During my time in Florence earlier in the year I visited the premises of Stefano Bemer who is renowned throughout Europe for his top quality materials, traditional hand craftsmanship and beautifully designed shoes.

With over 40 basic styles and 180 variations of material and colour, Stefano’s formal and casual shoes allow the wearer to express their own individuality. For example I  purchased a pair of loafers that feature the same fabric as one of my summer weight linen suits, complemented by matching leather trim.

I was so taken with the quality of the product, that I have now agreed an exclusive arrangement with Stefano Bemer to offer his made to order shoes imported directly from Florence at J. H. Cutler here in Sydney. Styles include oxfords, derbies, monk straps and loafers.

You might be interested in hearing a little more about the production processes that Stefano and his team use. Infinite care is taken in the selection and processing of all materials, and nothing synthetic is ever used. Calfskin is sourced primarily from France because the hides are considered superior due to the farming methods used in that country, whilst suede comes from the UK.

Leather is purchased from tanneries that use processes that are identical to those used a hundred years ago. At Stefano’s premises in Florence the leather is soaked in water for 12 hours, allowed to dry and rest, before being wrapped in paper and beaten on a stone with a hammer. This renders the leather resistant and pliable over time. Important aspects  when it comes to a shoe’s comfort and longevity.

The sewing thread used to make the welt and sole is also made in-house using an ancient technique of twisting linen thread with pitch and beeswax, whilst the small amount of glue used is all vegetable based.

Each pair of shoes comes in its own wooden box, complete with shoe trees, a shoe bag and a tin of Stefano Bemer shoe wax made to his own unique formula.

For those of you who might be interested I have a selection of styles available to have a look at in my private rooms on Level 6 at 12 O’Connell Street in Sydney.