Recycle Week is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and while we do not recycle shoes in the purest sense, we do sell shoes and boots that can be repaired multiple times and use highly biodegradable leather which minimises their impact versus cheaper styles that end up in landfill and have plastics or synthetic leather components.
As a business, we believe in slow fashion to meet the needs of an increasingly environmentally conscious world that is trying to move away from its throwaway habits. Therefore, having the ability to repair or restore is important.
Rather than buying clothing or footwear at a cheaper price and discarding items when we no longer like them or they have inevitably fallen apart, we advise buying quality goods that can be repaired.
The secret to the long-term life of our shoes and boots is in the Goodyear-welting process. Yes, it adds to the price of the shoes, but you will get your investment back by repairing them rather than buying new, as long as you take care of the uppers.
What makes Goodyear-welted footwear repairable is that your cobbler can cut the old sole off through the welt and then attach a new one. This process can be repeated three or more times giving your feet many years of service while not having to wear in your already perfectly worn in shoes or boots.
We clearly demonstrate which shoes are repairable using our “Sustainable: Designed to be repairable” logo so our customers can understand why the price-tag maybe a little bit more than they first expected.
That said, all the shoes and boots in our bestselling Office Essentials range are Goodyear-welted, are reasonably priced, and we are currently offering a 30%* discount on this collection.
If you want to support Recycle Week or want to make the step towards sustainable living, then a repairable pair of shoes may be a good place to start.
Herring achieved the Carbon Neutral International standard two years ago. We use 100% recycled cardboard for our shipping containers, only use recyclable plastic when necessary, and have PV panels on our warehouse roof to offset electricity usage. All our products are made in factories that use respected European tanneries that are regulated to minimise environmental impact. Shipments have been offset with payments towards green energy initiatives.
Autumn spells the start of boot season in the footwear world. It is time to face the fact that our sockless days are virtually over, and we require something a little sturdier for the colder months. For so many people, autumn and winter will be greeted with joy, just because they pull their boots back on again.
We love boots at Herring. I mean…we really love them. They come in so many different styles and colours that there must be a boot for everyone. From super-smart boots that can be teamed with a suit or a dress to rugged varieties that withstand the worst weather can throw at them, we celebrate this time of year.
Most of our customers will have at least one pair of boots they rely on in the colder months but have maybe not considered other styles they can wear at work, on the trails or for a formal occasion or night out.
We had a few suggestions for both our men and women customers as part of our autumn/winter edit but have a few more that you may have overlooked.
For the office For men, our A/W edit included Milton (below) for a super-smart suit accompaniment, while the Muswell Chelsea and Milner chukka boots would work well too. The black styles will look wonderful with a dark suit. These are from our Handgrade range making them hand-finished, Goodyear-welted and repairable, so come with an investment price. However, we have more affordable options with our Flynn laced toe-cap boots, plus our Jude Chelsea and Cannock chukka boots from our Classic collection. Take a look!
For women, a knee-high boot works well with fitted skirts and dresses. Our Bracciano boot is made from a lovely soft suede for true work-wear glamour. While the shorter Trasimeno suede ankle boots work well for longer dresses and skirts…but you can style these with trousers and any length skirt too.
For the trails Our male model wore the Cambridge and the Corsham at our photoshoot at Lympstone, but the boys in the office and warehouse love a rugged boot so always have plenty of styles for our customers to choose from. Maybe consider the Ambleside for that brogue with a Commando sole look or the Exmoor if you like a spot of tweed. For real tough-guy boots, take a look at our Churchstow Norwegian rubber-soled boots.
We have a tan brogue and cleated sole version for women too. The Stephy is simply stunning! But for real tramping around in wet fields and along muddy tracks, we have excellent wellies from Aigle. I can thoroughly recommend them.
For going out For the chaps, the Thatcher is a handmade Chelsea boot with brogue detailing on a sleek and slender toe made from handsome burgundy calf. Or what about the Geneva? This is another gorgeous Chelsea boot but in dark brown mock-croc. Lastly, we love the Laverton II. It is a luxurious, two-tone boot that blends suede with beautiful calf leather.
Herring does not do spiky heeled boots for women, but we have some great statement boots for nights out. The Garda (below) adds a bit of glitz with its patent finish while the Como’s over-the-knee style with a chucky sole and heel will make heads turn. Lastly, the Varese is knee length with a daintier toe and sole that comes in two shades of suede – black and a rather lovely green.
Whatever your boot leaning, we have plenty of styles you can choose from. Take a look for yourself. If you want to celebrate the start of boot season with a purchase, please remember that if you need further advice on fit and care, please do not hesitate to contact out customer service advisors.
As we take a closer look at autumn/winter styles for men, we would like to introduce you to the Cambridge. This is a bona-fide English-made boot from Northamptonshire that is rugged enough for tramping along the trails but is smart enough for lunch or dinner at the pub.
Part of our Premier collection, the Cambridge is a mighty fine boot. For our A/W edit, we selected the mahogany grain calf version, but we do have a black grain style too.
The Cambridge is made by the wonderful shoe and bootmakers at Paul Sargent. Based in Rushden, the business was founded in 1899 by Alfred Sargent along with his sons Frank and Harry.
Alfred Sargent and Sons moved to their current site in Portland Road in 1915 ahead of the shoemaking boom in the county in the 1940s with Frank’s son Derrick joining the firm. The fourth generation of Sergents, Paul and Andrew, joined the business in the 1960s.
In 2021, the business was renamed as Paul Sargent, but still works from the same premises making excellent quality shoes and boots.
The Cambridge is an example of this deep-seated Northamptonshire craftsmanship. It features a split reverse welt that cleverly repels water, plus a thick, Goodyear-welted Dainite rubber sole and heel that gives superb grip and durability for days beset with inclement weather.
The toe-cap design too gives it a traditional look along with the five lace eyelets and three pairs of hooks. In short, the Cambridge is one of those classic designs that is timeless and can be teamed with jeans and chinos with ease.
We sell a lot of loafers at Herring but mostly to men, after all, it is such a versatile shoe. But what about women? Yep, we have loafers for women covered too with our Charlie, Giulietta, Louisa, Miranda and Sophia styles becoming staples in our women’s collection and in the shoe cupboards of our customers. Most recently, the horsebit-style Scarlette has made its debut this season. For this In the Spotlight offering though, we would like to focus on the Emma.
The Emma is a little bit different. We describe it as a heritage loafer due to its slightly raised heel. For this style, we have blended two types of cedar calf with the saddle in grain to give this shoe a contemporary edge. The powder blue leather lining is a nice touch too. We also stock a black calf version.
These would look good with ankle skimming trousers, long or short preppy pleated skirts, long dresses, or even with ankle socks and a mini dress depending on how dedicated you are to following catwalk fashion.
The loafer is a great transition shoe from summer to autumn as we pack away our flip-flops but are to yet ready to don tights and socks. Part of the reason why the classic loafer is rolled out every year. Handy then that as the Emma is welted to a light-coloured rubber sole, it is possible to repair them time and time again so you can hang onto your favourite shoes for longer, therefore treading lightly on the planet too.
By investing in the Emma, you are also buying into a piece of classic Northamptonshire shoemaking as these have been made exclusively for us by Barker. Every pair of shoes or boots Barker makes goes through 165 production stages and takes six to eight weeks to make. More than 140 years of shoemaking expertise is key to the footwear that represents some of the finest craftsmanship Northamptonshire has to offer.
The end of the summer holidays can feel like back-to-school for work too, and the changing season can spell a switch-up for your office style. Equally, you may have been labouring through the summer in your suit and just fancy a new pair of shoes to reward yourself for surviving the hotter months!
Whatever the excuse, and we do not think you have to have one, we have got some ideas for formal footwear that is smart enough for the office but stylish enough to take you to the bar after work too.
The Milton First up, something a little different and perfect for the suit-wearers that like boots. This is a seriously sharp-looking, stunning jodhpur-style boot that can be worn in so many ways, but we like to team the Milton with a suit. The buckle and strap are largely hidden away under your trouser leg, but as soon as you cross your legs and your ankle is exposed, it gives your contemporaries a clue about the kind of man they are dealing with!
The Milton has a Goodyear-welted leather sole, so is designed to be repaired when needed. It is also hand-patinated individually in the Carlos Santos factory to produce its stunning finish. This boot will look great in the bar after work too.
The Dunkeld The semi-brogue is a true classic and a style of shoe we are known for. A gentleman needs a pair of semi-brogues or two in his wardrobe as they are so versatile. In the office, at a wedding, down the pub, at the rugby club and so on, a semi-brogue can be dressed up or dressed down to suit any occasion with the intricate detailing unique to the semi-brogue making a subtle statement about your style.
But when we set about designing the Dunkeld, we wanted to create something that would celebrate classic elegance but would have a twist. Available in a classic black and rosewood calf, the twist is in the elastication. It is a superbly hidden feature that is tucked under a fan of delicate leather panels that does away with laces for people that find them fiddly or just prefer the convenience of a slip-on shoe. However, the Dunkeld still looks like a traditional lace-up shoe with the inclusion of clever faux-leather laces.
The Sloane The Sloane is more traditional…in fact, we think it is impeccable. It even features an exclusive dark-blue sole made specifically for us. It has elegant lines, superb detailing and the all-important Goodyear-welting to provide the best shoe construction and will help you meet your personal sustainability goals. The exceptional character of this shoe is credit to the craftsmen that created it. The Sloane definitely ticks the office-wear box but will make a statement in the bar after-hours that you mean business. We have this gorgeous shoe in both black and brown calf.
The Carnaby We have saved the most traditional until last with our go-to chestnut brogue. The Carnaby is a full wingtip brogue, made on the elegant 386 last and is great example of meticulous English shoemaking. These brogues are made from the finest calf leather with a Goodyear-welted leather sole.
These chestnut brogues can add a lighter note to grey or navy suiting. Alternatively, they make an ideal pairing with a blue blazer and chinos, depending on your office-wear rules. These will look great with jeans at the weekend too, so are a great investment.
With all these styles, you will ooze style at your desk, in meetings and anywhere else your work-day life takes you…and then again after hours too.
With autumn on its way, we thought it was about time we took a look at one of our most beautiful boots, the Corsham.
This is a perfect country gent’s boot with a strong, but light-weight cleated sole, with a wonderful cedar grain calf upper with brogue detailing.
Due to feature in our Autumn Weekend edit, we think the Corsham is the perfect laced boot that is equally comfortable on a crunchy leafy walk through the woods as well as it is lounging by a log fire in a country pub or hotel.
The Corsham is a homage to the great British manufacturing heritage of the Northamptonshire area of England. This brogue boot epitomises the great handiwork of Goodyear-welting factories that goes back over two hundred years.
This version has been made by the experts at Barker. They do not make this style for anyone else, just Herring.
Barker England was founded in 1880 by Arthur Barker, who had the vision to create some of the finest shoes in the British footwear heartland of Northamptonshire. Every pair of shoes or boots Barker makes goes through 165 production stages and takes six to eight weeks to make.
In short, Barker-manufactured shoes are made by the finest craftsmen. Barker’s shoe skills have been developed for more than 140 years to provide exceptional quality, fit and comfort.
And, as these oh-so fine boots are Goodyear-welted, so you can wear them in so the upper feels like your favourite slippers and you can get them re-soled when you need to. With the Corsham, you get great comfort, durability and style in a timeless boot.
With the Rugby World Cup about to kick-off in France, we thought it would be a good time to remind ourselves of the rugby ambassadors we have worked with over the years, with the newest being our very own current England squad member Joe Marchant. As an English business, I am afraid all our ambassadors wore the red rose of England but that’s not to say we are not appreciative of the talents of our worldwide rugby community, not least the hosts of this year’s tournament.
With Herring’s roots embedded in Cheltenham, just a short distance away from Gloucester, the rugby fraternity were always on our doorstep. Our very British shoes and boots seemed to appeal to the Twickenham-bound set too, including former captain Will Carling OBE. Given the captain’s role at a young age, Will played in two World Cup tournaments, taking them to the final in 1991. More into cycling, leadership mentoring and his family now, Will has been on board with Herring for several years, and is a fan of our desert boot and monk shoe styles.
Internationals-turned-TV pundits David Flatman and Ugo Monye are also keen on a bit of Herring footwear with the former favouring Oxfords and the latter a big sneaker fan.
But we also have a very own World Cup winner in our midst. Hooker Steve Thompson MBE was one of the heroes who brought the Webb Ellis Cupo ‘Bill’ back to English soil from Australia in 2003. The joy that created 20 years ago was incredible, not just for people watching on their televisions, but to the crowds that turned out at Heathrow for the squad’s return and the thousands that filled the streets for the bus tour.
Thompson’s place in the team, after just 18 months of international duty, was pivotal. His pace and aggression made him a key player for the entire tournament. He bucked the trend for short hookers. He was tall, hefty, strong, but mobile. He was also fearless. Thompson went on to win 73 caps for England and was part of the beefiest front row that had taken to the field for the British & Irish Lions on their tour to New Zealand in 2005.
In terms of shoes, Thompson likes to dress up and dress down. His favourite Herring shoes suit his wide feet. He likes the Murlo II moccasins for chilling out, our Kirkby Chelsea boots for smarter occasions, and the Aigle Sonricker walking boots for days on his feet.
A generation later and Ben Moon (below) joined our Look Who’s Wearing ranks. With Herring now based in Devon, the prop was just up the road in Exeter where he plied his trade as a loosehead with the Chiefs. While a World Cup outing evaded him, he still pulled on the white shirt for England eight times and is a local hero. His shoe choice was delightfully Devonian from our Fowey deck shoes for days down by the water to tweedy rugged boots on the farm and calf grain brogues boots for smart occasions.
More recently, we have introduced current England centre/wing Joe Marchant to our shoes. We were delighted to see he had secured his place on the squad before he settles in France to play for Stade Francais next season. As with so many of our rugby friends, Joe likes to look good and dress up when he can. He really likes a formal shoe with our Sussex Oxfords and Carnaby brogues in his collection.
All these men are internationals that we are proud of being associated with. While they all have slightly different styles, they appreciate a well-made shoe and understand a sense of occasion.
As Joe says: “A lot of the time in rugby, you are going to great places, representing your club or your country, so I think it’s really important to look right.”
Go well Joe and all the others in an England shirt and any other coloured jersey for that matter. We cannot wait for this 10th Rugby World Cup begin. Let’s hope it is a good one. Enjoy the next seven weeks.
Buying school shoes is a trial. If you enjoy it, then I take my hat off to you. I cannot understand what there is to love about busy shops, long queues, and a lack of choice. With this in mind, I would urge you to purchase your boys’ school shoes nice and early, so you can enjoy what is left of the summer break.
This is where Herring can help. We have a few styles that may suit your girls, but we have an abundance of formal shoes that will set your sons up for the year. And if they take care of them, they will last too, as many of our styles can be re-soled depending on how many miles they cover through school corridors.
Herring stock shoes for men’s sizes 5 to 12, so your boys or older teens should be covered. We have both leather and rubber-soled shoes, but I have opted for rubber or hybrid soles below to help protect feet on rainy days.
If you think your son’s feet have stopped growing, this could be the ideal time to invest in some quality black formal shoes that can take them into university formals and balls, interviews or the workplace…after a bit of spit and polish, of course!
Here are my top picks for the 2023/04 academic year:
Edgeware II The Edgeware II is a classic Oxford laced toe-cap shoe but is a new addition to Herring. An Oxford like this is crucial for any men’s wardrobe. They work so well for multiple formal occasions, starting with school. This shoe is made on an elongated last to give it a more contemporary look. It is also made on a cemented sole for more flexibility. The sole is half leather and half rubber to get the best of both worlds!
Edmonton II Where lace-ups are not required, this is a smart slip-on alternative. The Edmonton II is a super shaped loafer with an apron seam on a blake-stitched sole making it lightweight and flexible. It’s repairable too.
Enfield Something a little different if your son likes a bit of individual style. The laces have been done away with and replaced with a buckle. Introducing your son to a monk shoe sounds like outstanding parenting to me! Monk shoes ooze sophistication and if they opt for this style early in life, they are likely to adopt this style as stride into adulthood. The Enfield is blake-stitched to a half-leather half rubber sole. This has been made on a generous last shape, so we would recommend dropping down half a size from what you normally wear.
Gosport If a brogue is more your son’s thing, then consider the Gosport. This is a traditional longing brogue that oozes style. It is made with a Goodyear-welted rubber sole and premium calf making it a great wardrobe classic. As a welted shoe, the Gosport is a repairable shoe so is a good investment.
Newcastle Lastly, the Newcastle. This is another classic Oxford. Again, it is Goodyear-welted, made on a good fitting last. Made with premium calf leather uppers for comfort and flexibility, and a rubber-stud sole for durability and comfort, this would make a great school shoe.
Bit of advice If you haven’t bought formal shoes for your son before, you may find they need a size smaller than any current trainer type style so, for example, if they wear Vans or Converse in a size 9 they will probably be an 8 in our formal shoes. You can speak to our customer service team for more guidance.
Lastly, if you are reading this, but you’re not usually the one who buys the school shoes, we would really appreciate it if you would forward this on. There are also plenty of formal shoes available in our summer sale. Use our size picker to filter on the styles available in your son’s size to view your options.
New for this season, the Tummel blends loafer chic with an elegant trim for a sophisticated standout look. We have worked with the artisanal craftsmen and women at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal to produce two very different versions of this very fine piece of footwear.
The first feels very European. I am thinking the French Riviera or the Amalfi coast. The dark brown calf weave sets them apart from your run-of-the-mill loafer, accompanied by a woven strap across the vamp featuring two metal links. Not your classic horsebit, but the trim is definitely a nod to that classic style with a modern twist.
The navy version does not feature woven calf but rather an uncomplicated, smooth finish adorned by the woven strap. Again, I can see these being worn by gentlemen that like to lunch in port-side restaurants, but they would equally hold their own at a business meeting or indeed a meal out away from the water’s edge!
What both these styles share is an element of delicacy. They are leather lined and have a leather sole, save for a rubber tip on the heel. However, our friends at Carlos Santos have managed to use the Goodyear welting process to attach the sole to the upper. This is not something you often see in this style of shoe, with other manufacturers often favouring either a cemented or Blake stitched sole.
By using a welt, which is a strip of leather that connects the upper to the sole, the Tummel becomes repairable. This means you can enjoy wearing these loafers – and shaping them to the exact proportions of your feet – but replace the soles when they start to wear out. Sustainable comfort and style in nutshell!
Before the sunshine begins to run out and we start looking ahead to autumn/winter, can I suggest a last grasp at warmer days with these super-stylish loafers? They are just that little bit special.
This is a tough question as the world of work has changed beyond recognition in recent years. The pandemic meant many of us swapped formal office attire for more casual clothing while we worked from our homes. But work life has shifted again, with more of us heading back into the office by request or by choice. Some of the casual nature of clothing is still in evidence but all that needs to be put aside for a job interview.
As an interviewer and an interviewee, I have always dressed smartly. This is usually the first time you will meet your future employee or employer in person. Yes, you may have had an initial call or video meeting, but a face-to-face interview is the real deal where from-the-waist-up attire is not enough!
Shoes are also a good barometer of a person’s demeanour. I am not talking about value here. No-one expects you to splash the cash in pursuit of a new role, but rather making sure what you do wear on your feet is in keeping with the occasion.
Even if your would-be new career is in a more relaxed industry sector, never wear trainers or flip-slops. You can still exude casual professionalism but not in your sneaks and certainly not with toes and heels bared! If you only have one pair of smart shoes, then plan your outfit around these because, believe me, people will be looking at your feet.
That said, you do not have to quash your individuality! Shoes and boots can be a real window to your soul (not sole), and give an indication of your personality, which interviewers want to see. I am going to offer a few suggestions below, but if you already have your interview shoes lined up, make sure they are clean!
Old shoes can be given a fresh lease of life with some care. Make sure they are polished, brushed and whatever is required so they look as good as they can be. A clean pair of shoes shows you take care of your appearance and your things! If you show care in these areas, the assumption will be that you will take care of your work commitments too.
If you are looking to invest in a new pair of shoes for an interview, then here are a few suggestions that will also work well for a range of other occasions.
A classic pair of brogues vs a classic pair of Oxford capped shoes
Black Oxfords A classic black Oxford is a real investment, especially if you are going for a role with a formal business or organisation where suits are expected…think law and accountancy firms. You cannot be too smart for these interviews. Aside from the interview, they will be ideal work shoes for the future, and the perfect shoe for black-tie occasions, wedding and funerals too. We have a wide range available that includes Goodyear-welted styles that can be repaired for many years to come to make your investment a sustainable choice.
Brown brogues I have gone for brown brogues as they look great with navy and dark grey suits, but we have plenty of black brogues and semi-brogues too. Not just the shoe of choice for the country set, they are also suitable for city slickers and town-based go-getters. The brogue is undoubtedly a formal shoe and will prove you are taking your interview seriously.
Monk shoes Monk shoes show a little more flair but not in a disrespectful way. Single, double and triple buckled monks are super-smart and are just something a little different from a traditional lace-up. This means they stand out but not too much. I think they offer a hint of swagger! They also transfer to the weekend and can be worn in both smart and smart-casual environments.
Boots If you are a boot man, this is ok too. You can get boot versions of Oxfords, brogues and monks. I am not a fan of the Chelsea boot with a formal suit as I like to see a little detail and finesse – such as lacing or broguing – but for less formal interviews, they could do the trick. Leave your heavy cleated boots at home though especially if they are full of mud! Our aim is to look sleek and stylish not rugged and ready-for-anything…unless you are interviewing for the SAS!
Want something a little different? These are genres of the above but have a little edge to them if you want to remain loyal to your personality without condemning your chances of being hired. For instance, the Disraeli is a standout slip-on Oxford while a spectator shoe, like our Henley, is a respectful statement. Lastly, what about a wholecut like the Chaucer? These will never be described as run of the mill, but they still ooze sophistication, style and professionalism.
Hope the above guide has given you a few pointers. An interview can be very nerve-wracking but get the shoes right and that is one less thing to worry about…and may even be the clincher against another candidate! Good luck.
We have switched our attention to a more casual style for this In The Spotlight feature, but less formal does not mean less quality. The Colorado is a fabulous modern take on the traditional desert boot…and we love it.
The desert boot was brought to the UK by British shoe company C & J Clark, now known as Clarks. When Nathan Clark was deployed to Burma in 1941, not only did he go to fight for his country but to also check out new shoe designs. A fairly unique combination, I think you would say!
He quickly noticed soldiers were wearing durable crepe-soled suede boots that were designed to weather the harsh desert conditions. Mr Clark purchased a pair from a local bazaar and brought them home to Somerset to be re-created and sold to the world four years later.
The ever-so-British desert boot gained a global following, making their debut at the Chicago Shoe Fair in 1950. They became popular with beat poets, musicians and actors to aid their popularity.
And suede desert boots, such as our Dune boots, remain popular to this day, but they have also evolved. For example, chukka boots have the same upper design but are usually leather-lined and have non-crepe soles. Some are even welted, like our Herald, so that they can be re-soled multiple times to enjoy a longer life.
The next iteration of the desert boot from Herring is the Colorado. Still made from suede, but we have offered a few more colours than the classic sand. The Colorado comes in blue, brown and olive to complement a white rubber sole instead of the traditional crepe style.
The plain vamp has been given an upgrade too with a stitched apron to elevate the usual desert boot style. We have also given the Colorado three eyelets – one more than the regimented two of a desert style.
Made by our skilled friends at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal, the Colorado is made from top-quality suede and is finished by hand. It’s a handsome smart-casual option that will take you through the end of summer and into autumn.
Think horsebit loafer and, if you are a shoe fan, you will think Gucci. It is an iconic shoe worn by both men and women. It is an enduring look that originated in the 1950s after Aldo Gucci noticed American men wearing slip-on shoes during a trip to New York. Gucci was not content with just re-producing another slip-on shoe, he added a bit of flair with the horsebit.
It was Aldo’s father Guccio who first used the horsebit to set his leather goods apart from the competition. He had been inspired by the racing set he encountered during his time as a bellhop at The Savoy hotel in London. The horsebit is now as synonymous with the Gucci brand as their interlocked Gs and red and green ribbon detail.
By adding this distinctive metal trim across the saddle of the loafer in place of the usual diamond-shaped cut-out on the traditional penny loafer, Gucci achieved an immediate upgrade and an iconic shoe that is still being reimagined today. They also began making loafers out of black leather to elevate their status from a casual shoe to footwear that could be worn in the office.
Famous Gucci horsebit wearers have included President George HW Bush, Francis Ford Coppola, Wiz Khalifa, Bruno Mars, Madonna, Jane Birkin, Jodie Foster, Zoe Kravitz, Gigi Hadid and so many more. They have also featured on the silver screen on the feet of Michael Sheen in Frost/Nixon, Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street, Dustin Hoffman in Kramer Vs Kramer, Brad Pitt in Fight Club, and Matt Damon in The Talented Mr Ripley.
The horsebit loafer’s popularity is enduring and we have not shied away from creating our own versions. If it’s good enough for Gucci, then we would be mad to miss out!
Our Harlington style is very much reminiscent of the Gucci style with a decadent gold-coloured snaffle. The Dillon has a more modern flair with a silver-coloured horsebit that bridges the vamp, therefore doing away with the traditional saddle. While the Istria is also minimalist but has an elasticated top for a little more comfort and ease when slipping them on and off.
For a bit of suede, our new Saimaa loafers have a brass trim while the Snaffle style is a low-profile, sleek affair made from deerskin, which has a lovely grain to it.
These are all beautifully crafted shoes that are meant to shout aspiration and style. They can be worn with almost anything. They smarten up shorts, look great with chinos and jeans, and don’t look out of place with a suit either. If you are searching for an iconic look, then the horsebit loafer is a great place to start.
The summer season sees a whole host of events held across the world where celebrities are scrutinised for their fashion choices. The Met Gala, Wimbledon, the Tony Awards, Ascot, Henley Royal Regatta, etc. What we find little frustrating at Herring is that the best dressed articles in glossy magazines, newspaper and websites mainly focus on their outfits. The reporters at these events clearly ask: “Who are you wearing?”, but the designer roll call stops at the ankle.
Meanwhile, we are all shouting: “What about the shoes?” As footwear fans, we know shoes or boots can make or break an outfit and yet they are unfairly ignored. Sometimes these photos don’t even show their footwear!
Well, I have had a good look at some recent photos and here is my executive summary.
At Wimbledon, loafers were king! Formula One star Pierre Gasly teamed his suede tasselled tan loafers with a double-breasted navy jacket and white trousers. Ted Lasso‘s Phil Dunster opted for the same type of shoe but complement his loafers with cream slacks and a camel-coloured twinset. Marvin Humes styled cream loafers with a green suit.
Duran Duran frontman Simon Le Bon went for brown calf loafers with white trousers and shirt, and a cream jacket and tie.
House of the Dragon‘s actor Fabien Frankel wore black tasselled loafers with a light-grey suit. Model Oliver Cheshire also opted for black, but no tassels, to go with a cricket style cardigan and chinos.
Not everyone opted for loafers at Wimbledon though, there were plenty of black formal shoes thrown in and some pristine white sneakers, along with some brown Oxfords on the feet of actor Tom Hiddlestone and black lace-up boots from new Dr Who Ncuti Gatwa.
At the Met Gala, the black formal shoe was key…unsurprisingly for an evening event. Tennis legend Roger Federer, and actors Bill Nighy, James McAvoy and Bradley Cooper sported polished Oxfords. They are a classic and finish off a black-tie suit very nicely. At both the Met Gala and the Tony Awards, there was also a fair smattering of chunky soled black shoes too.
Henley Regatta attracted a fair few loafers! We spotted brown and navy versions that go so well with a summer blazer or suit. White sneakers and deck shoes also made an appearance. Olympic diver and epic knitter Tom Daley though went for ever-classic chestnut double monk shoes.
So that’s your round-up. Day-time equalled loafers and night-time equalled black Oxfords! You can hit the internet to see photos of all these stars; meanwhile here are a few footwear suggestions for your summer events and gathering.
For the more formal shoes, you can make a splash à la Tom Daley style with our Braybrooke double monks in dark leaf grain or go for a single double monk with our Monkwell or Roche styles. To emulate the Hiddlestone vibe, our Sussex Oxfords are a paired thing of beauty or we have the rather lovely tan Sligo Oxfords too.
Lastly, the evening attire. For that polished look, check out our Newcastle Oxfords or for the super-shiny dancing feet, we have our Jive Oxfords.
Let’s turn our attention to a very formal, but oh-so lovely and a bit dandy, shoe. The Gusborne is just a bit Gatsby, very much Fred Astaire and just a tad – ok, maybe a little bit more than a tad – jazz era. They are two-tone but not in your classic spectator way, as the Gusborne does not feature any brogue-style perforations. It’s more of a slick and stylish classic Oxford.
I think we need to take them in turn. First the black and white calf version with the contrasting black laces. This is your jazz-age shoe, reminiscent of the spats era when mainly men wore a felt guard around the ankle to protect their shoes and socks from inclement weather and muddy conditions. White spats were then seen at formal occasions with George V leading the way. Over the pond, Chicago gangsters were using them to express their wealth and status. Their popularity began to decline in 1920s, but the idea of a black and white shoe was still alive.
The jazz era loved its black and white shoes, often seeing them converted into tap shoes for the likes of Fred Astaire. As a style icon, you cannot go to wrong with Fred. Always dapper; always classy.
If you want to lend some 1950s swing to your black-tie attire, then these could do the trick. No-one is asking you to tap dance, but they would not doubt you if you said you could! Hey, that’s not to say you need to restrict them to black-tie use only. If you want to resurrect the gangster look then be our guest.
The brown and white calf version is more suitable for the daytime and any occasion where you would wear a more classic spectator shoe. However, the Gusborne will stand out due to its lack of fussy detail. Made in a classic toe-cap Oxford style, it really is eye-catchingly sleek. Combined with a navy or beige suit or trousers, the Gusborne will just ooze sophistication and elegance.
The Gusborne was made exclusively for us by the clever craftsmen at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal using the Z160 last to give it its very elegant shape with a chiselled toe box. Their hand-finishing also emphasises the toe cap and the seams, to give this shoe a wonderful three-dimensional quality that flat colours cannot equal.
Lastly, they have a Goodyear-welted leather sole, so you can repair them to ensure you can wear them for many dancing days to come. These shoes are used to being in the spotlight. They deserve their place in our In The Spotlight collection.
Here is something new for In The Spotlight. The Jack II is traditional, summery, and cool…all at the same time. This style also reminds me of the hip shoes that male weather and sports TV presenters seem to be wearing these days!
Jack II is a super comfortable casual brogue. What makes it casual? It’s lightweight rubber sole. It is a brilliant seismic clash between a very traditional shoe style and a modern sole.
The brogue has always stood out due to its distinctive perforations and serrated trims. However, the brogue started life in a more low-key scenario as footwear for farmers in Scotland and Ireland back in the 19th century. The perforations or punched holes were designed to let out water!
Somehow the brogue made the leap from the boggy conditions of rural landscapes to the toe-tapping dancefloors of jazz clubs. More recently, the brogue has switched from being the shoe of choice for the country set to being seen out on the tiles in cities and in boardrooms.
We would suggest the tan calf Jack II is a casual city-slicker style that gives a significant nod to the summer season. The white rubber sole is sneaker-like, which makes these brogues so easy and comfortable to wear. The leather upper will mould to your feet while the sole will give you a spring in your step.
These shoes have made by in one our excellent European factories to the highest standards. Dedicated shoemakers tend to have a long history in the craft, take pride in using excellent materials and have an impressive attention to detail. These shoes are good example of such craftmanship.
The JackII features in our Classic range but it really does have a modern twist. Wear them with jeans, chinos or even a navy or light-coloured suit. We think these brogues are smart enough to come to the party but also relaxed enough for everyday wear.
With the school summer holidays about to begin, or already in full swing in some part of Europe, we thought we would take a little look at luxury luggage. The weeks before holiday season is a good time to reach into the loft or garage and assess the state of your suitcase or overnight bag. Most importantly, ask yourself if your luggage is still secure and, therefore, fit for purpose. Secondly, consider if you still like it! In fact, ask yourself if you are proud of it?
Lovely luggage is a treat. It’s not something everyone prioritises but if someone gave you a super-smart carry-on bag or weekender case, you would be really grateful. So why don’t we pay our luggage a bit more attention when it gives us so much joy?
In response to this notion, we are throwing the limelight on our top three rather fine luggage pieces to get you in the mood for the summer season or, indeed, your next work trip.
Let’s start with the Dorchester II holdall. It’s like the spectator shoes of luggage with its blend of premium canvas and leather trim. It has a roomy interior with a separate zipped compartment for shoes (of course). This has French Riviera chic written all over it!
More robust but no less handsome is the Bovey holdall. Made entirely from brandy calf leather, this would make a great bag for a weekend jolly or a business trip. Again, roomy on the inside with two large pockets, it also features handles that can be fastened together, plus a strap for to give you a hands-free option.
If you prefer to wheel your luggage rather then carry it, may we suggest the new Gladstone? This is a super-smart canvas and leather flight bag that can be pulled along towards the gate but also has handles so you can also quickly grab it off the carousel! There is a backpack, suit carrier and washbag in this range too if you like to match your luggage.
We think you will agree that these are bags to be proud of, whether you are nipping off for a city break, on a work trip, enjoying a weekend away in the UK or anywhere else for that matter. If you want to get in the holiday mood, or want to give someone a real treat, then why don’t you consider a smart piece of luggage? Bagsie the Bovey!
With the Henley Royal Regatta due to take place at the end of this month, we thought we would turn our attention to its namesake. However, don’t be mistaken for thinking this rather fine shoe is only suitable for boating events; the Henley would be welcome at any sporting occasion or summer outing.
In fact, we have two Henleys in our summer portfolio. Both are rather splendid versions of the spectator shoe. In case you do not know, the spectator is the most common welted footwear design to use two different colours. This two-tone effect is created by using different leathers for the toe, vamp, facings and counters. The wingtip or full brogue pattern is the natural style for this effect because it already has different pieces of leather for these parts of the shoe.
The term spectator derives from its roots as a shoe worn by sporting gentlemen that liked to indulge in a bit of golf or cricket. They became a hit with the men watching these sporting events too, so on-field footwear became off-field fashion…and the spectator was born.
An alternative name for a two-tone shoe is the co-respondent. In the UK, they were considered ungentlemanly and were worn by the “wrong sort”. This perception was encouraged by the most notorious affair of the 1930s when King Edward VIII abdicated from the throne to marry Wallace Simpson. She was a divorcee and still married to her second husband when the King proposed marriage. A co-respondent in English law is the term for a person named in a divorce suit as the wrongdoer. To press the point, both Edward and Wallace were fond of a two-tone shoe. The co-respondent has since dropped its negative connotations and is happily worn by wrong and right sorts alike!
The first iteration of the Henley was made for us by Cheaney. It has been made using an elegant last shape. It features brogue detail on the vamp, facing, counters and toe. The sweeping canvas areas make this shoe very flexible and breathable.
The Henley II was made by Barker. There is no detail on the toe, but the canvass is bisected by a leather trim. It had a full leather sole and is lined with leather too. It is made in tan leather with light-coloured stitching visible on top of the midsole to fully embrace the summer season.
Both are stunning examples of the spectator shoe, and both would be an ideal addition to an outfit worn to regattas, Wimbledon, The Ashes and any other sporting fixture. Sports events aside, they are perfect footwear for wedding guest attire, summer concerts and general gadding-about-in-style occasions.
Both Henleys have also been exquisitely made by these two renowned shoe manufacturers in Northamptonshire. They are quality, welted shoes, which means they can be repaired to last for many summers to come.
The summer months can be a little tricky or even sticky on the footwear front for men. While no-one wants sweaty feet, not everyone wants to bare their toes and heels for public scrutiny. Staying sharp while maintaining your cool can be a challenge. Here are a few hot summer shoe tips for this year.
Espadrilles Not a toe or heel in sight, but still very much all about summer. Our espadrilles are made from gorgeous soft suede and have a light, flexible sole so are perfect for shorts with a tee or polo shirt.
Slippers Don’t mock it until you have tried it! These are the epitome of louche slouching! The open-backed element makes them the perfect blend of flip-flops and loafers. Team our Baronet slippers with linen trousers and be the lord of lounging, or try our Snaff loafer with dark shorts and an open-necked shirt.
Sneakers Sparkly white sneakers are a staple for both men and women these days. Thankfully, they are easier to keep clean in the warmer months. Our Split leather style fits the bill but if you want some standout colour, how about our green and orange Voyager trainers?
Deck shoes These are so easy to slip on and off and wear with jeans or chinos on colder days or with shorts when the sun does shine. We stock Sebago and Sperry classics along with our own range both with and without ties. The Padstow is our bestseller with the Padstow II new for this year.
Moccasins A softer version of the deck shoe, our Murlo II does not come with the laces and ties but are a great casual shoe for popping on and off as and when required. They come in great shades of soft suede too.
Loafers The king of the summer shoe when you need to raise your game a little. The St Jean combines a lovely suede upper with a lightweight sole for a semi-casual shoe that will work with jeans, chinos and shorts.
In a breakaway from the recent routine, this week we are shining the spotlight on an item of clothing…the Emery PoloShirt, made by Peregrine. A polo shirt is just a polo shirt, right? Usually, but this one has a little bit of ethical decency about it while also being a rather fine piece of clothing too.
Like Herring, Peregrine is a family-run business. Peregrine, though, has been around since 1796. We are a mere toddler in comparison! They specialise in making clothing out of wool from sheep that have been reared and sheared just miles from the main Peregrine factory in Manchester. While some items in their collection may be made in other factories – their polo shirts are made in Wolverhampton, for instance – everything is sourced and made on English soil.
Despite a very traditional upbringing, Peregrine has moved with the times…or the times are now reflecting their heritage. Whichever way around it is, their dedication to sustainability is a standout feature of their brand and their insistence on traceability gives their customers the confidence in the British Wool-licensed materials they are wearing.
Peregrine is also actively supporting regenerative farming in the UK. They work with farms to develop resilient, nature-friendly farming systems that restore biodiversity, combat climate change and protect the livelihoods of farmers. While other brands are investing in regenerative agriculture overseas, Peregrine is 100% focused on restoring the landscapes and habitats in their own backyard. They have committed to transitioning 100% of their British wool sourcing to regenerative farming methods by 2026.
Peregrine also supports the movement to buy less but buy better. We fully back this notion of slow fashion. Just as we want our shoes and boots to be worn for many years, Peregrine feels the same about their clothing. While we make footwear that can be repaired rather than just being thrown away and replaced, Peregrine also offers care advice so their customers can hang onto their favourite pieces of clothing for longer.
The Emery has also been given the same sustainable once-over. It is part of Peregrine’s Zero Waste range. These are seamless garments, knitted in England from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) organic cotton. Unlike conventional tees and polo shirts which are cut and sewn into shape, every garment is carefully knitted to size, with ribbed cuffs and hem improving the overall fit, while removing any unwanted seams and ensuring there is no fabric waste.
The Emery is a lightweight polo, so ideal for summer, and is super soft next to the skin. It is both durable and breathable, and as a natural fibre, has hypoallergenic properties and is moisture wicking.
The Emery is available from Herring in navy, seafoam, sunflower and white. They are currently in our mid-season sale at 35%off. Get one (or four) while you can!
The Jerry was new to our Premier Collection last year. Developed by our long-term friend and Journal contributor Jerry Tharapos, this is a really beautiful, bespoke boot that deserves a bit of attention. It is the culmination of a great relationship, expert shoemaking, and a two-tone style, so we are quite sentimental about it!
Where to start? A somewhat Dickensian laced boot with six eyelets and two hooks, this Balmoral-style boot it is now very contemporary care of the 205 last the Jerry has been made on to give it a squarer, chiselled toe.
Balmoral boots are akin to an Oxford in boot form, with some distinct features: a closed lacing system, a distinct upper and lower portion of the boot, low heels, a rounded toe, and above the ankle in length.
The British royal family had their part to play in their existence with Prince Albert originally commissioning them for walking through the Balmoral grounds but also to be worn indoors. Ever a fan of boots, Queen Victoria was quick get in on the act too.
Our version is two-tone with the vamp, toe cap and heel-counter made from calf leather and the contrasting top and tongue made from suede. We have one in burgundy calf and blue suede, and the other in navy calf and suede. Both look superb.
We also added broguing along the lower and toe-cap seam and on the two-cap too. Every detail has been thought of.
The mastermind behind their design was Jerry, who will not mind us saying, is a rather natty dresser. He is big fan of burgundy leather, period dramas and vintage styles. A self-confessed modern dandy, Jerry looks sharp and likes to blend old and new styles, usually with a bit of tweed thrown in.
However, it is the skills that goes into making shoes and boots like this that attracted Jerry to Herring in the first place. His namesake was handmade by the wonderful craftsmen at Cheaney in the heartland of shoemaking in Northamptonshire. They are Goodyear-welted which means they can be repaired again and again, if you look after them. This means that if you wear the sole out; you can get it replaced, but not lose the comfort of that you have broken into the upper.
So, if you want a bit of royalty-approved, two-tone, brogue-ish quality footwear in your life then take a look at the Jerry. As their co-creator Jerry would say: “Be dashing…be daring”.