FASHION /
WOMEN
February 5, 2016
2016 Autumn/Winter "London Collection" Report (2) | JOHN LOBB
JOHN LOBB
2016 Autumn/Winter "London Collection" Report (2)
Notable New Arrivals: Ready-to-Wear (1)
Amidst the buzz surrounding the "Artisan Series," the first bespoke creations by Creative Director Paula Gerbase, the 2016 Autumn/Winter "London Collection" also unveiled ready-to-wear pieces. This report introduces new models that are not only beautiful but also enhance the functionality of footwear, along with the innovative techniques from "John Lobb" that made them possible.
Photographs by FUJIWARA YuText by ITO Yuji
The Key Model: "Alder"
The "Alder" is the signature model of this season's collection, inspired by Dartmoor, a wetland in the UK. While its appearance blends elements of chukka boots and mountain boots, the sleek toe box lends it the sophisticated dressiness characteristic of "John Lobb." It's particularly intriguing that "Alder" was introduced in the seasonal collection, alongside the enduring classics of the core collection's dress shoes.
This is because, in recent years, sporty and light aesthetics have gained prominence in men's fashion. The "Alder" represents "John Lobb's" unique response to this trend, embodying its significance. However, its design is not merely a concession to trends; it is crafted with "John Lobb's" new clientele firmly in mind.
After all, a wardrobe comprises clothing for dressing up and casual wear for leisure. "John Lobb" offers footwear suitable for every occasion.
Functionality, Not Just Appearance
The new "Alder" model belongs to the "Balmoral" series, which features a new rubber sole. Crafted from museum calf leather with a waterproof finish, and accented with fine embossed caviar grain and smooth leather, the combination is subtle, maintaining an understated elegance. The difference is discreet, staying within the bounds of understatement.
Fine pinking trims the edges along the Balmoral line, and the tongue is integrated into the shoe for enhanced waterproofing. This construction highlights the "Alder's" focus on durability. Furthermore, the striking palladium lace hooks and eyelets, along with the cushioned ankle collar, are inspired by bespoke ski boots from the 1940s.
With a design that complements modern attire and meticulous attention to "John Lobb's" signature techniques and materials, the "Alder" is poised to become a must-have item for the upcoming Autumn/Winter season, lending a refined touch to any look.
Page02.What is "Tensile Construction," developed over six months?
JOHN LOBB
2016 Autumn/Winter "London Collection" Report (2)
Notable New Arrivals: Ready-to-Wear (2)
The Pursuit of Lightness and Comfort
A noteworthy new specification from "John Lobb" is the "Tensile Construction" found in new models featuring lightweight suede and the new Muarland (moorland) grain with its larger pebble texture. Developed with the season's theme in mind, this innovation further pursues lightness and functionality.
The approximately six months dedicated to achieving both the robustness and suppleness of Goodyear welting have resulted in a level of comfort that is invisible to the eye. This feat is a testament to the skill of "John Lobb's" artisans. By minimizing the size of internal components like the stiffeners, this new specification has been made possible.
New Materials for the Popular "LEVAH" Sneaker
The "LEVAH," inspired by tennis shoes from 1923, was a standout model from the Spring/Summer collection last year. For Autumn/Winter 2016, a model crafted from Muarland grain will be introduced. Available in both low-cut and mid-cut designs, the exhibition featured versions with white rubber soles and natural-colored soles.
This update to the "LEVAH" also emphasizes lightness, reflecting "John Lobb's" unwavering philosophy of actively incorporating improvements wherever possible, even in popular classic models.
The 2016 Autumn/Winter collection re-examines the fundamental qualities of footwear—functionality and comfort—moving beyond superficial design. Displayed atop objets d'art mimicking Dartmoor granite, the new creations revealed the enduring appeal of "John Lobb's" commitment to innovation.
