Essential Shoes

Dimitri Bottier Semi-Brogue

As you know, I'm not in the business of offering unsolicited advice. But from time to time I can't stop myself and the urge to rage against the system becomes irresistible. On the subject of shoes it is positively unbearable. So allow me some brief words. I have attended over the last few months numerous meetings with banking colleagues from various firms. The sartorial standards are typically quite high. Sharp suits, sound neck ties, and crisp shirts abound, presenting a most pleasing sight to those of us who care about such things. Until, that is, one looks down. Almost to a man they wear inferior shoes: big, hulking, black square-toed things with plastic mien and unworldly shine. I just don't understand it. It doesn't take much to acquire a decent pair of dress shoes. But as it is I'm surrounded by incompetents who simply don't care. I'll have to get used to it. As I've said before, the most crucial parts of a chap's wardrobe are his choice of watch and footwear. These things matter.