[WatchmanJimG]

Hello all!

I'm in the process of revamping my shoe inventory and the current state of Allen Edmonds has me focusing more on Alden, especially the classic Leisure Handsewn mocassin. As of now I own the 981, 984, 986, and 17834F, which is described as Natural Tan Chromexcel leather. Has anyone encountered a matching belt for this shoe? How about the 983 in Burnished Tan Calfskin? Alden Shop of San Francisco offers a tan calfskin belt, but I was advised via email that it may not be an exact match for the 983. I understand of course that opinions differ as to whether the belt should/must match one's shoes, but for now I'm merely trying to determine availability.

Any input is greatly welcomed.

 

[smmrfld]

Natural CXL gets darker, scuffed up, marked up, shinier, etc. with use IME. Don’t waste time looking for an exact match. In fact, no need for matchy-matchy with these shades, IMO.

 

[WatchmanJimG]

Natural CXL gets darker, scuffed up, marked up, shinier, etc. with use IME. Don't waste time looking for an exact match.

I have an Allen Edmonds belt in Walnut that works OK. I guess it will suffice.

 

[Intrepid]

If you are wearing LHS with blazer or sports jacket, you might consider surcingle from Oconnells. Maroon, or tan seem to work quite well.

 

[WatchmanJimG]

Actually I have considered this. I guess if the color of the leather portion of the belt is reasonably similar to the shoes it could work. I'll check them out when I go back to O'Connell's in a couple of weeks.

 

[August West]

Another vote for the surcingle.
I most often wear surcingles with tan, and natural shade shoes. I also tend to wear surcingles or ribbon belts with my one pair of suede shoes.

I also have the O'Connell's chestnut scotch grain belt. That one might work for you as well.

 

[Intrepid]

Actually I have considered this. I guess if the color of the leather portion of the belt is reasonably similar to the shoes it could work. I'll check them out when I go back to O'Connell's in a couple of weeks.

The leather portion of the surcingle is a dark tan. In the Allen Edmonds catalogue that just arrived, there are two dress leather belts that will work. You might see if you like either the Midland in oxblood, or the Cyrus Avenue in dark snuff. When you are next in OCLS, please tell Ethan that Bill Stephenson in OKC sends regards. Those who post here need to do all that we can to be sure that they continue to prosper. OCLS is one of the very few sources of genuine trad gear, plus being super easy to do business with.

 

[Vecchio Vespa]

Another vote for surcingle. My favorite colors are olive, navy, and yellow. If I were wearing a natural CXL LHS I’d stay away from a “matchy” look.

 

[WatchmanJimG]

PS: I wound up discussing this issue with the fine folks at O’Connell’s and they sourced me a natural Chromexcel belt for my LHS. 😁

 

[fishertw]

I have Alden Black, tan and Burgundy belts. Just recently bought a traditional tassel Aberdeen last and it is considerably darker than the burgundy.I'm not that picky if they are relatively close. Alden makes good belts.

 

[WatchmanJimG]

I have Alden Black, tan and Burgundy belts. Just recently bought a traditional tassel Aberdeen last and it is considerably darker than the burgundy.I'm not that picky if they are relatively close. Alden makes good belts.

They do indeed. I just replaced my black and burgundy calfskin belts due to “shrinkage” of my original 2005 examples. 😉

 

[Vecchio Vespa]

If anyone is interested in chromexcel, Rancourt offers CXL belts in four colors.

 

[fishertw]

They do indeed. I just replaced my black and burgundy calfskin belts due to “shrinkage” of my original 2005 examples. 😉

Watchman, I've also got both dark burgundy and a peanut alligator belts that sort of fill in the color range. Way too many dressier belts for an old guy moving on Monday to a Retirement Community!

 

[WatchmanJimG]

Watchman, I've also got both dark burgundy and a peanut alligator belts that sort of fill in the color range. Way too many dressier belts for an old guy moving on Monday to a Retirement Community!

Best wishes! I’m sure you’ll still have use for your belts. 😁

 

[Vecchio Vespa]

Watchman, I've also got both dark burgundy and a peanut alligator belts that sort of fill in the color range. Way too many dressier belts for an old guy moving on Monday to a Retirement Community!

I know folks who moved to retirement communities and dressed quite well, surrounded by people of like age and sensibility, people who appreciated knotting a tie and pulling on an odd jacket for KTs and dinner.

 

[drpeter]

Watchman, I've also got both dark burgundy and a peanut alligator belts that sort of fill in the color range. Way too many dressier belts for an old guy moving on Monday to a Retirement Community!

Tom, I hope your move goes well. Good luck with the new home.