Harrys of London was founded with a vision of combining traditional cobbling techniques and the latest footwear technology. The overall goal was to create stylish, modern men’s shoes defined by exceptional quality and timeless design.
Throughout the history of the brand, Harrys of London has retained an unwavering commitment to the founding principle that men’s shoes can be both timeless and innovative. This uncompromising vision has enabled the business to build an enviable reputation for quality and creativity.
Their global flagship store is nestled in the heart of London’s Mayfair district on the corner of South Audley Street and Mount Street, a perfect fit amongst London’s chicest microdistrict. The neighbouring destinations include high fashion brands such as Balenciaga, Christian Louboutin and Marc Jacobs, and more traditional brands like Purdey & Sons, Harry’s Bar, George and Scotts. The 400 square foot space, featuring four meter high ceilings, is designed in an elegant library motif. The shoes are arranged as ‘books’ and the stock is perfectly accessible by sliding wooden library ladders.
The immaculate interior details include grey suede walls, traditional cornicing and a beautifully reclaimed herringbone oak floor. As a finishing touch, the custom-made sofas from London’s George Smith are tailored in signature Harrys of London leathers and textiles.
The visionary space was conceived by Kevin Martel. The flagship store showcases the brand in the ideal setting and is representative of the template for their future stores and shop -in-shops.
In 2005, Harrys of London appointed Kevin Martel to the dual position of Creative Director and Managing Director. Martel contributes over 15 years of knowledge and experience designing men’s accessories and footwear for iconic brands including Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani.
Martel’s unique design aesthetic and global sensibility is a result of a career formed in his native USA and followed by numerous years living and working in the design capitals of Europe.
“Harrys of London is known for innovative and beautifully crafted shoes. We have a loyal following of men who are drawn to our quality and timeless design. I am one of those men - and I enjoy working with, and responding to, the needs of our customers.” - Kevin Martel
Harrys of London, in collaboration with Technogel , has developed a full gel innersole found in most of the core collection. Technogel offers excellent cushioning and a new kind of comfort - soft, stable and functional with the innersole responding to the exact foot shape of the wearer.
Technogel comfort is determined by its extraordinary ability to absorb loading peaks and redistributing these forces over a larger foot area, thus protecting the muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. Technogel is a polyurethane that is non-irritating to the skin and is widely used in the medical and orthopedic fields. Free of all plasticizers Technogel will not migrate, harden or age and thus keeps its mechanical properties over an extended period of time.
You can experience Harrys of London at their new store in 360 Mall. But, once there, remember to take your time.
First Published in Men's Passion Issue #23 June-July-August 2010
