GJ Cleverley the "Churchill" in Polo suede

I have a few times explained that I favour the side gussets for their practicality. I know many gents who loathe the side gussets especially when paired with "faux laces" and resembling an Oxford shoe, or it be a full brogue, cap toe etc-etc. But I do like them and have a few of these creations.

For the day, I have sampled a GJ Cleverley, faux laced full austerity / blind brogue with side gussets made of Polo suede aka "The Churchill". WOW! 

Now, some may say I am biased when it comes to GJ Cleverley, no I am not. They do produce wonderful shoes and for me their shoes fit from go, no need to break them in for days on end. In February of this year, I was thinking of commissioning the "Churchill" but ended up with the Aidan and the Jack in burgundy (seen next to the Clifford) and then topped it off with the Peter in black, which I am looking forward to receive at any moment from now. 

The "Churchill" (austerity brogue) with "faux" laces and a side gussets in Polo suede.

Photos sourced from Leather Soul Hawaii

Mr. Cliff Roberts (Northampton) Bespoke Shoemaker follow up

Mr. Cliff Roberts, a Northampton bespoke shoe maker, a one man bespoke shoe making operation, never stops to amaze me with some of the shoe renditions he makes.


I admire his artisanship and the products produced from his hand. 


I earlier blogged about the shoes Mr. Roberts produced for me and have to admit, they are very well done, classic & elegant. I am looking forward to more pieces from the Master from Northampton. 


I took the liberty of taking some of his latest creations and bring them here to you, so you can also admire these pieces. Enjoy.


Mr. Cliff Roberts with son, who is also joining the bespoke shoe tradition, it is my understanding that the younger Mr. Roberts made the double monk they are holding. 


Furthermore, Mr. Roberts daughter is also into the bespoke shoe business. How fortunate can we be, all of the Shoe AristoCats, Shoe Lovers, Shoe Snobs, and shoe collectors, will have three Roberts to deal with. Tough for some of us........

Mr. Cliff Roberts with Mr. Frank Bruno

I have never seen a two toned Ghillie before, but this one is amazing

A Derby boot

An oxford cap toe and a buttoned balmoral boot, wow. The latter is a rare item, I am glad that some gents are reviving this Edwardian boot and thanks to artisans like Mr. Roberts who offers this beauty for all shoe lovers.

A brown monk and the channelled sole

Two tone balmoral boot (suede and leather)

Mr. Roberts rendition of a balmoral oxford, never seen a balmoral oxford done this way, very unique, the colour combination is also striking. Wonder which gent commissioned this pair.

A monk with vamp brogue

My favourite travel shoes, side gusset with false laces also known as the Churchill shoe

Another monk, a double monk in tan, stitched cap toe, this will make a good Summer shoe.

A black full brogue

Classical punched cap toe oxford

Punched cap toe side gussets in Summer colouring, wonderful

Another side gusset with brogueing (Anthony Cleverley inspired)

A brown monk

A beautifully renditioned two tone Adelaide with wing cap toe. My next pair to commission?

Two toned oxford boots, interesting colour combination, well done

Two toned Balmoral boot in black and cream, very classy

A tan whole cut with vamp stitching, beautiful Spring/Summer shoe

All pictures sourced from Cliff Roberts