Saturday Special: Alden Boots.

Today's feature is based in part on the time of year (yes, winter is upon us) and our infatuation with boots. We all know that online shopping is addicting, and I will admit that some nights if theres nothing better to do than flip on the t.v., crack open a beverage, and start the online carousing. It typically leads to unwanted purchasing or self inflicted torturing of items I want most, and most likely can't afford... yet. As we sat down to think about what to write, it came as kind of a breeze, another fashion piece that we feel could be fun to develop. Shoes.

When thinking of a brand that is valued and known for there craftsmanship, one company came to mind. Alden Boots. You may know them because they have been featured on Jcrew, but they're best known for their custom designs and experience with leather. Alden Shoes have been around since 1884 in San Francisco, California. We believe that "old-school custom shoemakers" is quite a fitting name. The specific leather they employ in their shoes is Cordovan leather. Pure vegetable tanning is the process used, and takes approximately six months. By this time, the leather is soft yet durable, and ready to be created into fabulous Alden boots. The most interesting aspect of the Cordovan leather is that overtime the leather improves because of the patina genuine shell. Strictly based on what we've researched, Alden boots are engineered with more than just design in mind. Every shoe carries a tempered steel shank, precisely contoured and triple ribbed for extra strength. Not only are the boots constructed to last, but improve over time.

How do you wear your Alden boots? I've seen them worn with suits, denim, shorts, and chinos. Here are a couple looks to inspire you to invest in a pair of boots.

There is a sense of simplicity in their design, and yes they are meant for menswear, but no one ever said women couldnt wear them too.


The ingenuity of these boots (well the company in general) motivated us to create a more luxurious golf shoe- there is so much room for improvement, but we had to start with a simple shoe silhouette. We will strive to design shoes with material that is durable and functional. This idea came from having a boot like appearance from the front, and avoiding the ankle, so dipping low to the heel. The soles would have built in spikes, but maintain the appearance of a boot sole (Convenient. That is for walking off the golf course and still looking put together.)

We would like to dedicate this post to Jdog and ZB. You know who you are, thanks for all of your interest in fashion, and the support.

PS HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN GOSLING.