Step by step, with unwavering determination. These were the guiding principles of John Lobb as he traversed the picturesque roads of Cornwall more than 150 years ago. Today, these principles still hold true for the esteemed English shoemaker (Instagram), as they continue to design footwear that embraces contemporary sensibilities while reinventing classicism.
The wearer is bestowed with the freedom to select from a collection of essentials, choosing the shoe that best reflects their personality and spirit. The SS 2024 collection serves as a testament to effortless, no nonsense elegance, an ideal footwear wardrobe that consistently introduces new propositions with each passing season.
The John Lobb aesthetic exudes understated sophistication, relying on the wearer’s discerning eye to appreciate its subtle nuances. Take, for instance, the oval motif, a recurring theme from the SS 2024 collection, quietly making its presence felt throughout. Derived from the saddle cutout of the iconic Lopez loafer, a distinguished member of the Prestige range, this oval motif infuses classic codes with a spirited rock’n’roll energy. The Moorfields, an elastic Monk shoe, also proudly showcases an oval buckle. Meanwhile, refinement takes centre stage with the Edge Oxford, featuring contrasting colour combinations like black/dark green and black/dark red—a subtle homage to the traditional English galoshes.
In the Iconic line, master craftsmen explore the art of perforation as a defining motif. The vamp of a Lopez loafer is beautifully adorned with delicate perforations, creating an intricate pattern. Abstract lines, inspired by the oval theme, grace the Philip II Oxford, offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional punching details.
Warm and inspired by the mineral world, the palette of the collection features hues such as ochre, sand, and rust. The Neo Classic family showcases the finesse of calfskin suede, drawing inspiration from the meticulous craftsmanship of glove makers. This suppleness is complemented by its functional rubber soles, whether found on the lightweight Lopez loafer or the Bristol Oxford brogue. The richness of the materials is evident in the soft nubuck and delicately grained leather of the new Pace loafer, featuring a padded and topstitched ghost-strap.
Embracing the spirit of contemporary adventure, the Urban Casual range introduces reinvented shapes and clever details. The Land derby, crafted in grained leather with commando soles, offers a striking contrast. Similarly, the Foil deck shoes in nubuck or suede captivate with their contrasting colour schemes, such as olive green/sand, pale gray/white, and a vibrant yellow/brown.
Comfort is inseparable from a satisfying walking experience. The Weekend family presents leather trainers that effortlessly slip on, adorned with lacing details that playfully deceive the eye. The Court plimsoles borrow elements from galoshes, showcasing double colours and a distinctive aesthetic. Whether on an adventure or a leisurely stroll, the Salt and Whitstable sandals exude a serene elegance—one in smooth leather and the other with padded, adjustable suede straps.
The spirit of John Lobb shines through in the label’s latest collection, where creativity harmonizes with softness, meticulous detailing, and, above all, the liberation of individual expression.
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