When Price Is Forgotten
There’s an old saying, often thrown around by those of us who obsess over craftsmanship: "Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten." I didn’t really understand that until I stepped into the world of handmade shoes — not literally stepped in, but rather invested, learned, and lived with them for years. And along the way, I learned that good shoes aren’t really about shoes at all. They’re about time, care, and how you carry yourself.
Buy Right, Buy Once
Like many, I started where most people who want something better start with Crockett & Jones. My first pair were their Hallam Oxfords in black. Nothing flashy, just a classic cap toe, but I wore them into the ground. They became a part of me — boardrooms, dinners, rainy walks home. When they finally gave up, it wasn’t because they were cheap; it was because I hadn’t yet learned how to care for them properly.
That lesson stayed with me as I added more: a pair of Crockett & Jones double monks in brown — shoes that could carry me from office to bar without missing a beat.
There was something deeply appealing about buying something built to last, rather than burning through fast-fashion pairs every year. These weren’t disposable. They were timeless, elegant, and got better as they aged — a rare thing in the modern world.
As anyone who dips their toe in this world knows, one pair is never enough. Soon I was exploring other makers — George Cleverley, with their rakish British silhouettes, and eventually, what many consider the pinnacle: Edward Green.
My first pair of Edward Green Inverness in Burgundy arrived in 2019. That was the point of no return. Beautifully made, and understated, with a rich depth of color that photos can’t capture. That pair was followed by:
Edward Green Cap Toe Oxfords on the 888 last, with toe taps and a subtle green lining.
A pair of Edward Green Double Monks in Dark Oak, also on the 888 last — easily one of the most elegant lasts ever made.
These shoes felt like art you could wear — crafted not just to impress but to endure.
Let’s not kid ourselves though these shoes are incredibly expensive. In 2025, a pair of Edward Greens will run you close to $2,200 AUD. If you want something Made-to-Order, add another $1,000. And once you wear through the sole, factory refurbishing costs can hit $800+.
The catalogue is getting narrower. The days of MTO fees being waived at trunk shows are long gone. And in places like Australia, trunk shows and local availability are few and far between.
So is it worth it?
That depends on how you think about cost. I’ve learned that the upfront price tag is only part of the story. If you calculate the price per wear and factor in how these shoes age alongside you, the math starts to make sense. Your cheap department store shoes are done in a year. These can last a decade — or longer — if you look after them.
Taking care of these shoes became part of the experience. Every Sunday, I pour a whisky, break out the Saphir Médaille d’Or polish, and give them a proper mirror shine. It’s not a chore — it’s a ritual. An hour of slowing down, taking care of something that takes care of me.
That doesn’t mean it’s all been smooth. Not every premium brand delivers what it promises. Take George Cleverley’s George loafers — gorgeous design, but the soles wore through far too quickly. Maybe I got unlucky, maybe they’re cutting corners to hit price points for outlets like Mr Porter. Either way, I was disappointed.
I’ve also learned that there’s a point of diminishing returns past $1,000. After that, you’re not paying for better leather or sturdier soles — you’re paying for artistry, craftsmanship, and, yes, a bit of indulgence. That’s fine, as long as you know why you’re doing it.
One thing I’ll say outright: Avoid the big fashion house “luxury” shoes. They’re mostly overpriced, underbuilt, and sell you a logo, not quality.
If you’re thinking about starting your own handmade shoe journey, here’s my advice:
Try different makers and lasts - Just because I swear by the Edward Green 888 last doesn’t mean it’s right for you.
Focus on comfort and durability first - Find what works for your feet and lifestyle.
Invest in one pair you can shine, resole, and wear for a decade - Everyone should experience what that feels like at least once.
Do I still question the price every time I buy a new pair? Absolutely. It's an indulgence, not a necessity. But quality has a way of outlasting price. These shoes carry stories, memories, and scuffs earned over time. They’ve aged with me, and I’ve learned to appreciate that good things — like good shoes — only get better when you care for them.