Styles


The style of shoe refers to the pattern of the upper (leather top part).

The styles can look completely different from one another by choosing different colours, weights and textures of leather. An 8mm soling unit will be provided unless you request otherwise. The decorative additions you may or may not choose and the toe shapes will also make a difference. The gallery below shows finished examples of the different styles and some variations.

Once you have chosen the basic style you want to do, make it clear on the booking form and if you particularly like one style but also like an aspect of another in the beginners gallery, please make a note of this on the booking form.

Orthotics can be fitted into most styles (Ballet Flat excepted). See Difficult Feet for more details.

Kettering – Open backed slide with a strap adjustment (can also have a lip at the heel to accommodate an orthotic).

Huntingfield – A classic Mary Jane style with a strap (can have a buckle or a Velcro closure, strap can be narrow for a more refined look or wide for a chunkier look.

Crossover Huntingfield – The pattern has been divided at the front allowing for decorative applications along the front of the shoe. It can be divided so that the line is on the inside or the outside aspect of the shoe.

Ballet Flat – Similar to a Huntingfield but typically has a thinner sole and needs a back stiffener as it has to fit very snugly on the foot because it has no strap to hold it on the foot. It is constructed slightly differently to the Huntingfield. Best made on the pointy, almond or round toe last.

Bridport – This style encloses the foot more than the Huntingfield but is not as heavy as a lace up shoe. Usually has a Velcro fastening but can have a buckle fastening the strap.

Orford Shoe – Classic lace up style. Can be made brogue style with holes punched out or plain. The laced area is closer together than the Derby and gives a narrower more defined and streamlined look. Does not suit a really wide foot as entry into the shoe is restricted.

Orford Ankle Boot – Similar attributes to the shoe version but sits just above the ankle bone. Has also been made into a higher version usually needs more time than a weekend allows unless features are kept very plain.

Derby Shoe – Traditional lace up style. Can also be made brogue style with a toecap and holes punched out. Can also be made completely plain and suits a wider foot as entry into the shoe is easier than the Orford style as it opens out wider.

Derby Ankle Boot – Similar attributes to the shoe version but sits just above the ankle bone. Higher version usually needs more time than a weekend allows unless features are kept very plain.