LUXURY SHOES AND THE BASICS
WORDS, IMAGES JUDITH ECOCHARD
A striking kimono, detailed with leather forest green pleating was hanging in the stark white gallery at the Spring 2010 preview of : Glory Chen and Joy Chen.
This handcrafted piece by the Creative Director, Joy Chen Kolterman, was a reflection of the study of Okologie (ecology) .and inspiration for her “RE-CREATION” high end Glory Chen collection.
“An edgier, avant garde gallery girl, with a desire for art,” was the way Chen described her clients that appreciate the elegant and striking assortment of heels, open toes and flats.
The exquisitely crafted peds are loaded with symbolism…like the three arrow sign (evolution, growth and re-vitalization).
And the tree embossed on the heel “supports and grounds” the design of each shoe.
The thoughtfulness of Chen translates in other footwear ways too, so-to-speak.
After only a few minutes of conversation, we knew we were with a true artistic spirit,
The constructions of the shoes are luxe…as Chen is hands on from start to finish, including the manufacturing process---that incorporates custom lasts.
We thought the patterns most striking…like Chinese wooden boxes. And yes, there is a ‘harmonious’ undertone to the shoes we saw, an Asian aesthetic that is of course, truly global.
The artistic mix of textures and materials of shoes like our favorites the heeled Foliage. Biome, and Fauna…are stunning.
And they’re cushiony too as “comfort and structure are important ---my shoes have a lot of padding.”
The Joy Chen line is a value oriented “bridge” line (around $250-$400) that for Spring 2010, directly reflects the Creative Director’s graphic design training.
Dubbed the “Art Deco” Collection, the shoes are “understandably clean, neat and contemporary.”
There are subtle flourishes--- like folds that reflect decorative architectural elements found on buildings and objects from that era.
Hand finished materials are evident…as are the quality of materials like print split suede, nubuck and wrinkle patent.
We loved the warm neutral toned palate too as Chen wanted the shoes “to be invisible” which we take to mean seamlessly working with an urban gals wardrobe.
Because there is nothing wall flower about this collection…the sculptural silhouettes may “speak softly” …but also make quite an impact.
INFO: GLORY CHEN GLORIA CHEN
IMAGE OF JOY CHEN COURTESY OF DESIGNER