Classic shoe

[fiftyfour]

I am looking for suggestions for a classic/iconic shoe. Something that I will mostly wear with jeans or chinos and a polo or button down shirt. I don't mind spending money for quality. I have been wearing a Sperry penny loafer in this role, but want to upgrade. I don't like boots. I prefer brown. Not sure if I should look at a loafer, a wingtip? I want something classic and timeless, like a Rolex watch, Levis 501s or a Barbour Beaufort. I would like to buy a brand that has been around for a while, a shoe that was being sold 40 years ago and will still be sold 40 from now, but is stylish in a classic way. I am 38 years old and live in San Francisco Bay area. Things are really casual here.

 

[DrZRM]

Alden shell cordovan longwing, either whiskey, cigar or #8. You'll never look back. If you are interested in some brand history, check out this video that Epaulet in Brooklyn did on them. That's mine in whiskey below, there are pictures all over this forum in various colors, just search.

Check Alden of Caramel and Leather Soul or Alden of NY

 

[JayJay]

^^^Yes.

 

[fjblair]

I know the OP prefers brown but would a black longwing work also?

 

[fiftyfour]

That is a beautiful shoe!! I'm scared to ask how much money I am looking at. Would really like to hear some more options too. What is the feeling on a Gucci Loafer? Bass?

 

[dsgNYC]

If you want a classic shoe that will last, it's not going to come cheap. In all honesty, $550 for the shoe above isn't that bad, especially since it'll last you forever.

 

[AntiHero84]

A cheap substitute for the Alden Longwing would be the vintage Florsheim Imperial Longwing. Granted it's a poor comparison, but the closest in my opinion. You can usually find them on ebay between $40-$100. Keep in mind they will be used, but you can always get the soles and footbed replaced and it will still be cheaper than a pair of new Aldens.

Also, keep your eye on the B&S forum, sometimes you can find a pair of Aldens for cheap.

 

[jmoody15]

DrZRM - What type of jeans are those? I like the color and cut.

 

[fiftyfour]

I really like the Alden shoe, but not sure I can spend quite that much. I was looking at the Florsheim website. They have some really nice looking similar shoes for half the price. Any reason I would look for a vintage Florsheim as opposed to a new pair?

 

[Girardian]

Yes ... construction, quality of leather -- many reasons.

If you're tempted by the Alden's consider spending deeply and wisely. An epic pair of shoes will last you long enough to get your money out of them, even at the cost of new shell Alden's.

 

[AntiHero84]

Originally Posted by Girardian

Yes ... construction, quality of leather -- many reasons.

If you're tempted by the Alden's consider spending deeply and wisely. An epic pair of shoes will last you long enough to get your money out of them, even at the cost of new shell Alden's.

+1. I'd stay away from new Florsheim.

 

[emmanuel]

Originally Posted by DrZRM

Yes, but what if you are under 55?

 

[DrZRM]

Originally Posted by jmoody15

DrZRM - What type of jeans are those? I like the color and cut.

KMW 1950s. Great jean.

emmanuel, we'll just have to agree to disagree. I've been wearing American longwing gunboats since I thrifted my first pair of Florsheims in high school, and fell in love with pre-Prada Church's wingtips in college. These whiskey Aldens are by far my favorite shoes that I own, and I can't think of anything I don't own I'd trade them in for.

 

[RUSSBHEEZ]

very nice with jeans... classic shoe .. can't go wrong

 

[fiftyfour]

So is the concensus that I should shy away from a loafer and get lace ups?