Shoes Navigating the Space Between Smart and Casual | JOHN LOBB

JOHN LOBB

The "VENTON" Sneaker: Versatile for Any Occasion

John Lobb's Take on Smart Casual

This Spring/Summer season, John Lobb has released two types of sneakers. One is the "LEVAH," with a classic design inspired by archival tennis shoes. The other, which we introduce here, is the "VENETON," embodying John Lobb's style to date.

Photographs by KOBAYASHI Takashi (ITARU Studio)Text by ITO Yuji (OPENERS)

Fashion Changes, Style Endures

What adults need for sophisticated style is a high-quality basic wardrobe. For fundamental items like suits and jackets, this means pieces tailored from fine materials. However, relying solely on these can limit the enjoyment of dressing up. Furthermore, an overly basic approach can lead to a dull overall look.

This is where incorporating elements of seasonal modes and trends comes in.

That said, choosing items simply because they are "trendy" is not the way to go. Instead, one must digest the reasons behind a trend, reflect on their own wardrobe, and determine if it suits them. Once incorporated with such consideration, it becomes one's own style, firmly grounded and authentic.

In this sense, fashion and style are similar yet distinct concepts. To put it simply, fashion is measured by the era, while style is measured by the individual. It is perhaps for such adults, possessing their own unique style, that the new summer model, "VENTON," is designed.

John Lobb Sneakers, Unchanged in Their Essence

The "VENTON" is immediately recognizable by its slender silhouette, achieved with the new "0515" last, lending it an elegant and refined air despite being a sneaker. The combination of soft, lightweight calfskin and suede further enhances its airy feel, both visually and in terms of comfort.

However, such flowing silhouettes are not new to John Lobb; they have existed previously. While the "LEVAH" was introduced as a new staple compared to the other sneaker, the "VENTON" can be seen as a continuation of John Lobb's established aesthetic.

The "VENTON," with its silhouette akin to dress shoes, features a distinctive design where two of the three available colors—navy, grey, and aubergine (purple)—are combined to create contrast. This smart yet casual color palette allows it to pair seamlessly with a wide range of outfits, from tailored jackets to denim. It is recommended for those who appreciate trends but wish to maintain their signature John Lobb style.