The classic monk strap shoe has something of the Art Deco style of the 1930s about it (although its traditions go into the much older Scottish folk dress worn with a kilt), in its pared down purity of line, cleanness of design, and its restraint accented by an unadorned side buckle. This is of course all in keeping with the spareness of the sandals worn by monks on which this shoe was modeled. Today, aficionados aren’t limited to the plain model; split-toed and brogued models are available for a more brothof-the-heather approach found in the original Scottish versions. Interestingly and inexplicably, the monk strap is perhaps the most versatile of shoes. Its complete unfussiness makes it completely adaptable for dress or casual wear, done in classic black box calf, shell cordovan, pebble grained leather, or suede. And, oddly enough, the monk strap was the most sought after shoe with World War II American airmen in their off-duty dress. —G. Bruce Boyer noted fashion writer and editor The Monk Strap 1-800-221-4671 | 39 Opposite page: The monk strap shoe, with its buckle, earns its sobriquet from the buckle on a monk's sandals. Extraordinary monk shoe in antique chestnut. Featuring Goodyear-welted construction, brogue detailing, bark tanned single leather soles, and hand finished buckle. The Chadwick Monk, 5101…$910. Top: Handsome edge stitched English bridle leather belts in A-black, B-Havana tan with solid nickel buckles. Available in even sizes 32–44, and odd sizes 33–39. Each edge stitched bridle leather belt, S8011…$155. Below: Crockett & Jones of England shoe trees are available in whole sizes only, 7–13. Shoe trees, CJST…$120. THE CHADWICK MONK 38 | www.bensilver.com The Wingtip Monk Shoe …a special brogue touch BRIDLE LEATHER BELTS S8011 5101: Chadwick SHOE TREES
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