From suits to spats, Paul Stuart is using its experience in made-to-order clothing to offer customers bespoke footwear.
This spring, the purveyor of tailored clothing and premium sportswear will launch a made-to-order men’s footwear collection consisting of between seven and 10 styles of loafers, oxfords and monk straps.
The collection can be customized in a variety of ways, according to Paul Stuart, and will feature an assortment of Italy-sourced suedes and calf leathers.
Soles are offered in leather or half or full rubber. Customers will receive orders within six to eight weeks.
“This new made-to-order collection satisfies a niche that no one else in the luxury men’s wear category offers,” Paul Stuart CEO Paulette Garafolo said. “We know that younger consumers are looking for a way to customize their sartorial choices in order to reflect their personal style.
“In keeping with the luxury heritage of Paul Stuart, this accomplishes that in a modern and sophisticated way,” she added.
Paul Stuart will also offer expanded sizing and widths, and include the option to personalize shoes with a monogram.
“Made to order is in the brand’s DNA,” Javier Suarez, the brand’s creative director, said. “The highlight of this collection is how it completes the shoe wardrobe of the Paul Stuart customer who already appreciates made-to-order tailored clothing.”
As the industry rushes to incorporate customization in the supply chain to cater to millennial and Gen Z tastes, luxury brands with experience in providing bespoke apparel and accessories like Paul Stuart may have an early advantage and built-in audience.
“Sneakers will always be a part of a man’s footwear wardrobe, but a custom-designed shoe that fits like a glove is what Paul Stuart is all about,” Suarez said.
Paul Stuart operates three U.S. stores in New York, Chicago and Washington D.C., along with three boutiques in Japan.