The quest for perfection: the perfect shoes #1
Feb 13th, 2012 by MrLuxuryFashionGuru
Wardrobe-wise, everyone’s always searching for the perfect thing – that single wristwatch, briefcase, sunglasses that will rule them all.
Today I’m wearing a pair of shoes that comes close. A gift from my sister, it’s a pair of sold-out Louis Vuitton FW 11/12 Atlas lace-up convertible boots in dark grey textured Taiga leather and suede.
Ever since seeing them both in stores as well as in the Lookbook months ago, I’ve hunted for these shoes everywhere. But they’ve been sold out of my size in Australia, Italy, Germany, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong etc. They weren’t even sold online, so it makes it extra special for me that my sister thoughtfully found these and surprised me with them not long ago.
Characteristics of the perfect shoe:
1) Should effortlessly match as many outfits as possible, from formal work meetings in suit and tie, to nights out on the town, to weekend morning strolls. When travelling, I find footwear to be among the bulkiest item to pack. Since I inevitably bring a pair of running shoes for the gym, I really only want one other pair for everything else.
Solution: Dark grey lace-ups in a combination of leather and suede are the ultimate neutral/chameleon. Textured dark grey will go with both dark or light tailored pants as either a subtle match or pleasing contrast. And they will go just as well with casual jeans and corduroys in browns, blues, tans, and pretty much any other colour.
2) Should be classic enough to be appropriate for formal events (both boardroom meetings and cocktail receptions) as well as interesting enough to be memorable (and win a place in your heart). I’m sure you’ve read in various magazines that women notice a man’s shoes most of all in any outfit, and judge the overall package accordingly!
Solution: Convertible oxford/ankle boots in a mix of textures and tonal shades of grey and a functional zip-around detail both whisper sophisticated refinement and yet announce your bold individuality.
3) Should be both comfortable and hardy enough to withstand the rigors of exploring a new city, doing a site inspection, or dancing the night away. Yet all with inscrutable grace and distinction.
Solution: Impeccably crafted by Louis Vuitton in Italy from the the finest materials, you will be able to stand toe-to-toe with both rough-and-tumble work boots as well as bespoke beauties from the likes of stores like Leffot, and never be found wanting for comfort, quality or style.
Incidentally, I strongly favour the ankle boot style of shoe, ever since my days in the military. I think it’s easier to shop if you have a signature style that you can use as a guide to help narrow down the choices.