We all know that Gieves & Hawkes is synonymous with fine British tailoring and Military outfitting, but one thing that you may not be so familiar with is the fact that they also pioneered one of the most famous shoe designs EVER: The Buckshot Brogue. For those that may not be up-to-date with the story, there is legend that this pattern was created by literally firing a shotgun at some upper leather, thus creating this abstract hole pattern from the buckshot. Is it true? Well I can’t tell you any facts, but an educated guess would leave me to believe that it is not, that is was simply intelligent design. Nevertheless it was a brilliant idea. But all of this is not what is important, nor is it the subject at hand. What matters is that after about a one year hiatus they are coming back on the scene and even with a new model to choose from, as shown by the pictures presented.

Over the years, the buckshot brogue has generally been offered in some sort of oxford style, whether it be a cap-toe or wingtip, and even has been made into a loafer style once or twice. This year, however, you will find that along with their standard oxford model they also commissioned it for the very first time in a chelsea boot style, allowing for a bit of option for those not so keen on your traditional oxford. Another change that you will find is that the new versions are no longer going to be offered on their round-toe last shape, but rather a nice traditionally British chisel-toe. I can say honestly that I have always appreciated the idea behind the buckshot brogue. I admired the genius behind the idea of the pattern yet I never really liked the last shape that it came on as I felt it was a bit too round. However, I will say now, that I find the new chisel toe model in its full brogue (wing cap) pattern to be quite a bit more appealing, more fitting to the idea of a proper dress shoe.

So for all of you that have been waiting in anticipation the return of the buckshot brogue, I am pleased to tell you that this season will mark its resurrection. Only don’t come rushing just yet, as it still has not arrived in stores. It will however be trickling in as the new stock arrives for A/W 2012. That being, to keep yourself informed you can stay up-to-date with shipment arrivals by phoning the Savile Row store. Happy Shopping!