If the Shoe Fits

Marked by a rich 150-year-old heritage, John Lobb’s appeal persists well into the 21st century. shares his insights with

ong-admired by members of the British Royal Family (Prince Charles and Prince Harry are fans) and Old Hollywood stars, luxury leather goods company John Lobb possesses a timeless appeal that is bolstered by a storied past and unparalleled craftsmanship. “Its identity is quintessentially English, but infused with a sense of adventure that stems from the founder himself,” says Nicholas Holt, John Lobb Regional Director for Asia Pacific & China. “Our top-of-the-line products are a culmination of the brand’s history and capacity to innovate, which allows us to stay relevant to the customers of today.”

The brand’s popularity soared in the postwar era, a period wherein many industries began to thrive. “People suddenly had the means and the drive to spend time and money on things that made them look and feel good, so a fi ne pair of shoes became a worthwhile investment,” Holt reflects.

The bespoke factor was also a come-on; the idea of owning a shoe handcrafted by the best artisans using the fi nest materials to suit one’s specifics to a T proved to be highly appealing. To reach a wider audience, John Lobb went into retail, debuting its first ready-to-wear collection in 1982. Holt describes the move to embrace retail as a natural progression for the brand. In Asia, they have opened doors in key locations such as Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Manila, and Hong Kong, where their newest boutique is located.

“John Lobb is a far cry from fast fashion,” Holt adds. “Rather, a John Lobb item is timeless, classic, and wears well as it ages. A 20-year-old gentleman can walk into the store and walk out carrying the same pair his father or grandfather might have purchased before. The manufacturing process and the Goodyear Welted construction used on the sole ensure that the leather—if one looks after it well enough—will stay durable for a very long time.”