Really well-made closing, which is the assembly of the upper part of the shoe, is a delight to behold. The shoe above from British bespoke shoemaker Nicholas Templeman is one such example, where an elegant hand-braided stitch makes an otherwise ordinary apron derby stand out tremendously.

 

The closing itself is made by William Powell, a freelance closer working for various British bespoke companies, including Templeman. Three threads have been very carefully braided on both sides of the apron section, which suits perfectly with what looks to be a vegetable tanned calfskin.