English luxury footwear company Church’s is steeped in heritage. Founded in 1873, the origin of the brand can be traced back to 1617, where master shoemaker Anthony Church was handcrafting shoes in Northampton, a town known for producing fine footwear since the medieval times. Since then, the soles of British feet have been continuously supported by its timeless silhouettes, attracting the attention of Prada Group which bought the business in the late ‘90s. Its history has milestones stamped all over it – the latest being the 50th anniversary of the Shannon Derby.
Launching a reimagination of the classic shape to celebrate, the new iteration is crafted from Church’s 224 last rather than 103 last, reflecting the original silhouette designed in the 1974. Exquisitely formed using a single piece of calfskin leather, the surface is smooth and glossy, complimented by clean hand-stitching.
The brand also features British actor Harry Lawtey – the star of HBO’s gritty, backstab and bravado soaked chronicle of a London investment bank, Industry – in a campaign that drips in debonair. Tying it all together in a neat shoelace bow, the brand hosted an elegant cocktail event at The Twenty Two on October 9.
With the derby known for its clean, gentlemanly look, the Church’s team took the campaign as an opportunity to reflect this. Armed with a crack team – David James creatively directed, Phil Poynter shot and Tom Guinness styled – the monochromatic imagery is sharp and crisp. Lawtey is the vision of a well-mannered but sharp-tongued sophisticate with unmissable suave. The refreshed Shannons are seen sitting neatly on his feet. Available in a black and darmarock binder leather, the special shoes come paired with a commemorative packaging to mark the occasion.
Photography by Phil Poynter.
