The Imperial Collection
This collection epitomises the absolute pinnacle of English shoemaking, with a stunning selection of footwear made using the finest leathers and featuring oak bark in-channel soles and hand-painted fiddle waists.
Discover what makes this collection special
Dedicated Lasts
Our dedicated 15216 last is the epitome of subtle elegance, featuring a soft chiselled toe and cut deep under the arch to further emphasise the shape. Generous and comfortable in the width, this last's beauty lies in its accentuated curvature and sleek appearance. For loafers, our imperial 207 last offers the same clarity of design with specific alterations such as a slightly shallower instep and slimmer heel to aid comfort and support.
Finest Grade Leathers
Higher grades of leather are softer, stronger and unparalleled in terms of consistency. For our Imperial collection, we have sourced the very best leathers from some of the most revered and established tanneries to ensure that the wearer enjoys comfort and quality for many years to come.
Oak Bark Tanned Soles
Tanning leather with oak bark can be traced back to medieval times and requires the leather to be steeped in oak bark for up to a year. This intensive tanning process creates a durable sole unit which represents the highest level of English craft and tradition.
In-Channel Stitching
Otherwise known as closed or hidden channel stitching, this process involves delicately lifting the very top layer of leather around the outside of the sole, ensuring the welt stitching is embedded discreetly, before gluing . The split edge is then carefully stuck back down and hand-painted for a distinctive finishing touch.. This time-consuming process can only be done by hand and is a testament to our talented craftspeople, resulting in a finer sole unit with added protection.
Fiddle Waist
A fiddle waist refers to the distinctive carved section under the arch of the shoe. Combined with the slim profile of our Imperial lasts, this further accentuates the elegant shape and extra level of handwork that goes into these exquisite sole units.
For over 140 years, we've been crafting exceptional footwear in the heart of England's shoemaking county. Discover the skilled craftsmanship, traditional techniques and attention to detail that go into making every pair of Cheaney shoes.
Nothing compares to visiting a Joseph Cheaney & Sons store in person and receiving a fitting consultation from our expert staff. However, we understand that visiting a store isn't always an option for everyone so we've put together this guide to help you choose the correct size
If you’re wondering which products and colours we recommend to look after your shoes. We've put together this guide; you will find a comprehensive list of our current leathers with the recommended products. Feel free to use some creative licence within reason.
Regardless of the style or cut of your suit, choosing the right colour shoes for your outfit is crucial to achieving a sophisticated and well put-together end result for your big day.
What's an Oxford and how does it differ to a Derby? How is a Brogue different to a semi brogue? Discover the range of different styles of footwear we design and manufacture in our Northamptonshire based, UK factory and learn more about their origins and history.
Polishing, if done regularly, shouldn’t take up too much of your time and won’t be at all arduous, as long as you do the basics right. Discover our top tips and step by step video of how to keep your shoes looking their best and what the best care products are to use.
Have you ever wondered what the letter(s) B, C, D, R, GV means in the name of the style of footwear; well it references the sole used. Gain insight into the different types of soles we use on our footwear, from a traditional leather to heavy duty rubber sole, there is a sole for every occasion.
The last is the 3-dimensional form on which our shoes are constructed. The shoe proportion, shape, fit, width and character start with the last. If you can identify the last that suits your foot, all the shoes or boots built on that last will fit well.
We only source high-grade leather from the best tanneries in the UK and abroad to produce our footwear. Our collection includes various leathers and we are constantly discerning new treatments and characteristics to expand our unique collection.
The common myth is that suede shoes are notoriously difficult to keep looking their best. However, don’t be put off as this really isn’t the case; whether it’s a new pair or you need to rejuvenate an exsiting pair, we’ve created a definitive guide on how to care for and protect suede shoes.
