GQ: Del Toro Shoes has gone from a slipper company founded by some buddies to a regularly featured shoe company, well regarded and in the hands (or should i say on the feet) of some pretty powerful people in the sports and music worlds. Explain how you keep evolving, and how your goals have changed…

Matt Chevallard: I took over the business from my friends and co-founders a couple of years ago, and really tried to change the vision and substance behind the brand. I’ve really strived to build a luxury lifestyle feel with my offerings, branding, and client base. I’m trying to fuse American prep with Italian effortlessness, and New York, and Japanese streetwear, and sneakerhead culture. The ultimate goal though is always offering well-made shoes that are unique, and at the same time accessible in price. We keep expanding the offerings, and always look to appeal to a versatile client base. We’re one of the few American companies making unique, and exclusive shoes. One of the ways we’re trying trying to make sure our message stays strong is by getting our product in the right hands.

GQ: How do you explain the shift in mainstream men’s fashion towards more colorful kicks? Guys who wouldnt sway from black and brown are now wearing shoes with neon yellow soles.

Chevallard: I think men have kicked their style into a higher gear. Guys in America are really starting to care more about their asthetic, and pushing the envelope with more unique pieces in their wardrobes… they’re not afraid of color. Shoes are the easiest way to add something to a look, and showing what you stand for. The colorful shoe trend says “Hey, I am unique, but still have appreciation for timeless things.” I think a lot of guys want to have more fun with their closets, but do it a subdued, and gradual way. Shoes are a natural place to start.

GQ: We empty your pockets right now… what do we find?

Chevallard: My pockets are always stuffed! My car keys, royal blue alligator money clip, house keys, Trussardi camouflage wallet, iPhone (and a Blackberry), vintage gold Cartier shades, Del Toro lighter, Camel cigarettes, and strawberry Hi-Chews.

GQ: That’s an impressive arsenal. What’s the one shoe a guy needs for summer?

Chevallard: Really tough question to answer, right there. Too many good options! I’m going to settle on a fine, well-made pair of espadrilles from Italy. Everyone is used to really poorly and cheaply made espadrilles made in Bangledesh, and China and you can’t properly understand espadrilles until you acquire a pair made properly. Our espadrilles are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. We use the espadrille silhouette, but ditch the jute sole… it’s that much more comfortable.

Check out the entire spring lineup from Del Toro Shoes, here.