Hiroshi's "H" Meets Hoshiba's "H" to Create "WH"

"Shoes made in Japan, from Tokyo, for the world" – driven by this shared vision, "Double H" has launched with the aim of creating what Hoshiba calls "international basics that don't belong to any particular country."

Hoshiba explains the genesis of the new brand: "I felt a strong response when two pairs of Enzo Bonafè double monks, which Tsubouchi-san directed, sold out instantly in a collaboration on Amazon. It made me want to create something with Tsubouchi-san again. We actually live near each other, and about a year ago, we were having drinks privately and discussing the kind of shoes we wanted to make. We've both worn shoes from Italy, the UK, France, the US, and Japan, but our goal was precisely 'shoes that are accepted everywhere.' We aimed for shoes that are easy to wear, look good, are elegant, and suit suit and jacket styles for businessmen around the world."

He adds, "I showed Tsubouchi-san my design sketches about twice, and the first sample that came back was perfect. I was truly impressed by Tsubouchi-san's skill."

Making Japanese Businessmen Look Sharp!

Tsubouchi elaborates, "Hoshiba-san's request was for shoes that are light, comfortable, and stylish, as he often finds leather shoes tiring. So, without being bound by specific construction methods, we approached it as dress shoes created with a sneaker's mindset. We incorporated features like cup insoles and refined details for a softer feel against the foot. Considering Hoshiba-san's desire for sartorial elegance and a volume that pairs well with trousers having a hem width of about 17 centimeters, we arrived at this silhouette."

The first collection from Double H features two models: a double monk strap and a plain toe. For materials, they selected fine box calf from Annonay, a French tannery renowned for its durable and lustrous leather. The design boasts a timeless, elegant egg toe, characteristic of international classics, paired with an exceptionally lightweight yet substantial Vibram sole. While appearing classic and robust, they offer outstanding comfort and the added benefit of elongating the legs with their thicker soles. Available in black and dark brown.

Note the "WH" Engraving on the Straps

Hoshiba points out, "While these are collaboration shoes with Tsubouchi-san, please also pay attention to the WH engraving on the heel strap, designed by Maki Yoshida, a leading Japanese jewelry designer."

He continues, "Both the double monk and plain toe are basic, standard styles for businessmen. They're perfect not only with suits and jackets but also, thanks to the slightly casual sole, can be worn with jeans and shorts – they're truly versatile."

Tsubouchi adds, "Since this is a collaboration with Hoshiba-san, a sense of luxury was essential. Incorporating his vision, we finalized the designs after several discussions. These two models are unlike anything that has existed before, and you won't find them if you search. They are designed for daily wear, from dressy occasions to casual outings."

Double H, where the aspirations of these two individuals are expressed in both design and price, awaits your try-on at the Men's Shoes section on the B1 floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building.

Isetan Shinjuku Store
3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3352-1111 (General Inquiries)
http://www.isetan.co.jp/

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