Alden Ravello Plain Toe Monks

When I think of Alden, a Monk Strap is about the last model that comes to my mind. Alden doesn’t make a Double Monk, and from what I heard refuses to pursue this design. They do make several variants of the Single Monk. This has included a Norwegian Split-Toe Variant as well as a Wingtip Variant. But their true classic version has to be the Plain Toe Monk.

The Monk Strap is such a simple design, using a buckle vice a lace to tighten the shoe. In net effect, it becomes a sleek, slip on model. The Plain Toe variant of the Monk Strap is powerful in its simplicity. The lack of patterning allows the beautiful Shell Cordovan to shine. And this one doesn’t disappoint, being made out of Ravello Shell Cordovan.

Ravello, named after a truly beautiful city on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, is a truly rich shade of Shell Cordovan. It is a medium brown shade with a red undertone. These colors combine to make one heck of a shade of leather.

This Ravello Shell Cordovan Plain Toe Monk Strap brings its “A” game by combining an exquisite set of Alden design choices together. This Monk Strap is made around Alden’s sleek Aberdeen Last, providing a nice tapered toe box design. The Ravello Shell Cordovan on this Monk Strap is paired nicely with Alden’s Antique Edge as well as a Brass Buckle. The Antique Edge provides a truly lovely compliment to the Ravello. These edges cover up the Flat-Welt of the Single Oil-soaked Outsole.

Overall, these Monks are about the pinnacle of the Monk Strap family from Alden. More pictures can be enjoyed below.