Suppose you'd ask Tony Gaziano or Dean Girling what the shoemaking highlight of 2023 is. They might tell you about an exceptional pair of bespoke shoes they have made this year: the shoes worn by His Royal Highness Prince Charles during his momentous coronation.
The illustrious event marked a historical milestone, and one aspect that has piqued the interest of shoe enthusiasts and admirers of craftsmanship alike is the bespoke footwear created by the celebrated shoemakers Gaziano & Girling, proudly represented at The Hand.
As the world gazed upon Westminster Abbey on the day Prince Charles ascended to the throne, little did they know that beneath his majestic robes, lay a pair of meticulously crafted shoes that exuded elegance, tradition, and refined artistry. Gaziano & Girling, known for their unparalleled expertise and unrivaled attention to detail, were honored to design these regal shoes for the momentous occasion.
This invitation was based on the shoemaker's earlier work for His Royal Highness, a relationship that started after he visited the Gaziano & Girling facilities in Kettering in 2019. The Gaziano & Girling team then created a bespoke pair of Saint James to commemorate the visit.
The Coronation shoes were a bespoke masterpiece, tailored to complement the intricacies of the ceremonial attire while ensuring utmost comfort during the momentous proceedings. The creators, Tony Gaziano and Dean Girling, are renowned for their mastery of the craft, combining traditional techniques with contemporary finesse. They embarked on the task with a sense of reverence for the occasion and a commitment to upholding the rich heritage of the British monarchy. The result is pictured below, although the bow in the image had been replaced by a family buckle for the occasion.
The shoes were crafted from the finest leather, sourced from the most reputable tanneries in the world. The design featured classic lines, refined curves, and subtle embellishments, reflecting the timeless elegance expected of royal footwear. Every stitch, every seam, and every flourish of detail bore testimony to the shoemaker's passion for perfection.
Beyond their aesthetic allure, these coronation shoes were engineered to provide Prince Charles unparalleled comfort throughout the momentous ceremony. Gaziano & Girling's bespoke approach meant that every contour of the Prince's feet was meticulously measured, ensuring a fit that surpassed all expectations.
As the ceremony commenced, Prince Charles glided down the aisle with grace. His shoes could be considered a testament to the fusion of tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and technology, and the meticulous attention to detail that defines the Gaziano & Girling legacy.
At The Hand, we take immense pride in showcasing the craftsmanship of Gaziano & Girling. This shoemaker has left an indelible mark on the annals of royal history. The coronation shoes of Prince Charles exemplify the essence of what we stand for – excellence and the celebration of timeless craftsmanship.
Explore The Hand's Gaziano & Girling collection here and our version of the St James here!