wine, "finger food" etc falls onto the shoes. On another note RE your video, I print/take pictures of the shoes and put them at the front/side of the shoe box for easily ID. I do this with my wife's extensive collection too! Often the shoe boxes are quite smart in themselves and try to keep them as far as possible.
I didn’t know you were doing these until recently. Just haven’t payed enough attention to the boards but I’m getting more into RUclips. Good job! Let me know if you wanna talk about Stetson history or hats in general sometime. Keep up the good vids!
James Milligan Yes! A man needs more than black oxfords. My chukka boots and casuals probably get the most wear here in Dallas, especially w three kids. But I LOVE my formal dress shoes and enjoy it when I’m able to wear them!
Thanks Kirby, enjoy your videos. I am parallel to your thinking on quality and craftsmanship for anything, whether clothing, vehicles, firniture, anything I care to own. I have a simple question: Where could I find a store carrying Edward Green shoes? I would like to touch the product.
Kirby a quick question: Do you think it is appropriate to wear Allen Edmonds Fifth Avenue shoes in Walnut with dark indigo jeans? I have a pair of black oxfords already and am looking for a versatile second shoe and am leaning toward the Fifth Avenue in Walnut hoping it would be able to dress up in a navy suit and jeans as well for a casual look. Thanks in advance. Love your channel and your store! Regards
Hello Kirby, I hace a question about how to fit the monk straps. Like the leather straps of watches, I am afraid that with the continuous use of that type of shoes I will end up wearing the strap of the shoe and have an ugly old age. How can I do to avoid that damage as much as possible? Maybe putting them on like a loafers or wearing a shoehorn?
Which pair of these dress shoes if your favorite? Let us know!
Thanks for watching! If you have any questions please share them here in the comment section. If you liked this video make sure you give us a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel and turn on notifications so that you know when we release new videos.
Those Cleverley burgundy loafers are just awesome. It's a great collection but those are definitely my favorite.
Tyler Clendenin Yeah. These are currently my favorite pair by a long shot!
Fantastic video! Do another in-depth video for the Cleverley bespoke shoes :-) I know you already did for some of them... but still, love them a lot especially the first one you bought and the seamless whole-cut.
The Hanger Project for
Cleverly tassel loafers are a beauty 💖
As usual, quality video. One suggestion - when you have music playing in video, might be worth bringing its volume down some. It can be distracting, IMO.
What can i say besides thank you
Im a blue collar worker and i ever get to dress up your channel has inspired me to start a small collection in fine clothing i particularly like the Englishman style i do have to say your channel is by far the most enjoyable and serves a purpose to keep up a long lost tradition of style for gentlemen
Same here sir. The latest Englishman style which I have joined is the Peaky Blinders sectioned wool cap. It is widespread now as a former working class/gangster cap is now a fashion item. It is very mojo building and I recommend to you. Folks cross the street when you walk along. Banjo/England
Like the beer ad said, we cannot always choose what we do, but we can choose who we are: ruclips.net/video/66HuFrMZWMo/видео.html
As a retiree, I can't aspire to all your super quality stuff, but you have got under my skin, as I always remember my late father going in suit and tie and smart shoes, whereas I went for t shirts, trainers total slob look after 50+ years as a salesman in the Rat Race (although I sold the top quality pricey wallpapers, using the maxim Quality is remembered;long after price is forgotten.. I destroyed/charitied most ties (kept black grey and one red), Gave shirts jackets suits to charity. OK, now I realise leaving work does not mean stopping Smart. All the stuff I bought now on Amazon has referral to Kirby Allison as a mojo restoring necessity of life. I bought horsehair brushes (wood of course),wood hangers, wood shoehorns long and short. Cream linen jacket (oh). irons tow pairs black trousers. polished and restored black shoes, brogues and bought three new pairs brown/tan. bought cream polish restorer. Spend time doing every thing up. Its all your fault Mister Allison! Then i see you in t shirt on office move!! Hmm ... ... I do have well polished guitars banjos and ukes, including a £500 solid mahogany cutaway fisherman pickup Kala. Now that is style..... Thanks again.
the entire format and sophisticated jazz ambiance of your videos are really just phenomenal
Thanks!
I know it is hard to believe for many, but to me it seems a very discerning compilation of footwear. It is very easy to acquire a large number of pairs when second hand shopping. Enthusiasts with the wealth to do so can quickly fill rooms. Mr. Allison however seems to maintain a carefully curated and maintained selection. I am truly impressed.
Sometimes i feel like kirby's giving me advice on how to begin my new life as a butler.
And I thought I was being excessive with my eight pairs of Allen Edmonds... you are BOSS!
Andres Mendoza In reality, I probably have eight shoes I’m wearing regularly. A lot of these are older pairs I’ve transitioned through. Eight pairs of AE’s is a pretty awesome collection!
Vintage Allen Edmunds? Newer makes seem rushed to me. I recently considered a pair of cordavon Oxfords that had far from perfect stitching and they were just under 700! I even asked the rep if they were seconds...they were not! Ebay here I come...
Andres Mendoza nut hugger
Andres Mendoza make a collection video pls
I thought my converse and one pair of cheap dress shoes was impressive
Thank you for showing us your personal shoe collection. As for myself, I have a big problem concerning beautiful shoes that I have acquired over the years. It is simply that when I find a pair of shoes that I truly like very much I just prefer to look and admire them in their pristine state and therefore never wear them! For example, for my birthday many years ago I purchased a pair of Ferragamo laced shoes with no detailing that just had the most wonderful curves and shape. So every few months I take them out of their box and just admire them from all angles but never actually wear them. My current pair of Santoni loafers sat in my closet for about five years until I had no more other loafers to wear, so I decided that it was time to finally wear them.
I really appriciate your thoughts and stories on your shoes. I am just starting my shoe collection and learning all the proper use of shoe styles has been extremely helpful. I thought I loved shoes before, but now I appriciate the different styles much more after watching your videos.
nothing looks better on a man than 6 months of lifting weights and a good diet, love the channel KIrby, keep up the great work
Now I can show my wife that I don't have too many shoes!
Exactly!
The Hanger Project interestingly enough as I refine my shoe tastes and collection I feel I am becoming particular enough that I will go bespoke.
Manny Bamberg For me, it’s more about the fit and elegance than being able to order unique, particular styles. Most of my bespoke stuff are models that would be easy to find RTW. But once you experience the fit of bespoke, you really can’t go back....
Manny Bamberg 💪💪
LOL! I will mimic your strategy. Hope it works.
Best accomplished shoe collection i have ever seen! Truly a class apart. Great choices Mr.Kirby Allison.Thanks for sharing.
Hi Kirby, you are terrific. I am not s
Alone. I just bought my first pair of Edmonds black tassled loafers ×patent leather shoes here in Manhatten.
First time customer! I am thrilled to view your video--nice to hear a refined voice like yours. I was brought up with good values
Keep me posted!
Kirby...Just discovered your informative videos last week and I have been binge watching ever since. This video answers a question I was asking as I watched the Baron De Rede Loafer fitting. Great work! Thanks for sharing
Jay Thompson My pleasure! Thanks for watching.
ANYONE: How many pairs of shoes do you have Kirby?
KIRBY: Yes.
Thank You so much, I am in the process of upping my shoe game, not at the 800 or 1600 dollar bespoke level but will get there. I enjoy taking care of my 200.00 oxfords never the lest.
Kirby: “let your shoes rest a day or two before wearing them again”
Me: *looks at my boots I’ve worn every day for the past couple years*
I ruined my White's firefighting boots in under 2 years by wearing them all the time, even sleeping in them often during the summer.
@@carbonado2432 Is it even possible to unlace them in the mere 8 to 16 hours between shifts, let alone re-lace them? I heard the laces were selected for the dual purpose of controlled descent from the top floor.
Amazing collection Kirby ! Recently I met and bought shoes from a factory sale of company which produces shoes for major UK brands. Got amazing quality BAR III boots for 10 pounds (1000 INR) .
There are some nice gems you dropped on here. Thanks for the subtle advice about how to wear nicer shoes.
Fun to have some insight into another's style journey. Thanks for sharing.
This shoe collection is very inspiring. It shows that each person can build their own shoe collection based on their personal preferences.
Declan Bartlette Thanks! Every collection different!
I just bought my 100th pair of luxury men's dress shoes. I began my journey by following Sven Raphael Schneider last year. Accordingly, I built much of my shoe collection based on his acquisition principles. Next, in the process of acquiring shoes, I learned that I needed to take care of my investment so I found Kirby Allison and the Hanger Project. Once you start using the Saphir products on your shoes and putting in the work to elevate your "shine game", the power of "pride in ownship" begins to transform you. Next, I found Sartorial Talks which introduced me to more of the artisan shoes makers from around the world. Now, because of the aforementioned peoples, I'm ready to leave the entry level price point for shoes and seek out the best in craftsman's ship and artistic expression that the world of luxury men's shoes has to offer. I'm having a lot of fun and learning a lot about positive self-expression through the introduction of classical men's fashion and luxury shoes into my life. Thanks!
Thanks for the shoe collection tour. I appreciate your passion for the amazing artistry and quality of well constructed shoes. Impressive collection Kirby.
Thanks!
Great shoe collection, it’s interesting how we each have our own style evolution. When I was in college I really loved cap toe and tasseled loafers and then I moved on to favor wingtips, bluchers, bike toe etc. I moved from Florsheim to Alden, Balenciaga and other higher end brands but have to admit I’ve never spent over 1K for pair of shoes, I wait for them to go on sale.
Because of you, i learned to buy carminas and not pradas :) thanks!
Happy to hear that! Thanks for sharing!
I've been searching the web for those Grenson's black wholecut. Amazing collection, thanks for sharing!
Fantastic collection, I enjoyed hearing the evolution of your years of methodical acquisition.
Wow! That’s one amazing collection. Your dad’s advice is great. I’ll be looking to purchase my first bespoke next year.
JT Hwang That’s great! Yes. I’d prefer two to three pairs of incredible bespoke shoes over 5x normal RTW pairs. Any idea her who you want to go with?
I’ve been wanting the George Cleverley Punched Cap Oxford, but would like in oxblood or dark maroon color. I do have AE Cornwallis, in tan which looks similar, but nowhere as nice. Great videos....even with AE’s, shine makes such a huge difference. As for Saphir products, they are fantastic. Btw, with little stepping on my shoes often, I’ve given up uniform shine, but still get great results with the mirror gloss and pate de luxe combo. Thanks again for great videos.
I’m a 31 year old woman who accidentally stumbled upon this video I’m now watching most of yours videos keep up the good work
Mauri used to have a shop in Milan on Via Montanapoleon (Their equivalent of Madison Ave.) They were famous for high end shoes in exotic skins. In the 80"s I purchased 3 pair of tassel loafers there( lack alligator, brown alligator and black Ostrich). Great shoes. As one who loves loafers over laces I lived in classic black tassel loafers. In NYC they were acceptable for formal and business wear. Like you I never loved double monks, too much hardware. There are lots of great classic styles out there.
I would recommend 2. A Raywood style loafer a la Peal (C & J) for Brooks, basically a Bal turned into a slip-on.
Finally what I feel is Cleverly's most unusual and innovative and perhaps his most famous shoe design. The Butterfly Loafer.
Great collection, great video.
Funny story about Mauri. Thank you for that information... I always assumed my grandfather purchased those crocodile shoes at Neiman Marcus in Houston... but maybe he got them on a trip to Italy! Who knows. They're incredible shoes, though.
A fine video. Music volume a little loud, but it's good music, so not a problem. Fine choices to be sure, no question.
What really strikes me each time you've spoken about your shoe acquisition journey is that you've always mentioned starting in college at the $150-$200 price points. Feel like I've heard this from you a few times.
That's a remarkable place and age to start at! It seems to me quite rare for gentlemen in college to even be able to approach a budget of that threshold for footwear, much less to actually spend such. Many a grown man in their 30's and 40's wouldn't spend $200+ on a pair of shoes, much less on many multiple pairs!
My cousin aged 20 joined a Merchant Bank in London and was told to buy himself 5 Church’s shoes(before Prada ownership). He still works in the industry aged 50 and has only now replaced them!
Just love your bespoke shoe collection, can you do a suit collection? That will be wonderful.
I am wearing my pair of George from Walmart! Great looks, Smells leather, Great Price! Best of all, if someone were to steals it, I won't feel too badly about it.
16:06 I thought the initials "R" & "L" on a pair of slippers meant Right and Left.
I don't know if it's just me, but I find it really difficult to follow what your saying as the melody of the music keeps grabbing my attention. Other than that, awesome content, thank you!
Great melody. Really toe tappin’ while looking at shoes
I put thompson's water seal on the bottom of my shoes. a light sanding to get the bottoms smooth, then a few coats of Thompson's wather seal. It seals the bottoms from water and it keeps the bottoms looking newer.
GC burgundy whole cuts at ~8:55 are amazing!
Yeah, these are great shoes!
4:59 aren't those semi-brogues? I've always thought Adelaide oxfords were when the quarter & vamp are the same piece of leather that is then sewn to the lacing system--like your shoe at 6:10.
And here I was thinking my assortment of Churchs , Cheaneys, Herrings, Loakes , Barkers and Carlos Santos( 13 pairs in total) were excessive lol
Nice videos and many thanks for your advice .. I've been using them to add some extra care to my collection.
Hey Kirby , fine collection. Like you I have a pair of bespoke George cleverly and a ready to wear pair of St Crispins amongst my shoe collection. I would recommend that you look to getting a pair of Edward Green. I think you will be pleased. I will be looking to get a pair of my first Graziano & Girling next. Oh yes , look at Alden suede and leather loafers , calf and cordovan. Sublime.
You've shown off those burgandy whole cut Bespoke Cleverlys a couple times now and I am totally in love with them. They are awesome. I think your shoe collection is worth more than my total net worth lol.
An excellent video! It was really informative, and great to hear your stories behind every shoe!
Finally! Been waiting for this :)
Ask, and you shall receive! ;)
Nice Collection. I wish I still had my black Oxfords I bought over 20 years ago - got lost somewhere. Love shoes so building my collecrion slowly. Bespoke shoes are on my list next.
A bespoke pair of black captoe oxfords would be the perfect place to begin! You can easily wear those shoes the rest of your life. You could wear them every day almost if you wanted!
Coo, thanks for sharingl. I have about 30 pairs or so of dress shoes. Almost all are Santoni and Ferragamo, these two brands fit me really well. I just spent a few hundred with you in Saphir products to work on these shoes since we are stuck at home right now.
music is getting in the way..the volume i mean.
Are u deaf? I can hear evey word fool.
Play it saxman!
Whoa! I bought my first pair of Allen Edmonds shoes from Franco's in Richmond!
The black shoes all look to have a blue hue to them on my TV. They look great, a deep dark blue .
Very interesting and I note not one shell cordovan pair. I wonder if you would consider giving your reasons why not please?
It would be interesting to know what types of non-dress shoes you own. Like do you own hiking boots, running shoes, work boots, etc. Those are obviously not the theme of the channel, but it would be interesting to see if your taste in quality shoes extends outside of just dress shoes.
Of which shoemaker are the single Monk Straps at 5:06?
Kirby, I hope your son will share the same shoe size as you when he’s older. Beautiful collection!
Me too!
But again I’m impressed with your dress style, and will continue to follow your channel. I’m a bit of a rare bird, in that I tend to dress a little more than my teaching cohorts which kinda makes me stand out around high schoolers with their athletic gear and sneakers.
Bravo!!!! thank you for sharing your collection and your thoughts.
I enjoyed it!
Thanks, Frank! Check out our other videos!
Hi Kirby, just finish lookind at your shoe collection would like to invest in my frist pair of proper shoe were do I start?
Hi Kirby, great video! Weird no wingtips in your collection? I remember there was a pair of Cleverley Churchill in your previous video.
Sean Z These may have been a personal pair from George Glasgow he Kent me for a video. Wingtips are another style I just haven’t fallen in love with. I prefer a cap toe with brouging to a wingtip.
your gazianos in burgundy look a lot like allen edmonds cornwallis, which they just brought back as a limited release a few weeks ago. i picked up the cornwallis in vintage burgundy and vintage navy
Beautiful collection! I'm fairly new to better shoes myself, and I've stuck to Allen Edmond's so far. Thanks for the inspiration to expand my horizons. I work at an industrial facility (power plant) and don't get to wear nice shoes too often, so I haven't yet found the gumption to get a pair of bespoke shoes. In my early 40's, though, I feel it's time.
JustinHEMI If you don’t wear them often, all the more reason to have two to three really awesome shoes you’ll love and wear the rest of your life! There is just something special about putting on a pair of bespoke shoes!
Excellent point!
Allen Edmonds served me well for many years. I highly recommended them to the younger guys who worked for me. I still have several pairs in my closet.
can you please make a video on how to store shoes you don't wear, for year sometimes and how to take care of them and how often should we condition or polish them?? thank you .
Nicely done. Always appreciate your detailed vids. Great content!
Thanks! This was fun to film!
Absolutely beautiful collection
Please put a link to purchase the shoes or products in your video
My favorites are the loafers, Kirby.
My question is when you're doing this video, are you wearing shoes or in your stocking feet?
Really like the red GC pig skin loafers and black GC cap toe oxfords-hope to get some myself soon. My walnut McCalisters and oxblood Strands seem sturdy, but the fit and finish are ok. I enjoy them though.
Nochaser Guitar Channel Got to start somewhere! All that matters is that you love and enjoy what you own while aspiring to something new!
A dream come TRUE !!!! Splendid
I like ur dedication towards the 👞
Bet that shoe collection is worth more than my car lol. I'll probably never be able to afford a luxury wardrobe, but I appreciate the quality and style. Glad to see the channel growing.
james Pitt , There's a scene in Grand Torino; the kid asks Clint Eastwood how he could afford such a garage full of tools.
Eastwood scoffed at the question and told how he bought one tool then later bought another and later bought another...
@goombakiwi This is a great story! And very true. This collection has taken 15 years to accumulate. It's a process...
Are monk straps trendy or fashionable? I just don't want to buy a pair only for them to look dated 10 years from now.
Your bespoke loafers are exceptional! Great video and channel. Keep up the great work!
Oh my!! I'm not worthy!! Wonderful collection....I am envious.
Thank you! I’m learning a lot from your videos.
Love your videos. I find dress shoes with leather soles can be a bit slippery. What’s your opinion regarding having them topied to improve its grip and possibly longevity.
Hello mr Allison I dress w originals from the 1890s do u have any idea where one could get an original pair from this era in a modern size (size euro 44 or up)? I scanned ebay and etsy without any results.
You have a very nice collection there! Hope you will upload videos on how to take care women’s stilettos as well.
A similar journey for me. I'd always appreciated half decent shoes from an early age. This started with the likes of Loake (and various shoes made by loake under other names), which are much like the AE of UK, a solid, well made range of welted shoes. That said the 1880 Range from loake punches above its weight and offers good leather on a well made shoe.
Then I bought my first pair of Crockett & Jones, and that was really the start of the "habit". The crocketts were just another level up, and I ended up buying several crocketts, followed by some Cheaneys, which of similar quality, actually fit me a little better, albeit that I still prefer crockett leather slightly.
Then I discovered Alfred Sargent, and in particular the Exclusive range, which in hindsight, push well well above their weight. The 724 last is highly reminiscent of the G&G TG73 last, and in fact my Moores appear almost identical in many ways to the G&G St James II. They are made from excellent leather, and have lots of high end touches like the rolled (and narrow) waists, and lasted shoe trees.
But then I bought some G&G's!
Although I love my Gazianos, what I will say, is that having experienced G&G, Edward Green and Clevereley shoes, I'd suggest that the Alfred Sargent Exclusives / Handgrade, are actually sitting at an apex of price / quality / value, where spending a lot more gets you very little, and spending much less can get you significantly less. In fact when I came to buy the Moores, I did consider buying the G&G St James II, but I genuinely couldn't find any detail, finishing, or styling difference that would convince me to pay double the money. So I stuck with the AS.
I'd love to get a few more Gazianos, but perhaps some AS handgrade first :)
Shrink1061 That’s the journey! If you could go back, would you do anything differently?
I purchased two pairs of Allen Edmonds upon your recommendations of a starter brand to upgrade your wardrobe. One pair makes quite a bit of noise when walking, I do, now have shoe trees in my shoes to help prolong their longevity and decrease the creasing of the shoes. Do you have any suggestions to help work the shoes in, so they don't make so much noise, but not create a lot of creases that mar the overall appearance and second do you have any other suggestions to decrease the amount of creases the shoe holds on to with normal use?
16:35 Here you spoke about a made-to-order program for these slippers. I didn't see where that is on your website. Is this still something you offer? I would like to get my husband something like that if it is available.
Hi Kirby, can you still get the Foster & Son house slippers with monogramming? They only seem to have a handful on their website and i didn't see the monogramming option. Is there another comparable house slipper out there that you like?
Kirby, As usual, thank you for your expert advice. Also it's refreshing to know that there is someone with nearly as many shoes as I have! I haven't tried Cleverley but would like a pair of their Churchill loafers. I seem to prefer Edward Green and Crockett and Jones to my G&G's, and have several pair of Alden Shell Cordovan shoes which are also outstanding shoes. Thanks!!
Sounds like a great collection! EG and Crockett make great shoes. Less of an aggressive design than G&G.
Your videos are greatly appreciated. Can I ask why you haven't made any videos on Church's shoes? Cheers
This shoe collection would even make a woman jealous! 👏🏼🙌🏼👍🏼
Hello Kirby, I am a fan of your channel and each episode is immensely watchable. Thanks for educating many of us on shoes and caring for the shoes. I have a question: What kind of belt do you wear with Burgundy shoes? Perhaps a better question is where can I buy good quality formal burgundy belts?
Nice video Kirby, loved the best 5 section especially, looking to buy my first quality shoe and was a bit unsure.
Black cap-toe it is! Thanks
I now own over 30 pairs of shoes from a small family company based in the Neatherlands called Reinhard Frans. Very good shoes and through a MTO program I am always sure the last that suits my feet best is used. Have you ever heared of the Company?
Never heard of them. They must be great if you have 30 pairs!
They are, I suggest visiting their facebook page, let me know what you think ok!
amazingly diversed collection and handsome selection!
George Cox 'Robot' from London.
Loake 'Brighton loafers.
Again from London.
Best type of Video during this insane election thing going on in the US. Best regards from Berlin.
Thank you Kirby! All of your videos are informative and educational. I have seen them all and have learned a lot. How long does it take for you to get a suit custom made for you???
Hi Kirby, I have a question :
I live in Norway, where the climate is wet and cold most of the year.
Can you recommend some shoes of more robust build and that has rubber soles?
Thank you for your videos, I am learning a lot, keep them coming 😊
Any tips on starting a shoe shine business? I'd be doing it on the side of my regular job where would I start my rates at ? Thank for you videos
Kirby, great to see another man showing his shoes, one thing that I would like explained is, why do some shoes sit flat on the floor, while others curl up at the toe. I know which I prefer but just what is going on.
Colin, this primarily arises from two reasons: (1) cheap construction or (2) the shoes not being stored with shoe trees. The latter is preventable. When you wear a pair of shoes, you flex the shoe as you walk naturally, which is what creates the shoe's predisposition to curve. When you store your shoes using shoe trees, they stretch the shoe flat as it dries so that this crescent shape doesn't become permanent.
Good video Kirby. I have a query however. In Melbourne on the weekend I bought a pair of Louboutin suede oxfords.The saleslady advised that I should have them sprayed to make them waterproof. What is your thought on this recommendation? I should say where I live (Adelaide) there is minimal rain and I do not intend to wear them in the rain if I can avoid it. I suppose I am more worried if I go to a "stand up" function and wine, "finger food" etc falls onto the shoes. On another note RE your video, I print/take pictures of the shoes and put them at the front/side of the shoe box for easily ID. I do this with my wife's extensive collection too! Often the shoe boxes are quite smart in themselves and try to keep them as far as possible.
Gr8 collection, I love it❤❤! I may now show my wife and tell Kirby Allisson has these much shoes collection 🥰👈.
I didn’t know you were doing these until recently. Just haven’t payed enough attention to the boards but I’m getting more into RUclips. Good job! Let me know if you wanna talk about Stetson history or hats in general sometime. Keep up the good vids!
Excellent shoe collection. I prefer the dress "club" shoes personally, but I do find room in my life for the pigskins and chukka boots!
James Milligan Yes! A man needs more than black oxfords. My chukka boots and casuals probably get the most wear here in Dallas, especially w three kids. But I LOVE my formal dress shoes and enjoy it when I’m able to wear them!
Thanks Kirby, enjoy your videos. I am parallel to your thinking on quality and craftsmanship for anything, whether clothing, vehicles, firniture, anything I care to own. I have a simple question: Where could I find a store carrying Edward Green shoes? I would like to touch the product.
Where are you located?
Kirby a quick question: Do you think it is appropriate to wear Allen Edmonds Fifth Avenue shoes in Walnut with dark indigo jeans? I have a pair of black oxfords already and am looking for a versatile second shoe and am leaning toward the Fifth Avenue in Walnut hoping it would be able to dress up in a navy suit and jeans as well for a casual look. Thanks in advance. Love your channel and your store! Regards
Hello Kirby, I hace a question about how to fit the monk straps. Like the leather straps of watches, I am afraid that with the continuous use of that type of shoes I will end up wearing the strap of the shoe and have an ugly old age. How can I do to avoid that damage as much as possible? Maybe putting them on like a loafers or wearing a shoehorn?
Great collection. How about comfort ? It seems that walking and wearing them all day hurts, what do you do to get the comfort ?