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Winkle Pickers were originally worn in the late 1950s by the new breed of
British youngsters called rock fans. This group of young people were
followers of the new rock music and developed a look of their own that
included the new
pointed shoes.
Winkle pickers were popular in the early 60’s with modernists, (forerunners
of the Mods). The true mod was a sharp dresser, but their era was 1963 to
64, either side of this was fashion developing. London’s West End was where
you bought
your gear off the peg from the likes of Lord John, John Steven etc. Outside
of London the guys would go to Burtons, John Collier Hepworths etc. to have
their suits made to measure.
From late 1963 winkle pickers had the toes chopped and became chisel toes.
The Mods were by now wearing penny loafers and moccasin styles.
Alas winkle pickers were out...
Winkle pickers again made, yet another comeback in the late 70’s and 80’s
with the punks, Rockabillies and latterly with the Goths. These shoes simply
will not rollover and die!
Today, Winklepickers are once again popular with certain segments of the
populace. This includes some well known members of bands and celebrities, as
well as the vogue Goths and Punks.
The style has never disappeared completely though, as revivalists have
always worn them. However it is very difficult to get true Winklepickers
and any secondhand versions are like gold dust. Some very dubious versions
of this cult
footwear are on offer but in general are absolute crap.Some high street chains are now turning out narrow toe shoes, but they are
certainly not winkle pickers! However the modern male seems to be looking
fondly at the winkle picker look !
Fortunately or unfortunately depending on your outlook on life I have now
reproduced what I term the real winkle picker. I was 13 years old when they
first entered my life (three years before hearing about this new group
called the
Beatles) the year was 1960.
I have been in the forefront of fashion all my life. (What a sad bastard I
am) I have now gone back to my grass roots and reproduced winkle pickers as
they should be ! This is where I came in!!!!! I must confess however I have
changed
one thing and that is, these winkle pickers will not give you the same ugly
mother f…… toes as I have.
My winkle pickers are made in the home of footwear, Italy and anyone wearing
them will be amazed at the comfort...I really cannot be responsible for
crippling another generation! Robert Burnside. Contact:
Rebecca Burnside
Email: winkle.pickers@19-60.com
Telephone:+44 1993 822878 |
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