Kelpis
WHEN IT COMES TO WARDROBE maintenance, shoe repairs are the equivalent of open-heart surgery. Just as I wouldn’t entrust my heart to an amateur scalpel, so I won’t take my prized footwear to anyone other than Andrew Stylianou at Kelpis. A shoemaker by training, Andrew turned to repairs when the market for bespoke contracted. Based on the Fulham Road at Parsons Green since the late Eighties, he has no online presence. To obtain his expert advice, one has to be face-to-face. An endorsement by no less an authority than Manolo Blahnik, as well as features in Tatler and Vogue, have seen him build a fastidious clientele who send him their shoes from across London and southern England. Following close appraisal, all repairs are made on the premises. In addition to new soles, new heels and protection treatments – Andrew has particular expertise in the field of Gucci loafers – Kelpis functions as a rehabilitation centre for all manner of suede and leather goods, from belts to gun cases. A range of recommended creams, polishes and brushes are available for purchase.
If there’s a service provider it’s worth going out of one’s way for, Kelpis is it. Helpfully, Andrew opens his door by 7:30 AM during the week so that you can drop off or collect before your first morning meeting.
See also: Copperfield, Jeeves Of Belgravia
