This May, we are happy to present a unique Group-Made-to-Order collaboration: Norman Vilalta x The Hand!
Since our opening, The Hand has proudly featured Norman Vilalta in our core collection. It is no secret that we admire Norman as a person and the fresh perspective he brings to shoemaking, which is evident from his team's work (some of our favorites are listed here).
Those who have followed Norman Vilalta will recognize his unique designs and craftmanship, which is probably best illustrated by his 1202 Heritage collection, semi-bespoke shoes that are also available at The Hand.
We are excited to finally have a chance to launch a collaborative Group-Made-to-Order together, following a limited edition we launched before the pandemic and many stunning Made-to-Orders for individual clients (a selection of which you can see here).
Rembrandt U-tip Derby Boot
The first style of our collaboration is the high cut Rembrandt U-tip Derby Boot, a brand-new design that Norman Vilalta created for this launch and a boot that we are very excited to wear this Winter.
Norman Vilalta's very popular Gaspar U-Tip Derby has been a hot seller at The Hand, therefore, Norman and Dennis were eager to introduce a high-cut version to our boot rotation.
Rembrandt features an apron along the toe box that is carefully hand-stitched by our skilled team of artisans, 4 eyelet and 3 speed hook lacing, a luxurious quilted insole with padding, and a durable and comfortable Vibram Gumlite Commando Sole.
We selected vegano inca grain calf and a handmade bordeaux patina, which compliments a navy or grey suit beautifully and look fanstastic with dark denim.
Kerouac Derby Boot
Our second feature in this collaboration is a new make-up of Norman Vilalta's popular Kerouac Derby Boot.
Dennis was eager to work on a version of his own after Norman introduced the elegant mid-cut boot last year.
Kerouac features French box calf from Tanneries du Puy, an elongated vamp and our chiseled toe last, simplified punching on the facings, a Vibram Rubber Button Sole, and a shaft detailed with embroidery along the back heel.
With Dennis's feedback, Norman created a new Cassiopeia handmade patina, a black and blue patina that is slightly lighter than our classic Orion patina. Dennis loved the Orion patina, but wanted a version that allowed more of the beautiful blue to shine through.
The mid-cut of our Kerouac boot is the perfect height to be worn year-round and can easily be worn with dress and dress-casual attire.
Willem Wingtip Derby Shoe
The final featured shoe is another brand-new design: Willem Wingtip Derby Shoe in Weinheimer grain calf.
With the popularity of the Derby Simple, Norman and Dennis wanted to introduce a derby with slightly more flair.
Willem features a wingtip on our round toe last, an asymmetric pattern with no center-back seam, brogue detailing along the wingtip and facings, and a beautiful dark caramel handmade patina.
We selected a durable Vibram Gumlite Commando Sole, which is lightweight and comfortable and perfect for the cobblestones of Amsterdam, Gaudi tiles of Barcelona, or concrete streets of NYC. In addition, we upgraded the sole with a 360-degree storm welt for added weather protection and a slightly bolder silhouette.
Our Willem Wingtip Derby will look great dressed up or down and will keep you dapper and comfortable throughout the day.
All shoes in our GMTO collaboration with Norman Vilalta are bench made, Goodyear-welted, and hand finished by our artisan team in Spain before shipment. This process includes the use of glass, sandpaper, inks, creams, waxes, fire and multiple iron tools to achieve a bespoke quality finishing that the Norman Vilalta brand has become known for.
Our Rembrandt U-Tip Derby Boot, Kerouac Derby Boot, and Willem Wingtip Derby are now available in our Group-Made-to-Order with The Hand of Amsterdam through Tuesday, May 31st.