Alden Color 8 Plaza Tassels
To be honest, I actually can’t believe that I am writing this article. I personally already own a Color #8 Shell Cordovan Tassel Loafer. I also have their Cigar Tassel Loafer. So, why am I now finding myself with another Color #8 Tassel loafer in my closet with Antique Edges?
Well, the answer is simple. First, I love Tassel Loafers, and second, this one is special. This one is special because it is made around my favorite Last, the Plaza Last. The Plaza Last just makes every design elegant and beautiful. Its magical in that way. Second, this tassel loafer has a hand-stitched vamp. So, the stitching across apron of this shoe in the front is stitched by hand just like the Leisure Hand-Sewn, Cordovan Indy Boots, or the Norwegian Split Toe. This combination of hand stitch work and the Plaza Last always ends up exceptional, and this model is no different.
These loafers feature the incredibly soft and malleable single oil soaked outsole, a.k.a. the Flex Welt, for easy break-in and water resistance. They have a 270 degree, flat welt. This comes together to create just a stunning model. Overall, I am just ecstatic with how this loafer came out. It is a fantastic looking shoe that will go greatly with khakis or other medium-casual attire.
Additional pictures are available after the break.
Hello!
May I ask, did you take your usual Plaza size, or went down half a size?
Many thanks!
PC,
Gladly! I actually wear these in the exact same size that I wear all of my Plaza shoes/boots, 11B. I was a little nervous about fit, because I had never been able to try on a pair of Plaza Loafers before, but they fit like a champ!
-Mike
Many many thanks Mike!!
How noticible is the hand stitching on the vamps when compared to the 563s? Also, if you could only own one color 8 tassel (D7102 or 563), which would it be?
Landon,
Thank you very much for your inquiry and interest! Frankly, the hand stitching is probably not the most noticeable compared to other Alden models. As an enthusiast, I definitely notice the fact the work, but any normal person probably wouldn’t even give it a second thought. That is partially due to the smaller quantity of stitching and it is partially because the tassels themselves are the thing that mainly catches the eye.
The main difference between the D7102 is the antique edging. The other two main difference is the Plaza Last and the Hand Stitching. Frankly, the main driver to me is again the Antique Edge. I would recommend one over the other based upon the intended uses that you have for your tassels. If you want something that goes well with denim, khakis, and occasionally slacks, then the D7102 is definitely for you. If you want something that goes well with slacks, suits, and occasionally khakis, then the 563 is for you. Another thing to consider is the Lasts and which one fits you better, between the Plaza and the Aberdeen.
I hope that this helps you!
-Mike
Thanks Mike – excellent information as always.