First off, let me say these shoes are absolutely gorgeous. The brogue detailing is chic, and the leather looks premium. I ordered a half size up based on reviews, and the fit was perfect—snug but not tight, with great arch support.

But here’s the deal-breaker: the smell. As soon as I opened the box, a strong petroleum-like odor hit me. It wasn’t just a faint new-shoe smell; it was overwhelming, like I’d accidentally walked into a gas station. I tried airing them out for days, but the stench lingered.

It’s a shame because the craftsmanship is there—the padded collar is comfy, and the 3cm heel is ideal for all-day wear. If not for the smell, these would’ve been my go-to work shoes. Sadly, I had to return them. Maybe it was a one-off batch issue, but buyer beware!