Alden Tassel Moccasin in Shell Cordovan

Alden is often credited with inventing the Tassel Moccasin as it exists today.  The story is that following World War II, veterans returned from Europe seeking shoes that had tassels on the end of the laces, as they had seen while overseas.  However, no such thing existed in the United States. Two different retailers approached Alden and asked if they could produce such a design.  What they came up with is the Tassel Moccasin as we know it.  The design has been imitated by many other shoemakers.

Many consider the Tassel moccasin to be formal enough to wear with a suit, however it is generally worn casually.  Note that the welt disappears at the front of the heel.  This is known as a 270 [degree] welt, or a closed heel, and produces a sleeker, more formal profile.  The tassel moccasin is formed over the narrow Aberdeen last.

Model 563

Alden Tassel Moccasin

Color 8 (Burgundy)Shell Cordovan

Model 36630

Alden Tassel Moccasin

Cigar Shell Cordovan

Cigar is considered to be an "exotic color" and has limited availability.  Note that the retailers name is embossed on the insole (Alden of San Francisco).  This is typical of many "non-catalog" makeups.  "Catalog" makeups are available only in black and #8, and can be ordered through any Alden retailer.  Non-catalog models are often produced to the retailers specification, and no other retailer may order the same design.