Church’s and Theo James Return to Goodwood for Autumn-Winter 2026

Church’s continues to make a persuasive case for dressing well without dressing stiffly. For Autumn-Winter 2026, the Northampton shoemaker reunites with British actor Theo James, for a campaign that swaps city streets for the historic Goodwood Racing Circuit in West Sussex.

The setting is an apt one. Goodwood's blend of British motorsport heritage and understated glamour mirrors Church’s own approach to luxury: rooted in tradition but never trapped by it.

The campaign follows James through a leisurely day at the circuit, where vintage Aston Martins, trackside picnics and an unexpectedly charismatic Great Dane provide the backdrop for the latest collection. Rather than presenting formal footwear in predictable surroundings, Church’s places its shoes within the reality of a modern wardrobe, where tailoring is relaxed and elegance feels instinctive rather than prescribed.

Each look showcases a key style from the new collection. The soft-grain tan Sidley boot arrives with refined brogue detailing, while the cocoa suede Sidbury derby brings a more casual texture to classic English shoemaking. The new Skipton Oxford is paired with contemporary tailoring that softens the formality traditionally associated with the silhouette, while the Stanhope Chelsea boot reinforces the versatility that has become increasingly important in luxury menswear. Completing the line-up is the Farsley penny loafer, worn as James gives an unlikely lift to his four-legged passenger before finishing the day atop the winner's podium.

It's a thoughtful evolution of Church’s New Formal collection. Rather than abandoning the codes of classic footwear, the brand subtly relaxes them through softer leathers, nuanced finishes and easier styling. The result feels particularly relevant as men continue to favour wardrobes that move effortlessly between work, travel and social occasions without requiring a complete change of character.