Barker Black was established in 1880 by Arthur Barker in the village of Earls Barton (Northampton, UK) and the brand’s shoes quickly became staples in the wardrobe of every self-respecting Englishman. The collection is inspired by the 17th Lancers, an ancient regiment of British guardsmen and their original logo, a skull and crossbones with a banner posting the implying motto “Death or Glory”.  Discovered in an ancient silk weaver’s archive in Sudury, England and adopted by Barker Black Ltd. under designer and creative director, Derrick Miller, the motif captures the spirit and design philosophy of Barker Black: subversive sophistication. 

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes

Barker Black shoes are created by a team of specialized craftsmen, many of whom have been working with the brand for more than 20 years. The designs, made from the finest Italian and French calf, are left on the last for 15 to 30 days, during which time the shoes are placed in a wire frame and suspended from rafters above the factory, giving each pair extended time to retain its beautiful, one-of-a-kind shape. All Barker Black shoes are finished by hand, and on select styles, the skull and crossbone logo is painstakingly tacked into the sole by hand.

Subtle details that make the wearer feel unique are so well incorporated into the design of the collection; they would be difficult for others to notice. Little touches like a crown cutout on a traditional penny loafer or the delicate broguing on the toe in the shape of a crowned skull and crossbones, offer touches of subversive sophistication.  Other shoe details include: toe punching, sole tacking, silk collars on select shoes and “Good Year Welted” construction.  In addition to footwear, the brand produces distinctive ties, pocket squares and braces.

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes

Today, Barker Black’s distinguished collection is one of the most coveted luxury footwear brands in the world, available at the original Barker Black boutique on Elizabeth Street in the heart of New York's Nolita neighborhood and at premium retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Jeffrey, Colette, United Arrows, and 10 Corso Como.  The brand’s new 500 square foot boutique at 450 North Robertson Boulevard in Los Angeles features the full Barker Black collection of men's shoes and accessories with made to order services available.  

For more details on the craftsmanship and to shop the full collection, you can visit: http://www.barkerblack.com

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes

Barker Black, a British shoemaker for the American gentleman - Barker Black - Shoes