A traditional shoe for men that features in the collections of shoemakers from around the world particularly the Northampton shoemakers such as Grenson, Loake and Tricker’s who all have a distinctive approach to this hole punched staple.
The brogue shoe is steeped in British history having originally been worn by Scottish and Irish farmers as an outdoor shoe for removing bog water when crossing wetlands. The brogue name comes from the Irish word brog meaning ‘a rough or stout shoe ’and the term supposedly originated from the perception that the Irish spoke as if they had ‘a shoe in their mouths’.
For a long time, the brogue was seen as a Country style worn outdoors for hiking and working but never in town. How the men’s brogue was worn gradually changed as it was seen in a setting that was previously unfamiliar. Worn by brogue ambassadors including the then Prince of Wales who teamed his brogues with a grey lounger suit while golfing showed the potential of the brogue. From the Countryside to jazz clubs, the brogue had crossed the line between smart casual and allowed shoemakers to become more imaginative with this hardworking outdoor classic.
Within the Professional collection, you’ll discover a wide range of Barker brogues made from calf and polished leathers on a variety of lasts including the 69, 386, 396. Popular Professional collection brogues including the Albert, Alfred, Hampstead, Mirifeld and Woodbridge styles.
The Creative Collection is where the Barker design team push the boundaries of traditional shoemaking techniques and there have been several brogues of note including the Bailey, Grant, Valiant and Woody brogue styles. The most popular Creative collection brogue that has often been referred to as the ultimate wedding shoe is the Barker McClean Oxford brogue, made on the 443 last from premium leather with intricate suede or paisley laser detailing, the McClean is available in several colourways.
Also Read: HOW TO WEAR BROGUE SHOES FOR MEN