STYLE – Why We Love J.M. Weston Shoes
Two years ago, the predominantly British dominated Jermyn Street welcomed in a French neighbour – J.M. Weston – and what a welcome it was. Founded in 1891 by Edouard Blanchard in Limoges, J.M Weston is the only shoe maker to own not one, but two tanneries and two years after their arrival, the brand are still one of our go-to destinations for luxurious made men’s shoes.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Edouard was joined by his forward thinking son Eugène, who had his sights firmly fixed on the modern manufacturing methods used in the United States.
In 1922, after a chance encounter at a horse race in Paris, Eugène Blanchard joined forces with Jean Viard, with whom he patented the J.M. Weston name and together they opened the first store on Boulevard de Courcelles. The meeting of the two men was the perfect clash of cultures (Paris and Limoges), Blanchard, a modest, self-effacing entrepreneur and Jean Viard, a flamboyant dandy who adored shows, concerts and the high life of Paris. None the less, the unexpected partnership lay the foundations for J.M. Weston: a name, a tradition of skill and expertise, a Parisian spirit. A decade later and due to continued success and high demand they opened a second boutique at 114 Avenue des Champs-Elysées.
During the iconic swinging sixties, the brand was adopted by the rebel french mods (“Bande du Drugstore”) who took the J.M. Weston loafer and adopted it as their own. Forgoing a sock and wearing it “barefoot” and teamed with jeans, their refusal to conform to the norms of fashion at the time sparked a huge trend and the legend was born. Soon after, France’s “hep cats” quickly adopted the shoe as their clan uniform, in turn causing it huge commercial success, and its “rebellious” side was soon forgotten.
In 2001, Michel Perry was appointed Artistic Director and has continued to lead the luxury brand in a forward thinking modern way, without losing sight of its heritage and history. Take your pick from beautifully hand made leather shoes and boots in classic and occasionally quirky styles. Whether you prefer the 677 Chasse (a sturdy outdoor shoe) or the 180 Mocassin (a classic penny loafer), J.M Weston has got you covered.
For more information visit: jmweston.com
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