In Milan’s historic Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato – built in 1859 as the Teatro Fossati and given new life with a rebuild in 1984 – the intimate cylindrical stage is the perfect place to introduce Church’s SS26 collection on the occasion of Milan Men’s Fashion Week. The iconic Shanghai shoe takes centre stage. First released in 1929 with unique broguing, fringing, and mix of materials, it has been reimagined for a contemporary audience, with elegant seasonal creations forming the nexus of a collection alongside new British Spring and Crown styles.
Act I: Shanghai – The Icon Returns
The story begins with the Shanghai, a timeless Church’s star reborn. The ‘Iconic’ original – a symbol of Church’s legacy that dates back to 1929 – still commands the stage to this day, but alongside comes the Summer version, a lightweight reinterpretation refined for warm days thanks to the Goodyear soft construction and a lightly padded leather sole, finished with the Shanghai’s distinctive profile.
The new Shanghai Laser reinterprets the Iconic style with a sleek wholecut design, crafted from a single piece of premium leather using precision laser technology. It contrasts the original’s intricate blend of materials, while its flexible Blake soft construction ensures effortless comfort for summer wear.
Finally, the Shanghai Essence steps forward, a new collection that is born from the renowned Shanghai Soft construction. Consisting of seasonal loafers, lace-ups, and ankle boots, these styles offer unparalleled comfort due to their lightweight feel, and a very British nonchalance thanks to the deconstructed appearance.
Act II: British Spring – Effortless Elegance
Transitioning to the ‘British Spring’ collection, we meet footwear that encapsulates the vitality of an English summer, from soft suede moc toes to casual Derby styles. Crafted entirely in the UK with advanced Goodyear 2.0 construction, this collection offers unparalleled comfort and refined style, accompanying the wearer seamlessly from dawn to dusk.
Act III: Crown – Regal Refinement
As the final act unfolds, Church’s Crown collection embodies timeless British craftsmanship. New deep blue, green, and burgundy hues enhance this distinguished range, each pair handcrafted from natural white “crust” leather for exceptional quality and personalised elegance. Rooted in Church’s heritage, these shoes reflect enduring sophistication in every step.
Curtain Call: An Ode to Expression
Unveiled at the Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato, Church’s SS26 collection redefines footwear as a reflection of personal style. Together, the Shanghai, British Spring, and Crown collections weave a narrative of elegance, drawing upon heritage to create a product as modern as it is masterful.