A Gift of Love

A Gift of Love -

Sharing Fashion Between

Generations

While shopping for shoes, I’ve always felt there was a lack of choice in men’s styles. A few years ago, while shoe shopping, I noticed a lack of variety in “men’s” shoes. The minimal selection in each store was a variation of the last. If I wanted a leather loafer, there were Sperry Top Siders and other versions of the boat shoe. If I wanted a dress shoe, every brand had a version of the classic Oxford; a shiny dress shoe with laces. When I looked through the women’s selections though, I saw a wide variety of styles and designs, loads of them. I thought to myself, “Hey look at this shoe, I could wear this!” “Excuse me,” I grabbed a pair of Bueno’s and waved them at the salesperson, “do you have this in a 42?” “That’s a lady’s shoe Sir, have you seen our Top Siders?” An audible groan. A lot of these shoes could be marketed as unisex, I thought, if they came in a larger size range. Frustrated and barefoot, I trotted home and began to draw out designs for my ideal shoe; something that would feel casual but could be dressed up and suit anybody, regardless of their shoe size. This March, after many drawings, some new friends in Mexico and much anticipation, I received the first shipment of my original design The Turnstone. A casual unisex loafer with a size range (for now) from 37-45. The Turnstone features the Pelago Original Open Arch design and are considered “zero drop” with no angle from heel to toe, as it is a barefoot shoe. The Turnstone is available in two colours: the timeless Ruddy Brown and a vibrant Booby Blue, inspired by my love of seabirds. Made from vegetable tanned cow leather and produced in small batches, each shoe is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans in Mexico who make a sustainable living wage. As a working artist, this brand is an extension of my visual practice. While introducing original designs of quality footwear, I aim to build a brand that not only supports ethical artisanry but that will give platform to emerging artists through our ad campaigns and online platforms. Order online or make an appointment to try a pair on locally in the Cowichan Valley! Please contact Donovan at www.pelagofootwear.com

Donovan Rose