Tassel shoes I loved during my time at Beams

Alden is a rare brand that only produces with retailers through double-name collaborations, never engaging in full OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) production.

At the time, Alden became famous through the Parisian boutique L'Éphémère, and people into French Ivy eagerly adopted them. This resonated with Beams' selection and customer base.

I recall a shoe store president speaking about Alden, and a phrase that stuck with me was 'umaheta'—beautiful yet clumsy.

The 'beauty' likely refers to their construction and comfort. They are the last shoemaker preserving the techniques from America's finest era.

The 'clumsiness,' however, comes from their balance, which isn't exactly refined compared to slim European shoes. Their shape might be considered awkward.

Yet, the distinct 'Modified Last' with its dramatically sculpted arch, their origins as orthopedic shoes for arch support, and their unique, bean-like shape were incredibly fresh to shoe enthusiasts. They are supremely practical shoes made of cordovan (horse butt leather). These are the shoes of American businessmen and politicians.

Penny loafers that were stiff and difficult to wear

During the tenure of Alden's previous president, I often visited the Boston factory. The former president had a strong desire to preserve the best aspects of American shoes from the 50s and 60s. He was a passionate shoe lover and acquired Alden along with his grandfather.

Even after that, they maintained the techniques and taste from Alden's peak period. And now, his son is pursuing a strategy of 'not changing.'

Johnston & Murphy, Florsheim, and Church's all had excellent craftsmanship during their heyday in the 50s and 60s, but they declined without transferring their skills elsewhere. Everything else disappeared, leaving only Alden.