Where our story begins

Wildsmith is an international brand grounded in authentic British heritage and the values established by our founders.

Matthew and Rebecca Wildsmith began in 1847, crafting military and household boots from a workshop above a coaching inn near Piccadilly. By the late 19th century, their boots were worn by Queen Victoria's court, the Royal Family, and London society, craftsmanship that quickly became renowned for its quality and character.

The Original Loafer

In 1926, Raymond Lewis Wildsmith — son of Matthew and Rebecca — was commissioned to create a comfortable, casual shoe for the Duke of Windsor (later King George VI). Designed to be worn with his shooting hose and to simply “loaf around” in.

Born from pure functionality, the design evolved into the Model 582 and later the celebrated Model 98 — the loafer design shaped contemporary men's footwear across the globe.

London Roots

As demand grew, Wildsmith opened stores on Duke Street and later in Jermyn Street’s Princess Arcade, expanding into ready-to-wear collections.

Aristocrats, royalty, and tastemakers sought out the brand, which became synonymous with quality, comfort and craftsmanship.

Its loyal following included actors, kings, princes and presidents — among them King George VI, Prince Charles and John F. Kennedy.

Diamond Brogue

True to our founders’ values, Wildsmith continues to innovate through thoughtful, purposeful details. Our signature diamond broguing reflects this — a small detail, but details matter. Every shoe carries this house diamond, honouring our heritage and proving that in great shoemaking, the smallest touches make the biggest difference.

The 3 S’s

Wildsmith’s craft soon reached beyond London. With shoes, shirts, and suits in tow, the brand began travelling the world.

Led by sixth-generation John Wildsmith, a team of tailors and shirtmakers embarked on extensive global trunk shows, meeting clients wherever they lived.

In just five weeks, John boarded thirty flights through ten major cities, taking ninety-nine bespoke orders — a testament to Wildsmith’s global pull.

Known as the “Three S’s,” they carried British elegance across borders and shared the Wildsmith story on a global stage.

Defining Footwear Since 1847

We were founded in 1847, but we are confidently focussed on today.

Wildsmith is a contemporary London brand — shaped by heritage, worn around the world, and created for the way people live today.