Del Toro: Italian Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design
Origins
Founded in 2005 by Matthew Chevallard and his friends from a New England prep school, Del Toro began as a bespoke slipper company aimed at commemorating their school experiences. The brand quickly evolved, blending Italian sophistication with American prep style, and relocated to Miami, Florida, where it gained prominence for its unique footwear designs.
Ownership
Del Toro is a privately held company. In 2020, Andrew Roberts, a former admirer and customer of the brand, acquired Del Toro and assumed the role of CEO. Under his leadership, the brand has focused on revitalizing its core values of quality craftsmanship and innovative design.
Aesthetic
Del Toro is renowned for its fusion of classic Italian craftsmanship with modern, playful designs. The brand’s footwear often features bold colors, luxurious materials, and distinctive details like the signature red grosgrain heel stripe. This combination of tradition and contemporary flair appeals to a diverse clientele seeking both elegance and individuality.
Signature Pieces
- Velvet Slippers – The iconic product that launched the brand, these slippers are handcrafted in Italy, featuring premium velvet and the hallmark red heel stripe.
- Milano Loafers – A modern take on the classic loafer, combining sleek silhouettes with unique materials and colors.
- Chukka Sneakers – Blending the casual appeal of sneakers with the sophistication of chukka boots, these shoes offer versatility and style.
- Alto Boots – High-top boots that incorporate Italian design elements with contemporary sneaker influences, including cashmere lining for added luxury.
- Espadrilles – Italian-made espadrilles that elevate the traditional design with superior craftsmanship and materials.
Collaborations
Del Toro has engaged in several notable collaborations that reflect its innovative spirit:
- Chandler Parsons – Partnered with the NBA player to create a limited-edition Molto Alto boot, merging athletic aesthetics with luxury design.
- Superga – Collaborated with the Italian sneaker brand to design unique products that blend Del Toro’s signature style with Superga’s timeless designs.
- Vogue – Released satin slippers featuring artwork adapted from a 1918 Vogue cover, combining historical elegance with modern craftsmanship.
- Benihana – Created a collection of velvet slippers and accessories inspired by the iconic Japanese restaurant’s heritage.
- Greyson – Reimagined the classic Del Toro slipper with signature shades and motifs from the contemporary golf brand.
- Metalwood – Designed a four-piece capsule collection in collaboration with Metalwood’s founder, Cole Young, blending golf culture with luxury footwear.
Retail Presence
Del Toro has expanded its physical footprint to showcase its products:
- Miami Flagship Store – Opened in the Wynwood Building, this boutique features a gallery-like ambiance, displaying both footwear and artworks from local artists.
- New York City Store – Established in SoHo, this store offers a bespoke shoe bar where customers can personalize their footwear, reflecting the brand’s commitment to individuality.
The Future
Under Andrew Roberts’ leadership, Del Toro aims to continue blending traditional Italian craftsmanship with contemporary design elements. The brand plans to expand its product lines, explore new collaborations, and maintain its dedication to quality and innovation, ensuring its place in the luxury footwear market.
