Fins Blog - Finspiration

Posts Tagged ‘Mens style’

Designing Spring/Summer 2013 – The Shep

Tuesday, May 29th, 2012

There’s nothing we love more than a stylish male visitor to our all-girl office and last week’s meeting with Shep didn’t disappoint. Regular readers of the blog might remember Shep as the man who bid for the opportunity to help design a shoe with Fin in aid of the Katie Piper foundation, a cause close to Fin’s heart. If you missed that then catch up with the story so far here.

The first samples of ‘The Shep’ design, along with all of our other fabulous SS13 styles have now arrived from our factory in Portugal and are currently residing at Fin’s HQ.

Seeing the first samples created from our original designs is always exciting and we think Shep was just as thrilled at the prospect.

Unveiling The Shep sample

Shep’s visit marked the second stage in the design process, editing and additions. However, we’re delighted to report that Shep declared his sample was perfect and didn’t require any additions or changes!

Happily, this left us plenty of time to catch up on Shep’s latest gossip and pose for a few pictures.

Shep and Fin

The next stop for the Shep sample will be the Pitti Uomo trade-show in Florence along with the rest of our Spring Summer 2013 collection. Stay tuned for responses from the buyers at the show!

LOVE/HATE

Friday, March 9th, 2012

LOVE

Pinterest

Fin’s have been up and running on Pinterest for just over a week now and we are discovering more every day. If you haven’t made an account yet, we suggest you do! It’s a great platform to share ideas, images and is becoming increasingly popular with bloggers. We are using our Pinboard to share products we love, outfit Finspiration and special Fin’s offers. Come and join us here.

Basics

They are the backbone of any wardrobe, which is why this week we are giving you the chance to kick start your spring wardrobe with 40% off basics. From the classic George loafer in Buenos Aires Brown to our new Samuel Deck loafer in wear-with-all Navy, our handpicked selection of Fin’s essentials should have everything you need for a great shoedrobe.

George loafer in London Navy, £57

Spring

Winter has gone on long enough and we think it’s about time to embrace spring. At Fin’s that means colour! Blogger Mark Cullum of A La Male agrees, check out his review of our Spring/Summer 2012 collection here.

The George Loafer in Zanzibar Grey.

Papermash

We discovered this great website last week and can’t get enough of it. It’s super-cute stationary is exactly what we need to brighten up these dull days before the sun comes back out. If like us, you love nothing more than a perfectly presented gift this website is a must-visit.

Japanese tape from Papermash

HATE

Missing Fin

It’s been a quiet week at Fin’s HQ with Fin away visiting Hong Kong and Shanghai. We are looking forward to her returning on Monday with plenty of tales from the East. Watch this space!

Come back soon Fin!

Withdrawal symptoms

So far, everybody at Fin’s HQ has managed to keep to their Lent challenge. (See what we are giving up here.) However, it’s not been an easy ride! Coffee, diet coke and biscuits are being sorely missed and right now, the 7th April seems like a long time away!

One of our Lent challenges - no more Starbucks!

Fin’s SS12 Collection has arrived!

Thursday, January 26th, 2012


Christmas Wish lists

Thursday, December 15th, 2011

With the majority of our Christmas shopping finally completed and festive spirits high in the office, our thoughts have turned to what we are hoping to find in our stockings on Christmas day.

So, for the next few days we will be bringing you a series of wish lists from both members of  Team Fin’s and our friends outside of the office. We would also love to hear what our Finsketeers are hoping for this Christmas so please do send us your wish lists via Facebook, Twitter or email!

Our first wish list comes from Jacob of NYC blog Downeast and Out.

1) Black Captoe Oxfords

I am a bit ashamed to say that I do not own a reasonable pair of standard black oxfords. My work allows me to be a bit more casual on footwear, and I have a few pairs in differing shades of brown. However, a classic pair of dress oxfords is the first pair of shoes any guy should have, as they are arguably the most practical shoes one can own – wear them for anything from formal events to interviews.

Fin's Bull & Bear Oxford

2) Coat Rack

You are only afforded so much space in a small New York apartment, so you must be sure to maximize your surroundings. It may be easily overlooked, but a coat rack is an essential piece for keeping clutter minimized. I have wanted a minimalist, heavy cast iron coat rack for some time now, and would love to receive one for Christmas to hang up all my outerwear.

3) LL Bean Signature Matinicus Rock Cardigan

In the northeast, there is ample opportunity to wear thick chunky sweaters from the fall to the early spring. As a Mainer, I have been a longtime fan of LL Bean and the simple values they cherish. With a lifetime guarantee on all their products, you can be sure that they are made with care and attention to detail. This cardigan happens to be a smart-looking piece, while still maintaining plenty of utility.

LL Bean Signature Matinicus Rock Cardigan

4) Vintage Omega

Few watches are more timeless than a vintage Omega Seamaster. With their simple faces and outstanding movement, these watches can be kept for generations, and will only look better and better as they patina. I would likely pair one with a simple NATO strap or one made from shell cordovan.

5) Classic Backgammon set

As an avid backgammon fan, I enjoy all aspects of the game, including the craftsmanship that goes into some of the antique and vintage boards and pieces. As I have only owned a fairly inexpensive set up to this point, I would love to get my hands on a well-wrought classic board. These can range from the vintage find on eBay to the completely aspirational set found at Barney’s and listed below:

Geoffrey Parker Classic Backgammon Set

How to Wear your Fin’s this Christmas

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

In honour of the Fin’s Christmas Party this Thursday, we have compiled a foolproof guide to wearing your Fin’s this festive season.

Start organising your shoedrobes now Finsketeers!

WHAT TO WEAR TO:

The Fin’s Christmas Party

We expect to see our accountant, Martin, in his new Cooper Brogues at the Fin’s Christmas party this Thursday! Perfect for a relaxed dinner at La Famiglia along with a few glasses (or bottles) of wine!

The Cooper Brogue, £185

A formal Christmas party

There’s only one shoe we could pick for a formal party this Christmas – the Drummond in Black Patent. A fabulous addition to a tux, the Patent Drummonds are sure to be the shining stars of every party this season.

The Drummond in Black Patent, £185

A festive lunch with work

Smarten up your every day suit with a pair of Bobby Slip-On’s. Simple, classic and oh so chic. Try adding a brightly coloured sock to add an extra pop of colour to your outfit.

(Don’t forget – our sock sets are half price when you buy a George Loafer!)

The Bobby Slip-on £185.00

Christmas Eve Drinks

What better way to welcome in Christmas than with a few drinks and the timeless Cooper Brogue?

We think they look fabulous with a pair of slim, dark jeans and a Webster Belt.

The Webster Belt £66.50

Christmas Day Lunch

We think the Marshall is ideal for a family lunch on Christmas Day.

Pair with cashmere sweaters and newly received socks for relaxed Christmas luxe.

After lunch…

The Harcourt Slipper of course! What else would you want to slip your weary feet into after a long day of eating, drinking and caroling.

The Harcourt Slipper, £49.50

LOVE/HATES of the Week

Friday, November 18th, 2011

LOVE

Fin returns from Tokyo

The office is once again filled with singing, dancing and blow dries.

Fin in Tokyo

The Harcourt Slipper

We are in love with our new slipper style – The Harcourt. Perfect for padding around on chilly winter morns, and, until the 31st November priced at just £39.50. That’s a £10.00 reduction available both online and in selected John Lewis stores nationwide.

A perfect stocking filler

Soul Mate Food

Sally has been receiving food deliveries from Soul Mate providing her with 3 healthy meals a day, plus 2 snacks. Despite some of the snacks not being quite to her taste (step in Fin & Danielle) the quality and range of the delicious meals has been fantastic. We were particularly jealous of the healthy turkey meatballs and spaghetti lunch.

Curly Hair

This past week has seen the start of a new obsession – boys with curly hair. It started with Harry Style’s angelic performance (yes, we know he’s young!) with One Direction on Sunday nights X Factor and has only grown with multiple sightings of fellow tousled haired boys throughout the week. Any Finsketeers out there with hair worthy of attention? Please don’t hesitate to send your pictures in for the blog!

The Stylester

HATE

Milder Weather

Last week’s chilly weather marked the debut of our new winter coats. We were all so excited to wrap up in padding and fur. Perfect, so we thought, for typical November climates.

Undeterred by this week’s milder forecast we persevered with wearing our warm coats, unfortunately resulting in ‘sweat tache city’ for most. COME BACK COLD WEATHER!

Fin’s AW11 Collection – Bloggers Pick

Friday, November 11th, 2011

The final guest to take part in our Bloggers Pick series is mens style adviser James Field of Collar to Cuff.

James Field

About James Field

After a number of years on Jermyn Street for Thomas Pink and with Savile Row tailor Anderson and Sheppard, James Field has dressed hundreds of professionals, politicians, actors and celebrities. From running Made to Order for Pink in their flagship store, he gained responsibilities in London, Dublin, Paris and New York. He has been heavily involved in the promotion of British style ever since, with further trips overseas.

During a career to date, James has advised and styled clients for every eventuality from appearances to glossy magazine shoots, as well as giving advice to teams in large blue chip companies in the art of dressing well in the professional world. With features and interviews in Esquire, and having styled for Vanity Fair, Tatler other menswear publications and press, he continues to actively write and present on men’s style.

James, what is your favorite shoe from the Fin’s AW11 collection and why?

There are two shoes that have really caught my eye for the Autumn. The Marshall Suede Loafer in Islay Tan, and the Jacob Desert Boot in Chocolate Brown. Lots of guys don’t realise how important shoes are. They’ll go and buy a smart shirt, jacket or jeans and just grab those ever present, ever faithful (and in a lot of cases, very tired) trainers or loafers that just seem to survive the seasons. You know, the pair that “will probably be fine for at least another couple of months”. But what you wear on your feet is studied more swiftly than you might care to realise. Think about it next time you meet someone, I bet you’ll clock what’s on their feet by the time you ask your second question! Wearing good shoes is an opportunity to demonstrate a sense of style and ‘know-how’. What both the Marshall Loafer and Jacob Desert deliver so well is a classic essential that, without fuss, will just dot the I’s and cross the T’s for a host of looks.

The Marshall Loafer - £135


How would you style it?

Taking the Jacob Desert Boot in Chocolate Brown – I’d team it up with a pair of straight cut navy pin cords or dark navy jeans, a brown belt (Suede or leather), Blue bengal stripe shirt, Mid grey baby herringbone tweed jacket with a navy cashmere scarf. Done.

Where would you wear it?

The great thing about these boots is that you could wear them anywhere for anything (apart from with a suit!) They are as at home for popping out to dinner with as they are during the day.

Who do you think the Jacob Desert boot man is?

Someone who wants to be seen as, as smart and style conscious as they are understated.

The Jacob Desert Boot in Chocolate - £185


What else are you looking forward to wearing this season?

I’m a big fan of heavy knits, so something along those lines. A shawl collar or a heavy cardi are great additions to the staple V-neck. Just the ticket!

What’s the best thing about Autumn apart from the Fin’s Collection?

The autumnal colours, both in the clothes and the outside.
Crisp and sunny London mornings.
The smell of a log fire in a country pub after a walk on a cold day, with a pint in hand. Delightful.

Thanks James!

For more from James check out his excellent blog Collar to Cuff here.

Fin’s AW11 Collection – Bloggers Pick

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

The third blogger in our series to pick their favourite shoes from the AW11 collection is the delightful Mark Cullum from A La Male.

A La Male - The Menswear Portal is the online men’s fashion and lifestyle destination that features everything from luxury brands and streetwear to interviews with key industry figures. Regular product features, news and updates forms the basis of this stylish and streamlined blog. Read Mark’s recent interview with Fin here

Mark Cullum from A La Male

Mark, what is your favorite shoe from the Fin’s AW11 collection and why?
The Cooper Brogue because apart from being extrovertly classic it has a neat finish, with a [sometimes difficult to find] slim sole and is probably the most versatile piece you could invest in. Day, night, work, play and I’d be more than prepared to put my trust in those fine Italian leathers from season to season.

How would you style it?

I’ll go with a day-to-night look and pair with a slim tweed trouser with a deep turn-up – you don’t need to flaunt your socks to draw attention to your shoes. It’s all in the detail. Top it off with whatever you so please – it’s all about the shoes here.

The Cooper Brogue £185


Where would you wear it?

Where wouldn’t I wear it?

Who do you think the Cooper man is?

Cooper is my friend, my neighbour and anyone else who has undeniable taste when it comes to footwear. I firmly believe that the onus is on the wearer when it comes to style.

The Cooper - for anyone with undeniable style

What else are you looking forward to wearing this season?

Chunky knitwear, scarves and snoods. *Not to be mistaken for the Michelin Man.

What’s the best thing about Autumn apart from the Fin’s Collection?
A cool, crisp but bright and sunny day. There’s nothing I love more than to be wrapped up and enjoying the sunshine at the same time. That and running through piles of leaves.

Thanks Mark!

For more of Marks style advice you can find him on Twitter – @markcullum1

Feeling Lucky?

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011

If you only do one thing this week make sure that it’s entering the Fin’s competition.

With a few simple clicks you could be in with a chance to win an ENTIRE new shoedrobe. This includes a pair of every style from the new collection plus a pair of our classic loafer styles, and belts and socks.

As if this isn’t enough, our good friends at Fitzdares, a bespoke bookmaker that brings a touch of Edwardian glamour to state-of-the-art gambling, have offered our lucky Finsketeer a free £500 bet. If you fancy a flutter on the football, a filly or even the X Factor, here is your chance. Click here to enter.

LOVE/HATE

Friday, October 21st, 2011

LOVE

Fresh Meat

Very funny new show on E4 with Jack Whitehall and Jack Fox. Highly recommended for watching on a lazy Sunday morning.

Student Stereotypes

Fin’s Halloween Costume

For those of you who thought she couldn’t top last year’s Whoopie Cushion outfit, behold – Fin San.

In honour of her impending Tokyo trip

Brass Pineapples

Fin’s new obsession. This week has been filled with tension as we bid on decorative brass pineapples.

An Interior Masterpiece

Babyliss Big Hair

This has been a HUGE revelation in all of our lives this week. This magical hair tool creates a perfect blow dry without the expense.

HATE

Frankie Cocozza

We are revolted by his greasy hair, Pepperami trousers and his smug smirk. Not to mention his lack of talent.

Frankie Cocozza

Fashion Week Feet

These pictures made us extremely grateful that we make men’s shoes. You would never catch a Finsketeer’s foot looking like that!

A pinky on the loose at Christian Dior

Renders us speechless

Long Distance Driving

Our wholesale manager Vicky has been driving up and down the country this week to visit potential Fin’s stockists. We don’t envy her hours spent on the road!

Take care Vicky!