Shoe Crush: Valentim by Armando Cabral

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!

Barbour: Steve McQueen Collection

I know it’s only September the 4th but in my mind autumn has arrived. The warm summer evenings, the burnt orange sun, the lack of public holidays!!! It has also got me thinking about autumnal layering as the cooler weather descends.

Blinding… but so beautiful

It is about this time that I usually turn to the great British institution that is Barbour. In my opinion they are autumn. The waxed cottons, the greens, the knits and the occasional pop of colour always seem to capture this beautiful season so well.

Barbour x Tokihito Yoshida

A/W13 sees Barbour inspired by legendary style icon Mr Steve McQueen as they launch a new line synonymous with his effortless cool and linked to the 1964 ISDT motorcycling race, in which Steve McQueen led his American team in original Barbour waxed jackets.

Steve was a master of the “Who tapped my shoulder” game.

My pick of the range has to be the waxed cotton ‘Hurricane’ jacket. A simply styled retro inspired jacket that is a key piece for the autumn season. Perfect for layering I would wear it with a plain white Tee like this one from James Perse, slim fitting Jeans from The Jean Shop and finished off with black leather Jack Purcell Converse.

The Hurraicaine – Headlining Barbour’s Steve McQueen Collection

The Minimalist – Keep it Simple

Barbour has it locked down up when it comes to stylish and practical pieces for the unpredictable British weather. Easy to layer, seasonal hues, practical textiles of the highest quality, all well-tailored ensuring that your money is well spent. I’m very much an advocate of few well-made key pieces over cheap throw away fashion and Barbour certainly fits that bill. John Lewis currently has the exclusive varsity jacket below as well as the cross body waxed bag at a reduced price both of which are not available on the Barbour website currently.

The Barbour Steve McQueen Varsity – Available at John Lewis

Waxed Cotton Cross Body Bag – Available at John Lewis

What do you think of the range?

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