Tailored suits, spread collars and seven fold ties are all very well, even fantastic, but it is when it comes to shoes you separate the wheat from the chaff. A nice pair of quality shoes will lift an outfit more than any other single investment in your wardrobe and when taken well care of, they will last you a lifetime.

It is hardly a secret that we at the DG6 Group have a thing for small manufacturers that often do not have more than a single, small workshop. We simply find the passion and energy that craftsmen put into their work so inspiring, and we like to share it with you.

One of our favourite artisans is Riccardo Bestetti, a bespoke shoemaker based out of Vigevano in the north of Italy. Riccardo is by many considered to be one of the top shoemakers in Italy, and perhaps even one of the best in the world. The name of Riccardo’s small business is Freccia Bestetti, Freccia is Italian for arrow and you can clearly see the name reflected in much of Riccardo’s creations. His shoes are often characterised by an aggressive shape, often compared to that of many Italian sports cars. In addition to sleek italian lasts, Bestetti is a true artist when it comes to colouring and creating a patina. Just have a close look at his shoes and you will understand exactly what we mean.

Last year Freccia Bestetti launched a RTW collection, bringing the opportunity to own a pair of Bestettis to us who simply cannot pay the price of bespoke. The RTW shoes start at 600€ and prices go up to 1500€ for a pair from the top Novecento line, which is made to the same standard as bespoke. Riccardo makes all RTW shoes when an order is placed, this enables you to easily make changes to the design for an additional cost. The models presented here are just a selection of all the models Riccardo offers, and bear in mind that all leathers are available for each model as well.

We placed an order with Riccardo very recently, and are eagerly awaiting the result. Riccardo was most helpful during the entire ordering process, and will make every effort to meet your needs an wishes. On top of being very professional, Riccardo is a wonderfully polite and humble man, which adds to the overall great impression we have of Riccardo and his products. Be sure to stay tuned for an in depth review of our very first pair of Bestettis and an interview with the maestro behind it all.

If you too want to have a pair of some of the most beautiful shoes ever created, contact Riccardo at frecciabestetti@frecciabestetti.com. You won’t regret it.

Be sure to have a look at Freccia Bestetti’s webpage and the tumblr as well for some more Bestetti goodness.

The DG6 Group