FAQs

All that you want to know in one place

What is the bespoke service?

We offer a bespoke made to measure service, where you can book an appointment and we’ll take you through the fitting process before helping you design your very own custom pair of hand made, hand dyed shoes. You can find out more by visiting our how it works page.

Can you offer different widths or accommodate for a high instep?

Yes, we can advise of any adjustments to be made in size during a fitting consultation. We are always keen to be clear that we are not orthotic specialists but we can make a pair of shoes that fit you well and are beautifully unique.

Where are you based?

The Hand Dyed Shoe Company HQ is based in an old seminary college called Ushaw Historic House and Gardens in County Durham. You can book your appointment to visit us for a fitting.

Where are my shoes manufactured?

HDSCo shoes are designed in Britain and manufactured in Portugal. We apply some finishing touches here in our main studio in County Durham. By working with artisan shoemakers in Portugal we can guarantee quality at a great price. We work very closely with our Portugal family-run workshop and we are proud of the partnership we have established over the years. 


Each pair is hand made and hand dyed with great care.

Do I have to come to Durham to order?

We always prefer to meet you in person, but not necessarily. We can do a remote appointment via Zoom where we can share a screen and we can help you to design your shoes. Alternatively, you can design and order via our 3D builder which is live on our website. 

Where is the best place to stay in Durham?

We are proud to work in partnership with Hotel Indigo in Durham City, where we can offer you preferential rates and various discounts across the hotel's eateries and bars. You can book the hotel - which we call Shoes & Snooze - here on our website and we will make all the arrangements in advance of your fitting. 

Do we offer Made in Britain shoes?

We do have some association with UK manufacturing but for now, we are focussed on delivering great quality and having tried to introduce Made in Britain, we have learnt that the team we work with are by far the best in many different avenues.

What size should I order?

If you’re unsure on what size you should order we recommend you book in for a design consultation either in person or online, where we can advise on your custom measurements. 

What soles will my shoes have?

You can choose from 3 different types of soles. A full leather sole, that is perfect for a formal pair of shoes to be worn for special occasions. A half rubber, this gives you the sleek look of a full leather but provides more protection to the soles. Then there's a full rubber dainite sole, this will be the most durable and the best option to with stand everyday wear.

Can you ship internationally?

Yes, we proudly send our shoes all over the world. International shipping charges will apply. 

When will I get my order?

We currently have a lead time of 4-6 weeks on all made to order products, however our ready to wear range will be 2-3 working days from when you’ve ordered. 

Can I return or exchange?

If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, we are happy to refund or exchange your items providing they are returned to us, in an unused condition, within 30 days of purchase. 

 

Please return your items to us at 

 Hand Dyed Shoe Co. 

 The President's Gallery, 

 Ushaw Estate, 

 Durham 

 DH7 9RH 


 Unfortunately we’re unable to return any items personalised with a monogram. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Can I cancel my order?

Please get in touch with us so we could look into your order more specifically. 

Can I track my order?

Absolutely, we use DPD to send all our parcels and we’ll send you regular updates so you know what stage your order is at.

What payment methods can I use?

We accept all major payment providers including American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Klarna, Maestro, Mastercard, PayPal, Shop pay and Visa. 

What size belt should I order?

You should usually wear a belt size 2” larger than your trouser waist size. If you’re a size 34” waist, you should buy a 36” belt. This will allow the buckle to fasten through the middle hole on the belt, and the belt to finish between the first and second belt loop on your trousers. 

Don’t worry if it’s not exact, choosing your size this way will allow room to adjust smaller or larger as needed.  

How can I contact Simon Bourne?

Can I book a fitting for more than one person at a time?

Yes absolutely. All you need to do is let us know after you've booked that there will be more than one fitting/consultation. We will then extend your appointment where appropriate to make sure we have enough time.