The History and Legacy of the Iconic Rubirosa Shoes Brand

The History and Legacy of Rubirosa Shoes

Rubirosa shoes have become iconic in the world of men's footwear. Known for their handmade Italian craftsmanship and sleek silhouettes, Rubirosa offers a timeless style that continues to turn heads decades after the company's founding. But where did Rubirosa originate? And how did it become one of the most coveted designer shoe brands for men?

The Origins of Rubirosa

Rubirosa was founded in New York City in the 1950s by two Italian shoemakers named Giovanni Rubirosa and Giacomo DiLorenzo. They opened up a small workshop and shoe store on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, bringing with them an Old World dedication to quality and workmanship.

The Rubirosa name comes from combining "Ruby" from Giovanni's nickname, and "Rosa" from Giacomo's mother's maiden name. Their goal was to provide finely crafted men's shoes made from Italian leathers and updated classic styles. In a time when most men's footwear was clunky and stiff, Rubirosa offered sleek, elegant silhouettes perfect for suiting.

The Rise of the Rubirosa Loafer

In the early 1960s, Rubirosa debuted what would become their most famous and sought-after style: the penny loafer. It featured a low profile, stitching detail, and signature metal horsebits across the tongue. The look was inspired by Ivy League fashion and borrowed classic moccasin construction.

Rubirosa's penny loafers were an instant hit, particularly among New York's stylish businessmen, writers, and creatives. Iconic figures like Truman Capote and Gianni Agnelli were early Rubirosa customers. The shoes project elegance and sophistication while retaining a casual, laidback feel - perfect for strolling around Manhattan.

Expanding the Brand

Over the next few decades, Rubirosa continued expanding their collections, offering oxfords, boots, drivers, and more - all made by hand in their Italian workshop. While staying true to their heritage, they also evolved with the times and introduced more contemporary shapes and styles.

In the 1990s, Rubirosa was acquired by luxury brand Salvatore Ferragamo. This provided greater resources while still allowing the Rubirosa team to focus on small-batch artisanal production. Under Ferragamo, the distribution expanded to high-end department stores and boutiques around the world.

Rubirosa Today

Even now, each pair of Rubirosa shoes takes over 8 weeks and up to 200 individual steps to create. The leathers are hand-selected from tanneries in Italy, the soles are sculpted from oak-tanned leather, and every stitch is made by an artisan.

While the retro penny loafers remain the core of the Rubirosa lineup, they also offer plenty of contemporary styles. There are suede drivers, monk strap oxfords, slip-on sneakers, and more. Yet through all the new models, the heritage and legacy of quality remains constant.

Why Rubirosa Shoes Remain Coveted

So what is it precisely that makes Rubirosa such an iconic men's shoe brand after all these years? Here are a few key reasons the name still carries prestige and cache:

• Timeless Italian craftsmanship - Each pair is made in Italy by artisans using techniques perfected over decades.
• Luxurious materials - From rich leathers to stacked heels, every material is carefully chosen.
• Effortless elegance - The shoes have an understated class perfect for work and play.
• Balances comfort and style - Despite the graceful silhouette, Rubirosa shoes remain comfortable for all-day wear.
• Loafer legacy - The penny loafer started it all and remains a staple of any great shoe collection.

Of course, while names like Gucci and Prada have grown into fashion powerhouses, Rubirosa retains a more modest, restrained identity focused solely on footwear. This commitment to quality over quick seasonal trends gives them an authenticity that never fades.

The Next Generation of Rubirosa Wearers

Rubirosa is not resting on their laurels, however. They continue to evolve for a new generation of customers. Their shoes are now available online, expanding access beyond exclusive retailers. While classics remain in constant production, new styles and collaborations help keep the brand fresh and relevant.

The company hopes their dedication to a slower, considered process will resonate with today's consumers looking for investment pieces built to last year after year. Ultimately, Rubirosa's rich heritage continues to influence and inspire artisanal brands today. Their story is one of passion and craft sustaining itself overtime, never compromised by changing tastes. For many elegantly shod men, Rubirosa remains the pinnacle of luxury footwear.

FAQs

Where are Rubirosa shoes made?

All Rubirosa shoes are handmade in Italy using artisanal construction techniques that have been passed down for generations.

What is the most popular Rubirosa shoe style?

Without a doubt, the iconic Rubirosa penny loafer is the brand's most famous and sought-after style. Its timeless silhouette has remained a staple in men's fashion for decades.

How long does it take to make each pair of Rubirosa shoes?

Owing to the intricate handcrafted construction, each pair of Rubirosa shoes takes over 8 weeks and up to 200 steps to complete from start to finish.

Where can I buy Rubirosa shoes?

Rubirosa shoes are stocked at high-end department stores, boutiques, and are also available for purchase directly through their website Rubirosa.com.

How much do Rubirosa shoes cost?

Given the luxury status of the brand and Italian artisanal production, most Rubirosa shoes range in price from $350 to $650 per pair.