Crafted With Passion: Vintage Artisan
In the current menswear zeitgeist, words like “craftsmanship,” “authenticity” and “artisanal” get thrown around quite a bit. It’s actually gotten to the point where you can’t be sure about who’s really adhering to these principles and who’s just riding the bandwagon. With the San Francisco-based footwear brand, Vintage Artisan, everything is based first and foremost on the impeccable quality of the product. Their woven leather shoes are made in small batches by master weavers and cobblers in Mexico; it’s a process that takes time but the end product is a true testament of the passion poured into each finished pair. Carlos Juarez is the motive force behind Vintage Artisan. See our interview with him below:
Can you tell us briefly about the origins of the Vintage Artisan brand?
Vintage Artisan is a menswear shoe line that stands for true craftsmanship and high quality without the necessity to explicitly state it. Not everyone understands the concept of true quality, but they do understand the feeling of a great product once it’s worn. Our esthetic is built around versatility, allowing our shoes to be worn almost at any time and with any article of clothing. We want people to experience quality and enjoy the luxury of wearing a product that was genuinely made to endure whatever life throws your way.
Why did you decide to focus on the Huarache as the inspiration for your signature shoe?
I found that the traditional Huarache is losing the importance of artisanal value. On the market these days, you see Huaraches that are aesthetically beautiful but lack true craftsmanship. The Huarache has such a rich history and I wanted to modernize the style so its cultural significance remained relevant to fashion today. I figured if I set the standard of the brand at a high level, it will reflect everything representing Vintage Artisan; True craftsmanship and fine intricacy.
Where are they made and how do you oversee the quality and craftsmanship of your shoes?
The Huaraches are made in Mexico by master Huarache makers who specialize in traditional weaving techniques. Our makers are known to be the best “Huaracheros” in the city that they reside in and are the only artisans that can truly produce the shoe without compromising the integrity of quality. They take great pride in their work and hold the artisanal value very high, so they’re constantly looking for ways to improve the weaving and techniques. We are very fortunate to have them as our makers.
You also have some interesting colors mixed into your shoe offerings. Do you find that your customers respond well to these bold hues?
I try to mix it up and introduce new ways to modernize our selections. A suede Huarache, double-stacked sole or bold hue is far from traditional and has never been done. Vintage Artisan is about modernizing this cultural icon and people love the new bold aesthetic that we have introduced.
Do you ever see yourself branching out from footwear into other lanes of menswear?
Absolutely! But at this moment we’re mainly focusing on expanding our shoe range by introducing a sneaker line. Perhaps after that we will introduce some staple apparel items.
Let’s talk about your own personal dress code. What are some items of clothing/accessories we’ll always find in your closet?
A navy blazer, light-washed denim jacket, and a leather biker jacket are 3 staples I can’t live without. I cannot leave the house without my gold Casio watch along with a few rings and a pair of brown double monk straps. A bunch of Vintage Artisan shoes too, but that’s a given!
How do you feel San Francisco menswear style differs from NYC style?
San Francisco style is more laid back. We don’t do much layering (lack of real seasons), which makes me extremely jealous of NYC style. SF guys are usually into only one single element of their wardrobe and don’t focus on putting an entire outfit together. Whereas I feel that in NYC they have their look dialed from head to toe.
So we heard that you’re one of our loyal fans. What are some of your favorite pieces from the current Onassis F/W 15 Collection?
Yes, since the very beginning of the store opening here in SF. I honestly love it all! The cuts are great, colors are neutral, and there’s texture and great detailing. The 3-button wool blazer with leather lining, coated shirt jacket and 3D pants are my top picks. You guys are killing it!
Lastly, what are some new projects/products coming from Vintage Artisan that you can share with us?
This Fall, we are launching a larger selection of Derby’s in different colors. We’re also launching a desert boot with intricate weaving, that’s never been done before. We’re super excited to see the response! Make sure you take a peek!
For more about the brand, visit www.vintageartisan.com
Shop Carlos Juarez’s Onassis look below:
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