The history of “spectator” shoes shows that when certain men are brave, other men become less cowardly.
1925. Scandal. Prince of Wales arrives in U.S. wearing tan-and-white suede “spectator” shoes. According to newspaper reports, “It was considered little short of caddish at the time.”
1934. Duke of Kent wears “a pair of black-and-white sports shoes” to his wedding. No mention of the police being summoned.
1940. Cary Grant wears leather-and-hemp spectators to Malibu lawn party. American men say, “Now why didn’t I think of that?” “Dashing” is an understatement.
Italian Calfskin Spectators (No. 2444). Rich brushed-leather wingtips with fine cotton canvas that looks like linen. Calfskin lining. Precise scalloping and perforations. The trim leather sole has grooved edges, an unexpected and elegant thing.
Perfect for standing on the running board of the Isotto-Fraschini or showing them how to do the mambo at the Sans Souci in Havana, ca. 1943.
Men’s sizes: 7-1/2 through 13 whole and half, D-width.
Color: Brown and Natural.
