The final stage in leather manufacturing and tanning (during which the structure is modified by imprinting a relief pattern through mechanical action), grained leather is an essential asset for the contemporary men’s wardrobe. During this process, the leather is embossed (which closes its pores) and sculpted until the desired finish is achieved. This provides it with two essential technical qualities: it is stronger and also more resistant to water, stains, and scratches!

In addition to the unparalleled suppleness and comfort that this operation provides the leather, grained leather offers the eye a dense, robust texture and a finely contrasted finish. It gives a shoe a distinct character. As with the colors of a patina, there is an almost infinite variety of grain patterns: more or less fine, more or less deep or rough. The quality of the leather is decisive in the finish and the “vibration” of a shoe of this type.

Most commonly associated with the charms of the countryside and rainy-weather outings (don’t the English call this leather “country grain”?), the grained leather shoe now works wonders in urban environments as well. A sober yet frank style statement, delivered with finesse.

Roam the cities with a pair of grained leather shoes on your feet, with a “casual” outfit—paired with jeans or chinos, for example—or something more dressy with nice flannel, or a tweed or cotton jacket on summer days. Grained leather is that infallible little “extra” that sets the tone.

Astoria. The detail, always.

Our Astoria model and its clean balmoral silhouette naturally cultivate the spirit of chic and casual nonchalance perfect for a stroll in the grass or an afternoon by the water, while also providing you with the discreet sophistication ideal for hitting the pavement in France, Italy, England, and beyond.

The Astoria: the art of standing out without being noticed (except by connoisseurs, obviously).