There’s nothing that elevates an outfit more than a well-made, handsome leather shoe.
And whenever a reader asks what brand he should consider for his first pair of investment-worthy shoes, I always suggest Allen Edmonds.
The company handcrafts shoes stateside in their Wisconsin factory using a labor-intensive, 212-step process. They use a Goodyear welt construction, meaning your shoes are recraftable (simply take care of the uppers and you can have the soles replaced).
If you own a pair of Allen Edmonds shoes, you know they’re built to last years and years.
The Rediscover America Sale is currently going on (till October 25th), so it’s a great time to pick up a couple pairs of new shoes.
Looking for some direction? My two favorites are the classic Strand cap toe (in walnut, of course), and the Grayson tassel loafer (in dark chili).
AE Grayson Tassel Loafer
AE Strand Cap Toe
I love the ease of a slip-on loafer like the Grayson. And I much prefer the sleek, smooth moc toe over the American penny loafer style in most cases (though the Cavanaugh has a handsome profile and comes in great colors).
While it’s not for everyone, the tassels and side lacing are a nice visual detail that add a bit of dandy styling.
The Strand, a cap toe brogue, is an essential style for every wardrobe. The brown color may be more versatile. But I’ve always preferred the cognac color leather. It’s eye-catching and contrasts nicely with grey and navy.
Have room for two pairs in your closet? Go with the Strand for your lace-ups and the Grayson for your loafers.
A few other suggestions
The great thing about Allen Edmonds is that they have a ton of different models that are all variations on classics. You have a large selection to choose from, and you can’t really go wrong.
Here are a few other suggestions you may want to pick up during the Rediscover America sale, depending on what you’re looking for.
Need a plain, no-nonsense, formal shoe?
The fewer broguing and decorative elements on a shoe, the more formal it is.
The Carlyle is an oxford-style shoe with a plain toe, perfect for the business wardrobe or any formal occasion.
A unique yet classic brogue that dresses up or down?
In case you already have a wing tip (like the McAllister), or maybe you prefer something a bit different, I suggest the Leiden, a long wing brogue. The long wing style isn’t as common as your standard wing tip.
Black for formality, brown for versatility, and walnut to stand out a bit more ?
A classic, casual, and versatile work boot?
The Higgins Mill is as classic and clean as you can get with a boot, in my opinion. Perfect for both work and weekend.
Grab your favorites before 10/25
Allen Edmonds’ Rediscover America Sale ends on the 25th, so make sure to pick up a pair or three before then.
Oh, and grab some shoe trees while you’re at it. They’ll help draw out moisture and keep your shoes in perfect form so long as you put them in immediately.
Click here to check out the sale »
Your Chance To Win a Pair of Allen Edmonds
We’re giving one lucky winner a pair of their very own cap toes or tassel loafers. You will have your choice between the Strand Cap Toe and the Grayson Tassel Loafer. Any color and size!
Just follow the giveaway link below. Keep in mind:
- You’ll receive a confirmation link via email. Make sure to confirm your email address. Unconfirmed entries will not be eligible to win.
- Confirming your email grants you one entry. Share the giveaway on social media using your special link, and you’ll receive additional entries for every friend who also enters. This greatly increases your chances of winning. #obvi
We’ll pick a winner at random and contact him via email on Friday, October 21, 2016.
Open to US residents only (Sorry, international friends. Wasn’t my choice.)
Good luck!
ENTER TO WIN A PAIR OF ALLEN EDMONDS SHOES
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