The Nankeens arrived today...

[nuranar]

... and I am squealing over them. They are SO CUTE! And they look SO GOOD!

It's hard to show from still pictures why they work for me so well. I think it's just that there are so many subtle things that are right, so altogether the effect just sings. Like the opposite effect of even the best vintage-inspired shoes worn with vintage outfits: there's going to be subtle things, like the shape of the toe, the  shape of the vamp, the shape and height of the heel, and the overall profile of the shoe, that keeps them from looking like they stepped out of a movie.

For the Nankeens, it's those same subtle details - some of which are significant design decisions - that give them a look that's so excellent. Like the shape of the toe. It's gently tapering and just slightly blunted, a shape that I don't recall seeing in any modern shoes. The angle of the seam is lovely, too, curving ever so slightly. The sewn eyelets are not obvious, but it's a totally different effect from metal eyelets. And the low spring heel is just right as well.



Most significantly, the lack of a toe box means that these boots have no stiffening except for what's necessary at the heel. The entire upper shapes itself to my foot, especially the toe, which is low without being flat. It hugs my ankle, tapering back in over the heel - a really lovely curve. And when worn, it almost gives the effect of being sole-less, since the upper overhangs the sole just a little bit all around, including the toe and heel. It's a very light, graceful look. They're VERY close to these, from the Powerhouse Museum.

I admit I've had qualms since I pre-ordered these, but they're gone now. I can't wait to wear them!  I guess it'll be at the 1812 Overture concert in the Gardens in June. I feel I'm just going to have to make that yellow muslin dress for the occasion. :p