After extensive googling, and questioning of everyone I know, I have gone to a maker of specialist footwear in Central London. The only viable alternatives seemed to be in France – apparently very good for style and value but a long way to go for a pair of shoes – or oop north – not my natural habitat, probably more alien to me than France and further away.
At the initial discussion stage, that VELCRO word came up. I had to have misheard it? Do bespoke shoes costing a four digit sum ever incorporate VELCRO? We were shown some feet with foot problems that I could never have imagined and, well, yes, it does seem in extreme circumstances VELCRO may be the only option. For me, luckily, no!
Conveniently, I had with me a pair of my favourite Robert Clergeries', made of a lovely stretchy leather lined fabric. I had a bit of a fit as my specialist shoe maker moved to cut them open but he backed off as I squeaked, 'no, no....please...' He clearly thought I was crazy to care about shoes I cannot wear but, what can you do?
I was a little concerned that he did not fully appreciate my style aesthetic but he said he had 'got it' so I paid my four digit fifty percent deposit and left. I went back for the fitting two months later. No joy! It was back to the drawing board but I had at least come with some examples this time. I waited for my next call and fitting.
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