style
style
Monk Strap
Monk strap shoes, distinguished by their unique buckle and strap closure that stands in place of traditional laces. The construction of these shoes not only prioritises style but also comfort and durability, typically featuring uppers crafted from premium leather. While some monk strap shoes are adorned with decorative perforations or broguing, these embellishments are optional and do not define the shoe's iconic status.
The appeal of monk strap shoes lies in their blend of simplicity and sophistication, marked by the signature buckle closure that offers a refined alternative to more common fastenings. The design variations include the understated single monk strap, which carries a single buckle, exuding a minimalist charm, and the more daring double monk strap, which boasts two buckles for an extra dash of flair. Beyond their aesthetic value, these shoes are celebrated for their versatility and comfort, making them suitable for a wide array of settings, from formal events to everyday office wear. They seamlessly complement formal attire like suits and dress pants, as well as more casual ensembles like blazers, effortlessly elevating any look with a distinctive touch of personal style.
The Sole
The Sole
Blue Leather
Our Blue Leather Sole merges luxurious handiwork with distinctive style, offering a premium-quality leather foundation. This durable sole is expertly engineered for comfort and stability, adapting seamlessly to your foot's contours, while its rich hue makes a bold fashion statement, it ensures your shoes stand out with elegance. Perfect for those who value individuality and quality, it transforms any pair of shoes into a bespoke creation, promising an elevated walking experience and a unique expression of personal style.
last
last
R385 Soft Round
Our signature style, distinguished by its generously spacious round toe box, is the perfect starting point for those new to our brand. We highly recommend trying this design first to experience the model of our craftsmanship and comfort.
I'm pleased with the Matthew Double Monkstrap - well made and good leather quality. I would also like to give a special mention to Mr David Loh, the promoter of JA at Takashimaya, who went the extra-mile to polish and buff the shoes before handing them to me. Thank you and much appreciated!
The Matthew is my 2nd pair. I usually do not fit well in monks, but still gave this one a try. I was pleasantly surprised that this model fit perfectly. Went down one full size as usual. The pictures in the listing images do not do this pair justice; I was infact pressed to go for it after seeing the image of these in a banner in their main page. The monks are very well made, with nice proportions. The cap-toe sits perfectly and the toe shape is very well designed. Unfortunately, the pair I received were likely a fitting pair and it seemed to have several scuffs etc. But thankfully, it's on the way to be exchanged so a big thumbs up for JA customer service team.
The bordeaux colored Matthew will go really well with my navy blue suit that I am going to wear for my wedding. The shoe seems well crafted and is reasonably price for a goodyear welted shoes. Hence, it may last longer than the retail shoes out in the market. I would suggest to try a pair.
Also, the service provided by Jonathan Abel is really good. They overdelivered their services by shipping my pair of shoes to me earlier than expected.
In light of the covid-19 pandemic, I would prefer to get a few more wears in before writing a review but I wanted to do it now so hopefully it will help the next customer make a decision.
As they stated on their website, go with 1 size smaller. I usually wear a UK 7.5 and their Size 41 fits me well. To me at least, there is no break in period required.
The last that they used give the shoes a very attractive shape. I have seen other double monks from other brands and I did not find them appealing at all.
I think this pair of double monks will suit different body types because it’s not too round nor sharp. (Does not matter if you’re tall and skinny or short and stout). It is also good-year welted. There’s nothing more to be said about this.
I chose the Bordeaux because you don’t often see this shade of color (for me at least). It was between black and bordeaux but the bordeaux is more versatile. By nature double monks are considered more casual than formal but I think it can be pulled off with the black even if you work in a more professional environment.
There are only some very small minor imperfections on the finishing (ie. some paint on the upper's waist probably when the outsole was being painted) but it is only noticeable if you look at it from the bottom. For the price point, it is no big deal.
Living in Malaysia, it is not always ideal to wear shoes with leather outsoles because of the weather and you have to be very careful with what you step on (ie when you are using the restroom are the floors are wet). Leather outsoles give a very luxurious feel and elegant look but I personally would prefer rubber soles (ie. Dainite is a good balance) and hope this is an option from the company in the future.
I am eyeing the Alexander model next. Not often you find a well made shoe with side lacing at this price point.
Have multiple different brands of shoes, ranging from freelance Indonesian shoemaker, to a heritage Spanish brand, to famous English made, to peculiar NYC brand (made in Italy), two heritage American brands, even down to an independent South American (Ecuador) brand.
First time getting a made in Portugal shoe. Safe to say, this pair of shoes is definitely well-made.
Price point for the quality given is superb - I always find that Spanish/Portuguese makers fare better than Italian when it comes to price to quality ratio.
Pros:
- Narrow sole, looking smart and sleek
- Safe last shape, not too chiselled, not too round
- Beautiful patina blue leather sole
- Glues are not "leaking" or showing excess (some fray glues on the fibres of the leather at the ankle, nothing much to worry), all stitches are tight, no loose stitches as seen in many shoes around the $200-400 range.
Cons:
- Some loose grains on the full-grain leather, but is to be expected at this price point (I have 2 lines that are on the left shoe, on the ankle facing the right feet)
- Saw quite a bit of black paints (very blended-in) colouration left near the welt at my left shoe. Cannot be seen unless you're holding the shoe and observing VERY carefully, so small matter as it's handmade.
Most importantly, I am very glad to see more shoe companies in local Singapore, no matter where they're made or at what price point. More choices mean better shopping experience for us too, will definitely support again (Aiming for the Dallas black captoe).