The Man Behind The Brand
	Oliver Sweeney came from uncompromising beginnings and from a young age yearned for something great. He ran away to London at the age of 15 where he stumbled across a bespoke shoe makers, introducing himself to the managing director who gave him a job on the spot. In 1989 Oliver launched his own business based on the ‘Anatomical Last™’. A unique design, created after years of intensive research. It is sculpted to give support to the arch, the instep points to the big toe, like the real foot. A gentle twist through its length simulates the natural shape of the foot, and helps reduce rolling to the outside of the foot. Shortly afterwards in 1990 Harrods offered him a concession; Oliver worked on the shop floor. Three years later Oliver left Harrods to open a concession within Harvey Nichols. In 2000 Oliver opened his first standalone store and his retail portfolio grew from there. In 2003 Oliver launched the iconic and radical Chelsea shoe that really established his position in the footwear market. At this time Oliver caught the eye of Dylan Jones and the two created ground breaking stingray shoe named ‘The GQ Shoe’ and sold a limited range of 100 pairs. 2005 saw many popular shoes like Venice and Ravioli which are still available today. Over the years Oliver has used a range of interesting skins and colours to establish a quirky take on formal shoes. Limited edition products have also been a popular feature, more information on these are below in the specials section. In SS09 the brand took a new direction, with a new design team overseen by Oliver and introduced updated shapes, brand new styles, a Good Year welted range and the much anticipated London Collection, bringing the brand forward for 2010 and beyond. Over the years Oliver Sweeney has sponsored the England Cricket team, England Rugby team and Honda Formula One. The Story The Man Behind The Brand Oliver Sweeney Specials Shoe Construction Movie Shoe Glossary