Shoes that anchor your look are the core of style, symbols of their country's culture.

United Arrows' first store, the Shibuya branch, opened in July 1990. At the time, our selection policy was to curate excellent shoes from different countries: Edward Green from England, Stallmanterassi from Italy, and Alden from America. Then John Lobb appeared, and we were eager to carry the "Parisian Lobb," a truly exceptional shoe.

To a photo gallery showcasing the meticulous details of Kamoshita-san's sharp styling that impresses industry insiders
I own about six or seven pairs of John Lobb, but I tend to reach for them when I want to create a refined style. Lobb has a unique charm that no other brand can replicate. I own three pairs of the "ASHLEY" I'm wearing today, and they are invaluable as loafers that pair well with suits.

When I consider my outfit for the day, I don't decide things in a fixed order. I start by thinking about coordinating with a single tie or the shoes I want to wear. For example, I believe the fun of dressing lies in building an outfit starting from an idea like, 'I want to wear striped socks today.'

For an elegant suit like today's, I would normally pair it with Oxfords, but I've added a twist by choosing the "ASHLEY," characterized by its long vamp and square toe. The refined elegance unique to Lobb emanates from my feet.

Discussing the three models chosen for the "BY REQUEST" fair

"GARNIER" is the most perfectly crafted ready-to-wear shoe for dinner suits. While it's difficult to achieve originality with minimalist shoes, "GARNIER" stands out with its John Lobb essence achieved through stripping away excess. Dinner suit shoes often use patent leather, but Lobb meticulously polishes fine calfskin for a truly dapper finish. Although they are tuxedo shoes and not worn frequently, I've cherished them for over a decade, wearing them once or twice a year. "GARNIER" comes with silk laces as well as a spare round lace, making them versatile for day formal wear. It's a convenient pair to have.

The desert boot "KRASNA" was a very popular model at United Arrows. At the time, there were no other chukka boots available that could be worn so stylishly for town use. The lines and form were elegant, and all the UA staff wore them. Many still cherish them today, and because they are such well-crafted, timeless boots, I believe they will be well-received at this fair as well.

"BARROS" is one of the dress shoes that was paired with the unique preppy style of Parisians during the peak of French trad in the 80s. I admired actors wearing these shoes in magazines like "ELLE." They are very Parisian shoes, sophisticated country shoes. In a word, they have a 'young master' aura and are representative of BCBG.

For this fair, you can specially order two-tone combinations of light and dark brown, which is my signature John Lobb color pairing. While composite shoes might seem daunting, simply adding them to your everyday outfit elevates it to something special, adding flair when things feel too ordinary. They are perfect for a refined, relaxed style, such as the tweedy suits trending this autumn/winter. Please try the "Kamoshita Special," which can only be ordered during the fair.

A Unique John Lobb Experience: The Beauty of Tradition

The three pairs I've chosen this time are cherished models from an era of John Lobb that wasn't overly sharp, representing a rich period imbued with nostalgia. I want to cherish this unique world of John Lobb, and I believe that is the beauty of tradition.

The pair I brought today is "AVON." I bought it when it was released; it's a black suede Oxford. I love suede, and there's a unique enjoyment to be had with suede that you can't get with calfskin. For example, pairing brown suede with grey flannel is textbook, but by matching black suede with grey flannel, you add a touch of modern sophistication within a stoic color scheme.

For "GARNIER," as they are not shoes intended for all-day wear, I recommend the smarter D width over the E width. Being able to choose a visually refined width, much like the feeling of wearing a kimono for New Year's, is unique to ordering at the fair. Please compare the widths at the store.

Charity Project "MOVING ON TOGETHER!"

I imagine the people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake are going through immense hardship. The United Arrows Group has launched a charity project, "MOVING ON TOGETHER!," with our customers to support the recovery of the affected regions.

For each of us, clothing is something to enjoy in daily life and a tool for communication. What we can do remains the same, both before and after the earthquake. I believe that engaging in positive activities, such as through "MOVING ON TOGETHER!," contributes to support.

Charity Project "MOVING ON TOGETHER!"