Stamp of Approval: Carlos Santos Shoes
As much as you love clothing I believe it comes a time when for most items, a closer look at your wardrobe makes you feel that, for the time being, you’re well set. However, for me, there are a couple of pieces I just can’t seem to get enough of, be it for the desire to continuously increase the amount of possible combinations, or simply because their beauty has taken me over. In my case, I don’t think I could ever settle on the right amount of shoes…
While this is probably one of the classic controversial subjects for most married men, I must say that shoewise, I can definitely understand women. There’s something about shoes that turns them into pure works of art, especially the more you know about the process behind their construction: a handmade quality shoe is nothing shorter than art in its essence. This is why I’m (un)consciously drawn to them and constantly being surprised by new models and brands: one of my latest findings was Portugal’s very own Carlos Santos Shoes.

Established in 1942 and named after its mentor, Carlos Santos has been delivering luxury footwear for men ever since. Combining the finest high grade materials with years of experience and know how, along with an ever-growing desire to surpass customers’ (and their own) expectations, it has grown to be one of the most renowned portuguese shoemakers. Its goal? Deliver the finest luxury footwear, making use of state-of-the-art techniques, all without straying from its roots and core universe. Based of the values of perfection, craftsmanship, tradition and timelessness, Carlos Santos is the perfect example of Portuguese shoemaking excellence, with over 70 years of experience resulting in unique pieces that develop a strong emotional connection with those who wear them. For all this it receives Beyond Fabric’s stamp of approval!

Here’s a small glimpse into its world through the Spring/Summer lookbook.









Source: beyondfabric
Louis Vuitton SS13 Lookbook
Store Info: Stefano Ricci, Firenze
While all the attentions are focused on Pitti and rightfully so, there’s much more to Firenze than its biannual fair. Locals are gifted with some of the world’s most renowned brands and personalities and on top of that each store seems to elevate the standard to a whole new level. This was just the case over at Stefano Ricci…

I’ve visited my share of places and stores, but I must say few have had the same effect on me: the moment I stepped in, garments became but a portion of the unique universe created within, as I found myself absorbing all the surrounding details in pure awe. From an 8m-high ceiling with a glass dome, to fresco paintings on the walls, mohogany displays and leather sofas, this space exudes the very essence of luxury. Add to that the brand’s logo brought to life in every eagle-shaped mannequin and a massive eagle statue at the center and it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by the whole environment, like it or not.
Once your jaw gets back in place, you start gazing at the outstanding leather suitcases and accessories, sharp suits, colorful ties and exquisite shoes, all of which are carefully shown to you by a super friendly staff (enough to say they let me shoot inside the store). I could go on and on describing every little detail, but I’ll let the pictures do that for me instead and simply say: don’t miss it next time you’re in Firenze.







Stefano Ricci: Palazzo Tornabuoni, Via dei Pescioni 1, 50123 Firenze
Source: beyondfabric
Thom Browne Oxford Boxer Shorts
Made from the same oxford cloth used in his shirts, Browne’s take on underwear is pure luxury..
Paul Smith joins forces with master shoemaker John Lobb to produce an exclusive line of footwear.
Loro Piana SS12 Lookbook #1
When it comes to communication and overall brand presentation, Italian luxury label Loro Piana definitely sets a standard. Merging outstanding illustrations with real product pics, they are able to create a unique universe of unmistakable identity…
Source: beyondfabric
It’s Nice That meets major neckwear and accessories brand Drake’s, providing us a small glimpse of what it takes to make some of the most coveted ties around. Filmed by Jai Rafferty at Drake’s East London location, we’re given a taste of the process of luxury handmade tie manufacturing.
Source: selectism.com





