A Lifetime of Style, Sustainably Crafted

JOHN LOBB | Alexander

On October 25, 2024, John Lobb released its annual model shoes. This year's release is "ALEXANDER," a monk strap shoe that makes a striking impression. It is a special model celebrating Saint Crispin, the patron saint of shoemakers.

Text by Kosaku Waseda

A Dignified Presence, Highlighting Meticulous Craftsmanship

The concept of a patron saint is a traditional Christian belief where a saint is associated with a particular region or profession. Patron saints have legends and episodes tied to them, which then connect them to specific occupations.

Saint Crispin refers to brothers who, while fleeing religious persecution in the 3rd century, preached Christianity and worked as shoemakers. A church was built to honor them in the 6th century, and they have been venerated as the patron saints of shoemakers and leatherworkers.

In Japan, however, there has been an ancient belief in Yaoyorozu no kami, the idea that spirits inhabit all things, from nature to objects. Because spirits reside within them, objects have been treated with care and attention to ensure they last. This can be seen as the origin of the Japanese mindset of valuing possessions. The word 'mottainai' (what a waste) likely arose from this Yaoyorozu philosophy.

However, as time passed and economic activity accelerated, consumption patterns changed. The rise of mass production, mass consumption, easy replacement, and disposable fast fashion significantly altered the perception of value in objects.

In recent years, with the drive towards achieving SDGs, sustainable thinking has become essential in the fashion industry. Slow fashion, the antithesis of fast fashion, emphasizes cherishing and continuously using high-quality items for a long time.

Throughout its 150-year history, John Lobb has been the choice of discerning individuals and connoisseurs. The shoes, crafted with exceptional quality, are truly lifelong companions. Beyond their inherent durability, they offer the pleasure of aging gracefully, and the Maison's care and repair services provide peace of mind should they ever need attention. John Lobb has been committed to creating enduring products long before the term 'slow fashion' entered the public consciousness.

John Lobb has celebrated Saint Crispin's feast day, October 25th, by releasing a special model every year since 1996. The 2024 new release is "ALEXANDER." This shoe is a collaboration between John Lobb's bespoke atelier in Paris and its ready-to-wear factory in the UK, with artisans from both locations dedicating over nine weeks to craft a single pair.

The ALEXANDER makes a striking impression with its dignified form. An anthracite oval buckle set on the strap provides an elegant accent to its silhouette. The hand-stitched detailing that wraps around the sides showcases the Maison's meticulous craftsmanship and playful spirit.

It is available in three colors: black, dark green, and oxblood.

Released on the commemorative day of Saint Crispin, the ALEXANDER is a piece that reminds us that cherishing and engaging with "lifelong possessions" can foster positive relationships between people, and between people and the environment.

Inquiries

JOHN LOBB
https://www.johnlobb.com/ja_jp/