1901 ‘Lynden’ Double Monk Strap – $99.95
Maybe it’s because these are really a spring/summer shoe, and we’re still stuck in the dreariness of post-holidays winter. Maybe it’s because even the most ardent members of team Monk Strap would recognize that Double Monks have saturated the market. Whatever the cause, these double monks from Nordstrom’s usually fantastic house brand 1901… they’re just ho-hum.
The usual Nordstrom bang-for-the-buckitude is still there. Construction for a $100 shoe feels good and solid. The suede upper, while not luxuriously thick, has some good depth to the nap. Stitching is even, the cap toe is well placed, and if these were a plain derby lace-up, they’d be a budget version of J. Crew’s Goodyear Welted Kenton Bucks.
But they’re not a lace-up, and at a glance, the double monk just sorta works here.
The buckles are a bushed, matte silver, and look like they came off something more dressy (like a black pair of Neumoras). But the overall style is pretty casual. With a fuller toe, and a summery, rubber kickball-like red sole, these are starting to head down the path of the Cole Haan Lunargrand. A more dressed-up style adapted onto a much more casual, almost athletic-like platform. Those who like to take more risks could probably wear these things with shorts come summertime.
Interior is leather lined and well cushioned, and the elastic straps holding the buckles in place feel well anchored. Tongue says these are made in Brazil. Fit feels true to size.
Ships & returns free, and in four or five months they might pair real well with an inexpensive seersucker suit. But for now, in the cold, most feelings on these will top out at lukewarm.
Note: These are the more reddish leaning “Rust.” Another shade, “Sand” was released after these were ordered, and very well could look better in person. Thoughts from you guys? Anyone else order these? Leave it in the comments.
FINALLY, a double monk on this site.
I swear, this is the last time.
Hahahaha!
When I saw them in person I had the same response Joe did. It’s kinda like Anna Paquin – in theory, gorgeous! Accessible! Stylish! But in reality, just a skosh off of all of those things.
I just snagged a black pair of Neumoras off the bay for 100 even. These ain’t tempting.
I definitely plan on getting these. I’m in love with Dub Monks and wish I owned more of them. Definitely going to be getting these within the upcoming weeks especially since winter in California is a high 60 right now. These pair with a nicely faded pair of jeans could be a killer look. I’m also really partial to the 1901 house brand.
I had the exact same thoughts when I saw them in person. The longwings work a lot better than dub monks in this style.
You read my mind. I just Googled “1901 double monk review” earlier this morning and came up with nothing.
I actually like the way these look (aside from the kickball-red sole). My main issue is trying to find a belt that works with these. :/
Really interested to see the sand in person now. I don’t know if it was there before but they are also available in gray. Unfortunate that they’re equipped with a blue sole though… Looks like the blue would be even more vibrant in person too.
Joe, how did you do bang-for-the-buckitude when ‘bang-for-the-buckle’ was right in front of you with double monks! I’m disappointed in you.
Damn. Nice call. Long week. You’re right.
(goes and sits in corner)
Wait. It’s Tuesday. Sonofa.
I’d give decent monkstraps a shot for <$100, but the double monk/suede buck hybrid isn't doing a lot for me.
i bought them. They came. I love them. Nuff said.
I have the Zara suede double Monks referenced below and have seen the 1901’s in person. The color, sole and build on the 1901’s is better. I think it is a very good deal for that price. Very casual though, cotton summer suit is about as dressy as you could go with it.
Saw these in person last night and they look pretty good for the price.
Probably the backgrounds.
You’ll want the sand.
Joe,
I haven’t ordered a pair, but, I just might have to since I go DubMonk all day. I’ll let you know what I think!
Best,
Sabir
Joe,
So I recently picked up a pair and despite people’s lack luster experience with them I love the fit. the silhouette is sleeker than I thought. Here’s a picture
Is taht Rust or sand?
Rust
I purchased the Emerson (20% off) from YOOX instead of this one. The description said it runs small so I ordered half size up to 11. It came out one size too large. I’ll try the Lynden now. How is the sizing?
1901 vs Emerson (Yoox)
1902 vs Emerson (yoox)