Handmade Suede Loafers Inspired by Nature
Men’s Style
Handmade Suede Loafers Inspired by Nature
J.L. Rocha Collections
We reflect on our traditions in our culture consistently to bring about new ideas And inspiration for you. Our suede loafers are no exception. We find that in designs using suede, nature is a huge source of inspiration - drawing from natural flavors and palates from Mexico. The hues and shades of suede remind us of the dynamic styling and forms that nature and all its components may take. We want to share with you some of our favorite designs and their inspirations - and in doing so also share some of our culture. Let’s begin:
Handmade Loafers
Ethically Sourced, Artisan Made.
The Handmade Tasseled Loafer
Inspired by crisp leaves, warmth, and spice.
Among our natural color palate our most interesting color is the cinnamon suede. Our handmade tassel loafer is a true testament to the organic nature of our products and international collaboration. The tassel loafer design is inspired the traditional tassel loafer invented by “the Hungarian actor Paul Lukas…” who “ in 1948 went to the New York firm Farkas & Kovacs” to create a new design inspired by British Oxfords with tasseled laces. - Source
Interestingly enough - cinnamon (the color palate prominent in our design), is also an international collaboration:
“Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), although it is currently cultivated in several tropical countries. Cinnamomum verum was described by the Czech chemist, botanist, zoologist, geologist, mineralogist, and paleontologist Jan Svatopluk Presl in 1825.”
- Source
The Latin name of Cinnamomum Verum translates to “Sweet Wood” o Madera Dulce. It has a wide range of uses from natural remedies for stomach pain, insomnia, and nausea but also can be used as a natural preservative, antibacterial or anti inflammatory ingredient. Ancient Egyptians haled cinnamon as a precious spice - and it is still revered by cultivators as it must be patiently tended to for 8-15 years before it can be harvested.
This rich history coupled together with our suede tanning creates a distinct union that makes this design one of our favorites. The rich tone of suede comes from natural vegetable tanning coupled with organic dyes and oils. Our dyes unique composition and organic ingredients allow us to reach unique tones for each loafer ranging from a brighter and more prominent orange/brick hue - to a darker and more complex sienna/redwood color. A homage to the various forms and shade that cinnamon can take. There are of course, inspirations drawn from other areas of nature as well.
8500 Suede Loafer
The Smoke Gray Color Palate
When we first designed the 8500 loafer, we were inspired by royal pursuits. Our effort was to design a luxurious loafer that is elevated any outfit, any color, and still represented calculated leisure with an eye for detail. The handmade suede loafer boasts meticulously crafted patent brogues as well as a floral brogue medallion bridged by two handmade suede tassels. This loafer is designed for the jet setter who wants to find themselves walking on clouds. Yet beyond the luxury of our suede loafer - there’s a history of rich flavor.
“Cocinas de Humo” or Kitchens of Smoke are traditional kitchens found in Mexico’s central rural zones - made of tapia, Adobe, cedar and other naturally porous materials. These kitchens smoke various ingredients and focus on traditional cooking techniques and tools to provide unique and historic flavors. The call back to these traditional techniques and ideas reminds us of the strength of history - the unique flavor and style that a true steward of heritage would know. These loafers are truly deserving of an individuals attention, as they require all the diligence and care of a traditional and impactful history - inspired by the revolutionizing of modern skills by honoring the past. Finally - we find ourselves outside of historic and international collaboration, into a history of Native Origin.
Our History of Cacao
The gold of Pre-Spanish Mexico
9501 Penny Loafer
Rich and Soft Cocoa Suede
The history of Cacao is traced back to the Olmecs - cultivating and spreading the plant through the centuries and region from 600BC to 1400 BC. Mayan history tells us of a drink made for both Maya and Aztec Warriors, Nobles, and Rulers - called Techocolate. These civilizations regarded cacao as a symbol of abundance, and the Mayans even prayed to Chak Ek Chuah - the spiritual patron of Mayan Cocoa.
During colonization, both Columbus and Cortez learned of this miraculous drinks and returned to their cultures with this exciting and alluring ingredient. In some areas where cacao was new - governments even declared cocoa a drug and tonic. Cacao quickly spread across Europe, in 1697 the first chocolate factory opened in Paris where Charles Linne gave the Latin name “Theobroma” which means Food of the Gods.
Today, approximately 50 thousand tons of cocoa is produced each year in Mexico in Tabasco, Chiapas, and Guerrero in the lower areas of the Yucatán peninsula. This history and global influence that Mexico has had on the world inspired our 9501 Penny Lofer in Cocoa. We wanted to craft a deep tone of organic chocolate suede that carried the depths and richness of our history. Adding a touch of white stitches - detail this shoe and pay respects to Daniel Peter - who creates the first milk chocolate in 1879 in Switzerland.
Closing Notes:
We look for inspiration in all places - seeking to return to our history and honor the traditions that came before us. This post we discussed three of our favorite handmade suede loafers, and the inspirations that crafted their unique colors. Our artisans are constantly working to develop new creations and unique mixes by hand, that remind them of the amazing gifts and traditions that Mexico has maintained for hundreds of years. We’d love to hear which color is your favorite, or what you’d like to see - let us know by liking, commenting, and sharing on your favorite social media platforms.
Thank You / Gracias