What to buy from the Grenson summer pop-up
Summer is officially here and with it, loafer and sandal season. My summer uniform is a rotation of dark Levi’s, slim khaki chinos and pleat-front linen trousers – all ankle-cropped and loafer-friendly. For me, loafers have to show some bare ankle or sock; I don’t rate loafers worn with super-long trousers (however trendy they are atm). But loafers with dresses and skirts, with or without socks are a firm yes.
Grenson has a summer pop-up in its east London store and the two-tone Epsom penny loafers are a major highlight. The women’s yellow* (above) and pink two-tone loafers (below) are made from Italian softie calf leather, which is more flexible and less formal then other leathers. These fondant colourways are such a delight and a change from the usual black.
The colour option for men is cognac and white*, equally holiday-ready, with a touch of The Talented Mr Ripley. It’s giving pleat linen trousers, Bode bowling shirt, a pastel sock and aviators. (This colourway is also available for women online here*.)
The nice thing about the Grenson Epsom loafer is its almond-shaped toe, a more elegant French silhouette compared to my usual American loafers*. The cognac two-tone and black versions (I have the black, here*) are made from a more formal, full-grained calf leather which takes a bit of breaking in. I love the matte finish and solid feel though.
The other style to check out at the pop-up is Grenson’s Queenie fisherman sandal* (below). Again, pretty versatile, with or without ankle socks. Like loafers, I always prefer a fisherman sandal with a hint of ankle on show, so cropped white jeans, Bermuda shorts or any length of skirt are ideal. The Queenie comes in a flat leather sole (my preference), or a chunky lightweight rubber one* for city break pavement-pounding.
While we’re on the subject, a few summer grooming tips to share. I swear by Margaret Dabbs’ fantastic foot file*; use it every week or two to keep soles and heels feeling more burrata than parmesan. Follow up with foot cream. Burt’s Bees Coconut Foot Cream* feels like a greasy ointment but does the job. Or Frederic Malle Musc Ravageur Body Butter* is the luxury choice if you’re feeling fancy. For a DIY pedi, Chanel has reformulated its polishes. I like Incendiare* and the cult Rouge Noir* with their upgraded wider brushes, deeper pigments and high-shine formula. And finally, if you’re looking for sock inspo, you’re in the right place. Revisit my recs here.
The Grenson Summer pop-up* is open until the end of June at Grenson East, 18 Hanbury Street, E1 6QR
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WORDS: Disneyrollergirl / Navaz Batliwalla
IMAGES: Grenson loafers and fisherman sandals
NOTE: Most images are digitally enhanced. Some posts use affiliate links* and PR samples. Please read my privacy and cookies policy here
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