History of Iconic Shoes

You’ve heard the phrase—"shoes make the man." While it’s not the exact saying, you get the idea. The bottom line is that shoes are more than just footwear. They reflect our personality, boost our confidence, and shape how others perceive us. Throughout history, shoes have fascinating connections across the globe. The adventurous tales of Chukka boots, the scholarly allure of loafers, the distinguished Monk Straps, and the timeless appeal of the Oxford all tell remarkable stories. So, let’s dive into the world of shoes.

The Chukka Boot

The Chukka boot is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Shoe historians (yes, they exist) trace its origins to a collaboration between British troops and African artisans during World War II. Deployed in the North African campaign, British soldiers found their standard military boots unsuitable for the harsh desert conditions. Collaborating with local craftsmen in Cairo, they developed a lightweight, comfortable boot that offered agility and kept sand out. Today, the Chukka boot remains a versatile option, with its smooth leather or suede uppers and rubber soles making it ideal for casual wear.

Every sophisticated man should own a pair of Chukka boots. Our "Sahara" model lets you enjoy this classic without venturing into the desert.

The Sahara Boot in Burnished Cognac

The Sahra in Black waxed Suede

The Loafer

Think of loafers as a wardrobe staple, not a lazy option. From traditional welt moccasins to penny loafers and tassel styles, loafers are perfect for almost any occasion. Their sleek new designs even make them suitable for business attire. While the exact origins are debated, one popular story suggests that Norwegian visitors to America admired Native American moccasins and brought the concept back to Norway, where they developed a new sole design. American designers later added their own touches, creating the iconic loafers we know today.

Our "Graduate" tassel loafers and "Collegiate" penny loafers offer modern twists on these classics, making them perfect for both school and the boardroom.

Blue Grain Leather Loafer

The Graduate Loafer Brown Suede

The Oxford

If you consider yourself an Oxford man, you’re embracing a shoe with a rich history. One legend traces the origins of Oxford to Scotland in the mid-1600s, when it was said to have been created near Balmoral Castle. Another story dates to 1825 when the Oxford started as a boot before being cut down to a shoe, becoming a trend among Oxford University students. Regardless of which origin you prefer, the Oxford is a global icon. This sophisticated lace-up shoe can feature medallion perforations, captoes, and pic-stitching, with artisans continuously updating it with new designs and colors.

Explore our outstanding Oxfords like "The New Yorker, and "The Langston"

The Langston Cap-Toe

The Monk Strap

Buckle up for a stylish ride with Monk straps. Featuring between one to three buckles instead of laces, these shoes offer a unique and elegant look. The Monk strap’s history dates back to European monks between 1600 and 1800, who designed the shoe to protect their feet with a leather cover. Modern Monk straps come in various styles, including single, double, and triple straps, and materials like suede and moccasin welt. Whether paired with a suit, summer linen pants, jeans, or chinos, Monk straps add a distinctive flair.

Stand out with our classy new Monk Strap designs: "The Sunday Best."

The Alexander Noel Design Lab

At Alexander Noel, we provide you with the opportunity to personalize your shoes. Choose your preferred color, leather, and fabric to create the perfect style that suits you. You can even use our Design Lab to craft your unique look, ensuring your footwear reflects your individual taste and personality.

Go to:

www.shopAlexanderNoel.com