With party season fast approaching there is several Barker shoe styles that are guaranteed to be noticed at this year’s Christmas office party. Exploring the Barker collections including the Handcrafted, Creative and Professional ranges we have selected the Barker dress shoes best suited for occasions and ceremonies.
A classic mens oxford brogue from the Creative collection and features in the Barker Icon Series celebrating 140 years of Northamptonshire village shoemaking history is the McClean. One of the most recognisable Barker shoe designs and admired by shoe enthusiasts from around the world, the McClean is made on the 443 last from premium calf leather with intricate suede or paisley laser detailing. The McClean is available in several colour ways with the iconic Cedar Calf / Navy Suede remaining the most popular amongst well dressers, party goers and grooms.
A mens oxfords shoe style inspired by the McClean brogue that was introduced into the Barker Creative collection recently is Emerson. Made on the 488 last with a FX fitting, Emerson is made from premium calf leather with a tasteful constrast suede insert across the vamp. Available in several colour ways including the Antique Rosewood / Navy Suede option.
The most playful and eye-catching of the Barker Creative collection is the Valiant, mens oxfords shoes. Made from high-quality unfinished crust leather, all the Valiant colourways are individually painted at the Earls Barton factory with natural dyes to a rich and deep patina. The result means each pair is unique in its shade and finish and is sure to turn heads at any event or part in particular the Valiant Multi-colour.
Other Creative collection styles that can be dressed up or down but are perfect for parties are the Johnny mens oxford brogue and the Woody, mens derby shoes. Woody is one of Barker’s most recognisable styles thanks to its long wing brogue design. Woody like Johnny and McClean is made on the 443 and is available in cedar and black calf.
For the classic long wing brogues there’s Woodbridge, an interesting polished leather option from the Barker Creative collection made on the 469 last with G fitting that is available in black and brandy hi-shine.
A popular slip on style that compliments party outfits is the tassel loafer, a essential gentleman’s shoe style. The Barker Studland is versatile tassel loafers for men from the Professional collection made on the 487 last from premium calf leather or soft suedes. Easy to wear the Studland can be dressed up with a suit or worn with jeans and chinos.
A tassel loafer from the Handcrafted collection is Newborough, made on the 69 last from premium grain leather and features a full leather sole with Barker laser heritage script.
When planning to wear a pair of Barker goodyear-welted handmade shoes its important to balance style with comfort especially when you’re in the part mood and planning to end up on the dancefloor.