Need Advice regarding Bespoke Shoes

[jlazarow]

Hi all,

I would really appreciate your advice on a new pair of shoes I just received from a WS Foster and they are great, although I ordered them with their distressed look. The shoes fit great and the firm has already agreed to adjust the finish of the shoes since they made a mistake, I am wondering if I really want to do it-- it might be a blessing in disguise. I'd love the amazing advice of this group.

Thanks!

[davidhuh]

I am wondering if I really want to do it-- it might be a blessing in disguise.

Dear jlazarow,

I'm afraid the most amazing advice is coming from yourself already

cheers, david

[Russell]

Hello Jlasarow
Whichever way you go with the finish will be fine as long as it satisfies you.

I appreciate the signs of honourable use & the character it can give to an article but I think the manner in which they occur can give most of the pleasure.

Two of my great aunts - spinsters living in my great-grandmothers former house - had an impressive leather covered armchair with an elliptical mark on the top of the left arm; on close inspection it was an expertly inserted patch. If asked about it they'd say that ”when Mr Athey once visited he became excited when telling us about seeing an aeroplane & he rested his cigar on the arm - it burnt a hole! Oh he was beside himself with embarrassment but ma-ma assured him not to worry & had it repaired".

The little incident happened year or two prior to WW1, I heard the tale around 1970, forty years later the chair, hole & patch is still in the family. I think it's best to let marks & memories occur naturally.

I concur with David - you've provided your own very good advice.

Regards
Russell

[Costi]

Blessing in disguise!
They spared you a lie...

(nice story, Russel! )

[Rowly]

If you are happy with the result, even though it's due to a mistake...I say leave well enough alone. If you alter the finish there's a chance it will be you who has the distressed look.

Get the next pair made with the distressed finish and perhaps request a discount in relation to their mistake.
Sometimes a wrong turn in the road can lead you to a wonderful place you would not have found. Enjoy your shoes and put your best foot forward!