Though some of the popular items are sold out in occasion due to supply chain concerns, the service here is always great!

After a call from ALDEN HQ relayed to me by Ms. ALDEN seeking some satifaction on a miss-size I thought to give my 2 cents. Here it could be worth $730 a pair so here it goes: How to insure a positive Alden DC experience and get some value. Call in ahead and ask when they will have an Al Bundy guest appearance. Full fare after all. 1. Learn about the Braddock device. 2. Get yourself measured: width, heel to toe and heel to ball of foot to insure PROPER ARCH FIT. 3. Try on a few different Lasts in Styles you like. These are very RETRO so you really may not be wearing these as much as you think you will day to day other than to a MAD MEN party. Retro= heavy and what Grandpa used to wear but I am sure Grandpa paid a lot less even adjusting to today in dollars. Will I repeat purchase Alden anymore??? Only on Sale..maybe..Sorry Ferragamo is calling have to go. read more

Alden Shoe - 8.5D Cordovan Oxford, 8D Cordovan Monk and 8D Barrie LWB Chromexcel, 7.5D PTB black cordovan missing because it doesn't fit right - Shoe Stores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The Alden DC location is one of the best consumer experiences I've had. The shop is bit musty, perhaps in an old world motif, however the service is exceptional. When a staff member is working with you, they are focused on you and on providing you with the right product. They are extremely, extremely knowledgeable. I was thoroughly entertained listening to another staff member talk to other customers on details of how shell cordovan is made and the differences in how it wears and feels. The staff member was literally like a polished educational YouTube video. I would suggest planning a bit more time than what you typically would--especially if it's busy. They are very thorough and don't rush or cut corners to make more sales--and that level of service obviously takes more time. read more

Excellent customer service, QUALITY investment-level footwear. I'm 15 pairs in and not looking back!! Kathy knows her stuff.

Good selection, models available in various sizes and widths, very polite and helpful staff. They also have a some (close out) styles on sale, for the more frugal customer... :D read more

After looking unsuccessfully for high quality dress shoes several times in Atlanta, I happened upon Alden Shoes while visiting DC earlier this week. As you might guess from the name, this store carries exclusively Alden brand shoes. They have a large selection with lots of sizes and styles in stock, including at least two dozen shell cordovan options. I was not familiar with the brand before, but I learned that Alden was founded in 1884 and is the last surviving original New England shoe and boot manufacturer. Their shoes are beautiful, classic cowhide and cordovan designs ranging in price from approximately $300 - $600 per pair. I spoke with the store manager, Kathleen Flynn. She was helpful, very knowledgeable, and patient. I ended up purchasing a pair of shell cordovan oxfords. Kathleen was kind enough to ship them to my office in Atlanta so I wouldn't have to carry them back on the plane ride home. The entire experience was very good. I plan to return to shop again during my next visit to DC. P.S. - Note the correct store location of 921 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004. Phone is 202-347-2308. I have submitted a correction to Yelp but it did not immediately take effect. read more

It's places like this that make me really appreciate brick & mortar, rather than internet shopping. The customer service at this store is exemplary. I had an issue with a pair of shoes, and they went the extra mile to make sure I walked away happy, and I did. They have won a customer for life. read more

Great quality shoes: made in USA. Great service: Kathy and her staff are professional, knowledgeable and give you the attention you require. I will go back again and again. A must for the serious shoe shopper in DC. read more

The employees of the Washington, D.C. Alden store are truly the reason why this is a five star review. The man who assisted me in picking out the shoes that I wanted (Joe, I believe) went above and beyond what I expected in order to find the perfect fitting shoes for me. He merely asked if I needed any help when I walked in. When I informed him that I was just looking, he promptly tended to the other customer in the store. After I picked out the pair of shoes that I wanted, he brought out three different sizes in order to account for the impact of my custom, rock hard orthotics. He then helped me put on each one, measured the tightness of the shoe, analyzed my steps, and looked for slippage while always holding my personal comfort in the highest regard. Another pleasurable aspect of this experience was getting educated on the various shaping discrepancies between the different models of shoes (or "lasts", as they're called). I tried both the Aberdeen last, as well as the Hampton last, and his description of the differences was spot on. He also gave me a little bit of the history of the shoes, which was a nice touch. I ultimately ended up deciding to buy the Shell Cordovan bluchers in Horween Color #8, which is one of the most beautiful shoes in its price range. Regrettably, I had to return the shoes for unforeseen circumstances unrelated to the quality of the shoes (which, for the record, was superb). The return process was very easy; I simply walked in, explained that I needed to return them, and that was all it took. They first examined the shoes to make sure that the shoes weren't worn on the street, and promptly gave me a full refund without asking any questions. Oh, I almost forgot to mention that the selection of shoes and boots is truly excellent, especially for such a small store. They carry the full line of normal Alden shoes, and they even have a few limited edition shoes that are very hard to find elsewhere. I will most certainly be going back there in the future. read more

I have visited this store once, but most of my interaction with this store has been via telephone. A male staff member once spent 20 minutes on the phone with me helping me evaluate the fit of a pair of Alden boots I had just received in the mail. I didn't even buy the boots from this store and I told the staff member this. He was still willing to talk through the fit of my boots and discuss how that might change after the break-in period. I was quite pleased with the service, especially since he would not personally benefit from helping me. A lesser man would have persuaded me into a different size and custom ordered it for me, and I'd still be waiting for those shoes today... read more

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I've always had difficulty getting loafers that fit and are comfortable -- and the company I bought shoes from for years stopped making the model that I liked. So I tried Alden. The sales person spent a lot of time with me and obviously knew his stuff. I bought a pair that look great and fit perfectly from the first wearing. I am planning my next Alden purchase -- this company has captured my business. read more

Different Alden shops place orders with Alden for different types of shoes and boots. I found a pair of boots that were ordered by Alden of Carmel, but they wanted me to try on the specific last that the boot would be made from, just to be sure of the size. I called up the DC alden store and was told they have this last in a different boot but that I was welcome to come in and try them on for sizing. I did so. They saleswoman there was gracious despite knowing I was trying on boots to purchase from somewhere else. She was also quite informative about the history of Alden and their shoes, so the visit was interesting as well as rewarding. After I was done trying boots on for size I took a good look at all the very beautiful shoes and boots and then walked out to spend an hour at the free National Portrait Gallery just down the street. I walked here but the Metro center and the Chinatown Metro are both close (Metro is closer). read more

After all the attention I received, I still ended up with shoes a half size too small. Sold them used online for about 2/3 of the original price, though, which isn't too bad. read more

If you got $400-$700 to spend on a shoe, you owe to yourself to get a pair of Alden. Classic American style, dress or casual. Built to last. Friendly, polite and knowledgeable service at this store. read more

This place is top notch if you like professional customer service and attention to detail. I went in to try some Alden boots on and see how they fitted before I pull the trigger. Mr. Mancuso was very helpful in letting me try on different boots/lasts and promptly answered all my questions. Thank you and I will be getting those beauties soon! read more

Kathy and Co. are incredible at devising amazing make ups and providing expert service. All of her sizing recs were spot on and the selection cannot be beat for Alden Cordovan. read more

Alden Shoe - Fine day for a cigar (cordovan) - Shoe Stores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

"These guys had me waiting for four days after I ordered my shoes. I was also disappointed that I had been told that the shipping is free but that was not the case. The good thing is the shoes are really incredible and I love them. However I'm not sure if I'll be shopping here again." read more

Extremely poor service. Spoke to multiple people from their team including James who owns the brand. Poor quality goods and if anything goes wrong, don't expect them to sort it. You're left with a defected good. read more

If I could give them zero stars I would. Quite possibly the worst customer service (or should I say lack of customer service) I've encountered. I was in the market for a new pair of oxfords so I took a stroll down F Street during my lunch break with $500 burning a hole in my pocket. I walked into the customer-less store with 4 sales people milling around. I proceeded to browse their selection hoping that one of their salesman (and I use the term loosely) would eventually make their way over to offer assistance. When that didn't work I attempted to approach a gentleman (again using the term loosely) who proceeded to walk away from me and acted as if he was too pre-occupied with straightening the displays to help a customer. You would think a savvy salesmen would see someone walk in wearing a bespoke suit and say A) this person can afford our product and B) he's wearing a pair of Allen Edmonds so we can pick off a customer from one of our main competitors. The sales staff at Alden unfortunately decided to go with option C) and assume that since I have a full head of hair that's not white or grey that I must not be able to afford their shoes. You would think a vendor operating in this city would realize that Washington D.C. has a large population of upwardly mobile adults in their late twenties and early thirties with expendable income, but apparently this realization escaped the staff at Alden of New England's D.C. store. read more

It is almost unfair to sell Alden shoes because they are a class so far beyond anything in the market that they sell themselves. That being said, the folks in the store always treat you well and take their time with your purchase. Kathy et al. are very patient and make sure you walk away happy (no pun intended). read more

I bought a pair of shoes over the phone from Kathy and the customer service is just great. They also sent an extra pair of shoe laces.

I saw Christopher's 1-star rating and wanted to comment. I visited the store some time ago and my experience initially was a bit similar. There was an older white gentleman that appeared to have avoided interacting with me. I was dressed pretty casual in my (caramel skin complexion), a pair of khaki's, a pin-stripe collared shirt and also wearing a pair of Alden 403 boots. I was actually taken aback by this, but proceeded to browse around. Kathy came behind the counter made some light conversation about my Indy boots and proceeded to help me with picking a few pair out and measuring my feet. I shelled out $700 on a pair of longwings and all was well. I love the Alden brand, they make high quality shoes that are masculine and not effeminate like some of the Italian brands. Overall my experience wasn't bad, Kathy was extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. I would shop there again, but in retrospect, in high-end retail there is a bit snobbery involved. I'm not sure why. This is partly the reason why I'm mostly an online shopper. Generally the brick-and-mortar stores are only showrooms to purchase online. Kathy saved the day for my first customer service experience. read more

I purchase my first Alden shoe from Kathy and Alden Washington DC. The customer service was vey knowledgeable and patient. A great mens shoe store. read more

Great American high quality shoes. It doesn't get much better than this. The product is excellent; the craftsmanship is the best along with the materials used. The staff has a great knowledge base, experience, and attention to detail regarding their customers needs and wants. read more

Brian is a excellent representative of Alden Shoes. He helped me determine the correct size, explained how the size varies depending on the style, or last, of the shoe, and called the factory to locate and ship the size I needed. The shoes arrived in a few days. I was looking for a blucher with a wet weather or all weather sole, and he showed me several different options. His knowledge and professionalism were exceptional. Thanks for the wonderful service! read more

Being a younger customer, I was worried that I might not yet good service, but I was treated as valued as any other customer. The staff took lots of time to let my try on different sizes and styles until I found the perfect pair. A month later, my shoes have broken-in and look and feel wonderful. Yes, Alden shoes are a splurge, but they are made in America to the highest quality standards and will last for a lifetime. Instead of buying a pair of cheap shoes every year, invest in a beautiful pair of Aldens that will last forever. read more

Walked into the store today and was completely ignored while I was looking at shoes. 2 sales people would not even make eye contact with me. I was wearing a brand new pair of Allen Edmonds so it's not like they could have looked at what I was wearing and thought I wasn't worth talking to. Won't be going back and will stick with Allen Edmonds where I get great service every time I walk in. read more

The customer service at Alden Shoe Company is phenomenal. As a first-time buyer/wearer of Alden's, the store had the potential to be intimidating due to the price and reputation/prestige of the shoes. However, the service staff, especially Kathy (manager), was extremely patient and helpful in my first buying experience. The shoes ultimately sell themselves (and if not, the crowd of happy customers in the store will do it for them), so there was no pressure from the staff to buy a pair. Over the course of two visits and one phone call, I was very appreciative of the support and knowledge of the staff as they made every effort to ensure I left satisfied. Further, as it was clear I wanted to make the "right purchase" and didn't want to be rushed, Kathy was very accommodating with her time and knowledge of the shoes--even as I deliberated for more than 90min between two seemingly identical shoes that varied only slightly in their sizing. When it was clear I was still conflicted, Kathy happily offered to hold the shoes and order a third from the factory for comparison. Overall, I could not be more pleased with the experience, nor happier to be the proud owner of a new pair of Alden Shell Cordovan Wingtips. read more

I have never written a review after not purchasing something... my Fiancé and I were walking downtown today and passed this store. She loves shoes so we decided to go in. Joe was the only one working. WOW what an experience! We were not fancy dressed just walking around clothes with basically sneakers. He took us right in and showed us EVERYTHing! I Can't believe how much he knew about shoes. I tried on 2 pairs and I cant wait to go back and buy them for our wedding and if I land a dream job interview anytime soon, ill be in before the wedding. Joe explained the shoes (not even a good enough word for their pieces) and had a really cool cross section of a shoe. These are QUALITY products and we received amazing service. Not many places left in this world. That is why I was hesitant to go in but I was wrong she way right. What I can I say... if you want quality that will last years, Come here. read more

Bought some shoes over the phone and service was top notch. Thanks to Kathy and her crew I finally found some whiskey and cigar in my life!

Just dropped in the store on a whim as I was walking by. I mentioned to Kathy that I wasn't looking to buy a pair of shoes today, but she was extremely helpful and gracious in explaining the quality of shoe construction, Alden's most popular styles, and her personal favorites. Very cool, quaint store. Couldn't ask for anything better from a customer experience point of view. read more

NOTE: This review concerns a phone order placed on 08/02/13. Anyone reading reviews for this place knows what Alden shoes are, so I'll skip the usual shoegasming about them - in this scenario, the review is about the retailer. So I called this store seeking a specific model of shoe. The person who answered the phone brashly told me I needed to have a model number for him to look it up - I knew the exact name of the shoe I wanted, but didn't have the exact stock number. Slightly annoyed at his insistence, I told him the name of the shoe to which he said begrudgingly looked up and said he had the shoe in stock in my size but that he would have to call me "right back". 45 minutes later and no phone call. IMO this is egregious customer service for a company that regularly charges $500 for a pair of shoes. Now thoroughly annoyed, I called back expecting to be greeted by the same haughty disdain that I was met with on my first call when lo and behold the mythical "Kathy" answered the phone. I informed her what I was looking for and it turned out she had to call the NYC store because they in fact did NOT have the shoe in stock and would call me "right back" again. This time "right back" was less than 5 minutes with the excellent news that she had tracked down my shoe for me. My experience with Kathy was so excellent that I can only knock this place one star for the terrible experience with He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Overall, if you're in the market for a sweet pair of Aldens, skip talking to anyone else besides Kathy and you'll get the treatment and experience I assume Alden wants to convey to all of its customers. read more

Why did I wait so long in my life to get the Black Shell Cordovan Plain Toe Blucher Oxford shoes (unlined vamp) with Barrie Last and Single flexible leather outsoles?? Wow!! these shoes wear like slippers and are so comfortable. Sure, they are $713.81/pair but when they are your only dress shoes it is so worth the $$. I've owned Allen Edmonds and AEs don't come close. The Alden shoes are so incredibly comfortable you'll only question the price when you are swiping your card. Walk in them for a week and you'll forget how much you paid. Joe and Kathy are great and will get you in the right last that fits your foot. All I can say is you get what you pay for, plus the shoes look good for a long time - shell cordovan wears like iron. Enjoy! read more

I must add my endorsement to the Alden D.C. store. Some have commented about not being acknowledged when they first walk in. This didn't bother me. Two guys were running the store when I went in. There was one other customer who was paying out. I used the time to look at several shoes multiple times. After about 20 minutes--the paying customer long gone--the salesman asked how I was, was I looking for anything in particular. I had had the time to look around and knew exactly what I was interested in. As a younger person, I also worry sometimes that high-end stores might not think I'm serious. However, I also have an odd foot size which has baffled salesmen at Allen Edmonds and made them leave me alone after a few failed attempts. The guys at Alden store, though, were fascinated by it. I measured a 7.5 D. But because I have such a high arch, I had to wear an 8 EEEE. The guys at the store literally let me try on 15 different pairs of shoes, laughing and joking with me the entire time. After we found a shoe that fit, they asked that, since they had never seen an arch as high as mine, would I mind trying on other types of shoes just so they would know what lasts did and did not fit such a high arch for future clients. I said of course. All told, I was in the store for about 1.5 hours. These guys went above and beyond, and they did it with a smile. It is, by far, the best experience I have had buying shoes. read more

Like some others, I don't get the need to be "recognized" or "acknowledged". I've been renewing the upper end of my wardrobe, so I've spent more time in high end men's stores than I have in many years and generally experienced the kind of service I'd forgotten once existed. Once upon a time I sold men's clothing at an upper middle brow department store, so there also was a time when I learned how to provide that kind of service. On my two visits here, the staff spent a considerable amount of time helping people on the phone and tolerating an embassy type who seemed to race around taking pictures on his phone, chatting loudly in a foreign language and generally paying little attention to the shoes in in front of him. I was able to have a salesperson work with me when I wanted the help, all my questions were answered and I came away with a good idea of how to break-in and care for dress shoes that I expect to have for many years. That's what I needed and it was more than one usually gets, even in some upscale stores. In my case, it got me to linger after my purchase and give some second thoughts to shoes I might want to buy in the future. read more

This place is slightly up scale for my taste but you can never go wrong with these guys. Walked in the store and found two guys who were quick to welcome. I told them the kind of look I was going for and they gave me a bunch of options to choose from. These guys are real professionals at what they do. read more

Agreed with all the other posts. Kathy is fantastic with customer service and extremely knowledgeable. I will always choose to shoe shop here instead of other online retailers. Thanks! read more