J.Crew is a busy bee with all these emails sent out today! ;) "Thanks!" to Walt, who let us know about another email J.Crew sent out to the Guys today.The email above features the not-yet-officially-released-online Alden® for J.Crew Cap Toe Cordovan Boots (Item 20853; $595.00). J.Crew describes these shoes as:
The description is pretty interesting for a few reasons: (1) It looks like they didn't get to finish it. The last sentence leaves me wanting more. (2) I like how they state up-front that these shoes may *already* be on back-order. Didn't they *just* come out? (3) I love that they insist you get on the wait-list staring now. How about ordering enough so no wait-list is needed? ;)A handcrafted masterpiece in genuine shell cordovan leather by Alden® (est. 1884), an icon of old-school American shoemaking—and it's ours alone. Alden's integrity and attention to craft have long made us loyal followers, and these boots are no exception. Each one is handcrafted entirely in the U.S. using shell cordovan (for its magnificent lustre and extraordinary durability), which is vegetable tanned for six months at one of the country's oldest tanneries. Features all of Alden's hallmark details including their famed Goodyear® welt, full-leather lining and tempered steel shank. They don't make them like this anymore. If properly cared for, these boots will last for generations (to make sure they do, you can send them back to Alden for resoling). Because these are handmade, your size may be on back order. We recommend putting yourself on the waiting list (trust us, it's the worth the wait). Double leather outsole. USA. This shoe was shaped over a Barrie last and runs o
As for the shoes itself, they do look pretty darn awesome! And I have to give it to Alden for actually resoling shoes for customers anytime. (I am curious, will they offer this service for free or for a fee? If it's free, than the price of the shoes seem way more reasonable.)
What are your thoughts on the Alden® for J.Crew Cap Toe Cordovan Boots? Do you like the shoes? Will you order it?
The shoes do look awesome and I agree with Heidi, those are wearable for a guy who takes reasonably good care of them and resoles when necessary for years and years. The cost per wear would be pennies. Why is the mens' stuff so great?!
ReplyDeletegorgeous
ReplyDeleteAlden charges a fee for restoration--just like other traditional american shoemakers (e.g. Allen Edmonds). But restoration aside, what makes the shoes so expensive and, in my opinion, worth the expense, is that Alden is known for their impeccable work with cordovan leather. Cordovan is incredibly resilient and will withstand cracking and stretching infinitely better tan regular calfskin. Definitely a beautiful shoe.
ReplyDeleteShoe love. These would look amazing peeking out from long pants or jeans. I am all for splurging on a good pair of shoes. I had a pair of Bass Weejuns that lasted almost 4 years of wear during school with polish, waterproof spray and stretchers. I'd spring for them if 1) I could try them on and 2) they had size 7 (equivalent to women's 8).
ReplyDeleteI'm kind of offended that I didn't receive this e-mail considering my closet is almost 100% J.Crew...guess I won't be buying these.
ReplyDelete11.5 is the biggest size available. :(
ReplyDeleteMy husband swears that Aldens are *the* most comfortable shoes he has ever worn. I don't think it's that uncommon for there not to be a fair number of sizes on hand (although it's curious as to why JC wouldn't just wait until they actually had some in *their* hands!).
ReplyDeleteWe have a mens' store here (Winn-Perry) where the wait list is well over a year for specific Aldens -- leather grain/color, last size (very important, you should either get measured, contact JC about sizing or order two pairs if you are between sizes), style, etc. all come into play with regard to the wait time.
They are beautiful shoes!