How to Style a pair of Fisherman Sandals (From Church's)

Today I'm going to sing about the virtues of owning a pair of Fisherman Sandals by Church's. Some of you have been kind enough to drop comments on my latest instagram post where I've tagged some other brands. But I had a minute and wanted to share my thought process on how I styled this outfit, and indeed, the experience of wearing these sandals. 

Let's first dial back nearly 50 years. Flower Power had blown gasket by the end of the sixties and was limping its way into the 70s. One of the few hangers-on, despite being eviscerated by the surrounding noise of not being a shoe for a 'man's man', was the sandal. 

To quote Josh Sims from his book, Icons of Men's Style,

'If society's sartorial rule-book could be epitomized by the three-piece, pinstriped city suit, freedom from its strictures was perhaps best represented by the sandal.' 

Fast forward to present day and one of the vast iterations I'd like to pull focus on are these Fisherman Sandals by Church's. It’s design and craftsmanship at its best. These sandals truly are an investment piece you’ll enjoy for life and with spring/summer upon us, it’s a great time to invest.

I've styled these Fisherman Sandals with a rustic burnt orange shirt from Mango and a pair of single forward pleated cream chinos from Versace. And of course Ray Bans. I've wanted to make the look a bit more studied than just your average poolside look. Why? Because these Fisherman Sandals are not an afterthought. They aren't just thrown on because the sun is out. 

Its Nevada leather adds to its wholesome appeal with a natural, tonal finish achieved with layers of hand-applied waxes. Structured yet comfortable, there’s extra cushioning at the insole and a sturdy rubber heel. 

It's a little bit of false advertising to call these Fisherman sandals. The style implies that as I'm sure it's provenance comes from the Fishing style, or derivative of. But these sandals are far too glamourous to be anywhere near a patch of soggy marsh or the invariable treacherous puddles of silt and diesel that nestle inconspicuously in the corners of day hire boats. 

These are to be worn with gusto, with respect and with tailored or rolled chinos. Of course linen will work. I think give the denim a break, you can pair denim with almost everything else. Let these Fisherman sandals have their time in the sun.