About Us
A New Era
Wildsmith embraces timeless elegance that has defined the brand for generations, while introducing a contemporary edge that speaks to today’s discerning customer. We have a rich treasure trove of history to work with
as we bring our brand up to date so that we represent all that is best from the past and the present. We value re-invention to stay relevant so our design team has focused on blending heritage with innovation, creating
footwear that is not only stylish but built to last and stands out from the crowd. We were founded in 1847 but we are confidently focussed on today.
History
In 1847, Matthew and Rebecca Wildsmith started Wildsmith & Sons, Military Bootmakers, above a coaching inn off Piccadilly Circus in the centre of London. Making and repairing boots for the Household Cavalry, they quickly came to the attention of the Royal Household who began commissioning their hunting, fishing, and shooting boots. London’s fashionable beau-monde soon followed, and celebrities and city gents alike began flocking to Wildsmith. As the brand thrived, the association with the British royal family grew and a new era of Wildsmith was marked when Raymond Louis Wildsmith designed and crafted the first slip-on shoe in London, the famous ‘Model 98’, the original loafer design that is now a worldwide icon.
A favourite of King George VI and later John F. Kennedy, Model 98, or the Windsor loafer, became the hallmark of contemporary style for gentlemen the world-over. The famous diamond punching survives today across the Wildsmith range and represents the incredible history, heritage and forward thinking spirit of the brand.
By the 1960’s Wildsmith had become synonymous with the highest quality British shoemaking and the brand turned its attention to the international market. John Wildsmith, Matthew and Rebecca’s Great-grandson began travelling the world, with a team of tailors offering discerning gentlemen the unique Three S service – suits, shirts and shoes.
Values
Authentic
Wildsmith has a rich history of crafting iconic footwear styles dating back to 1847. Boasting creations like the first loafer for King George VI, our latest collections are a nod to the immense heritage of the brand. We celebrate our history in every pair to make sure that the Wildsmith name is still a mark of impeccable taste and quality.
Unconventional
Trailblazers and innovators from day one, Wildsmith celebrates individuality through our diamond brogue. Included in every pair of Wildsmith shoes this signifies our commitment to our strong heritage and design. Wildsmith lets you set your own style.Iconic
From King George VI to JFK, Wildsmith shoes have been the choice for world leaders, Oscar winners and tastemakers for generations. Whether you're a creative, a chef or a banker, slipping into a pair of Wildsmith shoes gives you confidence and signals your membership of our tribe. The iconic loafer 98 and our signature diamonds both reassert our history of cutting edge design, innovation and quality.
Wildsmith Diamond
The Wildsmith diamond was first introduced on the Derby Brogue Model 39 as a contemporary alternative to traditional brogueing. Found on every pair of Wildsmith shoes, the diamond represents Wildsmith’s
originality and commitment to thinking a little differently.
Model 98
The most revered design in the Wildsmith catalogue is the famous Wildsmith loafer - or Model 98. It is our celebrated country house shoe
and the iconic Wildsmith original heritage piece. Inspired by the loafer we created for King George VI it was once marketed as a shoe for the "house and over the way". That was our original way of describing the incredible versatility of this timeless design. Our modern
interpretation has the diamond punching that is in our DNA, a classic leather sole and superb attention to detail. Dress it up or down, this is the icon.
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