FALL 2011
Words/Images Judith Ecochard
ELEGANT, VERSATILE, COMFORTABLE, WORK TO WEEKEND FOOTWEAR
It was a tad tragic. A bbbrrrrrr wintry day saw hordes of yellow taxicabs depositing the RTW show going faithful to a far-flung, West Side Highway destination. Most people were dressed for the chilly weather…meaningful coats, sturdy kickers…
And then there was the fashion victim…tottering on her five inch plus ornate heels…in an outfit so teensy/flimsy, a slavish head to toe one designer punch line –for summer, no less-def. not more.
We thought her destiny coulda been kissing the watery Hudson---what with the winds kicking up. And yeah, the heels-showpieces, for sure. But they belonged under a glass case to marvel at-to admire the workmanship perhaps. But to wear and walk in. No.
For Fall 2011, we think this gal could benefit from a pair of some he shoes we previewed three high-end shoe collections, designed by women---that offered sculptured, threeich plus heels as well as practical square solid ones---all managing to be stylish, and versatile. And crafted for mobility.
Footwear any women.
FIORENTINI + BAKER designed by Deborah Baker staged an editor’s preview in her downtown 54 Mercer Street NYC outpost…a spacious loft-like boutique.
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| BILLIE (l) BERNI (r) |
Simply presented---set the right vibe for this simply luxurious collection.
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| AlMA |
The rich dark/deep autumnal tones of the utilitarian and heeled, tall and ankle boots, stacked heels pumps…
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| LING (l) |
…. plush suede and leather made from high quality materials (made in Italy).
Subtle, hand finished details (like contrast stitching)…and just the right amount of ornamentation---buckles, subtle brass studs, leather straps tied up like ribbons- and buttons.
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| AVA |
F + B “is not much of a fashion brand,” Baker told us. “My shoes are still valid in five years time…I am not keen on throwaway fashion.”
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| Amazing-the stitching around the stacked platform-not glued NIA |
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| ALIS-Our top wear everywhere kicker |
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| PISTOL (l) |
Style icons like Anita Pallenberg as well as the film “the medieval” Caravaggio by Derek Jarman “subconsciously” served as influences. Vintage feel to a lot of the boots---
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| Brass studs line ZIRA clog...great upper belt buckle keeps it fresh |
ALSO---satchels, handbags ($400-$500) Belts ($175-$275), kids/men’s too.
Prices range $500-$800
www.fiorentini-baker.com
Coye Nokes gets a lot of critical acclaim (deserved) from her peers…and we think the patent MIA Peep Toes …with eye catching back strips and cushioned insoles---should get retail acclaim as well.
Divine lace up booties (SILVIA)---will look with wide leg trousers and slim skirts-that 70’s/90’s minimalist vibe that dominate Fall trends.
And if that silhouette falls out of favor, these kickers and other booties---especially in beige bone---can be worn with always in style, jeans. Easy.
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| MARION |
Flats---with pointy toes and a neat stripe up the back-gives them a modern edge---in assorted solid tones.
Comfort in a patent wedge ( MAYA) gives this could be a bunch of clunkers-- a delicate shape that lengthens the leg.
ALSO----PLATFORMS
A wrapped ankle leather gladiator style-embossed croc- YASMEEN---
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| VIVIEN |
---and metallic leathers---including these GRETA D'ORSAY beauties that are seasonless.
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| from Spring 2011 available NOW |
All made in Italy-subtle and stunning. The silhouettes seemingly lengthen female legs...
With prices points starting high 200’s –mid $400s
We met Dana Davis at a showroom preview---
Her enthusiasm ---for her “quest” to make chic, design-driven modern feminine footwear that are strategically cushioned with serious arch support that is “purposefully made” for each style. PLUS---- “built-in or removable orthotics” …
What makes the Dana Davis collection distinguishable from other fashion/comfort brands is something coined “Invisible Comfort Technology” with a “first of its kind, Tri-Density Orthotic” designed for each style!!!!
Foot instability (the wobbles) are banished via ankle straps, heel positions, forefoot angles, and insole and outsole thickness---all carefully thought out.
Spring/summer 2011 looks commanded an entire windowsill…these flower peep toe pumps are selling well
This brand should be welcomed by those driven by design too…as well as those driven by comfort---we think, typically older gals who don’t get so swoony over what some celeb is wearing.
www.danadavis.com
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