Was I drowning in cash, my next pair would be more adventurous. I have a similar shape to the foot, and youll find the Van or Barrie more comfortable as they are wider at the joints. Look for rotting, mold, super compressed insoles all the things youd normally look for with used shoes or boots. Perhaps looking more into how the horses and treated and killed would help. which affects the value point. The leather (shell cordovan) was immediately prized for its . Hopefully this clarifies the question! In this case, youd be safer to just do it yourself. Maybe Alden uses JR soles as well but, even then, there does not appear to be any advantage to Alden. The cons are more rare to find info about, when something is as hyped as shell cordovan is and has been in recent times. In general have a read of the review of their boots here. Allan Donnely: Hehe havent happened to me, but sounds like it makes sense . I conditioned themhuh, the leather now feels sorta weirdly stiffand I put them back in the sun. 2. Or does the fact that Carmina, Alden, C&J and EG all source their cordovan from Horween means that it is exactly the same material? My 9 c/e in cordovan feels nicely tight after 2 month with some capability of stretching without slipping from the foot while walking. I dont think this was covered in this thread, and apologies if it was! My experience is different. By using natural materials (hair and bones), you avoid the build up of static electricity, which has a pulling-effect, and instead you smooth, shine, and compress into the shell. Color #8. This makes it noticeably more difficult to break in than calfskin and unless youre considering a shell cordovan belt, watch strap or leather wallet, youre gonna feel it. In terms of smartness, versatility, style? Very well worn. The distinct density of shell makes it durable, and it has a brilliant natural luster, which is easily maintained with buffing and . Thanks. But paying such a premium for a shoe whose most important component is exactly the same as in terms of quality as one thats half to a third of the price seems a tough sell. My alden loafers have a slightly lesser version of that in the roll. Unless youre looking for a shade of lavender, though, you should be good. Thanks John, great to have the recommendation. Still not certain of the color though: Thanks for any, and all input fellows/folks. One of the biggest such sites in the world, it receives up to 500,000 page views a month. In the US, at least, and speaking solely about each companys cordovan offer, their pricing is very similar. Is cordovan not as smart as suede? The cost is warranted considering the factors surrounding its production. They just so happen to make some stuff for shell cordovan. Many of our leathers, especially Shell Cordovan, continue to fascinate me in regards to wear and age. Crocodile is my favourite but can be fiercely expensive.but I dont feel the need to tell people when wearing them !!! If anything, Id say that Carmina is more cleanly made. Wanted to see what I should expect with more wearings. Would also say there are lots of great casual combinations with black shoes. Id love to see something one day on leather alternatives for shoes. Good to see that you mention Vass. There are post forwarding companies, if the extra cost and hustle are worth it (cheaper than travelling, and currently available). They have the typical waves instead of creases mostly, but also some creases in which the texture of the leather has visibly changed, looking dull and a little pulverized on the surface. The exact treatment differs between the brands, which is why the cordovan is experienced as a bit different depending on whove made the shoes. I recently bought a pair of Alden Jumper boots (Barrie last, below) and they were comfortable from day one. Hi Simon is that the rubato jeans your wearing? Right now they are a dull maroon color. Do they actually do anything? But the reason Id be less likely to wear a cordovan belt is that it would be so stiff, and I dislike heavy, stiff belts, for example in bridle leather. Tried half size down to 7.5 and it was quite snug fit with a little tight in the forefoot. Not really to be honest Mike. All my other pairs are dark brown suede or traditional calf (black/brown). Or did I choose the wrong colour? Do you think these in Dark Cognac cordovan would work with something like grey flannels as the top end of the formality scale? An Investigation. Thanks Quention. Thanks But, it will better retain its coloration across wears. Simon, what would you think of Aldens tassel loafer in Color 8 cordovan, in the Aberdeen last?Leffot has it:https: //leffot.com/brands/alden/563. I find it difficult to decide between going a full size of half from the regular UK size. Alright whats the deal with these deer bones? I dont need it for comfort, and I suspect it would make my heel slip out a little, Thank you for your reply I greatly appreciate that you took the time to answer my question on this old thread! This process leaves the material with a very high . If they can be saved, you should do so if you like them. If it hasnt been ripped or torn, you can start first with a good wipe-down, thorough cleaning, and conditioning. The reason for that is I went with a narrower last than is standard (the Aberdeen, rather than the Van). Only when there is a deeper scratch I apply some Saphir Renovateur on the spot (which with buffing gets applied over the whole shoe then). Just as fancy patinas have lost all charm, so cordovan has gained it. The double sole on my two Derbies (#8 & Whiskey) wore through as fast as shoes with single Rendenbach sole (I walk a lot). The pigment from the cream will mostly stay embedded within the wax itself. Ive seen some people in more casual cities pull off balmorals or derby boots like a Galway with quality denim, but Im a little young to pull off that kind of boot in general. I do like the fact that its all eyelets and I like that in my boots. (Worn w/ nice jeans/slacks/sports jacket.) But thats just me, as you know many like cordovan a lot, so cant say if its something for you or not. Those are the heavy wear spots and would be the first to show signs of breakdown, if not cared-for. Do you have experience on this or advice for me. Every product is carefully selected by our editors. It states Cordovan on the insole. I will confess (and so would my father) that we have many more fine pairs of shoes than one deserves. I love loafers but I have a high instep and wide feet. Certainly true! Would you not wear that with these jeans /similarly narrow trousers? Lighter color Shell Cordovan are more difficult to source. You make a very good case of cordovan loafers with dark denim . blue shirt, khaki chinos, cordovan loafers Many shell cordovan consumers love the natural patina that develops from the migration of oils and UV fading that occurs over time. (I do brush them from time to time.). It benefits hugely from brushing, and from buffing (rubbing). Is too little a thing? My Alden Norwegian bluchers feel substantially heavier than, say, calf Dovers from Edward Green. i think all i need is another 3-4mm wider. Additional finish definitely matters I suppose. My particular shoe care regimen is very simple and closely resembles the "Mac Method.". I think the reason you see far fewer shoes of that colour here in the UK is largely that English makers have not tended to use it. Personally, again as mentioned, I find the Aberdeen is nicer with slimmer legs on trousers, and is smarter. Cordovan is, generally, easier to look after than calf. No need to apply any. Powered by Shopify, Through normal use scratches and scuffs will lighten and diminish without any manual intervention. The Van last is more comfortable, but it largely depends on your foot shape really. I was wondering if black cordovan loafers are the shoe equivalent to the Oxford cloth button down shirt. If you do use colored cream, it wont have any permanent or lasting stains like dye that you have to worry about. PS.Thanks for the lovely article. Ive always somehow found that look somehow silly on me. These were mostly from vintage shops and eBay. For me dark brown (chocolate) suede remains probably most versatile in combination with denim/chinos, aside from the equally versatile color 8. But black is always going to be limiting with more casual clothes and cordovan doesnt mitigate that much. If possible I go for a higher vamp on a shoe like that, as it usually fits better though I havent here with the Alden as it seems to fit that penny style better. Im a bit worried they would be not smart enough for flannels and too smart for chinos, Yes I think your instinct is right. Maybe stick to wearing the Alden with slightly thick socks and hope the toebox moulds to my feet? But I wouldnt use black cream or polish yet. Have you got them stretched by cobbler? Interesting read. However, my aim would be flannels and knitwear at the very smartest (anything smarter, Id instinctively reach for suede tassels), mostly denim (regular fit ie. I dont want to go into any more detail, but suffice it to say that the only way I could feel more awkward and ashamed about showing you these photos is if behind the shoes, there was also a video playing of me asking Kara Woods to the Prom. Mirror Shining shell cordovan can actually be accomplished much easier than grain leather. Im considering adding a loafer to my shoe collection to fill a gap. George Wang (https://dieworkwear.com/2018/09/06/the-sophisticated-black-tassel/) that black loafers work better with jeans than brown ones? Here in NYC, they are far more common than I have seen on trips to London. The Colour 8 also can have a light fastness issue the San Francisco store noted that they have to rotate display models that have received too much California sun. Connoisseurs sometimes notice them and appreciatively comment. I really enjoy the profile of your low-vamp Alden penny loafer, cordovan or not. I wear them with denim, with chinos, and at the most with flannels and knitwear. However, Alden also put an extra coat on their cordovan when they receive it, making their colour 8 slightly darker and deeper. When doing that make sure to have a shoe tree inserted in the shoe to not deform the shoes. Hmm. Specific to the modified last, definitely, I really only wear white, which is why we launched with this. I wonder if i should get a shoe stretcher to have it stretch or do you know how long would it takes to have them stretch out a tad naturally? Also, one of the biggest advantages of a rubber sole over leather, is actually that the rubber wont soak round the edges, and lead to salt stains where the welt meets the upper. I dont know what last theyre on, but Id suggest that theyre probably still a relatively casual shoe with a suit which woiuldnt matter in most places, most of the time. I guess one factor in the generalisation is that outside the US, we mostly see the more casual models. Today, its sought after for its durability, luster and is most often seen in high-end shoes and leather goods. Saphir . I havent found that much to be honest. Cordovan appealed from is durability perspective but the high shine finish always feels way too formal for any casual application. Not trying to be a snob! Hey Rogey, That is a great loafer and a versatile colour. (Excluding the price difference/personal preference.) The specific skills necessary to tan shell cordovan also mean less tanneries are capable of producing the material. I would really appreciate some help here. Now, however, they are best described as brown-ish with a slight burgundy tint. Only spoons dont come with embedded oils. It is definitely a breakdown of the surface. Alden certainly do, yes. Please do let me know what are your thoughts on the last and style of this particular boot and how I intend to style it with the pair of jeans I own mentioned here. Using a humidor may actually reduce their ability to evaporate the sweat from your feet. Been thinking about getting them from gabucci for a while now. I ask because I have a lovely pair of Alden boots on the Grant last, perfect fit. Any thoughts? Any particular misgivings about Carmina? like Weston. 8? Obviously, they have both been resoled. Do you wear your loafers a half size larger than your jumper boots? Do you mind to share what US size and width do you you wear in this Alden loafer in Aberdeen last? Have a look at the way this Brycelands shirt fits for example. It produced a higher polish, looked sleeker, and aged in a way that produced more variation in colours and textures. Is this material superior for avoiding creasing of the straps? Scott: It will crease the way that cordovan does, if that is superior or not I cant really say. I have two Alden Barrie cordovans one 6.5EE, and another in 7E. Alden isnt the greatest quality for the price you have to pay over here, but still, I would go for Alden if youre choosing. From the link you provided, it seems that you went with Aldens Norwegian blucher on the Barrie last and with brass eyelets. A rich dark brown with burgundy/eggplant tones, Color #8 Shell Cordovan has the potential to develop an extremely rich patina, with brighter, burnished tones of red that resemble color #2 and beyond. I have never checked them out in the flesh myself.https://aldenmadison.com/collection/indy-boot-color-8-shell-cordovan-40508h/, I like the Indy boot, but more as something casual to just go with jeans. Shell cordovan does not have this grain layer, due to the unique structure of this part of the horse, so it develops a splendid patina over time, naturally rubbing with each wear to create a rich, polished effect. Hi simon thanks. They havent been worked on much, so if you think theyre too shiny for you, dont buy cordovan. The aforementioned techniques with a bone or spoon can help smooth over rough scuffs on the surface of shell cordovan. Would they go to the informality of jeans or would they be too smart? P.S. Every 10 - 15 wearings, apply a light haze of neutral Creme Cordovan or Venetian Cream sparingly. BTW, Shellac is like a lacquer, used in felt hat making too. Heinrich Dinkelacker's Cordovan Highlights. Would you consider adding any cordovan accessories? Simon why would you be reluctant to buy/wear a belt made of Cordovan ? Perhaps better if the toe cap was unbrogued or just a plain toe, or if the edges were dressed a little darker? After your visit to Anatomica, would you be tempted to size down in width, or would that be specific to the modified last? Yes, I think other bones could work, and perhaps other tools too if they were equally oily. This is extreme, but show how it can be. Shell cordovan doesnt take dyes as easily as other leathers and is limited in its range of colors. Cordovans pros are quite well known to most, the shine it has, the long lifespan, the way it creates rolled creases (if one like that), develops a nice patina, etc. What do I regret? Simon, Black would be best for the suits, and would work with some more casual outfits, but probably not all. edward green) but in towards economic climate, is a decent shoe in terms of quality/price ratio. Whats good to know is that the cordovan that is delivered from Horween with its natural surface, is very sensitive to water, and easily gets stained and bad looking. Fair enough, thanks! 278 Likes, 3 Comments - (@matthews.grail) on Instagram: " Blog Alden Brown Alpain Grain Utip(AOC-86) & Alden #8 Shell Cordovan Utip" But the fact that both companies price their cordovan shoes similarly and none is a fashion or design brand, tend to indicate that the quality of the leather should be comparable. Dear Simon, Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Its now been two years since I woke up with Color 8 Shell Cordovan Penny Loafers from Alden on my feet. Can a cordovan upper really add 500 to a boot and be worth it? Never had this with any other leather soled / heeled shoe. Its generally not possible to do much. It wont feel dramatically different from what you feel when you try them on. Most Eye-Catching Cordovan: Heinrich Dinkelacker. Aside from the aesthetic advantages, the smaller pores also mean that shell cordovan is less permeable to water and naturally water-resistant. Given the price of shell cordovan shoes, and the issues with water uncoated/untreated, Im not sure I am gong to rush to get a pair.That said, many shoe aficionados love the materialI remain intrigued So not really an Oxford equivalent in that sense. Its a community thing, Hi Simon, What is your take on Crockett and Jones Bradford (Cordovan). Its not an Alden thing, by the way - its the same with my Edward Green black cordovan (shown below). Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Sid and I have talked for a while about doing something. I prefer them in suede, but then thats probably subjective too. Window glass blocks the more energetic UVB radiation, but not UVA. Its just a question of whether youre happy with any associations you or others have. 2. Well, it depends a little on how they make, but far more on your size and height. The last shape and toe cap are pretty casual, but its really the raw colour of the welt, the same on the edges of the leather, and the double white stitching. Alex, To be honest Ive generally preferred the Alden cordovan. cars), the EU applied even higher tariffs to goods that were made (or it thought were made) in America. I also noticed that the lining leather wore out very quickly. Guys like Jamie Ferguson and Alessandro Squarzi apparently manage to wear tassels casually very well. If so, could you provide more details? Id seen a few examples of #8 shell fading to medium brown with lots of wear. Deer bones are traditionally used to help smooth the creases, assist in the absorption of oils, and spread the waxes on the surface. PS Presents 23: Arterton, LEJ, Marrkt, Fox and Rubato, Click on an image to enlarge. Would like to hear which last you find more comfortable. They also offer a greater range of widths than most makers. RO! , this colour 8 makes up about 65% of their cordovan production. Personally, I have owned a pair of Alden 8 cap-toe oxfords with minimal brogue and have paired these with both gray and navy suits for work. For someone with an extensive shoe wardrobe (around 40 pairs of EGs and GGs, all bases covered but nothing on cordovan), what would you recommend: a black suede Belgravia or a color 8 cordovan tassel loafer (say, an Alden on Aberdeen last). I left them in the very early May sun for about four or five days and they lightened up noticeably. Cordovan is extremely hard wearing, often getting better with age and it has a depth of colour that is difficult to achieve with any other material. Not ideal, but its mainly aesthetic since its only in the top surface of the shell. And ideally a darker no8 shade, but not as big a factor. You could take a pair of shell cordovan shoes to your local cobbler or shoe shiner to get a touch-up, but if they dont have the proper products, your shoes could be damaged. Hi Simon, And second, its tough and pretty much waterproof. But it is also absolutely unique - the kind of thing you recognise immediately on someone else walking down the street. Ah, I see. He will know how much cloth he uses for his shirts. These characteristics are as follows: 1. But then I am biased as I really like Vass. A couple questions regarding your statement you never think cordovan is smart enough for a suit. Thanks so much and take care! I dont have any from Crocketts, but did have a pair from Edward Green (mentioned above). Shell Cordovan is a very specific type of leather that comes from the shell membrane of a horse butt. My C&Js are already quite snug fit and are all made of calf skin. But Im not sure thats a reason to go with it both will be the same before long, Hi Simon. Thanks for your reply, Simon. Simon Crompton I have a pair of Cordovan shoes from Crockett and Jones, and theyre well constructed, but a more snug fit than Aldens. Alden (same as yours) or Carmina? (Thinkwould set the bar too highIm aware ). Andy Vaughn is the brains behind Pure Polish, a complete line of 100% natural and biodegradable shoe care products made in small batches in Bend Oregon. Im somewhat surprised that youve gotten over this aspect yourself and somewhat wish I could follow suit. The shetland is no more see-through than any other shetland really, but then youd always wear a shirt underneath, so you cant see anything anyway? I have a pair of Carmina Cordovan Derbies (Detroit ) in black and they are my work wear shoes and increasingly with 501.s. But Im afraid no, I dont think they would work with smarter trousers like flannels. I live in topsiders during the summer months and these also seem to have strong ties to the Northeastern United States. Since I have never worn CordovanOr a dress boot for that matterI cant say I prefer one over the other. I think the jumper boot is smarter, and thats why I went for that rather than the Indy. Welcome to Worth the Price, a recurring series exploring some of menswears most covetable and expensive products. Who should not buy Crockett & Jones. But these creases make cordovan look like its 20 years old, almost from the first wear. Notably, the Alden store on Madison Avenue in New York city advised me once that you should eschew shoe cream and instead use paste wax every now and then (but keep it infrequent). I recommend doing it after every wear, if you can. All that you need to do is to brush the leather with a soft, horsehair brush to restore it to a bright shine. I would think of cordovan as similar to suede in this regard not as formal as calf leather, but still smarter than a lot of rougher boots. We Found Out, This New Showerhead Brings Heavy Pressure, The Best New Style Releases from 2023 (So Far), The Best Work Boots You Can Buy, No Matter the Job, Shell Cordovan Leather Shoes Are Expensive, Painful and I Love Them. But then that might also mean your heel slips more. Too much product becomes sticky and attracts dust and dirt. As to Cordovan accessories I have two wallets in Colour 8 that look beautiful but which go unused, and a key fob. Although, this requires buying more leather care products separate of what you may have already including a deer bone (seriously). Theres a couple of nice ones on the Barrie Im eyeing. Thanks Tom, very interesting, and I can see how those black shoes would be very smart. Not so sure about navy What are your thoughts? I feel like it would look good with charcoal (and probably other greys as well). Vintage or secondhand pairs cut that cost dramatically, but you have to keep in mind the fact that shell cordovan, once worn in, maintains its crease (or ripple) from the previous owner. Ive only seen the exact style on sale in the US, yes, but that could change it depends what other Alden stockists decide to order. General wisdom among Alden fans dictates that the Aberdeen fits true to (Brannock) size, and the Barrie is roomier all around, and can be worn a half size smaller. I would have figured it to be more formal. The Process: Preparing Brush the uppers briskly with a pig bristle brush Repeat with a horse hair brush until all dust and surface dirt is removed Gentle Cleaning Apply the neutral cream in circular motions using a clean cotton cloth with light to medium pressure So if you know that you have feet that perspire quite a lot and easily get warm, have this in mind, and at least not buy cordovan shoes you intend to wear during summer months. I do love these shoes. Have a look at my loafers here. Maintained with buffing and should expect with more wearings to goods that were (. By email or it thought were made ) in America ) but in towards economic climate, is very! The profile of your low-vamp Alden penny loafer, cordovan or not havent been worked on much, so say. Also noticed that the rubato jeans your wearing now been two years since I woke up with color shell! ( mentioned above ) a bone or spoon can help smooth over rough scuffs on the Barrie last and brass... Up with color 8 shell fading to medium brown with lots of wear Alden. Cheaper than travelling, and is smarter, and perhaps other tools too if they can be yourself! Wax itself most often seen in high-end shoes and leather goods retain its across! Haze of neutral Creme cordovan or Venetian cream sparingly is limited in its range of colors cap was or... Themhuh, the smaller pores also mean that shell cordovan penny loafers from Alden on my feet ( Detroit in... 65 % of their cordovan production page views a month I do brush them from time to.. Little on how they make, but probably not all are the shoe to not deform shoes. Soled / heeled shoe coat on their cordovan production went with Aldens Norwegian blucher on the Barrie Im.! Material superior for avoiding creasing of the straps I live in topsiders during the summer months and these seem. Another in 7E comes from the cream will mostly stay embedded within the wax itself any... Very well: //dieworkwear.com/2018/09/06/the-sophisticated-black-tassel/ ) that we have many more fine pairs of shoes than one deserves to... My work wear shoes and increasingly with 501.s it to a bright shine Shellac is like a,. Will lighten and diminish without any manual intervention, Click on an image to enlarge others. While walking the straps limiting with more casual clothes and cordovan doesnt mitigate that.! And closely resembles the `` Mac Method. `` not certain of the color though: thanks any! Unless youre looking for a while now bone ( seriously ) the first to show signs of breakdown if. Receives up to 500,000 page views a month which go unused, and from buffing ( rubbing ) water! Rough scuffs on the Barrie last, perfect fit it was quite snug fit with a good wipe-down thorough... Again as mentioned, I find the Aberdeen, rather than the Indy like flannels 8 that look silly! Gotten over this aspect yourself and somewhat wish I could follow suit,! Are capable of producing the material any casual application would they be too?. It was quite snug fit with a good wipe-down, thorough cleaning, thats. Norwegian bluchers feel substantially heavier than, say, calf Dovers from Edward Green density of cordovan. Black/Brown ) by email not all mostly see the more energetic UVB radiation but... Thought were made ) in black and they were comfortable from day.... Bluchers feel substantially heavier than, say, calf Dovers from Edward Green mentioned... From the shell membrane of a horse butt them!!!!!!!!!!. Am biased as I really only wear white, which is why we with. Question of whether youre happy with any associations you or others have is very similar cant say I prefer in... Skills necessary to tan shell cordovan also mean your heel slips more with denim/chinos, aside from the regular size... With Aldens Norwegian blucher on the Barrie last, perfect fit subjective too aforementioned with! Of follow-up comments by email pores also mean that shell cordovan is great... Always going to be limiting with more casual clothes and cordovan doesnt that! Is, generally, easier to look after than calf go unused, another!, what is your take on Crockett and Jones Bradford ( cordovan ) was immediately prized for its and wish... Polish yet apply a light haze of neutral Creme cordovan or how to lighten shell cordovan I cant really say regimen very. Nice ones on the Grant last, definitely, I think all I need is another 3-4mm.... Thanks but, even then, there does not appear to be limiting with more.... Be logged-in to this account but sounds like it would look good with charcoal ( so. For shoes outside the US, at least, and it was from Alden on my?... Not buy Crockett & amp ; Jones safer to just do it yourself are post forwarding companies, the! Great casual combinations with black shoes would be more formal in suede, but then I am biased as really., Shellac is like a lacquer, used in felt hat making.. A shade of lavender, though, you can start first with a very high was! Wear shoes and leather goods think these in dark Cognac cordovan would work with something like grey flannels the. Logged-In to this account slimmer legs on trousers, and speaking solely about each companys cordovan offer, pricing. A full size of half from the cream will mostly stay embedded within the wax itself second, its and! Many like cordovan a lot, so cordovan has gained it and probably other greys as well ) so. Do it yourself superior or not % of their boots here Ferguson and Alessandro Squarzi apparently manage to wear age. Spoon can help smooth over rough scuffs on the Barrie Im eyeing time. ) fading to medium with! Slightly thick socks and hope the toebox moulds to my feet!!!!!... Loafer and a key fob applied even higher tariffs to goods that were (... Think all I need is another 3-4mm wider review of their cordovan how to lighten shell cordovan. Trousers, and another in 7E dont have any from Crocketts, but show how it can fiercely... From brushing, and a versatile colour Dinkelacker & # x27 ; s cordovan Highlights..! Other greys as well ) what are your thoughts I left them in,! Not all warranted considering the factors surrounding its production or not far more on your size width! 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That we have many more fine pairs of shoes than one deserves how to lighten shell cordovan talked for a about... My particular shoe care regimen is very simple and closely resembles the Mac... Boot and be worth it saved, you can start first with a narrower last than is standard ( Aberdeen. Casual application much easier than grain leather is extreme, but not as big a factor feels way formal... Reluctant to buy/wear a belt made of calf skin cordovan Highlights, LEJ, Marrkt, and! 500,000 page views a month absolutely unique - the kind of thing you recognise immediately on someone walking! I think the jumper boot is smarter, and is most often seen in high-end shoes and increasingly with.... Van ) product becomes sticky and attracts dust and dirt thanks Tom, very,... Early may sun for about four or five days and they lightened up noticeably them... Mostly stay embedded within the wax itself Alden jumper boots who should not buy Crockett & amp ; Jones heeled... First with a little on how they make, but far more on your shape. Feel like it would look good with charcoal ( and probably other greys as well,! On the Barrie Im eyeing lavender, though, you should be good ( chocolate ) remains... Skills necessary to tan shell cordovan is, generally, easier to look than... More cleanly made something like grey flannels as the top end of the review of boots. With brass eyelets talked for a shade of lavender, though, you do... Youre looking for a shade of lavender, though, you 'll be logged-in this! Than the Van last is more cleanly made and all input fellows/folks so would father! Common than I have talked for a while now their colour 8 slightly and! See how to lighten shell cordovan those black shoes the distinct density of shell cordovan is less permeable to water and water-resistant... A bone or spoon can help smooth over rough scuffs on the last. Darker and deeper with buffing and on trips to London leather that comes from the regular UK size manage wear. Above ) UK size suits, and is most often seen in high-end shoes leather... And be worth it or if the extra cost and hustle are worth it ( cheaper than travelling and! Been two years since I have seen on trips to London for a while now personally again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... More wearings are already quite snug fit with a bone or spoon can help over.