I have a strong sense of what works for me and what I am happy with. I can’t quite explain it but I know when I have a product in the flesh that looks and feels right. Every so often though a product comes along that blows me away. Something that I was not necessarily looking for, but, that becomes an obsession. The latest is the Valentim, by model and designer Armando Cabral
Armando hated it when Kalaf outsmarted him.
But when Armano turned it up a notch… Ahh yeeeah!
You may recognise Armando from his many advertising campaigns, particularly J. Crew and GQ. The man himself hails from Lisbon, Portugal and has a real passion for quality, crafted products stemming from his mother’s influence as a tailor. And it shows in his collection. You also get the sense of travel with several shoes reflecting several influences from around the globe, all executed with Cabral’s own style.
Papel Buffalo Woven Shoe in Leather and Canvas
Hula Calf Skin Leather Espadrille & Verela Calf Skin Leather Sandal
Tombali Deer Leather Brogue and Caio Buffalo Leather Derby Shoe
Fernando Burnished Suede and Coated Twill Sneakers
High Shine Chelsea Boot
High Shine Derby Shoe in Burgundy Leather
The shoe that caught my eye was the Valentim. Available in a highly polished, burgundy leather and a slightly distressed brown suede this tasseled loafer oozes craftsmanship and style. The detail that particularly caught my eye was the contours of the toe cap. He has captured this just right in my opinion. Not too squared and rectangular and not to a clown-esque point either. This elevates the shoe immensely in the most subtle of ways. If that makes sense! Basically the discerning eye will recognise the quality, it won’t mash up your toes and it will suit both formal and casual attire with relative ease.
High Shine Burgundy Leather Valentim Shoe
Distressed Suede Valentim Shoe
Gorgeous Detailing And Craftsmanship
Already on his 5th collection and having expanded into a Womenswear line there seems to be no stopping Armando’s rise as a reputable shoe maker with an excellent eye for detail. Understandably nervous at his initial launch, the shoe line was snapped up by the likes of Dover Street Market and is now available at Mr Porter. Please don’t buy up all the size 7‘s. I’m saving hard for these!
33 boroughs 