JOHN LOBB By Request Fair is being held at the Men's Shoes section on the B1 floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . During this period, By Request items, which normally incur a 30% surcharge, can be ordered without any additional charge. To coincide with this once-a-year fair, we interviewed Assistant Sales Manager Ryuichi Oguro about his recommendations for this year and how to best enjoy the event. ( Click here for details on the "By Request Fair" )


—First, could you tell us about the most popular models at JOHN LOBB stores?

While our classic "CITY II (straight tip)" and "PHILIP II (punched cap toe)" continue to be popular, monk strap shoes, especially double monk straps, have been gaining popularity since last year. At Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , the classic "WILLIAM," said to be the origin of the double monk strap, and the "CHAPEL," with its bold cut and diagonally positioned straps, are particularly well-received.

Left: "WILLIAM" ¥194,400 each, Right: "CHAPEL" ¥248,400

Another model that received a great response upon its release last year was the "PHILIP II DOUBLE BUCKLE." This model refines the "PHILIP 2" into a double monk strap design, and the pink gold buckle, exclusive to this model, adds a touch of elegance.

"PHILIP II DOUBLE BUCKLE" 248,400 yen

—So, what exactly is the appeal of by-request?

I think there are three main attractions to the By Request Fair.

The first advantage is the ability to order discontinued models. In most standard pattern-order systems, discontinued models are not available for order, so this system, which allows us to fulfill customer requests such as "I've always wanted this but it's been discontinued" or "I'd love to have a different color of a model I used to love," is groundbreaking and appealing.

The second is the new order samples that are released at each By Request Fair. Every year around this time, several new samples arrive from the headquarters. The stylists in charge are not told what will arrive until the very last minute, and they eagerly await their arrival (laughs).

Furthermore, each sample that arrives is filled with the designer's passion. The combination of materials, soles, and buckle colors are made up of patterns that are not usually available, making it a very enjoyable moment to feel what JOHN LOBB wants to propose "now."


The third and final point is that the brand's vision is clearly embodied in every model.

While a typical pattern order allows you to freely combine the shoe last, design, materials, and sole, it's different with a "by request" order. For every model (design), the shoe last, upper material, and sole combination are predetermined.

For example, with the "CITY II," the shoe last is fixed as "7000," and the upper materials that can be selected are predetermined depending on whether the sole is leather or rubber. If the sole is elegant, the upper material will mainly be elegant smooth leather. Conversely, if the sole is rugged, grained leather or thick leather can be selected.

At first glance, it might seem like there are a lot of restrictions, but JOHN LOBB , who has created a variety of models, provides detailed suggestions, giving us the reassurance that we can only make combinations that are guaranteed to work. As stylists, we're almost overwhelmed by the sheer number of combinations... (laughs).

"WILLIAM" 194,400 yen

—Could you tell us which model is the most noteworthy in this "By Request" collection?

A special edition of the "WILLIAM" model with a rose gold buckle is attracting attention. Normally, the buckle color can be chosen from silver or gold, but this combination (pictured below) is the only one that can be made in rose gold. The "WILLIAM" has a strong rugged image, but by combining translucent brown leather with a rose gold buckle, it is elevated to an elegant and special pair of shoes.

"LOPEZ" 205,200 yen

— Is there a model you would personally like to order?

I'd like to order the classic "LOPEZ" coin loafer in smooth leather in a medium brown color, with a leather sole. I often wear suits for work, so I currently love my "CITY II" in black calfskin, but next year I want an elegant loafer that will suit a slightly more casual jacket and trousers style. Loafers often have a rather unfashionable image, but "LOPEZ" is an exception. Ever since I first saw them, I've longed to try them out as a pair of "adult loafers." I myself will take my time to think it over during this period (laughs).

How was it? This By Request Fair is the time of year when the collection is most extensive, so please come and visit Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . Our staff, who are all captivated by JOHN LOBB , will be waiting for you in store, so why not take this opportunity to find your very own "My John Lobb"?

*All prices include tax.

inquiry
03-3352-1111 (main representative)