Jaguar and Oliver Sweeney launch co-developed 'XJ-inspired' driving shoe

Jaguar and Oliver Sweeney have announced the latest range of co-developed shoes from the ongoing collaboration between the British brands, named Whitley and Sayer. The two new styles of formal driving shoes celebrates the company's global headquarters in Whitley, Conventry; and of Malcolm Sayer, one of the company's most famous designers credited with the C-Yype, D-Type, E-Yype, XJ-S and the unique XJ13.

Designed and developed using similar processes to those adopted by Jaguar design, unique construction features of the shoes include a super flexible yet firm sole to maximise driving comfort whilst maintaining the flowing lines of the upper's style. A special heel profile chamfered to create a pivot point for better pedal control, and a waist-less finish ensure a fluid driving experience without the shoes catching on pedals.

The upper design echoes some of the design cues from the Jaguar XJ, with the curved sewn panel on the shoe taking a similar line to that of the distinctive D-pillar of the XJ, while the chisel toe profile recalls the signature squared-off Jaguar grille.

Jaguar's Advanced Design Director, Julian Thomson, said, "This is a great relationship as both Jaguar and Oliver Sweeney have much in common: British craftsmanship, artistry and a love of the creative process."

Oliver Sweeney Cobbler-in-Chief, Tim Cooper, said, "Collaborating with another great British brand has been really inspiring, and we've truly worked together on these shoes to create something that reflects what both of our brands represent: a luxurious, modern take on traditional craftsmanship. As a result, the shoes are not only beautiful objects, but ideal for driving in too."