Maple Mitchells

Arriving just before the end of summer gun is this pair of Gaziano & Girling Mitchells in vintage maple calf on the MH71 last. The Mitchell is a relatively modern form of brogue where, instead of the traditional method of punching holes into strips of leather that are attached to the shoe, smaller punches are made directly into the body. The result is a cleaner looking design that goes well with lighter tones.

Sadly, these are specialty shoes for many men as their color is likely inappropriate for conservative settings. For the rest of us, they slide nicely into the summer rotation. In my opinion, maple shoes look their best next to the equally pale trousers of summer, particularly light gray and light blue. Men more influenced by the South of Italy may wear them with navy, but I think that a shade too far.