On-Site Report from JOHN LOBB Jermyn Street Store! | JOHN LOBB

JOHN LOBB

The World Flagship Store Offering a Full Lineup of Classics and New Arrivals

The Charm of the "John Lobb Jermyn Street Store"

Jermyn Street in London is said to be where all the essentials for a British gentleman's grooming can be found. It is here that the "John Lobb Jermyn Street Store" resides. Passing through the classic entrance that blends into the streetscape,John Lobba modern space bathed in color unfolds.

Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)Photographs by ARAKI Ryuji

The World's Top-Selling Store

Welcoming our London reporting team was Noel Allen, the manager of the John Lobb Jermyn Street store. He is a 48-year-old gentleman who has held the position of store manager since 1996.

This flagship shop, representing John Lobb, attracts a diverse clientele: devoted core fans who adore John Lobb, British VIPs and celebrities, businessmen from around the globe, and tourists. Naturally, many customers come from Japan as well.

"Japanese customers love shoes and possess extensive knowledge about them. Furthermore, many are eager to learn more about the designs and quality of the models. I've been selling shoes for nearly 30 years, and I find assisting them to be very enjoyable," says store manager Allen.

When asked about the impression of men wearing John Lobb in London, he replied, "They are often businessmen from the financial district, entrepreneurs, those in creative fields, and the affluent. Among younger individuals, many are self-employed. This is purely my personal observation, but they strike me as intelligent and humble. Their attire, the cars they drive, their homes – nothing is ostentatious; it all feels understated. I find joy in interacting with people from various professions who share the same passion as us."

When asked if many men wear John Lobb as a "symbol of success," he responded, "Certainly, there are such individuals, but most seek comfortable wear. Many also purchase them as a reward for their hard work."

Classic and Beautiful Long-Selling Models

This time, Store Manager Allen selected the "best-selling models." First, he picked up the "CITY II" model. "It's the quintessential John Lobb: a black Oxford. The design, proportions, and fit are all perfect," he stated.

Next, he reached for the "JERMYN 15" model. "This was a special model created for the 15th anniversary of the Jermyn Street store. It's an original inspired by the 1999 Year Model, featuring a beautiful balmoral (closed lacing) line on the 8000 last (wooden mold). The six eyelets are also a distinctive feature, and it's a popular shoe available only here."

The third pair was the "CHAPEL." "As many of you know, it's a double monk strap known for its luxurious single-piece leather construction. It uses the 8000 last and is highly praised for its soft fit."

"What I believe to be John Lobb's greatest strength is its enduring spirit of learning, growing, and challenging itself, even after more than 150 years of history. While proud of its heritage, I hope you will also notice its constant drive to move forward and evolve in the modern era," said the store manager.

Finally, when asked about shopping on Jermyn Street, he offered this advice: "Please take your time. If you do some research beforehand, you'll discover many things. Jermyn Street is lined with shops for gentlemen. I encourage you to refine your style here."

John Lobb Jermyn Street Store
88, Jermyn Street, LONDON SW1Y 6JD
Tel. +44 (0) 207 930 8089
Opening Hours | 10:00–18:00 (Mon–Sat)

John Lobb Japan
Tel. 03-6267-6010
http://www.johnlobb.com/jp