STYLE
MONGE SHOES CO N TEMPOR ARY DESIGN AN D HANDM ADE L UXURY “M ADE IN M AL L O R C A ”
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raditionally, women have been credited with a particular soft spot - or rather devotion - for shoes but, what about men? Aren’t they looking for exclusive and quality shoes, more and more? The truth is that, for some time now, the number of men around the world who like handcrafted, one-of-a-kind footwear has increased. Mallorca is no exception: although the footwear industry has actually suffered a significant downturn recently, there are still brands that produce one hundred per cent of their designs on this shoemaking tradition island. In an extremely challenging scenario, long-standing brands and other young start-ups continue to work in the same place where internationally recognised brands and top-level master artisans began their path. One of these exclusive brands that design and produce all their items in Mallorca is Monge Shoes, founded by Pedro Monge in 2012. The journalist-turned-designer and entrepreneur decided to create his own brand after years of experience in the fashion and footwear sector and, of course, designing the shoes he wanted to wear himself. So, said and done: from the design, which he takes care of in person, to the manufacturing, which takes place in a factory in Inca, the entire shoe-making process happens on the island. Monge has managed to reinterpret the classic men’s shoe with respect for tradition and meticulous attention to detail, giving it a modern twist without sacrificing craftsmanship. With fine-quality leather, leather soles and natural crepe, one can wear moccasins, boots or even the classic Oxford, which has been now reinvented and updated. And yes indeed, women are also spoilt for choice at Monge: their lovely summer espadrilles collection in the purest Mediterranean style is, as well as extremely comfortable, ideal for walks around the island. In his shop in the centre of Palma, it is impossible not to admire the elegance and perfection that can only be achieved by things made with respect and sense since his shoes are actual handcrafted objects for a consumer who prioritises quality over quantity. Besides, to the delight of fans of exclusive shoes, it is possible to design and order an exclusive pair made to measure and to your liking. If shoes are not an accessory and are part of our personality, we should carefully choose what we wear, right?. So, how about turning respect, tradition and craftmanship into our hallmark? It cannot get better than this. Carrer de Colom, 8. Palma. · (+34) 971 719 965 www.mongestudio.com
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