FIORENTINI + BAKER FOOTWEAR SPRING 2012 Men's/Women's

54 Mercer Street, NYC

words/images Judith Ecochard

Just like there's luxury handbags without the logos---there's also luxe Italian made-sophisticated chic footwear without the over the top splashy bits---and as we discovered, great outwear pieces too (and fab collabs with fashion designer, )Anna Sui.






Deborah Baker celebrated the 10th anniversary of her beyond cool-timeless style footwear line-Fiorentini + Baker-with a launch of the child's collection-mini-me versions of the best selling looks for the big people...and a terrific selection of spring kickers for men and women that we think, will keep her celeb following very happy.

multi-strap-chunky sandals-leather is super soft

perforated boots-with rugged edge

Biker boots with style

We asked the designer-how she comes up with looks for the men's footwear---and with a smile she replied:


"I design shoes that I think- I'd date a guy wearing those." Inspiration we support.

Limited Edition Eternity Boot-a 3 buckle best seller 

Deborah Baker

WHAT ELSE:

The  downtown NYC store of F + B (there are also stores in London and Bologna- in addition to retail outlets like Barney's)- 


---was pack with well wishers---with an exhibit by Italian artist Sergio Pappalettera...


We chatted a bit with the cordially enthused artist and his wife---and kinda got the idea of what the theme of it all was about-something about games and "Prometheus Lives" ...but then it went over our heads.


Still-taking images of public figures--and adding his own special touch-we liked the art. And had fun too.

signed limited editions for sale!!!!

hostess/designer Deborah Baker

Sergio Pappalettera...left-and his wife