Life is unfair. Men can get on with life with just one good suit and a timeless pair of shoes. No need for them to keep updating to the latest styles or trends, the way women do.
The suit can take men through most formal occasions. They can even take it apart and use one element for another outfit. The pants can be paired with any shirt. The coat can do if a jacket can’t, while the shirt is a must-have for travel outfits.
As for shoes, a pair for every kind of affair is suitable as well. Oxfords and loafers can be worn to weddings, work and even on weekends. Sneakers are for a casual outfit, apart from exercise.
Think of how many hours of shopping time women can save if they can make do with men’s minimal outfit needs.
But looking for the right suit is a process. A suit is never just bought off the rack. Ideally it should be tailored. It doesn’t matter how many fittings it takes, as long as the details are precise.
The same attention to detail is devoted to choosing shoes. Aside from the aesthetics, shoes have to be tough. Shoes take a beating from daily use.
One should look for a shoe design that is perennially stylish and matches the wearer’s personality.
The fit is also key. They need to be comfortable. A bad pair of shoes could really ruin one’s day.
Now in Manila
With those guidelines, I looked at the selection from John Lobb (JL) shoes. The label recently found its home in Manila at Greenbelt 3 beside Hermès. Established in 1866 on Regent Street in London, JL expanded to Paris in 1899.
JL’s ethos harks back to a tradition of bespoke shoemaking. It has an international clientele, which is no surprise since it has retained its classic, old-school quality. This quality is what makes it more important in a culture of impulse buying.
Think of JL as the power shoes for men, sans the heels and the hype.
JL boasts designs that are neither dated nor trying too hard. They’re far from boring, as well. JL is for men who want a sophisticated look without the frills.
Its line includes classic Oxfords, loafers, boots, buckle shoes and sneakers. Every season, JL updates its collections with a limited line, something to spice up the rack of a collector or any shoe addict. (Male shoe addicts exist. Just check their closets.)
Although I was wearing my favorite pair of heels, I had a bit of an itch to try on a JL pair, and see how I would fare in them. Fashion, after all, is about experimentation.
John Lobb is a brand that men must have. It’s an investment, a heritage piece.
