Every now and then, we have to attend a formal event that we may or may not be thrilled about. And we all know what that means: having to dress up. Most of the time, we’re forced to leave our favourite kicks at home, but thanks to some clever designers at @vijzbespokes, there is an alternative to the stiff and stuffy dress shoe. They offer pairs like the Air Max 1 Gentleman’s shoe by Sam van IJzendoorn, which will have you looking sharp without sacrificing comfort or your love for sneakers.
You can’t tell me that walking into a room with all the comfort of your beloved kicks and the sophistication of a classic dress shoe doesn’t sound appealing.
The design is inspired by gentleman’s brogue shoes, hence the perforated patterns and serrated detailing on the uppers. It also comes in two must-have colourways: sleek Anthracite and dapper Brown.
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Aside from the colour difference, both designs feature the same classic brogue detailing. There are stylised perforations running along the Swooshes, toe box, and overlay edging, plus some of the overlays feature serrations along the edges.
The design also offers a whimsical twist, with a corduroy floral lining. Other details that elevate these pairs include the branding logos seared into the leather and the waxed flat laces to tie the formal look together.
The design is rounded off with the iconic Air Max 1 sole unit, complete with its stylish Air bubble. The colouring combines a clean white midsole with either a black or brown rubber outsole, depending on the colour of the sneaker you choose.
Of course, the Air Max 1 isn’t everyone’s silhouette of choice, which is perfectly fine. Van IJzendoorn also offers refined takes on other iconic Nike silhouettes, including the Air Jordan 1 Low. Other silhouettes we know look good all dressed up in Brogue, thanks to previous releases from the Swoosh label, are the Nike Dunk Low and the Air Force 1 Low. So, if you are open to having a one-of-one custom design made by Sam, these are definitely silhouettes to consider.
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As for the Air Max 1 Gentleman’s Shoe, this sneaker is available to purchase from the Vijz online store for a retail price of €1,600.00, which translates to roughly ($ 1,729,36).
Now, I know what you are thinking because the same thought crossed my mind: that’s quite a hefty price tag for a custom sneaker. That said, the shoes are, first of all, handmade, and secondly, you’re getting higher-quality materials than in your average sneaker. If you are a gentleman who appreciates quality craftsmanship and a refined style, this brogue-inspired sneaker may be worth the investment.
