Friday 14 May 2010

Lewis Leathers on your feet

Now, we rarely feature single products but I just could resist mentioning these Lewis Leather sneakers available at Garbstore. Known for their distinctive motorbike jackets, Lewis Leathers is one of the UK’s most enduring clothing companies. However, until very recently I knew nothing about them. My eyes were open wide to this institution of leather the moment they came across Andrew Bunney's think piece feature for honeyee. It is true heritage brand. Founded in 1892 as a “Tailoring and Outfitters Shop,” it began stocking protective clothing for motorists and aviators from inception. It has survived wars, dramatic changes in social history and the ever changing winds of fashion for almost one hundred and twenty years. The spirit of D. Lewis remains and with it a consistent balance between function as riding product and fashion icon. Family-owned until 1981 when the company changed hands, the helm eventually fell to Derek Harris. Harris has been the owner of Lewis Leathers since 2003 although his involvement with the brand stretches back some twenty years. Harris' passion and obsession led him to research the true company history, the products’ evolution and Lewis Leathers’ significance in UK motorcycling and fashion culture.

A few weeks ago Andrew Bunney introduced me to the charismatic and knowledgeable owner of Lewis Leathers and it was an absolute delight to talk shop, leather and British subculture with him. I went to the store armed with my camera but I cannot for the life of me remember where I've filed the images away. I can however, point you in the direction of the wonderful imagery over on This Is Naive as Tommy took a number of beautiful interior and exterior shots of the retail space. Whilst in the store I fell in love with the idea of owning one of the Monza jacket model but I'll need to start saving before I invest in my own piece of heritage leather. Until that moment I might just settle for these hi top baseball boots with cotton canvas lining, Lightening zipper and strap on rear.

5 comments:

thisisnaive said...

Oh! And I was waiting to see your pictures from the visit.

Style Salvage Steve said...

I'm hoping to find them...if not I'll just have to make another visit and be tempted by a Monza!

Carwyn said...

Do you have any contact details for Lewis? I bought some Comme des Garcon leather shoes from them and want to know what they recommend for protection.

snappy said...

Great attention to detail in everything they make. I've had the pleasure of visiting their shop...always something in there that makes my wish list. Very snappy!
snappy x
www.snappylifestyle.blogspot.com

threesmallapples said...

I love the look of the red lining on the predominantly black shoe.

The added zip and buckle detail is a great embellishment that is usually absent from men's shoes.

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