She Looks Down…and Sizes you Up…

 
Only this time, it’s your shoes she’s checking out. You might not know it, but she’s paying close attention to what you have on your feet.
 
American men are missing out on a tremendous opportunity for style and comfort. Sadly, for most American men custom, handmade shoes are usually for practical reasons like a special orthopedic shoe or the most common - a custom cowboy-type boot.
 
Men in America don’t pay enough attention to their footwear and the impression it makes on women (and in truth, everyone). You are communicating who you are and there are plenty of girls deciding if she should jump in the sack with you…or even to continue the conversation.
 

“You don’t even need a cute little dog to attract our attention, as shoes do it too...”
 
--Lor-e Phillips, Black Eyed Peas

Our incredible designer friend Lor-e Phillips puts it best:
 

 
Lor-e does really know her stuff. She's the Will.i.am and Black Eyed Peas designer. The Hard Rock Hotel clothing designer and about a thousand other videos and events. Check her amazing work: Lor-e Phiilips and follow her: on Twitter
 
Honestly though, as important as what the ladies think, the right pair of custom shoes is for you.
 
Dudes. You need this. Why is it only European men know this stuff? Experience the joy of an artisan hand-crafted pair of shoes. It feels like you are walking around in socks all day long.
 
But let’s put this into context. Casual event call for casual shoes. What we are talking about here is when you want or need to look sharp. Look your best. Increase your wardrobe. Up your game.
 

 
For sure there are plenty of great off the rack shoes. Our recommended brands are Allen Edmonds, Ferragamo and definately Bruno Magli.
 
However, what you need are BESPOKE shoes. Why:
 

 
Handmade shoes are more than functional though. They are made to reflect your own personal style and your identity. You separate yourself from all the other gents and project true sophistication, quality and class.
 
They do cost more, for sure, but they last much longer and feel better the entire time.
 

“Shoes for men are about elegance…”
 
--Christian Louboutin

A sad reality seems to be that there just simply aren't many actual artisans in American to produce bespoke shoes. We’ve found only one actually.
 
Just like anything, there’s a lot of crap out there. You need a true craftsman like Mannina in Firenze (Florence) Italy.
 
There is a little known section of Florence called Oltrarno. It means “Beyond the Arno,” which is the river that divides Florence. Most tourist maps won’t lead you to the Oltrarno, but believe me you want to go.
 
Here you will find a true artisan community extending back more than 500 years. We’re talking true master craftsmen practicing skills handed down over centuries.
 

“For me that's one of the great indulgences in life - a hand-tailored suit, and a great pair of handmade shoes.”
 
--Hugh Jackman

Our friend Mannina is one of the oldest, shoemakers in Florence still in existence. They started in 1953 by artisan Calogero Mannina, the father. Calogero Mannina passed down his skills to his son, Antonio, who made our personal bespoke shoes. And we love him for it.
 
The Mannina signature is style is reflected in a unique antique finish created when their shoes are polished by hand with a blend of aniline dye, alcohol & wax.
 

 
Go see what we're talking about: Mannina HERE or in English HERE

 
If you can’t make it to Florence, well then this is your very best domestic alternative. He makes shoes for the freaking President Perry Ercolino
 
We like the shoes and think you will too, but for some serious analysis and more reading, head over to The Shoe Snob
 
And for more history on some true artisans check out this great piece by the BBC on the Olrarno.