John Lobb Footwear – The Autumn/Winter 2017 Collection

Inspired by the River Nene , an English river stemming from three sources in Northamptonshire and playing a vital role in the history of bookmaking, the John Lobb Autumn/Winter 2017 collection of footwear explores the journey of the river, and the elemental nature of water.

With a focus on flowing, uninterrupted lines, the workings and finishings of raw materials underline the collection, which celebrates the historic link of nature and industry, which has been present in Northampton since the 16th Century.

As well as taking inspiration from the elements, the collection is also made to ensure protection from them, with newly developed rubber soles based on archival wooden lugs, and paired with the distinctive storm welt featuring throughout.

The house’s unique use of large pattern pieces is highlighted to emphasise the quality of the leathers used. An oxford is punctuated simply with five eyelets and waxed laces. The purity of a loafer absent of any stitches is underlined with distinctive punching and tassels.

A recipe from the Bespoke archives named ‘Brun Lobb’ has been unearthed and redrafted with meticulous care in a collaboration between artisans of the Northampton factory and Glaswegian textile design studio Bespoke Atelier.

Developed in the 1960’s, the technique uses especially coloured creams worked in particularly lightly dyed skins. The result is a distinctive yet subtle marbled and weathered patina with a finish which will enhance with age.

The Autumn/Winter 2017 Collection, by JOHN LOBB