BILLY REID COLLABORATES WITH OAK STREET BOOTMAKERS ON CAP-TOE TRENCH OXFORD SHOE
The Billy Reid x Oak Street Bootmakers Cap-Toe Trench Oxford combines the classic silhouette of a heritage military officer’s shoe with the rugged charm of a gentleman’s hunting boot. Made entirely in the U.S.A. from waxed roughout leather with character that only improves with age—and British-made soft but durable lugged rubber soles—the result is something new, yet familiar, with a timeless versatility suitable for wear with everything from denim to chinos to a linen suit. But despite its ability to step into a casual role, this Trench Oxford is made to the standard of the finest dress shoes, with hand-lasted Goodyear Welt construction so it can be re-soled again and again, and backed by Oak Street Bootmakers’ Factory Guarantee. The boot retails for $548
The collaboration between Billy Reid and Oak Street is a natural one. They both share an appreciation for pieces that get better with wear and for subtle design details that distinguish good pieces from really great ones.
“George, the founder of Oak Street Bootmakers, and I share a unique bond,” explains designer Billy Reid. “We both were friends with the late Justin Townes Earle (legendary country and folk artist), and that was the connector. Justin loved Oak Street and introduced me to the brand back in 2010 as he was constantly wearing their boots. Justin also introduced George to our collection when George was at Justin’s New York apartment and saw racks of our clothes that Justin would show him and talk about the details in pieces. We both missed Justin dearly and the truly special person he was to both of us.
“Making shoes is not easy, and doing it in the USA is even more challenging. Oak Street has defied the odds, and I have so much respect for their approach and their products. When George and I finally met, we shared our stories about the industry, our mutual friends, and the idea of making special things together and teaming up our brands. We couldn’t be more proud of the product we’ve been working on and love being able to share the genuine connectivity of our relationship.”
