Brogue-Master derby

This is our Brogue Master, boys.

“Master”? Well, probably because it immediatly rules upon any pair of brogue shoes out there. And because it will also let you master your degree of elegance, whatever the context or situation. Your reflection in the mirror will thank you.

A couple of details regarding this marvel of balance: it is a sharply-cut full brogue (pierced right through with graceful little holes called brogues) with a wingtip pattern (in the shape of a bird’s wing) which rises high on the upper & circumvents the shoe and takes you on a flexible and robust rubber sole.

A well-built pair of shoes with a pleasant shape (the very round 333, that of our Cooper collection) it sits the silhouette well and gives that je-ne-sais-quoi to the look that some will consider as the cool. We could imagine this Brogue master, at the end of the 50s, worn by Coltrane or Miles Davis, for a Columbia Records cover: loose pants, high waist, a beautiful starched cream shirt impeccably tucked. We could also easily visualize this pair worn by The Specials, the classy British ska group formed in Coventry in 1977.

Shoes sheltered from any precarious passing trend, they reign beautifully under every latitude. For, yes, this is also a summer brogue or more exactly an all year rounder. Its rubber sole and suede calfskin duo is your comfort ticket: a winner every time.

The full brogue definitely has its new master.

– Insert raw wooden shoe trees into your shoes as soon as you take them off: they absorb moisture and preserve the integrity and shape of the shoe.

– Use a shoehorn for your comfort and to protect the shoe’s heel counter.

– Rotate your pairs of shoes as much as possible, as leather needs to dry properly to remain supple and maintain its shape. Never leave your shoes near a source of heat or moisture.

– Regularly wipe your shoes with a dry cloth or give them a quick brush.

– Use Saphir Médaille d’Or lotion every five to ten wears. It cleans and nourishes the leather: this is essential, regular maintenance. Saphir Médaille d’Or Pommadier cream (neutral or matching the shoe’s color) is a complementary treatment that provides deeper nourishment.

– Once your shoes are clean and hydrated, apply a little Saphir Médaille d’Or shoe polish to provide extra protection and a glossy finish. Finally, buff using a chamois cloth or a soft-bristled brush.

– For a mirror shine (glazing), emulsify by alternating layers of polish and tiny droplets of water, only on the rigid parts of the shoe. This operation requires time and precision. Finish by passing a nylon, wool, or cashmere stocking over the completed mirror shine.