Tip-Toed
Season your look with debonair style
They’ve been seen all over fashion blogs and have been worn by dandies the world over, but the brogue wasn't always the fashion icon it is today. Before the perforated design detail took on its high style, it was incorporated into the shoe because it drained water from the soggy terrains of Ireland. Now planted on terra firma, the brogue has become the object of something of a craze this year, from wing tips to loafer styles to platforms with espadrille soles, for both gents and ladies. Here are three styles we're feeling:
Balbour x Rockport limited-edition holiday shoes and boots
A collaboration for the second time around, Rockport x Barbour have put that holiday cheer into its limited-edition line for Fall 2011. The results are classic Rockport silhouettes with the superior fabrics that only the name Barbour would accompany. The collection debuts this month and expands to three new styles, the featured style being the Day-to Night Wingtip, with the name saying it all. The shoe will be available at specialty retailers in the U.S., including Bloomingdales.com and Zappos.com, with prices from $180-$220.
Stuart Weitzman “Guy Thing” Loafers
In the case of Stuart Weitzman, the ladies’ (shoe) man feels that every once in a while a woman just may benefit from a dash of dandyism. This fall Weitzman offers a sleek and polished low-heeled version of the brogue, combining velvet with perforated leather panels and a jazzy tassel. These loafers are the perfect addition for the style maven who wants to serve up dish of androgyny. Offered in brown and black, $355.
This past summer Muiccia Prada brought brothel creepers into the new age for women, with great success. Now they give the world-famous brogue a second run for Fall 2011 with warmer colors and a little more platform for the fellas. The wing-tipped faves retail for $795 and are selling at Prada’s special customizable site.
So, go ahead -- step into the New Year with a classic that just wont quit.
