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Barker Black

Barker Black Ltd. is a bespoke British premium men’s footwear brand, that has just extended its presence in the US by launching a second boutique in Los Angeles. The original US Barker Black boutique on Elizabeth Street in the heart of New York’s Nolita neighborhood.

Established in the UK in 1880 by Arthur Barker, the collection is inspired by the 17th Lancers, an ancient regiment of British guardsmen and their original logo, a skull and crossbones with a banner posting the implying motto “Death or Glory.” Discovered in an ancient silk weaver’s archive in Sudury, England and adopted by Barker Black Ltd. under designer and creative director, Derrick Miller, the motif captures the spirit and design philosophy of Barker Black: subversive sophistication.

Each shoe is made by hand by a team of specialized craftsmen and — on select styles — the skull and crossbone logo is also tacked into the sole by hand. The minor details on the shoes is what makes them special such as the crown cutout on a traditional penny loafer or the delicate broguing on the toe in the shape of a crowned skull and crossbones.

In addition to footwear, the brand produces distinctive ties, pocket squares and braces.

Jaime Derringer, Founder + Executive Editor of Design Milk, is a Jersey girl living in SoCal. She dreams about funky, artistic jewelry + having enough free time to enjoy some of her favorite things—running, reading, making music, and drawing.