Berluti has a knack for updating and refining its existing designs. The Maison released a reworked version of the angular Stellar sneakers last year, and this year, the Shadow sneakers have been given a facelift. Shoemaking is, after all, Berluti’s expertise, and it’s only natural for the Maison to continuously evolve its creations, updating them with newer innovations and altering their looks for contemporary pleasure. The classic Berluti Alessandro lace-ups and Andy loafers have evolved over the decades, and the attention is now on its sneaker offerings.
The Shadow was first released in 2019 and remains the only knit-upper sneaker in Berluti’s line-up. Its design is meant to combine the comfort of a slipper with the spirit of an urban sneaker. Sure, the Shadow comes with laces, but the stretchy knit upper allows it to be slipped on and off easily, like you would any Berluti loafer. One could say that the Shadow is sneaker in looks, but loafer in function and versatility.
The key traits of the original Shadow are honoured in the new version. The intricate detailing of the mesh knit upper—a result of over 375,000 stitches—retains the distinct trompe-lœil shadow-like embroidery that resembles panelling typical of a traditional sneaker. The mesh ensures a fluid and airy fit, so much so that you could easily forgo wearing socks because they’re that comfortable. The signature patinated leather finishes at the tongue and heel counter, too, remain constant fixtures of the Maison’s refined aesthetic.
What has been updated is subtle. Branding on the Shadow now reflects the Maison’s return to its original serif font logo in sentence case. The lacing too references Berluti’s heritage—a three-eyelet lacing borrowed from the classic Alessandro shoe. The main update is felt more than seen. The new Shadow features a completely reengineered midsole. Crafted from EVA, the midsole is now even lighter than the original while boosting comfort as well as overall flexibility and cushioning capabilities of the sneaker. The outsole is enhanced with a better grip for excellent traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
By now, you would realise that the Shadow isn’t like any other sneaker. It straddles the line between a comfort-first sneaker and a shoe that’s versatile enough to wear on most occasions. Where you might think a sneaker wouldn’t necessarily fit an outfit, the Shadow would most likely prove you wrong. It breaks sartorial rules while respecting them all the same—it is a Berluti creation, after all.
Life can be a bit more fun when you are all dressed up. But like the Shadow sneaker, it’s more interesting to play in the middle—a curious combination of the seemingly formal with casual separates that just works as a whole. Opt for formal-leaning outers like this Forestière shirt in linen worn over a T-shirt and a pair of chinos. Finish the look with a pair of Shadow sneakers in a neutral hue, and you’re all set for anything from a weekend outing to a casual business lunch.
A foolproof way of integrating the new Shadow sneaker into your wardrobe is to treat it like a pair of regular sneakers. Whatever casual fit you naturally pair sneakers with, you’d be able to do the same with the Shadow. The new version is also rendered in a range of colourways as well as materials—nylon, linen and cashmere—giving you options all year round. To keep things refined à la Berluti, the navy Shadow pairs well with blue denim jeans. Pop over a leather outerwear like the Maison’s Un Jour biker jacket, and you have yourself an effortless go-to look.
Rules surrounding suiting are constantly being rewritten, with everything from the cut and fit to what shoes to wear with them evolving with the times. The Shadow sneaker amps up a suit with an unexpected twist, yet at the same time, its design doesn’t lean too much into casual territory such that the juxtaposition is awkwardly jarring. The trick is to ensure that the outfit isn’t too staid and traditional. Stick to that trusted leather briefcase and your favourite double-breasted suit, but keep things interesting with a tie tucked into your trousers. Know the rules, break them, and simply step into the Shadow.
The new Berluti Shadow sneakers are available in boutiques and online.
Photography: Sherman See-Tho
Styling: Asri Jasman
Grooming: Sha Shamsi using DIOR BEAUTY and SEBASTIAN PROFESSIONAL
Photography Assistant: Goh Chiang Yang
Model: Ryan L at MANNEQUIN
