Verginia - Art.Tex

Verginia (Virginia): Brand Origin and Background

Verginia is an original shoe brand founded in 2000 by Takahashi, the brand's representative. With over 30 years of research into authentic products from Britain and America—cultivated by Anglo-Saxon heritage—Takahashi sought to create a brand that embodies the timeless quality and craftsmanship of these cultures. The name "Verginia" is a coined term derived from "Virgin," meaning "innocent/pure," and Virginia, a southeastern state of the United States, symbolizing a blend of purity and American heritage.

The designs are inspired by Takahashi's own sensibilities and inspirations, drawing each pair freehand. The factory is located in Portugal, one of the world's oldest and most renowned shoemaking regions. Takahashi personally visits and carefully selects the factory to ensure each product’s quality and craftsmanship.

Art. TEX

Inspired by American casual fashion from the late 1980s—a shift from dress shoes to casual footwear—art. TEX reinterprets this transition with a modern twist. This model draws inspiration from Native American moccasins and is designed to be worn casually and imperfectly, encouraging wearers to cultivate their own unique style. The raw, rustic finish retains the simplicity of traditional Native American footwear yet allows the shoe to develop a deeper character over time, harmonizing with the wearer’s lifestyle—whether through elegant, relaxed, or rugged looks. The upper design is based on camping moccasins, enhanced with leather paneling and decorative medalions. This modern treatment updates the traditional outdoor aesthetic, making the shoes versatile enough to wear in various settings—from outdoor adventures and town wear to beach outings. The outsole, a reproduction of the popular cup sole (rubber sole) from the era, is an original production requested from a sole manufacturer, further emphasizing the brand’s dedication to quality and authenticity.