A Talk with Pierre Corthay, Shoemaker Extraordinaire

Sartorial Talks : The Podcast

In this exceptional episode of Sartorial Talks, Hugo welcomes Pierre Corthay, one of the most acclaimed shoemakers in the world and a man who has been awarded the title of "Master of Arts" by the French government (the highest distinction granted to an artisan in France similar to the "living treasures" in Japan).
During this rare and in-depth discussion, you will discover the incredible path of a young man, who started in 1984 as an apprentice in the French League of Craftsmen "Les Compagnons du Devoir", who then won his stripes at John Lobb Paris and Berluti before spreading his own wings by buying an obscure small bespoke shoemaking workshop in Paris near Place Vendôme at the beginning of the 1990's.
Pierre’s solo beginnings are far from uncomplicated, especially in the early years. But things change in 1992, when world famous fashion columnist Suzy Menkes steps through the door of Pierre’s tiny workshop and becomes enamored with Corthay's shoes. A few days later she publishes in the Herald Tribune, an article about a young, obscure Parisian shoemaker unknown to the general public. Moments later, the telephone of the Rue Volney workshop starts to ring, and not long after, the Sultan of Brunei places an order for 140 pairs of bespoke shoes! At the same time, the iconic Parisian House of Lanvin signs Corthay for all its bespoke orders, turning his story into fairytale material.
This is the true story of an artisan who has inspired a whole generation of young shoemakers and who has been a driving force behind the renewed interest of many gentlemen for quality shoes and for traditional craftsmanship.

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