The Quiet Confidence of Classic Men's Lace-Ups
There’s nothing like stepping out in a pair of shoes that immediately make you feel more pulled together. At Bold Bunny, we have spent many years honing our take on this classic closed-lacing pattern that has adorned the feet of men for centuries. These are the ones you pull out when it counts — be that an important presentation, a family wedding or just one of those days where you feel like looking your best. They are understated, dependable and somehow always seem to be right. In this article, we’ll examine why they made their way into the hall of fame, how we make ours at Bold Bunny, some occasions to wear them, and an easy guide that can keep them looking great for ages.
A Design That Lasted 900 Years
This style first appeared in the early 1800s when students of a certain famous English university needed something lighter and more sophisticated looking than the heavy boots their peers was wearing. The closed lacing created a sleek, neat appearance that sat tidily under trousers, and it soon found favor with city professionals who required footwear to keep pace with the increasing formality of business life. By the end of the century, they were standard issue for any man who cared about dressing right.
Bold Bunny is more of the same. We have analyzed vintage patterns and photographs from the 1920s through the ’50s, when they appeared on everyone from bankers to top actors. What impresses us is how little the main design has had to adapt. Trends may rise and fall, but this shape, elegant and balanced and quietly authoritative, continuously proves itself. It’s the classic that doesn’t scream; it just works.
What We Care About At Bold Bunny
Quality begins with the leather, and we source ours from some of the best tanneries in the world, including ones that supply to high-fashion brands. Our pairs are made with softly tanned, smooth calf leather that shines up beautifully but never looks stiff or feels unforgiving. On the inside, we’ve added soft linings and just the right amount of cushioning so you can wear them from morning meetings to evening engagements without having to think about your feet.
The building’s construction is something of which we’re especially proud. Bold Bunny makes them with a lightweight stitch that keeps the sole soft and resolable, but also has a bit of attitude. Which means they’re not disposable — you’re intended to stick with them for the long haul. We keep the color palette simple: pitch black for ultimate universal, dark brown with a ton of depth and warmth, and a handful of other shades that are just unique enough for guys who like to have choices. We also regularly get testimonials from riders that can’t believe how comfortable the bike is right from Day 1, which is what we’re going for.
Wearing Them in Everyday Life
Matching these shoes is nearly risk-free, which is part of their charm. With a navy or charcoal suit, black ones make that nice, clean line that is right in any professional situation. Pop on a crisp white shirt and you’re good to go for interviews, client meetings or more formal dinners. A pair in dark brown offers more opportunities—they play nicely with grey suits, or even lighter tan trousers if you’re on a break from classic business dress.
Nor are they restricted to the most highly formalized of moments. Bold Bunny buyers have told stories of wearing them with tailored chinos and a blazer to smart-casual dos, or dark jeans and a button-up for nights out. The clean silhouette grounds the look and provides a sense of polish with ease. Match your belt to the leather, keep socks slim and with the program, and let the simplicity speak for itself. They’ve got that rare, transcendent ability to lift whatever you’re wearing up.
Looking After Them Properly
Good leather shoes are easier to take care of than most people believe and well worth the effort. A quick wipe of a soft cloth gets rid of any surface dust before it settles after you wear them. Every couple of weeks, take the time to use a matching cream polish — Bold Bunny includes one in a small tin with most orders so you can get started. And frisk it in gently, and buff for a deep, even shine.
If they get wet, allow them to dry slowly at room temperature stuffed loosely with newspaper for shape. Cedar shoe trees are a smart investment — they suck up moisture and keep out unwanted creases. Rotate between pairs when you can; it allows the leather to rest. Many of our customers say years later that they still get compliments and all it takes is a few small habits.
Why Choose Bold Bunny
In a world of disposable fashion, wearing a well-made pair feels like a small win. Bold Bunny is all about making shoes that become part of your life, instead of just something new to buy. Instead we’re interested in comfort that lasts all day, craftsmanship that holds up to actual use and a look you can hold on to forever without feeling a) dusty or b) too precious (never! Whether you’re assembling your first grown-up closet or replacing old favorites, there’s something here that will do the job. Visit our website and browse through the site‘s selection to choose from a range of available pairs. You’ll feel the difference as soon as you slide them on — and that’s exactly the point.