Broadcaster, musician, author and local girl Lauren Laverne took to Twitter this weekend to give us a big thumbs up in her search for some Grenson boots for Winter. Having not been able to find any Grenson boots on Saturday, Lauren then looked us up and managed to find the exact style that she wanted which we hope she will love.
A past that glitters with tradition, heritage and originality gives Fracap hiking boots a truly individual feel that uniquely replicates the labels illustrious heritage in hand crafted, beautifully appointed footwear.
With construction that is meticulous at every detail, Fracap hiking boots sit at the top of the class when it comes to mastering a style essential that is going to rule the roost in the coming winter fashion stakes.
With all the classic styling aesthetics that you’d expect from a label that has over half a century of experience in hand crafting rugged and comfortable footwear.
Heralding from a small town in Italy, Fracap hiking boots bring back the artisan touches of Italian craftsmanship to the modern man’s wardrobe.
The perfect accompaniment for the new wave of styling that has been inspired by the great outdoors, Fracap hiking boots are one of the few classic footwear styles that stay true to their roots, featuring representative touches such as a vibram sole to offer supreme grip and comfort, as well as metal lace eyelets, and classic rope laces.
Finished with an embossed Fracap logo, these hiking boots are a true necessity for the winter months, combining practicality and comfort with superior quality that can only come from leather that has been sourced from traditional Italian tanneries. Constructed and finished by hand, Fracap hiking boots are the outcome of a family tradition and unique craftsmanship, that gives them not only a unique back story that is draped in affection and quality, but also a touch of class that is unparalleled in modern footwear.
Our full range of Fracap Boots are to available to purchase online and in-store now.
As one of the brands that make up the very fabric of Britain’s famed traditional shoe industry, Grensons have been creating an unrepeatable history for themselves, crafting and finishing their shoes in Northampton since 1866. With a reputation that has grown around their invention of the now coveted Goodyear welting process, Grenson are now considered as a quintessential brand when it comes to hunting high quality, hugely desirable and classically styled footwear.
Grenson Fred Boots are the perfect example of how the label continues to bring forth iconic heritage styles and keep them relevant to the modern wardrobe. Based around the classic Archie brogue, the Grenson Fred boot features a taller finish with a boot silhouette that offers a fit close to the ankle. With oversized punched holes and intricate serration, this boot carries a Goodyear welted triple leather sole offering longevity and comfort, as well as an easy way in which to replace the sole after years of wear- making Grenson Fred boots the perfect investment in life long style.
Perfect for wearing all year round, but also as a true winter style staple, Grenson boots offer a look that gives of iconic classically British vibes. Coupled with raw denim that is rolled up to reveal the typical boot silhouette, they can provide a contemporary feel, but are also being perfect for dressing up with well selected smarter looks; meaning that these boots are truly versatile in their design.
With summer fading fast and colder climes well and truly beginning to arrive on the horizon, you may have found yourself staring at a wardrobe that has been stripped of your warm weather style allies – and is now looking rather bare. If you’ve consigned your shorts and flip flops to the depths of your closets, now is the perfect time to start considering your next investment for the coming autumn and winter months.
Whether you’re considering on taking on an entirely new look, or just adding to your own classic trademark style, it’s always best to start from the ground up – and there’s no better place to make your first new season investment than on your feet. Saving you from the inevitable rain and cold that’s sure to slowly creep into your day to day, a pair of carefully chosen boots will make or break your outfit.
So if you’re chasing a smarter look with you next footwear purchase, or want a style to live up to your casual weekend styling demands, there’s a boot for you:
The perfect style when it comes to dressing up or dressing down, the brogue has been a wardrobe staple in the gentleman’s shoe collection for countless years. With a trademark look that gives off classic heritage styling vibes, the brogue’s extra details over the foot give it the perfect balance of elegance and interest.
Brogue boots offer the exact same feel of heritage styling that the shoe equivalent provides, whilst also giving a more secure feel thanks to their higher finish around the ankle. Perfect for wearing with jeans, chinos or cords, brogue boots allow the opportunity to roll up your trouser hems to display the plush finish that often features even more leather clad serration.
Whether you choose to link your brogue boots with traditional style elements such as a blazer or a well-established waxed Barbour jacket, or opt for a more modern take with a sleekly cut shirt and piece of chunky knit wear, the brogue boot is perfect for when you’re seeking versatile yet attention grabbing footwear.
Once consigned to the hills and mountainsides of the great outdoors, the hiking boot has slowly but surely made its way down onto the high streets of some of the most fashionable cities on the planet. Bringing with them a technical element that can’t be rivaled when it comes to ensuring comfort and protection from the elements for your feet, it’s hiking boots that have been making the biggest movements in the fashion world over the past few seasons.
However- their sudden rise to becoming hot property in the fashion world doesn’t make every pair of hiking boots a must have; remember that there are still styles on the shelves that are primed purely for mastering the next hill you encounter, so pick wisely.
Opt for a pair that has a premium heritage background in hiking or mountaineering; this way you’ll get a style that is primed and ready to slot right into your wardrobe, thanks to its mix of materials that are made for trips into town, rather than walks into the wilderness.
Often coming finished in soft suede’s or hardwearing leather, you’ll find that a heritage inspired set of hiking carries metallic eyelets and climbing rope inspired laces-giving them an instant feel of retro styling that is perfect for wearing with dark or raw denim.
It’s a broad term – but Chukka boots can be defined as an ankle length boot with two or three eyelets for fastening; so the term is warranted for a whole host of styles. From desert boots to moccasins, chukka boots traditionally carry a truly classic style, making them perfect for any look that relies on the tried and tested fashion masterpieces to complete a well-informed ensemble.
If you’re seeking something that has a higher sense of smarter style, pursue a truly definitive silhouette with a desert boot. Their round toecap, suede finish and crepe sole may have an affinity with mods and rockers, but this style has aged beautifully to offer a versatile smart/casual feel.
On the other hand, Moccasins offer a look that airs further to the side of casual style, thanks to their boxy outline and square toe. With inspirations that come from classic Native American shaping, Moccasins often come finished in timeless suede, making them the perfect accompaniment to a classic pair of jeans.
Aphrodite have a wide selection of mens designer boots, view the full collection here
Autumnal Boots Lookbook
This week’s lookbook, not only has your five a day featuring in it, but your ideal rugged boot for the harsher season fast approaching. In their luxe autumnal hues, these leather boots are sure to at least keep your socks dry on your adventures. The brands that are showcased bellow are Diemme, Fracap & Yuketen
Shop all of our designer boots for men
Tradition, heritage and a distinctly personal identity- just a few qualities that are rarely found in the fast pace of today’s fashion scene- are all supremely evident in every pair of boots that Italian master footwear craftsmen Fracap create.With a history that stretches back over half a century to 1948, Fracap have supplied the world with some of the most functional and effortlessly beautiful boot silhouettes available.
From the traditional style influences of their supply chains to Alpine Troops, to their adoption by sectors of urban youth, Fracap boots bring an intimidating can do attitude to any look, bringing with them a progressive blend of durability, resistance and unassailable utilitarian style.
Despite Fracap’s official formation in 1948, their history runs much deeper than just some 60 plus years. It was Antonio Cappello who, in 1908 during his first day as a shoe craftsman, began a legacy that would see his two sons begin one of Italy’s most cherished boot brands. Taking part in a tradition that runs deep within the culture of Monteroni di Lecce, a small town in southern Italy, Antonio Cappello became a master of his trade, producing footwear of supreme quality that helped to make his hometown famous
However, it was Antonio’s sons, Alfredo and Giovanni Cappello that chose to take the legacy of Monterino di Lecce one step further with the founding of their brand Fracap.
The two brothers dedicated all of the newly created brand’s creative energy towards the production of footwear that promised to always be robust, durable and perfectly suited for agricultural work. The two brothers’ were happy to continue with this direction, as Fracap served some of Italy’s hardest workers- until 1987, when their children, Alfred, Anthony and Michael, took over at the helm of the small factory. The trio instantly sought to expand the vision of Fracap boots to a much grander scale. A new line of boots followed, and their success was palpable. With features that were considered to be the hallmark of only the best footwear of the time, such as Goodyear welting which saw the sole sewn to the upper of the boot, Fracap boots began to make a bolder statement of quality throughout Italy.
Such was the reception of the new improved Fracap boots; some of the most important Italian military corps, such as the Army, Air Force, Navy and Police all adopted the styles into their uniform regime.
Using this newfound sense of purpose, Fracap diversified yet again in 2002, concentrating its efforts on crafting boots that would be perfect for civilian life. Stylish and astute, these boots would perfectly represent the direction that Fracap had taken since its birth, translating it effortlessly into a design that was ready to conquer the streets.
The result was defined in the M128- a hiking style boot that featured quintessential outdoors style features such as brass lacing hard wear and contrasting rope laces.
With every pair of Fracap boots still being hand built in Monteroni di Lecce, Italy, the iconic niche brand is now being carefully managed by the third generation of Cappello’s.
With the purpose of the customer always in mind, Fracap still employ the same theory when it comes to production. Their creations feature only the very best raw materials, which, when possible, are always sourced from traditional Italian tanneries. The company’s extensive history in master craftsmanship has been passed down through the generations, and is still wholly evident in every pair of Fracap boots that leave the factory doors.
By keeping tradition intact, the Cappello family has led Fracap to foreign shores, seeing their family’s boots being worn all over the world, from the urban far east culture of Japan, to the fast paced streets of New York and the elusively stylish cobbles of London- Fracap boots are stretching their legs as they become one of the most notable producers of boots in modern fashion.
With supreme creations still coming from the hands of some of Fracap’s most distinguished artisan boot creators, the everlasting combination of skillful construction, quality materials such as world famous Italian leather and distinctly masculine styling has seen demand for this niche brand’s intimate designs soar. Accommodating a sense of unique styling that seems to carry an affinity with an eternally stylish cold weather style, Fracap boots are showing no signs that their 100 year old recipe for desirability is aging, as they continue to dominate a footwear style that offers on the best in quality and design, all underpinned by a distinctive sense of Italian style.
Style Session 5 – AW14
1. Woolrich Down Arctic Parka – £665.00
2. Carhartt Playoff Jumper – £65.00
3. Hugo Boss Orange58 Jeans – £99.00
4. Diemme Roccia Vet Boots – £260
Winter has made its appearance this week bringing with it the rain and cold wind, giving us a great excuse to buy that new winter coat. The winter coat comes in many shapes and styles but nothing can beat the iconic Parka.
Woolrich are one of Americas most celebrated winter brands and their standout piece comes in the shape of the Arctic Parka. Originally designed for the Alaskan oil workers, this coat will definitely keep you warm. Filled with a goose down quilted inner this will become your go to winter coat for years to come. The buttoned exterior storm flap that conceals the heavy duty zip fastening help keep the cold out and warmth in, while the olive colourway adds a hint of colour that a winter wardrobe needs.
Knitwear is a perfect piece to accompany a AW layered look, adding a knitted jumper on top of a check shirt will instantly achieve that cosy fall look. The Carhartt Playoff Jumper will help you achieve just that.
Next we move onto Jeans. The Hugo Boss Orange58 Regular Jeans are a simple stylish design that are ideal for the casual off duty look. The relaxed cut gives the wearer a comfortable yet slightly fitted style. Crafted from selvedge denim and finished with the iconic Hugo Boss branded leather patch these are a versatile jean perfect for any man.
Lastly we have Diemme Roccia Vet Boots. These top quality boots, all of which have been crafted in Italy, take the original hunting boot and adapt them to create a more lightweight version for the modern city dwellers. The full grain leather upper give the boots a superior finish. Comfort and stability are key to the design and finish to the boots, making these a premium pair of boots that will keep you warm, dry and comfortable through this winter.
If any of the items above interest you at all, please call one of our friendly team on 0191 5675898 or email [email protected].
Style Session 4 – 20th Anniversary Collaboration
1. Barbour Ashby Waxed Jacket – £199.00
2. Oliver Spencer Eton Collar Shirt – £98.00
3. Paul Smith Tapered Fit Jeans – £175.00
4. Grenson Fred Boots – £325.00
5. Grenson Archie Brogues – £325.00
This year celebrates Aphrodite’s 20th Birthday and we can proudly announce that we have had the privilege to work with a number of iconic British brands to produce a number of specially commissioned pieces for the AW14 season. These brands include Barbour, Grenson, Paul Smith and Oliver Spencer. Each item are limited editions with only a small number available, and once they are gone they are gone.
First of all we are going to have a look
at the Barbour Ashby Jacket. This waxed jacket is a contemporary re-work of the classic Bedale jacket, making this a perfect jacket that will see you through
all seasons. Crafted from Barbour’s signature 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton and finished with a weatherproof matte coating that will age beautifully, this will become a firm favourite. The inner boasts the classic Barbour tartan lining finished with a large embroidered Barbour and Aphrodite 20th Anniversary logo, making this a one off piece for any Aphrodite or Barbour fans.
Next we have an Oliver Spencer Eton Collar Shirt. A modern stylish shirt that will add sophistication and a hint of formality to your outfit. The all over pattern and rounded Eton Collar mixed with the navy colour gives a statement finish that will compliment your outfit perfectly. An 20th Anniversary Aphrodite swing tag can be seen to the garment, giving a subtle nod to the collaboration.
Paul Smith have cemented themselves as one of Britain’s most iconic brands over the years and the Jeans collection have become a sought after item in the fashion scene. Commissioned to help celebrate our 20th Anniversary, these Paul Smith tapered fit jeans have been crafted from premium quality cotton for ultimate fit and comfort. A hand drawn naked lady which has appeared on selected Paul Smith products can be seen to the inner pocket lining along with a specially printed swing tag.
Moving onto footwear, we can proudly announce we have 2 items from the Great British footwear brand, Grenson. Firstly for the brogue lovers we have a pair of G-Lab Archie Brogues.
A classic brogue crafted from high quality suede with contrasting detailed leather overlays, the Archie is an iconic silhouette. Offering a full lace fastening with a wooden sole to add durability and signature British style. This is the perfect shoe for a formal occasion to wear with a tailored suit, or to dress up a casual outfit of jeans and a shirt.
The gorgeous Grenson G-Lab Fred boot has also been re-worked for our 20th Anniversary. Utilising the same materials and colourway as it’s brogue counterpart, the Fred boot is again Goodyear Welted triple sole and finished to the same impeccable standard.
1950’S Britain- the first colour television is released, Queen Elizabeth the Second is crowned, and British explorers conquer Everest for the first time. The country is buoyed following years of war, with the golden age of consumerism slowly descending across the nation. Everything was changing. Houses were getting bigger, wages were going up and cultures were colliding. American music was travelling the Atlantic, inspiring the young British generations who were refusing to become the carbon copies of their parents that the generations before them had been forced to be. Freedom of expression became pivotal for the teenagers of the time, and with it came the emergence of sub cultures. The rock n roll generation gave creation to the mods and Teddy Boys, bringing along with them a host of stylistic choices, backed by what have now become some of histories most infamous brands. Dr. Martens as one of a handful of brands charged with the mission of providing something different for the rebelling youth- but before it did, it had to break through the norm.
Starting life in the Midlands in the nation’s home of quality shoe making, Northampton, Dr. Martens was the greatest product of the Griggs family, who had been making shoes and boots at their factory since 1901. The company was greatly respected for their traditional values and production quality- however, underneath their classic appearance, the Griggs’ were a family of innovators, yearning to break through the rigmarole of conventional style that was lingering over Britain.
Sharing the resurgence of the countries youth, Bill Griggs began searching for something that would change the footwear scene in Britain forever. He stumbled upon it whilst browsing through an issue of Shoe and Leather News Magazine, discovering an advert from two German doctors, who were looking for overseas partners to push their new innovative venture.
Munich residing Dr Maertens and Dr Funck were mavericks. They sought to tear down convention with their brand new air cushioned sole technology, which offered a new found level of comfort and support. Bill Griggs seized upon the idea; following a name change that would appeal to the British public in 1960, the first pair of Dr Martens left the production line. At the time of their launch, the concepts of British subculture and youthful tribes were still rare. The idea was there, bubbling under the surface, but the majority hadn’t yet taken it upon themselves to rebel and lead a new way of life. The next 40 years saw the explosion of subculture in all corners of the globe, drawing their own sources of inspiration from music, fashion and perspectives to create a unique group.
The early years of Dr Martens saw them forge allegiances with some sub cultures that would stand the test of time. The first were the skinheads. Obsessed with celebrating the work wear of the British working class, to the skinheads, detail was everything. At the time, Dr Martens were being used in the work place, so the transition from the factory floor to the feet of skinheads across the nation was seamless. This adoption of Dr Martens style turned out to be just the start of the brands role in subculture. A couple of years later, the infamous Peter Townshend rocked a pair of black Dr Marten 1460s on stage with The Who. It was a time where rock and roll was hitting a euphoric peak. The young consumerists in the crowd saw one of their idols bouncing around in a pair of Dr Martens, and the reaction was almost instant. From punks, to Britpop kids and grunge lovers, there was a pair of Dr Martens in the ever-growing range that reached out to them.
The Dr Martens story is truly unique in the affiliation with youth culture. Whilst other brands became the sole associates with one single movement, Dr Martens were universal. From being worn with military precision, to not being touched until they were unlaced, or scuffed and scraped within an inch of their life, no movement kept their Dr Martens in the same vein.
The age of technology changed the face of Britain yet again. By the end of the 1990’s the idea of belonging to a tribe where clothing dictated your allegiance was a distant memory, but a sense of nostalgia and heritage remained.
Dr Martens now rides this wave of retro styling, continuing to do what they have always done- provide today’s youth with a unique style that they can display their own stylistic choices with. Now with an army of loyal followers, the Dr Martens philosophy of rebellion has never been more alive; with their message of free thinking expression sending ripples through every generation.
