Patently Cool

Alejandro Ingelmo creates the season's best sneaks

March 19, 2007—Alejandro Ingelmo has already built a cult following for his women's shoes—Madonna wore them on her last tour and in her H&M ads. Now he's going after the Guy Ritchies of the world with a new line of sneakers for men. Available in a variety of classic shapes, from high-tops to slip-ons, the kicks are all expertly rendered in unexpected (though subtle) color combinations and patent finishes. "They're for that guy who wants to wear something a little unique," Ingelmo says, "but who still pays attention to great craftsmanship and detail." Sure, everyone says that, but he really seems to mean it, hand-selecting all the leather from Italian tanneries, and cutting only from the middle of the skin, which shoe aficionados know is the softest part. What's more, while most sneakers have glued soles, Ingelmo's are stitched all the way around, with meticulously constructed piping to accent their distinctive lines. That's a lot of effort for a pair of shoes his customer may not even be able to wear to work, but Ingelmo comes by the craft naturally. His great-grandfather Calzados ran a much-revered handmade footwear line back in pre-Castro Cuba. Alejandro's just following in his, ahem, footsteps.

Alejandro Ingelmo sneakers, from $365, available soon at Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Ave., (212) 753-7300; Jeffrey New York, 449 W. 14th St., (212) 206-1272; and Neiman Marcus stores and www.neimanmarcus.com.