John Lobb

John Lobb History

John Lobb is a renowned English bootmaker and shoemaker known for producing exquisite handmade footwear. The history of John Lobb dates back to the 19th century, and the brand has established a legacy of craftsmanship and luxury that continues to this day.

The story begins with John Lobb, the founder of the company. John Lobb was born in 1829 in Cornwall, England. He started his career as an apprentice to a bootmaker in London at the age of 11. During his apprenticeship, Lobb honed his skills and developed a deep passion for creating high-quality footwear.

In 1849, at the age of 20, John Lobb moved to Australia during the Gold Rush era, seeking new opportunities. He set up a small workshop in Adelaide, where he crafted boots for gold prospectors. Lobb’s exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail quickly gained recognition, and his reputation as a skilled bootmaker grew.

After spending nearly a decade in Australia, John Lobb decided to return to England in 1859 and establish his bootmaking business in London. He opened a shop on Regent Street, catering to an elite clientele that included members of the British aristocracy, politicians, and notable figures of the time.

The quality and craftsmanship of John Lobb’s footwear were unparalleled. Each pair of shoes was meticulously handcrafted using the finest materials, and the attention to detail was extraordinary. The brand quickly gained a reputation for creating footwear that combined elegance, durability, and comfort.

John Lobb’s dedication to perfection and his commitment to excellence earned him a Royal Warrant from the Prince of Wales in 1863, marking the company as an official supplier to the royal family. This prestigious recognition further elevated the brand’s status and attracted more distinguished customers.

Over the years, John Lobb expanded its operations while maintaining its commitment to traditional craftsmanship. The company passed down through generations, with each successor carrying on the legacy and preserving the brand’s core values.

In 1902, John Lobb opened a branch in Paris, recognizing the city’s status as a hub for fashion and luxury. The Paris location further enhanced the brand’s international reputation and attracted a discerning clientele from around the world.

Throughout the 20th century, John Lobb continued to thrive, despite the challenges posed by two world wars and changing fashion trends. The company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship remained unwavering, and its reputation for creating bespoke footwear of the highest caliber continued to grow.

In 1976, Hermès, the renowned French luxury goods manufacturer, acquired John Lobb, recognizing the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and aligning it with their own commitment to excellence. Under Hermès’ ownership, John Lobb expanded its reach and opened additional stores in major cities worldwide, including New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.

Today, John Lobb continues to be celebrated as one of the finest purveyors of bespoke footwear. The company maintains its original workshop in Northampton, England, where skilled artisans handcraft each pair of shoes using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The brand’s offerings range from classic dress shoes to casual footwear, all of which reflect the brand’s timeless elegance and uncompromising quality.

John Lobb’s legacy as a master bootmaker has endured for over a century and a half. The brand’s commitment to excellence, artisanal craftsmanship, and exceptional materials has made it a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the world of footwear.

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