Introducing Penelope Chilvers - Leather Boots and Shoes

A natural artist

Born in England, Penelope Chilvers trained as a painter at the Byam Shaw School of Art in London from there she was granted a scholarship by the Spanish Ministry of Culture, to complete an MA at Complutense University in Madrid, one of the world's oldest most successful academic institutions.  Her degree allowed her to continue her life long love of Spain, and her vocation as an artist to 'see' into the mystique of Spanish culture and traditions.  As a child, she loved to wear the rustic, handmade alpargatas  beloved of local people. 

From Painter to Leather Designer

She has been trying to make the perfect raw edged, bullhide moccasin that only exists in her childhood memories ever since! The journey has been long but extremely satisfying.

In Barcelona, she collaborated with artisans and artists in many different projects including  the restoration of the Picasso Museum. Her worked enjoyed continuous challenge and evolutions leading her to design in textiles, and from there she entered the world of traditional footwear including riding boots for which she has now built an enviable reputation in her own right.

Penelope Chilvers is recognised for superb quality, comfort and effortless style. Her styles have become “wardrobe staples” or “old friends”; the dog walking boot, the easy espadrille, the quintessential Chelsea boot, and the warmest après ski boot.

She and her team design footwear and accessories to fall in love – and stay in love - with. Combining contemporary, fashion led design with enduring style and traditional craftsmanship. And yet in the midst of her achievements, sustainable concepts have grown in ways that ensure her 'old friends' have a renewed life with the Goodyear Welt* - a long established traditional skill in footwear construction. 

Having spent many years living on the Iberian Peninsular we at Naturally Sustainable have long admired the skills of artisans through out Spain and Portugal.  We have purchased leather goods that last a lifetime - we know, we understand, the tenacity that is part of craftsmanship in leather and recommend Penelope Chilvers boot and shoe collections, as true to tradition and skills.

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