JOHN LOBB | Tomoki Yusuke's "Made to Order" Experience with John Lobb (Part 1)

JOHN LOBB

Tomoki Yuza's "MADE TO ORDER" at John Lobb (Part 1): Ordering the Shoes You Want Now

Tomoki Yuza's "MADE TO ORDER" at John Lobb (Part 1)

The season for John Lobb's "MADE TO ORDER FAIR" has arrived once again. This annual premium event allows you to create your own unique pair of shoes by selecting your favorite model, getting fitted, and choosing your preferred leather, all at the standard price. Ahead of the fair, fashion director Tomoki Yuza enjoyed the "MADE TO ORDER" experience at the John Lobb Marunouchi store. Let's take you through the ordering process live with Tomoki Matsudaira, the representative of John Lobb.

Photo: Emiko Hara

The Difference Between Pattern Order and Bespoke (Full Order)

Tomoki YuzaThank you for having me today.

Tomoki MatsudairaPlease take your time to choose whatever you like.

YuzaI understand there are two types of custom orders at John Lobb?

MatsudairaYes, first, what you are trying today is called "MADE TO ORDER." It's a pattern order service based on John Lobb's ready-to-wear line, customized to better suit customer requests, and it's available year-round.

YuzaSo, you choose from existing ready-to-wear shoes.

MatsudairaThat's right. John Lobb accepts pattern orders throughout the year. Normally, there's a 30% surcharge on the retail price, but orders placed during the "MADE TO ORDER" fair are at the standard retail price.

YuzaThat's a great deal.

MatsudairaFor bespoke (full order), we call it "MADE TO MEASURE," and it's held three times a year, in March, July, and November, with craftsmen visiting from Paris.

YuzaAt OPENERS,an article by United Arrows President Shigematsuthere was one.

MatsudairaYes, the so-called "SHIGEMATSU" model (laughs). Bespoke orders, including fittings, take about 9 months to complete, while pattern orders can be ready in about 6 months.

YuzaThat's perfect. I'll be able to wear them in the fall.

MatsudairaThen, please choose your favorite shoes from our ready-to-wear line available in the store.

Choosing Three Model Candidates, Measuring Size, and Trying Them On

MatsudairaLet's measure your foot size, Mr. Yuza. Your left foot seems slightly narrower.

YuzaBut my left instep is higher. Tight shoes always make my left instep hurt.

MatsudairaMany Japanese men have high insteps, but you can't simply choose based on appearance. The last shape also affects the instep height.

YuzaSo, it seems I really have to get my size measured properly and try them on.

Yuza selected three models: the double monk strap "William," the "Chappel," and the "Tudor" boot.

MatsudairaThe three models you've chosen each have a different last. First, please try the "William." For the "William," I think size 7 would be good for you. This is because last 9795 has a more generous fit. However, this shoe is characterized by its stiff sole. You might find the feel of wearing it stiff as well.

YuzaYes, it does feel compact in black.

MatsudairaIf you prefer a longer nose, perhaps the "William" isn't the right choice?

YuzaHmm, I'll try the "Chappel."

MatsudairaFor the "Chappel," also a double monk strap, I recommend size 7.5. This is made from a single piece of leather, has a smaller heel cup, and the beveled waist creates a stylish silhouette.

YuzaThey look elegant when worn. They have a great character. They're alluring. I do prefer brown, after all. Please let me try the boots too.

MatsudairaFor the "Tudor" side-gore boots, please try size 8. This uses last 7000, which is popular among Japanese men with high insteps and is globally acclaimed. The long toe box gives it a sleek appearance.

Model Chosen: "Chappel" in "Plum" Leather!

YuzaI've decided. I'll go with the "Chappel." It seems to match the suit I'm currently ordering the best.

MatsudairaThen, please choose the leather and color.

YuzaWhat is the leather and color of this "Chappel"?

MatsudairaThe ones you are currently wearing are dark brown museum calf, the darkest brown. Please choose your preferred color from the museum calf and suede samples.

YuzaI think I'll go with this "Plum" color, which is a Bordeaux shade.

MatsudairaI recommend this plum museum calf because it's a special leather available only through Made to Order.

YuzaThen, please make the "Chappel" in this plum color, size 7.5.

MatsudairaI think that's an excellent choice.

Having decided on his personal order, Mr. Yuza will discuss John Lobb shoes in detail in the second part.

Tomoki Yuza's "MADE TO ORDER" at John Lobb (Part 2)to be continued

Finally Here! John Lobb's "MADE TO ORDER FAIR"

Model: "Chappel"

John Lobb's tradition and high-level craftsmanship, supported by bespoke shoemaking since its founding in 1858.
The ready-to-wear line offers pattern orders that cater to customer requests.

The "Made to Order Fair" allows you to select your favorite model, get fitted for size, and then choose the leather to be used.

A major draw is that pattern orders, which normally incur a 30% surcharge on the retail price, can be ordered at the retail price exclusively during this fair.

Event Schedule

Friday, May 15 - Tuesday, May 19, 2009
John Lobb Marunouchi
John Lobb Osaka Hilton Plaza

Friday, May 22 - Tuesday, May 26, 2009
John Lobb Fukuoka Iwataya
Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building B1, Men's Shoes

Friday, May 29 - Tuesday, June 2, 2009
John Lobb Shinsaibashi
United Arrows Ginza

Friday, June 5 - Tuesday, June 9, 2009
John Lobb Matsuzakaya Nagoya
The Sovereign House

Friday, June 12 - Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Building 2F
JR Kyoto Isetan 6F, Men's Shoes

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