Style

Church’s new City Light Collection will have you treading lightly this season

 For its latest range, the storied shoemaker adds a lightweight sole to 14 of its most coveted models

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Since at least 1873, the year it was officially established, renowned heritage shoemaker Church’s has been a go-to for those with a discerning taste for well-made footwear. From its factory in Northampton, in which it’s been based ever since launch, the brand has built a notable reputation for producing handmade shoes that are defined by their dovetailing of robust features – such as a Goodyear welt, a construction widely accepted as a hallmark of high quality – and timeless silhouettes.

For a significant part of its history, Church’s has been known for its considered array of heavy-duty styles – not just low-lying lace-ups, but a variety of boots, too – and, as a result, the company has helped preserve Northampton’s reputation as the shoemaking capital of the world.

However, for this season’s range – the City Light Collection – Church’s softens things up with a set of new products that riff on 14 of the label’s most coveted models. Included in the lineup are Chelsea boots, loafers, Derbys, monk straps and an Oxford, all of which have been created with a new, lightweight EVA rubber sole that imbues the classic designs with cushion-like comfort and a contemporary, easygoing feel, all while the Goodyear construction provides each offering a sturdiness beyond its weight.

Within the collection, we’re particularly drawn to the Parham L loafers, which are noted for their brushed suede, elegant lines, subtle yet distinguishable topstitching, and classic penny saddle strap, which adds a bit of understated detail to an otherwise pared-back set of shoes. Though, traditionally speaking, they’re angled for more formal, dressed-up occasions, the plush texture – as well as the chunky rubber sole – also provides them with a casual slant, ideal for wearing with denim.

For more structured ensembles, the Westbury L monk strap, with its minimal detailing and graceful look, and its silver-tone buckle that acts as a contrasting counterbalance to the calf-leather, is a particular standout that works particularly well with slim-fit navy tailoring.

Then, with one eye on winter, the Amberley L – a calf-leather Chelsea boot with a refined shape – is a cold-weather essential, as its elasticated side inserts and cotton pull-tabs will, with little doubt, make early-morning dressing that bit simpler.