Nov

2010

Style At Large

By Michael Macko

Menswear veteran and Valet's Editor at Large, Michael Macko, presents an insider's take on what's new and noteworthy in the world of style.

Just the Facts:
Rugged Saddle Shoes

Who:

Billy Reid

What:

Saddle Oxfords, $375

Where:

Billy Reid

When:

Now

Why:

Billy Reid, who won GQ's Best New Menswear Designer this year, is well known for his smart southern take on comfort clothes, but what you might not know is he makes a damn good pair of shoes too. Saddle shoes are obviously a style to have this fall and when I first saw these saddle oxfords at his fall presentation last February, I quickly put them on the shopping list that I keep in the back of my head. I recently secured them from his Bond Street shop here in Manhattan and couldn't be happier with them. With the heart of a shoe and the sole of a boot, they're my go to shoe, sure to get me through until spring.

Insider Tip

Whenever I purchase a new pair of shoes, I also buy a pair of wooden shoe trees. They retain the shoe's original shape and extend the life of your footwear. And if you splurge for cedar, they will even make them smell better. Trust me it's worth it.

$20 at The Container Store