FRANCIS WAPLINGER
Brooklyn, NY
franciswaplinger.com
IG: franciswaplinger_shoemaker
Francis Waplinger strives to preserve the craft and tradition of artisan shoemaking while providing each client with personalized service and footwear that speaks to the client’s individual taste and style. A broad selection of leathers, construction methods, and design details allow each client a wide range of style options to create a one-of-a-kind article of footwear. Each pair of shoes is constructed according to the client’s specifications using traditional, Old World techniques. An authentic pair of custom shoes elevate the style and character of the person wearing a unique piece of craftsmanship. Each pair of shoes is meticulously handcrafted by Francis Waplinger in his studio using the finest European and American leathers.
Francis Waplinger is harnessing the industrious American spirit to produce bespoke footwear in New York City.
The selection of bespoke models from Francis Waplinger revives the elegance and luxury of refined American footwear during its heyday. The New American Classic ethos aims to take a fresh and modern approach to heritage designs and models that once were celebrated as distinctive statements of style and craftsmanship around the world. The uncompromising process is a labor of love, with over 100 hours taken to complete each pair of shoes from start to finish. In the age of fast fashion and cheap materials, the New American Classic breathes life back into the soul of what it means to be American-made – refined craftsmanship, style, and durability. Through his work, Mr. Waplinger aspires to ignite passion and dynamism for footwear aficionados around the world.
Grant
Museum calf, saddle shoe
2019
Images of the artist by Brittany Brett
The footwear in the exhibition is all bespoke – and therefore custom-made for the customer. If available, we have provided contact information for you to learn more about how this process works with each of the artists.