Bodileys: shoes made in England

I spoke recently to Sarah Dudley who runs Bodileys, a shoe retailers established in 1919. Sarah is the fourth generation of the family business which originated as the leading retail shop in Northampton supplying shoes from local manufacturers such as Crockett and Jones. 

BODILEYS PORTMAN CHESTNUT ANTIQUE CALF

The business has over the years evolved into a leading export and online sales company continuing to supply Crockett and Jones, Alfred Sargent and Cheaney shoes along with their own Bodileys Brand called the ‘The London Collection and Country Edition’, examples of which are pictured here.

EATON PLAIN CAP OXFORD AVAILABLE WITH LEATHER AND DAINITE SOLES

Sarah’s great grandparents and grandparents on both sides were shoe manufacturers. Northampton produced over 23 million pairs of service boots for both the British and other armies for the First World War. George Webb and Sons was set up by Sarah’s great grandfather, grandfather and great uncle in 1927 and during the Second World War made over 1.2 million services footwear. 

 It is safe to say that the British shoe industry is close to Sarah’s heart and one that she not only has a passion for but a desire to help protect and promote.

BODILEYS WILTON DARK BROWN CALF WITH SUEDE

To create the perfect collection of shoes, Sarah enrolled the services of John Garner, formerly of Edward Green, a highly respected figure in the industry. His extensive knowledge in the design and construction of shoes was invaluable, coupled with emphasis on sourcing the very best calf. The last shapes were chosen with careful consideration and extensive research to give utmost comfort, they come up true to the UK sizing system meaning that each customer would require their same UK size for all their styles.

The London Collection is now entering its 2nd year consisting of classic styles, superb quality at affordable prices. For more information and to buy, see Bodileys.

BROMPTON TASSEL LOAFER DARK BROWN SUEDE AND CHESTNUT ANTIQUE CALF

This post is unsponsored. Grey Fox Blog supports small businesses manufacturing here in the UK.