Ok, so I’ll be up front about this: there’s a ton of Alden in here this week—shops are bringing it with the makeups early in the year and I love it. And while I’m working on creating a running guide to every new Alden makeup of the year, they’ll go here for now. Also some great stuff from Carmina, Viberg, Meermin, Mark Albert, and Wesco.
If you ever see anything you like out there that’s coming out, always DM me @stitchdown. It’s very appreciated. And don’t forget to check out all the previous Shoes ‘n’ Boots of the Week roundups—plenty of the recommendations are still available.
[Ed Note: while we never choose anything specifically because of them, some of these recommendations contain affiliate links—the price is the same for you, but Stitchdown gets a small commission if you make a purchase. It’s essential to keeping the site alive, so we really, really appreciate it.]
Alden x Ealdwine Medallion Cap Toe Dillon Boot in Color 8 Shell Cordovan: $795
The very first shell makeup from the shell master himself, Matt Gray (if you haven’t seen the story on Matt’s insane collection, here it is). And an honestly fantastic price for a shell boot with this level of detail.
Alden x Style By Blain Country Calf Plaza Indy Boots
Just look at this stuff. My oh my. Philly’s own Style By Blain proprietor Voltaire Blain (he used to do all the best makeups at CitiShoes in NY) is old school—no site. But you can call him at (215) 753-2465 to place an order.
Alden x The Shoe Mart Black Scotch Grain Wingtips: $643
Hampton last for extra class, commando sole to make these grainy stunners the perfect rain boot.
Alden x The Shoe Mart Black Scotch Grain Single Monks: $619
Same grain as above, 360 reverse welt, also Hampton last.
Viberg “Dry Wear”-Printed Shell Cordovan Derby Boots: $1290
Also extremely original! If you haven’t heard about these yet, there’s a lot more info here.
Wesco x Division Road Jobmasters: $595
Restock of two decidedly classic Jobmasters done up with thick contrast stitching on a Christy wedge. I prefer the Black Tie Domain model, but the British Tan Domains are also excellent.
Viberg x Division Road Black Split Horsebutt Side Zip: $765
Just a stunning boot, and I personally don’t usually gravitate towards zip-ups. Vibram 705 split sole on a 5-iron midsole and natural 360 storm welt.
Mark Albert Derbies in Mahogany Cowhide: $259
The man from Somerville, PA took a big swing with these wildly textured C.F. Stead derbies. In my estimation, he connected. They’re also available in an even-more-wild indigo leather from Stead.
Meermin Norgevese Plain Toe Blucher in Tan Karangrain Calf: $400
The hand-braided Norgevese welt is insane. Beautiful d’Annonay grain calf leather. RUI last. This is an MTO that surely won’t last long.
Carmina Norwegian Split Toe Derbies in Tan Grain: $475
Carmina continues to deliver tremendous value for its exquisite shoes. Forest last.