Packing Shoes

and aforethought...

Off to Florence, it’s a January thing we do. Yes, I do appreciate you’ll be bombarded with Pitti pictures, videos and commentary over the next few days, rest assured my bomb load will be full. I will take pics for my own delectation and inspiration. Talk to old friends and new too and naturally share.

In terms of my own prep’ for the trip I’m mindful of packing appropriately, so often I start from the bottom up. They’ve had a Victorian Sponge sprinkling of snow recently, though the forecast now includes the odd shower. Regardless, footwear for day and night wear are paramount. Here’s two pairs that made the cut…

For days strolling around the Tuscan capital the mercurial Edward Green Galway has always been a favourite of mine. These in (deadly) Nightshade, studded sole and a hint of black polish will go for miles, unaided. Classic with a suit, great with tweed and easy with cords. Whatever the weather, regardless of miles these fit in, compeed free.

From day to night, and we have back-to-back black-tie events, I’m packing my semi-bespoke patent loafers. Taken off one of their oldest lasts the good people of Paul Sargeant, now unfortunately no more and once Alfred Sargent est.1889 of Northamptonshire made these for me. Easy as you like they’re like a great watch in that all the action goes on behind. The greatest fiddle back sole and heel combination I have ever seen, literally. I was there to see Bob himself, a fourth generation Northamptonshire cobbler, work his magic with these and magic it is.

Oh and by the way, I may well travel to and fro in suede chukkas and pack some slippers for the Florentine breakfast buffet, Attention to detail and all that…

Best,

Nigel